Explore the astonishing science behind Ayurvedic Treatment & Medicine

History of Ayurvedic Treatment

Ayurveda is the ancient science of health and wellbeing which emerged in the Indian subcontinent about 5000 years ago. The term ‘Ayurveda’ is composed of two words, ‘Ayur’ meaning ‘life’ and ‘Veda’, meaning knowledge or insight. Ayurveda is thus one of the oldest treatment systems in the world that is still being used to effectively treat various health problems.

Although Ayurveda has a very rich history, it had been suppressed in the past during the regime of foreign rulers; Ayurveda has of late made a comeback and has been enjoying a major resurgence in both its native land and in other parts of the world. More and more people are now seeking Ayurvedic treatment in Kolkata and in other major cities around the world. Several Ayurvedic doctors and practitioners have been working for the past decades in order to provide safe and effective Ayurvedic treatment for a wide variety of skin diseases like Psoriasis and Eczema, different types of anorectal disorders like Piles, Fissure and Fistula, as well as serious joint-specific problems like Knee Pain, Back Pain and Arthritis. Ayurvedic doctors also treat chronic sexual problems like Erectile Dysfunction (ED) as well as Premature Ejaculation (PE). Even the treatment of Asthma and breathing problems - once thought to be the exclusive domain of inhalers - is being conducted using the principles of Ayurveda.

Maharshi Charaka was one of the principal contributors to the art and science of Ayurveda. Charaka was the first physician to present the concept of digestion, metabolism and immunity. He is the author of Charaka Samhita, which is one of the two foundational texts of Ayurveda.

Maharshi Sushruta was a legendary scholar of ancient Indian Medical Science, popularly known as Father of Surgery. Around 2600 years ago, Maharshi Sushruta together with his colleagues had conducted a variety of complex surgeries such as Cataract, Urinary Stones, Fractures, as well as Plastic Surgery. In a famous book Shalya Tantra, later named as the Sushruta Samhita, he described all the surgical procedures.

According to the Ayurveda tradition, it is Vagbhata who is credited with the composition of Ashtanga Sangraha and Ashtanga Hridayam. These seminal medical texts came after the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.

Basic Principles
of Ayurveda

Ayurveda is a holistic treatment system which is widely practised in India and around the world. The discipline of Ayurveda is well-endowed with the wisdom of staying healthy by keeping diseases at bay. The ultimate goal of Ayurveda is to help the individual to attain and enjoy his true potential. The principles of Ayurveda help us view health and disease in a holistic manner by giving due consideration to the intricate connection between the individual spirit and cosmic spirit and in the various ways in which energy, matter and consciousness interact.

The best Ayurvedic doctors (just like the venerable Vaidyas of ancient India) provide guidelines on health-promoting routines, diet and the appropriate use of our senses. Ayurveda reminds us that health is a state of being which naturally emerges when the environment and the body, the mind and the spirit achieve a harmonious and dynamic integration.

Recognising the fact that human beings are part of nature, Ayurveda describes three fundamental energies that govern our inner and outer environments: movement, transformation and structure. The practice of Ayurveda is designed to promote happiness, health and creative growth. The best Ayurvedic treatment is one which helps to eliminate the current problem while promoting overall health and wellbeing.

The 5 Elements of Life

The concept of five elements lies at the heart of Ayurvedic science. These five elements are the basis of life in the whole universe (the macrocosm) as well as in our body (the microcosm). The five elements according to Ayurveda are -

Ether (Akasa) • Air (Vayu) • Fire (Agni) • Water (Jala) • Earth (Prithvi)

The entire material universe that surrounds us is made by combining these elements in different proportions. According to Ayurveda, the five elements express the functions of the sensory organs and are related to hearing, touch, vision, taste and smell respectively.

Ether (Akasa)

In the human body, there are many spaces which are manifestations of the Ether element. There are, for example, spaces in the mouth, nose, gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, abdomen, thorax, capillaries, lymphatics, tissues and cells. Ether is the medium through which sound is transmitted. Hence, the Ethereal element is related to the sense of hearing and the sensory organ of hearing is ear.

Air (Vayu)

It is the second cosmic element - the element of movement. Within the human body, air manifests in the larger movements of the muscles, the pulsations of the heart, the expansion and contraction of the lungs and in the movements of the stomach walls and intestines. It is related to the sense of touch and the sensory organ of touch is skin.

Fire (Agni)

In the human body, the source of fire is the metabolism. Fire manifests itself in the digestive system. Thus, body temperature, digestion, the thinking processes and vision are all functions of bodily fire. (It manifests as light, heat and colour, and it is related to vision. Eye is the sensory organ of vision.)

