What is Ayurvedic Medicine? Its History, Eight Ayurveda Branches

Ayurveda and ayurvedic medicine are the Indian Subcontinent traditional system of medicine. It is one of the major traditional medicines in the world along with Arabian medicine, Chinese medicine and has grown as a result of their interactions.

It is an ancient writing that takes a holistic and natural approach to physical and emotional well-being. Ayurveda also translates to "knowledge of life". It is derived from Ayur means life and Veda mean Science of knowledge. It is a medical system from India that has been around for a long time, about a thousand years. The purpose is to detoxify the body and bring the body, mind, and spirit back into equilibrium.

Ayurveda is a health method that makes it easy to incorporate the medical system into our lives. Meditation, yoga, oil massage, breathing exercises, herbal diets, etc. are intended to be incorporated into daily life to prevent illness and maintain physical and mental health.

In Ayurveda, the human constitution is divided into three doshas called "wind", "fire" and "earth", and the ideal state is that the three doshas are well-balanced. Dosha is influenced by his / her constitution, living environment, age, etc., and changes daily.

History Of Ayurvedic Medicine?

According to the latest Ayurvedic Sources, Ayurveda's origins can be traced back to roughly 6000 BC. Well, its main origins are Rig Veda (3000 BC) and Atharvaveda 1500BC. In addition to the natural sciences, Rigveda consists of verses about pathology and treatments. Tridosha theory and herbal preparations are also described. In addition to the natural sciences, Atharvaveda includes eight medical treatment subjects, longevity method, and strong sperm method. Ayurveda is attributed to Dhanvantari from Brahma. As with the natural sciences, treatments, disease prevention, and longevity were spoken by word of mouth and later written down in the Vedas.

Well, it is now famous all over the world. It has been systematized to almost its current form. This Indian traditional medicine form is translated into many languages like Tibetan, Greek, Chinese, Arabic and Persian. It is also studied by many countries to understand the Ayurveda concept deeply.

Tri-Dosha Theory In Diagnosing And Treating Diseases

The tridosha idea underpins Ayurveda. It is the most crucial theory to think about.

According to Ayurveda, the body is made up of natural energy, which is referred to as Dosha. Dosha etymologically means haunting, mistakes, and impurities and is related to various phenomena and changes in a physical condition that occurs in our body. In Ayurveda, this "Dosha" is considered to be in a well-balanced state of health, and if it is out of balance, it is considered to be in a state of impairing health. 

The Doshas that make up our body are the three energies of "Vata (wind), Pitta (fire), and Kapa (water)". The best balance of these three is due to seasonal changes in physical condition, mental condition, and personal characteristics.

Your dosha is the most numerous. This Dosha balance is different for each person, and it often happens that it changes greatly depending on the situation and the season.

Vata (Wind) Doshas

Vata is the most important doshas for the body. Vata is composed of wind energy, wind and sky elements. It controls basic body functions like cells, tissues division and controls life activities. The role of Vata in the body is to secure a space for air to enter and to allow the air to move around sufficiently. If there is too much air or lack of movement, metabolism tends to slow down and constipation tends to occur. It controls the mind, heart, blood flow, and intestine function. If there is Vata dosha in your body, you might experience anxiety, stress, heart disease, and skin problems.

Pitta (Fire) Doshas

Pitta is a compound of fire. It consists of the energy of fire and produces the energy and heat required for cell function, and represents the digestion and metabolism of nutrients. Well, the body's gastrointestinal tract is strong and digestive, but if the body eats too much spicy and fried food, you will have indigestion, and you will have symptoms of digestion and excretion problems such as heartburn, loose stools, and defecation with abdominal pain. If there is Pitta dosha in your body, you might experience diseases related to stomach, high blood pressure, heart problems and infections.

Kapha (Water) Doshas

Kapha is a compound of water energy and earth element. It is characterized by its quietness, calmness, and patience. It controls muscle growth, body, immunity strength and weight. If your body is restless, eating too much sweet food, it affects the Kapa dosha. If there is Kapa dosha in your body, you might experience asthma symptoms, diabetes, nausea and weight gain, etc.

Balance Is Important

Everybody has three elements (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in their body in different properties. The imbalance of doshas in Ayurveda means that another dosha is increased in the body, For example, When Vata Dosha gets out of balance, then there are too many of some other doshas. As a result, the imbalance of doshas changes for the original ratio of doshas. It affects the body and causes malfunction. If you eat food properly, it can be a medicine and nourishment. In Ayurveda, it is very important to choose the food that suits each person's Dosha.

Eight Ayurveda Treatment Departments

There are 8 branches in the Ayurveda. Each branch is specialised in its way. 

Ayurveda is not intended to just cure only the affected areas of the disease. Several organs are involved in the development of the disease. Every disease follows a specific path and develops in a specific organ. Therefore, Ayurveda always aims at a person's total health and aims to remedy all of its origins, its pathways, and its last symptoms. So, it includes everything from internal medicine to surgery to pediatrics and many more.

