Ayurveda

Definition of Ayurveda

The word Ayurveda literally means Science (veda) of Life (ayur). It is a medicinal system and a way of life governed by the laws of nature that seeks to promote good health by maintaining the balance of life energies within us rather than through treating diseases. Ayurveda recognises the unique constitutional differences between individuals and gives detailed descriptions about diet, daily routine, lifestyle and actions to be followed.

Historical Background of Ayurveda

The spread of Buddhism in Sri Lanka in the third century BC greatly influenced the island’s culture. Together with the teachings of Buddhism, the practice of Ayurveda entered people’s lives and has remained an integral part of Sri Lankan culture for over 2,000 years.

As followers of Lord Buddha, the ancient kings of Sri Lanka looked after the well being of their people and evidence suggests that Sri Lanka was the first country to set up hospitals as we know them today. These hospitals were well equipped with medical instruments and qualified physicians.

The ancient knowledge of Ayurveda has been passed down from generation to generation by traditional physicians who etched their ayurvedic recipes onto specially prepared palm leaves known as ‘ola leaves’. These were preserved in temples so that the practice of Ayurveda and its medicines continued to be passed on and prepared in the age old way.

Ayurveda treatment method

Sarvanga Vedekama is the name of the method of treatment of all bodily diseases whereby therapy consists not only of medicines but also of an appropriate diet and care for the patient. However, traditional ayurvedic treatment is not limited to healing ailments of the body. Moreover it concerns the wholeness of man, his body and his mind laying special emphasis on preventative medicine and the fortification of health.

There are eight branches of the specialities of Ayurveda:

1. Kayachkithsa - Internal medicine
2. Kaumara Brithya Chkithsa – Treatment for maternal disorders and children’s diseases
3. Shalaka Tantra – Treatment for the diseases of ear, nose, throat and eyes
4. Shalya Chkithsa – Surgical treatment
5. Agada Tantra – Toxicology
6. Bhuta Vidaya Chkithsa - Psychiatry
7. Rasayana Tantra – Rejuvenation therapy
8. Vajeekarana Chkithsa – Virilification therapy

Tridosha

There are three functional factors in a body, called doshas, according to Ayurveda: These doshas much be in balance with each other. If they are not, it will cause a disruption of tissues and lead to illness and disease.

1. Vata
2. Pitta
3. Kapha

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