The word Ayurveda comes from two Sanskrit words, “Ayur” meaning life or longevity and “Veda” meaning knowledge or truth. Ayurveda, then, can be translated as “knowledge of longevity” or the “truth of life.” Both meanings convey the profound understanding of the nature of health and healing contained within this system of medicine.

Ayurveda is over 5000 years old and is considered the mother of all natural medicines, having given rise to Tibetan Medicine and then Chinese Medicine, as well as Greek Medicine. It is a complete system of medicine and many are surprised to learn that it contains surgery as one of its subspecialties.

Ayurveda is a science that understands how Nature works. It understands how to utilize nature to heal. And it understands human nature. In understanding how an underlying field of energy and intelligence gives rise to material creation, it contains deep insight into the workings and effects of mind on the body. It understands how we can remain in tune with our unique nature and recognizes that we are all unique — “one man’s meat is another man’s poison.” It also contains over 23 different modalities to restore balance when we get out of tune with our nature. These modalities range from Yoga and meditation to herbs and gemstones.

Ayuveda’s science of balance is based on a three-part or “tridoshic” theory. Each dosha is a fundamental energetic pattern that guides physical processes and physical structure. The three doshas are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.

See more at Dr Dugliss’s website.