Below are 8 branches. Let's know about them

• Kaya Chikitsa(Internal Medicine)-Treatment of diseases in the whole body.
• Baala Chikitsa (Pediatrics)- Treatment of pediatric diseases, protection of the puerperium, etc.
• Graha Chikitsa (Psychiatry)- Prevention, treatment, psychiatry, etc. of mental illness.
• Urdhvaanga Chikitsa (Otorhinolaryngology and Ophthalmology)- Treatment of diseases of external organs or above the clavicle.
• Shalya Chikitsa (Surgery)- Removal of foreign bodies, treatment of tumours and abscesses.
• Damstra Chikitsa (Toxicology)- Making and Dosing Antidotes.
• Jara Chikitsa (Geriatrics)- Immortality and Longevity, Rejuvenation.
• Vrsha Chikitsa (Aphrodisiac)- Energetic enhancement method, administration method of aphrodisiac and energetic agent.

In Kaya Chikitsa, the word "Kaya" means Agni. It represents the digestive fire in the body that is responsible for metabolism. The imbalance of Agni properties in the body can be the reason for many general diseases like cold, cough, fever, lung disease, skin disorder and many more. These general diseases are treated by Agni properties.

In Bala Chikitsa, children's wellbeing is managed. As we know, all children and infants who are not adults, unable to express their complaints. Medicine Dosage also varies with their body and their tolerance power. That is why Ayurveda brings different branches for children to treat them well.

In Graha Chikitsa, the disease and illness of the mind and epilepsy are considered. All Psychosomatic disorders and diseases are treated with ayurveda medicine and meditation techniques. So, it is separated into different categories.

In Urdhvanga Chikitsa, the disease is related to the above clavicle(collarbone) or shoulder. It considers the treatment of EENT (Eyes, Ears, Nose, Tongue), Lips, Brain, Skull and Throat. 

In Shalya Chikitsa, treatment is done by surgical therapies. Diseases that are not treated by medicine, need surgery to be carried out. Shalya is also known as the father of surgery in Ayurveda.

In Damstra Chikitsa, a special branch to treat and prevent the body from the toxin compounds. It worked to remove the deadly and poisonous from the body in ancient times. Treatment of bites of snakes, spiders, scorpions, insects, worms and birds.

In Jara Chikitsa, the quality of life and longevity of life is considered. Treatment can provide rejuvenation, restore skin, provide vitality and more. Having a youthful body and anti-ageing effect belongs to the Jara Chikitsa.

In Vrsha Chikitsa, treatment done to improve the sexual health of men and women, improve fertility, improve sperm count means overall vitality and potency. Sexual dysfunctions problem is also treated in Vrsha Chikitsa.

Difference Between Ayurveda Science And Western Science

Ayurveda and Western Medicine are quite different and based on different principles. Western Science sees the patient as a treatment target as per the symptoms and makes the affected area compatible with the medicine wherein Ayurveda science is to alter the metabolism and root cause of disease as per the dosha. It is necessary to continue to use the medicine to improve the symptoms. 

In simple terms, western science has pills or tablets for each disease or symptom where Ayurveda science examines the disease and patient (Rog and Rogi) with their Dosha (Vata/Pitta/Kapha). After examining all the things, they suggest medicine. Ayurveda is based on preventative science and maintains good health instead of just curing the symptoms. 

One more comparison between them, it is common to experience results in short term with Western medicine as per prescription. It is said, its main root of the disease remains untreated and may occur again in some time. Where in ayurvedic science and medicine is long term treatment. It goes to change lifestyle, performing yoga, massaging and more.  It protects the body from the dosha attacks so it takes time but it eliminates the causes of the disease permanently.

Ayurveda Used In A Range Of Disorder

As we know, there are 8 branches of Ayurveda that cover almost all the body from top to toe, from external to internal, from physical to sexual. 

It is effective in the treatment of a wide range of diseases as per ayurveda doctors. Let's know about the disorder and disease so it gets easier for you.

• Anxiety & Depression
• Asthma
• Migraine
• Osteoarthritis
• All Digestive problems - Constipation, Hyperacidity, etc
• Eczema
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol levels
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Stress
• Chronic sinusitis
• Cardiac and renal disorders
• Bronchitis
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Piles
• Hepatitis
• Cosmetic problems - acne, wrinkle, skin glow, etc
• Many more.

Is Ayurveda Safe?

The practice of Ayurveda is not new. It has been used for years and it is clearly helpful for millions of people to make healthier lives. Ayurvedic medicine, like any other medical method, has contraindications and the possibility for negative consequences or side effects if not performed in the right way by a qualified ayurvedic practitioner.

Most commonly ayurvedic medicines are extremely safe to use. It does not intervene in the body forcefully like western medicine or drugs. Many ayurvedic herbs are common for Indians to have in their kitchen for cooking. 

