4. How is Ayurveda different from modern medicine?
I would focus on three basic points which distinguishes Ayurveda from the modern age medicine. .
• First, In Ayurveda the very first principle in treating a disease is to do away with the basic cause of the disease, and also no new ailment should emerge as a consequence. A disease is eradicated from its roots.
• Secondly, Ayurveda insists that medicine be centered at the patient, rather on the disease. The mind, body and soul are considered as a tripod and the entire word is sustained by their combination.
• Thirdly, as Ayurveda deals with the preparations only from herbs and natural resources, it is basically harmless therapy with least or no side effects. And precisely, this is the demand of our times.
5. What is a Dosha and what are the three principles used in Ayurveda?
Dosha is the Sanskrit term for “that what vitiates.” Thus, doshas are the humors that imminently make up the body and yet they are very easy to be vitiated. Ayurveda believes that as and when the three doshas are in the state of natural equilibrium, these tend to sustain natural wellbeing. And on the contrary, when the doshas fall out of balance, then these are reason enough to make the body ailing. Ayurveda doshas or the three principles (body humors) are Vata or the air, Pitta or the fire and Kapha or the phlegm. The three doshas are highly significant and essential for our natural health and well-being, are thoroughly described in Ayurveda science of Dosha Healing
6. Does one have to adopt a complete ayurvedic lifestyle in order to become healthier, or is it possible to incorporate a few methods into our daily routine?
I would say that although Ayurveda largely counsels about adapting the right everyday lifestyle, with the aim of staying clear of lifestyle ailments, as well as enjoying the fruit of natural wellbeing and longevity; yet even if we are able to include the basic methods, it would be much healing. I would vouch for taking into conscious consideration the balanced diet, daily exercise and proper rest in everyday living, which are also considered as the three pillars which support the ‘building’ of our health.
7. So many Americans lead an incredibly stressful life. Are there any herbs you would recommend to combat stress?
There are some Ayurveda herbs that are expressed more rightly as ‘Brain tonics’. These not only help to combat stress, but can also prove quite beneficial to sharpen intellect and increase the mental powers. Ayurveda herbs like Brahmi (Centella asiatica), Shankpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) are great support for combating stress.