Water (Jala)

Water manifests in the secretions of the digestive juices and the salivary glands, mucus membranes and in plasma and cytoplasm. It is absolutely vital for the functioning of tissue, organs and various bodily systems. ( It is related to the tongue, the organ of taste.)

Earth (Prithvi)

From Earth, all organic bodies, including those in the vegetable kingdom such as herbs and grains, and those in the animal kingdom (including man) are created. (The earth element is related to the sense of the smell and the sensory organ of smell is the nose.)

Ayurveda regards the human body and its sensory experiences as manifestations of cosmic energy expressed in the five basic elements. The ancient rishis perceived that these elements sprang from pure Cosmic Consciousness. The best Ayurvedic treatment aims to enable each individual to bring his body into a harmonious relationship with that Consciousness.

The 5 Elements of Life

Ether (Akasa) • Air (Vayu) • Fire (Agni) • Water (Jala) • Earth (Prithvi)

The 3 Doshas:
Vata, Pitta and Kapha

The five basic elements in Ayurveda are Ether, Air, Fire, Water and Earth. They manifest in the human body as three fundamental principles or humours, called Vata, Pitta and Kapha. These three principles are together known as the Tridosha.

Vata, Pitta and Kapha govern all the biological, physiological and physiopathological functions of the body. According to the principles of Ayurveda, ‘Vata’ (Wind), ‘Pitta’ (Fire) and ‘Kapha’ (Earth) are the primary forces which are responsible for the basic characteristics of our body. Each of us has a unique proportion of these three forces that shape our nature, upon which the complete Ayurvedic treatment system is based on.

Air

+

Either

=

Vata

Fire

+

Water

=

Pitta

Water

+

Earth

=

Kapha

Vata

From the Ether and Air elements, the bodily air principal called Vata is manifested. If Vata is dominant in our system, we tend to be slim, light, enthusiastic, energetic and changeable.

Pitta

The Fire and Water elements manifest together in the body as the fire principle called Pitta. If Pitta predominates our system, we tend to be intense, intelligent, goal-oriented and have a strong appetite for life.

Kapha

The Earth and Water elements manifest as the bodily water humour known as Kapha. When Kapha prevails, we tend to be easy-going, methodical and nurturing.

Although each of us has a varied combination of all three forces, most people have one or two elements that are more obviously expressed. The best Ayurvedic treatment seeks to help the individual to achieve longevity, rejuvenation and self-realisation.

The 3 Doshas:
Vata, Pitta and Kapha

From the Ether and Air elements, the bodily air principal called Vata is manifested. If Vata is dominant in our system, we tend to be slim, light, enthusiastic, energetic and changeable.

The Earth and Water elements manifest as the bodily water humour known as Kapha. When Kapha prevails, we tend to be easy-going, methodical and nurturing.

The 7 Dhatus: driving forces of life

Dhatu means tissue. The seven dhatus are the seven types of tissue that make up the human body. The health of the seven dhatus is paramount to the health of a person. When the seven dhatus are functioning normally, they allow the body to express the will of the ego or the soul. Only the best Ayurvedic doctors understand the impact of these dhatus on our overall health. The seven dhatus are:

Rasa

The first dhatu is the nutrient plasma which is created when food is digested. Food is transformed into Rasa by agni.

Rakta

It is blood, the life-giving fluid that circulates throughout the body, bringing nutrients and oxygen to the cells. Rakta is responsible for the functioning of the muscle, tendons and blood vessels.

Mamsa

The role of Mamsa is to cover all vital organs and to provide movement and strength. It regulates the functioning of flat muscles and skin.

Meda

Fat is the fourth dhatu. It lubricates all bodily tissue and maintains a normal body temperature. Meda controls fatty tissue and perspiration.

Asthi

It is the hard skeletal structure which supports the entire body. According to the principles of Ayurveda, the most difficult diseases to cure are the ones which affect the bones.

Majja

This dhatu includes both marrow and nerves. (Marrow lies within the bone. The nerves carry motor and sensory impulses throughout the body.)

Shukra

Reproductive tissue (semen and the ovum) are the seventh dhatu. They are responsible for creating new life. The Shukra dhatu requires the most amount of energy, and has the most important function.

The first dhatu is the nutrient plasma which is created when food is digested. Food is transformed into Rasa by agni.

It is blood, the life-giving fluid that circulates throughout the body, bringing nutrients and oxygen to the cells. Rakta is responsible for the functioning of the muscle, tendons and blood vessels.

