Ayurveda, the ancient Indian science of life, is derived from two Sanskrit words: Ayu (life) and Veda (knowledge). Rooted in centuries of wisdom through experience and meditation, it offers universal principles for harmony and peace. Ayurveda encompasses not only medicine but also philosophy, theology, and natural sciences, viewing each person as a microcosm of the universe, inseparably connected to cosmic forces. Both the human body and the cosmos are made up of five elements—earth, water, fire, air, and space.

At its core, Ayurveda emphasizes the balance of three vital energies, or Tridoshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Health is maintained when these forces are in balance; disease arises when they are disturbed by the constant interaction between the body’s inner environment and the external world. Restoring balance to the doshas is therefore central to healing.

Other foundational concepts include the Saptadhatus (tissues), Srotas (channels), Ama (toxins), and the trinity of body, mind, and spirit. Diagnosis begins with assessing an individual’s constitution (Prakriti) rather than the disease itself, since the same illness can manifest differently in different people. Treatments are tailored to restore each person’s unique balance, making the constitutional approach the essence of Ayurveda.

Therapy is broadly divided into Santarpanam (tonification), which nourishes deficiencies, and Apatarpanam (reduction), which removes excesses. Reduction therapy has two forms: Shamanam (pacification) using herbs, fasting, exercise, and natural elements; and Shodhanam (purification), which eliminates deep-seated toxins. The most powerful purification method is Panchakarma, consisting of five procedures—Vamanam (emesis), Virechanam (purgation), Nasyam (nasal therapy), Vasti (enemas), and Raktamoksham (bloodletting), all supported by preparatory practices like Snehanam (oleation) and Swedanam (sweating). Kerala has further enriched Ayurveda with therapies such as Dhara, Pizhichil, Njavarakizhi, Elakizhi, Shirovasthi, and Thalapothichil, proven effective against conditions like arthritis, neurological disorders, asthma, ulcers, and skin diseases.

Ayurvedic pharmacology is based on Rasa (taste), Virya (potency), and Vipaka (post-digestive effect), drawing from a vast range of herbs, minerals, and metals. Its knowledge is traditionally organized into eight branches: Kaya Chikitsa (general medicine), Shalya (surgery), Shalakya (ENT & ophthalmology), Graha (psychotherapy), Agada Tantra (toxicology), Bala (pediatrics), Rasayana (rejuvenation), and Vajikarana (aphrodisiacs). Together, these principles make Ayurveda not only a medical system but also a holistic way of living in balance with nature and the self.