Ayurveda literally means “the science of life.” It was developed in India over 2000 years ago. The foundations of Ayurveda were established by the originators of Indian meditation and yoga.
Ayurveda parallels traditional Chinese medicine in many respects. The focus of treatment is on the whole person, and balancing or harmonizing body, mind, and spirit.
In Ayurveda there are three bodily “humors” (doshas) that regulate bodily function. Each of these doshas is responsible for a particular area of the body. Practitioners of Ayurveda believe disease occurs when there is imbalance in the doshas. Kapha is the dosha that governs structure, cohesion, and lubrication. It’s located primarily in the upper torso. Pitta is the dosha that governs energy. It is located primarily in the middle of the body. Vata is the dosha that governs movement, including the mind. It is located primarily in the lower abdomen.
Like traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda uses herbal products to help balance bodily processes. Ayurveda uses herbals in fixed combinations or formulations. Many of the herbs commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine are also used in Ayurveda.