The role of Mamsa is to cover all vital organs and to provide movement and strength. It regulates the functioning of flat muscles and skin.

Fat is the fourth dhatu. It lubricates all bodily tissue and maintains a normal body temperature. Meda controls fatty tissue and perspiration.

It is the hard skeletal structure which supports the entire body. According to the principles of Ayurveda, the most difficult diseases to cure are the ones which affect the bones.

This dhatu includes both marrow and nerves. (Marrow lies within the bone. The nerves carry motor and sensory impulses throughout the body.)

Reproductive tissue (semen and the ovum) are the seventh dhatu. They are responsible for creating new life. The Shukra dhatu requires the most amount of energy, and has the most important function.

The Attributes or Gunas: Qualities of Energy

Ayurveda encompasses a subtle medical science of attributes or qualities that create the essential aspects of all nature, namely - energy, matter and consciousness. According to Ayurveda, there are twenty basic attributes. The best Ayurvedic treatment requires a thorough understanding of these attributes in order to maintain a balance of the tridosha.

1. HEAVY (GURU)

Increases heaviness, bulk nutrition and creates dullness and lethargy.

2. Light (Laghu)

Reduces bulk and creates freshness, alertness, while helping in digestion.

3. Slow (Manda)

Creates sluggishness, slows down action, promotes relaxation and increases dullness.

4. Sharp (Tikshna)

Creates ulcers and perforation, promotes sharpness and quick understanding.

5. Cold (Sheeta)

Creates coldness, numbness, unconsciousness, contraction, fear and insensitivity.

6. Hot (Ushna)

Promotes heat, digestion, cleansing expansion, inflammation, anger and hate.

7. Oily (Snigdha)

Creates smoothness, moisture, lubrication, vigour and promotes compassion as well as love.

8. Dry (Ruksha)

Increases dryness, absorption, constipation and nervousness.

9. Slimy (Slakshna)

Decreases roughness and increases smoothness, love and care.

10. Rough (Khara)

Causes cracking of skin, bones, and creates carelessness, rigidity.

11. Dense (Sandra)

Promotes solidity, density and strength as well as love & bonding.

12. Liquid (Darava)

Dissolves, liquefies and promotes salivation, compassion & cohesiveness.

13. Soft (Mrudu)

Creates softness, delicacy, relaxation, tenderness, love and care.

14. Hard (Kathina)

Increases hardness, strength, rigidity, selfishness, callousness and insensitivity.

15. Static (Sthira)

Promotes stability, obstruction, support, constipation and faith.

16. Mobile (Chala)

Promotes motion, shakiness, restlessness and lack of faith.

17. Subtle (Sukshma)

Penetrates subtle capillaries and increases emotions, feeling.

18. Gross (Sthula)

Causes obstruction and obesity with dullness of mind.

19. Cloudy (Avila)

Heals fractures and causes unclearness along with lack of perception.

20. Clear (Vishada)

Creates isolation and diversion

The Concept of Prakriti

The nature of a person’s constitution is called Prakriti. A person’s Prakriti is the inherent balance of the three doshas at the moment of their creation. It is at this moment that a person’s physiological and psychological tendencies become fixed. According to the Ayurvedic Treatment System, Prakriti determines the physical and mental characteristics. An individual’s Prakriti is determined on the basis of the five elements and three doshas. A person’s Prakriti does not usually change throughout a person’s lifetime. To know a person’s constitution, it is important to know their tendencies. A good Ayurvedic doctor knows about these tendencies, which makes them able to take appropriate actions to keep them in check. For example, a person who knows that they have a tendency to catch a cold can take preventive steps to avoid such an issue. Ayurvedic treatment of Asthma and skin diseases like Psoriasis, Eczema, White Patches and Skin Allergy rely upon the notion that understanding and maintaining the balance between the fundamental elements and energies is at the heart of avoiding or resolving health problems.

Vata Prakriti:
The creative principle

As Vata is composed of space and air, it is associated with all movements of the mind and body. A person with a dominant Vata Prakriti will generally have a thin build, cold and dry skin, and tend to walk fast. They tend to have a creative streak in them, and are gifted with quick and perceptive minds.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

VATA PRAKRITI

Thin and light frame
Thin and small mouth
Low thirst
Talkative
Small hands and feet
Small and irregular teeth
Thin and dry hair
Thin eyebrows
Small eyes

Dull and dry skin
Chapped skin
Cold hands and feet
Brittle and rough nails
Lack of sweat

Poor blood circulation
Sensitive digestion
Prone to fatigue
Poor endurance
Cramps or sharp pains
Difficulty gaining weight
Quick moving
Lower back pain

MENTAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Genuine
Imaginative
Creative
Energetic
Enthusiastic
Sociable
Spontaneous
Adaptable

Sensitive
Restless
Worried
Anxious
Mood swings
Excitable

Absent-minded
Poor memory
Active
Short or unsettled sleep
Disturbing dreams

Pitta Prakriti:
The Leader

Pitta comprises the elements fire and air, and is responsible for governing energy and transformation in both our mind and body. It’s not only closely associated with digestion, absorption and assimilation of foods and fluids but also that of ideas, thoughts and words. A person with prevalent Pitta Prakriti will generally have a good build, with strong appetite, flushed complexion and well-proportioned teeth. They also exhibit sharp intellects and a dynamic personality.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

PITTA PRAKRITI

Well-built
Medium weight
Gains or loses weight easily
Active
Strong appetite
Large eater
Strong thirst
Difficulty skipping meals

Warm and slightly oily skin
Many moles and freckles
Neat, well-proportioned teeth
Thin, fine and straight hair
Balding or early greying hair
Burns easily in sun
Prone to acne and rashes
Sweat profusely
Warm hands and feet

Prone to fever
Overheats easily
Prone to heartburn and acidity
Diarrhoea
Prone to ulcers
Inflammation in skin and eyes
Suffers from eye problems
Prone to heart problems
Bad breath

MENTAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Motivated
Perfectionist
Good leader
Strong intellect
Enjoys challenges
Energetic
Hardworking
Strong-minded
Determined
Ambitious

Cheerful
Efficient
Contented
Generous
Conscientious
Forceful
Critical thinker
Orderly

Precise
Obsessive
Demanding
Competitive
Aggressive
Impatient
Intolerant
Quick-tempered

Kapha Prakriti:
The Nurturer

Kapha forms when the elements water and earth come together. It is responsible for the density and structure of our body. This is relatively easy to spot someone with Kapha Prakriti. A person with a predominance of Kapha in their constitution is generally slower, heavier, calmer and more grounded than those with either Vata or Pitta.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

KAPHA PRAKRITI

Thick and bushy eyebrows
Large hands and feet
Thick bones
Thick skin
Large and round face
Large and thick lips
Large white teeth
Thick, wavy hair
Large eyes
Pale complexion
Soft and smooth skin

Cold and oily skin
Strong, firm build
Slow digestion
Skips meals easily
Easily gains weight
Prone to having indigestion
Sluggish bowel movement

Low energy
Suffers in cold, damp weather
Prone to chest colds and flu
Prone to sinus and lung congestion
Suffers from eye problems
Prone to asthma and bronchitis
May suffer from joint or muscle stiffness
Prone to allergies and swelling
Bad breath

MENTAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Loving
Forgiving
Kind
Considerate
Affectionate
Compassionate
Caring
Peaceful
Calm
Stable
Patient
Home-loving
Tolerant

Possessive
Hides emotions
Self-pity
High pain threshold
Complacent
Suffers from boredom
Experiences deep depression

Conservative
Greedy
Hoarder
Dull
Sleeps excessively
Lethargic
Procrastinator
Inflexible
Stubborn

The Concept of Vikriti

Vikriti means the nature of the imbalance which leads to a disorder or pathological manifestation. In Ayurveda, the Vikriti of a patient refers to the current state of the three doshas and how they express themselves in the body and mind. Thus, Vikriti helps to understand the imbalances or symptoms that we are experiencing. One of the most important goals of Ayurvedic treatment for several chronic diseases like Diabetes, Hypertension, Piles, Infertility, Arthritis etc. is to understand a person’s Vikriti and then understand what aspects of a person’s environment have contributed to the disturbance.

Just as everyone has a unique fingerprint, each person has a particular pattern of energy – an individual combination of physical, mental and emotional characteristics – which comprises their own constitution. Balance is the natural order and imbalance is disorder. Thus, we can say that health is order and disease is disorder. There is a constant interaction between order and disorder. Many factors including internal and external play a great role to disturb this balance and are reflected as a change in one’s constitution from the balanced state. Once the factors are well understood, one can take appropriate actions to minimise the effects. The best Ayurvedic treatment aims to eliminate the causes of imbalance and again establish their original constitution.

Vata Imbalance

Vata is the subtle energy associated with movement which is composed of space and air. Breathing, blinking, muscle and tissue movement, pulsation of the heart and all movements in the cytoplasm and across the cell membranes are governed by Vata dosha. If it is balanced, it encourages creativity and flexibility. In imbalance, it produces fear and anxiety.

