- Ayurveda is one of the oldest holistic healing systems, originating in India over 5,000 years ago. The term “Ayurveda” is derived from Sanskrit words:
- “Ayur” meaning life
- “Veda” meaning knowledge or science
- Ayurveda focuses on maintaining the balance of bodily functions through diet, lifestyle, herbal medicine, and spiritual practices.
Principle
- The fundamental concept in Ayurveda revolves around the Tridosha theory, which states that the human body is governed by three doshas:
- Vata (Air & Ether) – Controls movement, nerve impulses, and circulation.
- Pitta (Fire & Water) – Regulates digestion, metabolism, and body heat.
- Kapha (Earth & Water) – Maintains stability, lubrication, and immunity.
- A balanced state of these doshas leads to health, while an imbalance results in disease.
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Diagnosis in Ayurveda
- Ayurvedic diagnosis involves a detailed understanding of the individual’s constitution (Prakriti) and current imbalances (Vikriti). Diagnosis methods include:
- Nadi Pariksha (Pulse Diagnosis)
- Darshan (Observation)
- Sparsh (Palpation & Touch)
- Prashna (Questioning)
- Examination of Dosha, Dhatu (Tissues), Mala (Excretions), and Agni (Digestive Fire)
Role of Pharmacognosy in Ayurveda
- Herbal Drug Identification – Pharmacognosy helps in identifying and authenticating Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Tulsi, and Triphala.
- Quality Control – Standardization of raw materials, ensuring purity and preventing adulteration.
- Phytochemical Analysis – Understanding active constituents like alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, etc.
- Formulation Development – Developing traditional formulations such as Churna (Powders), Ghrita (Medicated Ghee), Asava & Arishta (Fermented Liquids), and Bhasma (Metal-based Preparations).
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