These range from herbal remedies to bloodletting. Ayurvedic theory states that all disease begins with an imbalance or stress in the individual s three levels of consciousness or doshas. Ayurveda is derived from the Vedas, or divine Hindu books of knowledge. Ayurveda strives to not only heal the sick, but also to prevent illness and preserve quality of life by combining science with philosophy.
Lifestyle interventions are a major ayurvedic preventive and therapeutic approach.
Ayurvedic therapies employ counseling, diet, yoga, meditation, massage, and herbal supplementation to treat specific illnesses. Published studies have documented health improvements employing Ayurvedic practices in those suffering diabetes, elevated blood pressure and cholesterol, certain cancers and infectious disease. Mechanisms underlying these effects may include free-radical scavenging effects, immune system modulation, brain neurotransmitter modulation, and hormonal effects. There are ten Ayurveda clinics in North America, including one hospital-based clinic that has served 25,000 patients since 1985. Inc. All rights reserved.