Signs and symptoms of Vata Imbalance

Nervousness
Tremors and muscle spasm
Insomnia
Constipation, gas, bloating, problem in bowel movement
Anxiety, stress
Excessive thinking, nervous disorder
Dry, flaky skin, brittle and peeling nails
Joint pain

Causes of Vata Imbalance

Travel
Weather changes
Insufficient sleep
Irregular schedules
Too much mental and sensory stimulation
Excessive exercises
Stress, grief and tension

How to balance Vata Imbalance

Consume foods that are naturally sweet, sour and salty in taste.
Avoid junk food, excessive salt and processed sugar.
Follow a fixed routine and avoid irregular activities. Bedtime, meal time, exercise time, and waking time should be the same everyday.
Take warm and freshly cooked foods. Enjoy warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, and cumin etc.
Take plenty of room-temperature or warm drinks.
Try to take high-quality ghee in your daily diet.
Stay warm, calm and relaxed with hot baths and warm oil messages.
Avoid overeating or eating heavy meals.

Nervousness
Tremors and muscle spasm
Insomnia
Constipation, gas, bloating, problem in bowel movement
Anxiety, stress
Excessive thinking, nervous disorder
Dry, flaky skin, brittle and peeling nails
Joint pain

Travel
Weather changes
Insufficient sleep
Irregular schedules
Too much mental and sensory stimulation
Excessive exercises
Stress, grief and tension

Consume foods that are naturally sweet, sour and salty in taste.
Avoid junk food, excessive salt and processed sugar.
Follow a fixed routine and avoid irregular activities. Bedtime, meal time, exercise time, and waking time should be the same everyday.
Take warm and freshly cooked foods. Enjoy warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, and cumin etc.
Take plenty of room-temperature or warm drinks.
Try to take high-quality ghee in your daily diet.
Stay warm, calm and relaxed with hot baths and warm oil messages.
Avoid overeating or eating heavy meals.

Pitta Imbalance

Pitta is expressed as the body’s metabolic system — made up of Fire and Water. It governs digestion, absorption, assimilation, nutrition, metabolism and body temperature. In balance, Pitta promotes understanding and intelligence. If it is imbalanced, it arouses anger, hatred and jealousy.

Signs and symptoms of Pitta Imbalance

Inflamed skin rashes
Joint inflammation
Digestive problems, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Nausea, Acid Reflux, Heartburn, Ulcers
Loose Stools, Diarrhoea
Frustration, anger, irritability, jealousy, impatience
Excess body heat
Extremely high libido
Premature ejaculation

Causes of Pitta Imbalance

Eating a Pitta-provoking food (too much spicy or oily)
Exposure to chemicals
Too much sun exposure, sunburn
Emotional stress
Poor lifestyle
Excess of oil or butter
Tea, alcohol, smoking and junk food
Fasting
Working or staying in hot temperature

How to balance Pitta Imbalance

Do not eat spicy and hot food.
Avoid late night eating.
Do not skip breakfast.
Limit tea and coffee consumption.
Maintain proper timing of breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Include cow ghee in your meal.
Drink water at least 45 minute before and after having a meal.
Avoid sour foods and hydrate yourself.

Inflamed skin rashes
Joint inflammation
Digestive problems, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Nausea, Acid Reflux, Heartburn, Ulcers
Loose Stools, Diarrhoea
Frustration, anger, irritability, jealousy, impatience
Excess body heat
Extremely high libido
Premature ejaculation

Eating a Pitta-provoking food (too much spicy or oily)
Exposure to chemicals
Too much sun exposure, sunburn
Emotional stress
Poor lifestyle
Excess of oil or butter
Tea, alcohol, smoking and junk food
Fasting
Working or staying in hot temperature

Do not eat spicy and hot food.
Avoid late night eating.
Do not skip breakfast.
Limit tea and coffee consumption.
Maintain proper timing of breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Include cow ghee in your meal.
Drink water at least 45 minute before and after having a meal.
Avoid sour foods and hydrate yourself.

Kapha Imbalance

Kapha encompasses the elements water and earth. It governs the body’s structure - bones, muscles and tendons. Kapha supplies the water for all bodily parts and structures. Kapha helps to lubricate joints, moisturises the skin and maintains immunity. Kapha governs us to feel calm, content and compassionate. If it is imbalanced, it can cause attachment, greed and envy.