Ayurveda and Ayurvedic medicine are safe when it is used by ayurvedic doctor’s prescription with caution. It is reported that ayurvedic medicine has a heavy metal compound. But a qualified Ayurveda doctor will track the record and suggest precautions in prescription. 

The high quality of Ayurveda ingredients from a well-qualified Ayurveda doctor is said to be safe for the body.

Famous Ayurvedic Herbs And Medicine

According to the ancient science of Ayurveda, there are thousands of herbs belonging to the Ayurveda. Well, all herbs work differently for the disease. A composition made by different medicines is also used for better improvement. The roots, stem, leaves, root, bark, flower, petal, etc from plants and herbs are used accordingly.

Here we are explaining some of the famous herbs of Ayurveda science with their treatment field.

• For Digestion- Ajwain, Ginger, Black Pepper, Triphala, Fenugreek seeds, Fennel Seeds, etc.
• For Vitality- Ashwagandha, Bitter Melon. Turmeric, Brahmi, Gokharu, etc.
• For Brain- Brahmi, Shankhpushpi, Turmeric, Guggulu, etc.
• For Tranquilizer- Cardamom, Ashwagandha, Chamomile, Lavender, etc.
• For Rejuvenation- Amla, Chandan, Gulab, Gota Kola Leaves, Licorice, etc.
• For Detox- Neem, Milk Thistle, Karela, Red Clover, Turmeric, etc.
• For Blood Purification- Turmeric, Neem, Hibiscus, Green Tea, etc.
• For Heart- Guggulu, Arjuna, Amla, Cinnamon, Garlic, etc.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) On Ayurveda

What is ayurvedic medicine?

Ayurvedic medicine is the Indian traditional medical system that is based on natural and holistic physical, mental and sexual health. This ancient medicine system treats the main root of disease instead of treating the symptoms of the disease like western medicine systems.

Is Ayurvedic medicine beneficial to one's health?

Yes, Ayurvedic is good for health when used as a complementary therapy. Herbal medicine, meditation, yoga, etc can be your conventional medical care. Do not replace it with your standard medication or ask your doctor.

Which Ayurvedic medicine is best for diabetes?

The best ayurvedic medicine for diabetes is Giloy, Vijaysar, Gurmar, Sadabahar, Karela and many more. It is available in supplement and juice form in the market. The combination of herbs is also effective to try for diabetes.

 Is it possible to treat diabetes with Ayurveda?

There is no permanent solution for diabetes in the Ayurveda. But you can control your sugar level by using various ayurvedic medicines. There are many herbs in Ayurveda that are used for lowering the blood sugar level like Giloy, Karela, etc.

Is Ayurveda prohibited in the United States?

Right now, there is no law and license for Ayurveda in the United States. Ayurvedic training and certification do not have a national standard.

What are the three bodily kinds according to Ayurveda?

The Ayurveda theory is based on three doshas or blood types named Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Every individual has their body type and their own doshas. Ayurvedic medicine is suggested by Ayurvedic doctors as per body types. Ayurveda believes that there is a relation between doshas and disease.

Ayurveda is prohibited in which country?

In Canada, the Indian ayurvedic traditional system is banned. The Canadian government believes that the presence of high levels of mercury, lead and arsenic in ayurvedic herbs can be risky for the body. 

What is the total number of Ayurvedic medications available?

There are about 25,000 or more plant-based formulas available based on traditional medicine systems of Ayurveda. These all formulations are mixed for all diseases and treat the main cure of disease with the help of Ayurveda.

How long does ayurvedic medicine take to work?

Every disease depends on every body type. There is no fixed time we can say for ayurvedic positive effects. Well, Ayurveda is a long-term medicine system. You need to intake it for months for the positive effects.

How to increase sperm count and motility by ayurvedic medicine?

There are a lot of ayurvedic medicines that are used for sexual wellness. Safed Musli, Shilajit, Ashwagandha, etc are beneficial to increase the sperm count and mobility in men. A regular intake of herbal medicine is effective.

Which ayurvedic medicine is best for weight loss?

Guggul is known as the best ayurvedic medicine for weight loss. Guggul is said to increase the production of thyroid hormone in the body. This hormone is good to break down the fat, protein and carbohydrates and promote weight loss in obese states.

How to cure stammering problems with ayurvedic medicine?

Ashwagandha, Sonth, Gotu Kola, Brahmi, Vacha, etc are used to get rid of stammering problems. It has been used since ancient times.

How to take ayurvedic medicine?

Mostly ayurvedic medicine is consumed with water. Well, it is recommended to follow the guideline given by ayurvedic doctors for your ayurvedic medicine. Something, not following the professional guide affects the body and shows adverse effects.

How to increase pennis size ayurvedic medicine?

Kaunch Beej is well known as an ayurvedic herb for the enlargement of the penis enlargement. It activates the dopamine and testosterone hormone in the body. That may show results on Penis size. Other herbs like Safed Musli, Shilajeet, Ashwagandha, etc.