What is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is a Sanskrit term composed of two parts: Ayur means life, and Veda means science or knowledge, with the final translation as ‘science or knowledge of life’.

Ayurveda is one of the oldest traditional systems of medicine, originating in India and dating back over 5,000 years. This ancient system of health says that the mind and body are inextricably connected, and that nothing has more power to heal and transform the body than the mind, which is deeply connected to one’s soul.

Ayurveda scholars Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya compiled these ancient texts in Sanskrit, which are the oldest and most valuable medical texts with extensive knowledge on all aspects of life, diet, behaviour, herbs, health and illness.

How does Ayurveda work?

As per Ayurveda, wellness is not the absence of diseases, but the ability of our bodily tissues, organs, and systems to function together in a balanced way and be able to maintain health and wellness despite potential illness. People are more vulnerable to illness or disease when the vital energies of the mind, body, and spirit are out of balance.

Ayurveda believes that by balancing the various mind-body functions, the natural function of the body will automatically recover itself to an equilibrium of wellness over time.

Why Ayurveda?

In the modern world, where our bodies and minds are constantly being bombarded with stimuli, pollutants in both the environment and our foods, following an Ayurveda lifestyle can help heal from within and restore the body’s balance, with solutions created by Mother Nature.

Does Ayurveda really work?

Ayurveda treatments combine natural products, diet, exercise/yoga, meditation, breathing/pranayama, and lifestyle that can contribute to an individual’s health and wellbeing as a complementary, alternative, or integrative practice.

Ayurveda does work, and there are many success stories that I have personally heard. The common factors that I have noted are awareness, commitment, persistence and discipline. Anything natural takes time and varies from person to person. Time is the essence in healing. Ayurveda will only work for you if you put in the time and effort and trust the process.

Does Ayurveda medicine have side effects?

Ayurveda medicines are mostly safe, but every medicine is different, and each of us can react differently. The other important note to remember is that the source and preparation of the medicine must be strictly researched before consuming it. It has to be from a trusted and verified source. In Australia, it is important to purchase Ayurveda medicine that has been approved by the TGA or made locally in Australia.

What are some benefits of Ayurveda?

Ayurveda focuses on the body, mind and spirit of an individual and has all the tools to improve, strengthen and build these three components. Furthermore, Ayurveda is natural, easy to follow and adapted into one’s lifestyle or diet. Ayurveda’s natural way of looking at one’s overall health is a wholesome approach and creates balance within everything you do.