Signs and symptoms of Kapha Imbalance

Excess mucus in the respiratory system and in stools.
Thick, white coating on the tongue.
Infrequent and sluggish bowel movement.
Heavy body weight, loses weight with difficulty but easily gains.
Difficulty walking in the morning and from the naps.
Feeling low, lethargic, dull, or heavy in mind.
Stubbornness, complacency, frequent cough and cold
Feeling overly attached and possessive.

Causes of Kapha Imbalance

Consuming Kapha-aggravating foods like dairy, fatty, oily food, cold drinks, frozen and salty food, sweets and sour fruits.
Overeating or eating heavy meals.
Spending too much time in cold and damp climates.
Lack of physical activity, sleeping during the day.

How to balance Kapha Imbalance

Consume foods that are pungent, bitter or astringent in taste
Take warm and freshly cooked foods.
Avoid foods that are sweet, sour, salty and heavy in nature.
Don’t take cold and carbonated drinks, rather try to drink room-temperature or warm drinks.
Consume lots of vegetables and maintain routine time for your meals.
Take a deep breath after swallowing your last bite.

Excess mucus in the respiratory system and in stools.
Thick, white coating on the tongue.
Infrequent and sluggish bowel movement.
Heavy body weight, loses weight with difficulty but easily gains.
Difficulty walking in the morning and from the naps.
Feeling low, lethargic, dull, or heavy in mind.
Stubbornness, complacency, frequent cough and cold
Feeling overly attached and possessive.

Consuming Kapha-aggravating foods like dairy, fatty, oily food, cold drinks, frozen and salty food, sweets and sour fruits.
Overeating or eating heavy meals.
Spending too much time in cold and damp climates.
Lack of physical activity, sleeping during the day.

Consume foods that are pungent, bitter or astringent in taste
Take warm and freshly cooked foods.
Avoid foods that are sweet, sour, salty and heavy in nature.
Don’t take cold and carbonated drinks, rather try to drink room-temperature or warm drinks.
Consume lots of vegetables and maintain routine time for your meals.
Take a deep breath after swallowing your last bite.

The Ayurvedic perspective
on Health and Sickness

When both the internal and external environments are out of balance, then disorder occurs. The best Ayurvedic doctor know that the cause of disease is a lack of proper cellular function due to an excess or deficiency of Vata, Pitta or Kapha.

Doshas and their associated Health problems

Affinity to illness and diseases are determined by our individual constitution. For instance, people with Kapha constitution have a tendency to be affected with diseases related to Kapha. They may suffer from Bronchitis, Congested Lungs, Sinusitis or Tonsillitis. People with Pitta constitution are known to be affected by skin problems like Allergies, Rashes, Psoriasis and they also suffer from Gallbladder, Liver Disorders, Peptic Ulcers, Inflammatory Diseases and Hyperacidity. Those who have Vata constitution are highly susceptible to Sciatica, Joint Pain, Excessive Gas, Arthritis and Pain in the Lower Back. Most Vata diseases originate within the large intestine, whereas Pittas are related to the small intestine and Kapha is prone to disorders that affect the stomach.

Repressed Emotions

Due to the imbalance of tridosha, an adverse effect on the mind can also occur. For example, unbalanced Vata can cause fear, nervousness and depression. Excessive Pitta will lead to anger, hate and jealousy and aggravated Kapha is the reason for greed, obsessive attachment and possessiveness. Ayurvedic treatment helps us understand that emotions must be observed with a sense of detachment before being allowed to dissipate.

Effects on Three Malas

According to the principles of Ayurveda, waste matter of the body is as important as body tissues for maintenance of good tissues as well as for the maintenance of good health and longevity. The three major excretions of the body are called three Malas. They are:

Stool (purisha) • Urine (mutra) • Sweat (sweda)

These three waste products are formed on a daily basis and keep the body fit and healthy if they are excreted from the body at proper time. If they remain in the body, they can cause many diseases.

Effects on Seven Dhatus

The fundamental point which is emphasised in the best Ayurvedic clinics in Kolkata and elsewhere is that imbalance of dhatus can lead to lethargy, drowsiness and so many other health disorders. For example, problems in Rakta dhatu can cause blood related problems like Anaemia, Thalassaemia or Leukaemia. Problems in Shukra dhatu can lead to infertility and weakness. Disorder in Rasa dhatu can lead to dryness in the skin, fatigue, blackouts, trembling and excess thirst. Deficiency of mamsa will include pain, spasms, tight or loose muscles, abscess or ulcers, enlarged tonsils and tumours. A deficiency in meda means your body will become lethargic, suffer from indigestion, gaunt face and dry hair. Imbalanced Asthi dhatu causes inflexible joints, bone pain, nail problems, excessive hair growth, teeth problems and sensitivity to cold. Dizziness, lack of stability, swollen or painful joints, memory loss, fear and anxiety are the signs of deficiency in majja dhatu.

