Ayurvedic Medicine Programs And Practices

By Jason Schmidt


When it comes to alternative and holistic practices, some are more accepted than others. In the case of Ayurvedic Medicine Programs, Ayurveda is often considered on the fringe of alternative and holistic applications. When it comes to the practice of Ayurveda, it is an ancient one rooted in the subcontinent of India.

While the practice has been modernized, globalized and modified over time, the basic concepts are still in place. For, the concepts have been successful in aiding the healing process for centuries. In fact, holistic and Western practitioners are now using some Ayurvedic based therapies and treatments in some wellness plans.

The practice, believed to have been developed from knowledge of the Gods, then handed down to sages and physicians, is a system that is still somewhat unknown. At the same time, history suggest that Sushruta penned information about Dhanvantari, believed to be the Hindu God of the practice which was incarnated into a King whom taught the practice to medical doctors, including Sushruta.

Ancient texts in the practice suggest that teachings were also provided on how to extract foreign objects, open and close sutures, rhinoplasty and kidney stone extractions. While there have been some treatments developed with Ayurvedic products and therapies, there has been no scientific data to prove any have been effective. Whereas, the entire practice is considered to be pseudoscientific by most of those in the medical community.

In a study completed in 2008, twenty one percent of United States and Indian-manufactured Ayurveda patent medicines sold online were found to contain high levels of heavy metals including a number of toxins. These toxins include, arsenic, mercury and lead, three of the most deadly of all toxins.

Most scholars assert that the practice began sometime during the pre-historic period. Whereas, others believe it to have began during the Indus Valley Civilization. In either case, it is a practice which has been around for centuries which has been reported to aid in reducing pain and healing a number of illnesses.

During the Vedic period, the practice developed into a viable option, cure and relief for a number of illnesses. While the founders of Jainism and Buddhism also have practices and concepts which appear in ancient Ayurveda texts, there is no clear answer as to which practice came first. As a result, all three practices have commonalities which are not found in others. In addition, while there are similarities between these three practices, there are also a number of differences when it comes to the basic concepts of each.

Ayurveda is often defined as having a clear understanding as to the meaning of life and longevity. In addition, the practice also pays homage to the theory that maintaining a balance in body, mind and spirit promotes overall good health and well being. Whereas, the practice also promotes the belief that when individuals suppress natural urges, illness is far more likely as doing so often throws body, mind and spirit out of balance.




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