Agni: The Ayurvedic Key to Health

Since the time of Sushruta, Ayurvedic doctors have known the concept of fire or agni and its importance to our overall health. Agni is the force of intelligence within each cell, each tissue and every system within the body. Ayurveda identifies at least 13 distinct subtypes of agni in the body and each defined by its specific physiological function as well as its location in the body. If agni is balanced, it will sustain strong immunity, long and healthy life including healthy appetite, clean tongue, proper appreciation of taste, good digestion, balanced metabolism, stable health, steady weight and normal blood pressure. Imbalance of agni can lead to emotional disturbances, low energy, suppressed appetite, confusion, fear, anxiety, indigestion, gas, bloating, constipation and many other diseases.

Stool (purisha) • Urine (mutra) • Sweat (sweda)

These three waste products are formed on a daily basis and keep the body fit and healthy if they are excreted from the body at proper time. If they remain in the body, they can cause many diseases.

How Ayurveda addresses the Root Cause of Diseases

According to Ayurveda, the root cause of any disease always depends on the imbalance of tridosha or body humours. Ayurveda encompasses different techniques for assessing health. The best Ayurvedic doctors carefully evaluate the signs and symptoms of the disease, physical and mental characteristics and other necessary information about the patient. Ayurvedic doctors use direct questioning, observation, tests and several other methods like Nadi Parikshan, Mutra Parikshan and Physical Examinations of tongue, face, nails, lips, and eyes in order to find the causes of the imbalance and to eradicate the root cause of the disease.

Nadi Parikshan (Pulse Diagnosis)

The significance of Nadi Pariksha is deeply understood and effectively implemented by Ayurveda practitioners for assessing Tridosha as well as various physiological and psychological states of the patient. According to the classical texts, qualities or properties of pulse such as pulse movement (gati), speed of the pulse (vega), stability of the pulse (sthiratva) and hardness of the artery (kathinya) play important roles in Nadi Parikshan. The best Ayurvedic doctors examine the nadi with a stable, calm and concentrated mind, trying to feel the pulse with the fingertips. For male persons, Nadi Parikshan is done on the right hand while for the female persons, it is done on the left hand.

Nadi should be examined at the root of the palm. The arm of the patient should be extended and the hand should be slightly bent at the elbow joint, with the fingers kept straight. The patient should not feel any discomfort or pain. The pulse should be examined three times by feeling the pulse and giving a gap in between. The doctor should closely observe the different characterstics of Nadi and find out whether the Nadi movement is mild, moderate or sharp.

Mutra Parikshan (Urine Examination)

Mutra Parikshan has also been given special attention in some of the medieval Ayurveda texts. The examination of colour, appearance and consistency of urine is held to diagnose disease conditions and to find out about their prognosis. Every patient is advised to sleep early (before 9 PM) with the usual intake of water (2 to 3 glasses) during dinner. Patients are asked to collect the first mid-stream urine of the day in a transparent bottle or glass vessel. After ascertaining that the urine is stable and devoid of wave or ripples or other influence of the wind, the urine is examined in daylight.

Physical
Examination

Ayurvedic physical examination includes three diagnostic methods:

DARSHAN PARIKSHA (Inspection): It is an observation of the body parts including tongue, face, lip, nail, eyes, hair, skin and other body parts.
SPARSHANA PARIKSHA (Palpation): This diagnostic tool includes the examination of pulse and by touching of body parts like skin.
PRASHNA PARIKSHA (Interrogation): During the interrogation, medical history, symptoms, psychological and physiological characteristics are observed.

At the best Ayurvedic Clinics, doctors observe the surface of the tongue, through which several characteristic patterns can be revealed regarding the functional status of respective internal organs. Through the lines, wrinkles and changes in different parts of a face, various diseases and disorders can be diagnosed by an experienced Ayurvedic doctor. Size, Shape, Surface, Colour and Contour of the lips can reflect the health or disease in the various organs. According to Ayurveda, the size, shape, surface, and contour of our nails can also indicate the state of our health. Examination of colour, size, and shape of iris can indicate our Prakriti and Vikriti.

Ayurvedic physical examination includes three diagnostic methods:

DARSHAN PARIKSHA (Inspection): It is an observation of the body parts including tongue, face, lip, nail, eyes, hair, skin and other body parts.
SPARSHANA PARIKSHA (Palpation): This diagnostic tool includes the examination of pulse and by touching of body parts like skin.
PRASHNA PARIKSHA (Interrogation): During the interrogation, medical history, symptoms, psychological and physiological characteristics are observed.

Ayurvedic treatment focuses on curing
the disease - not just the symptoms

Ayurveda is not a system of healing that provides temporary relief of symptoms. The best Ayurvedic treatment in Kolkata and elsewhere aims to restore health by working on the underlying causes of the disease, so that it will not emerge again. The traditional science is based on the procedure of detoxification, cleansing, strengthening and rejuvenation. So, it always aims to provide a root cause treatment of the disease. Its objective is to restore harmony and balance. The root cause of the disease has a strong relationship to the patient’s thoughts, beliefs and lifestyle.

Elements of Ayurvedic treatment

Ayurvedic treatment is a systematic plan of providing root cause treatment of various diseases. The diseases can be from different categories. Ayurvedic treatment has been proven to be effective in combating skin diseases like Eczema, Psoriasis and White Patches. This kind of treatment is also used to reduce and eliminate joint pain problems like Knee Pain, Back Pain and Arthritis. Furthermore, serious sexual problems like Premature Ejaculation (PE) and Erectile Dysfunction (ED) can also be safely and effectively treated using Ayurveda. Ayurvedic treatment consists of:

Aushada Chikitsa (Medicine):

Ayurvedic medicines are derived from herbs, metals, minerals and organic matter which are used for the treatment of various diseases. These naturally derived medicines are highly effective without producing any side effects, which make them completely safe to use.

Byama Chikitsa (Lifestyle):

Ayurveda emphasises good health and prevention of illness through lifestyle practices such as massage, meditation, yoga and dietary changes. Diet for specific doshas is prescribed, so that foods which aggravate a particular dosha are avoided. According to the dosha, exercises are also recommended. The science of Ayurveda teaches that the individual must express their emotions because if they are suppressed, they can increase the disease-causing toxins. So, the Ayurvedic technique for dealing with negativity is observation and release.

Pathya & Apathya (Diet):

According to Ayurveda, a proper diet based on personalised recommendations helps in balancing different types of energy within your body to improve health. A balanced diet which is based on the body’s constitutions not only improves physical health but also promotes mental health. According to the diet, your dosha determines which foods you should take to promote inner balance. For example, people with Vata dosha should take warm and moist foods and should limit dried fruits as well as under-cooked vegetables. For Pitta dosha, people must take cool and energising foods while cutting down on spices, nuts and seeds. People with Kapha dosha should take fresh fruits, vegetables and legumes. They should limit the consumption of heavy and rich foods with excessive oils.

Mano Chikitsa (Stress Relief):

The psychological factors like anger, fear, anxiety, nervousness, jealousy, possessiveness, and greed are common human emotions. Ayurvedic treatment provides various types of stress care treatments, such as Swedana (detoxification through herbal steam therapy), Abhyanga (body rejuvenation through warm oil massage), Pizhichil (muscular toning though oil bathing), Shirodhara (de-stressing through a rhythmic flow of medicated oil on the forehead) and so on. Beside these, Ayurveda suggests daily meditation and yoga to stay stress free, mentally stable and physically active.

Panchakarma (Detoxification Therapies):

This is one of the most popular core treatment modalities in Ayurveda. The term “Panchakarma” is derived from two Sanskrit words – “Pancha” means five and “Karma” means actions or procedures. It refers to a series of five detoxifying and rejuvenating treatments designed to cleanse the body, restore balance and promote overall well-being. The primary goal of Panchakarma is to eliminate accumulated toxins (known as Ama) – an obstruction from the body and mind, purify the system, enhance the vitality and strenghthen the immune system. It also rejuvenates body tissues (Dhatu), improving digestion and promoting mental clarity.

The five procedures of Panchakarma are:

Vamanam (Therapeutic Emesis Therapy)
Virechanam (Therapeutic Purgation Therapy)
Vasti (Therapeutic Enema Therapy)
Nasyam (Nasal Administration of Medicine)
Rakta Mokshanam (Blood Letting)

Along with the classical Panchakarma for bio-cleansing procedure of internal organs, there are external Panchakarma therapies as well, like Abhyangam, Sirodhara, Udavartanam, Pizhichil, Kati vasti and Njavarakizhi.

The five procedures of Panchakarma are:

Vamanam (Therapeutic Emesis Therapy)
Virechanam (Therapeutic Purgation Therapy)
Vasti (Therapeutic Enema Therapy)
Nasyam (Nasal Administration of Medicine)
Rakta Mokshanam (Blood Letting)