Ayurveda

• 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:
  1. Vata (Air & Ether) – Controls movement, nerve impulses, and circulation.
  2. Pitta (Fire & Water) – Regulates digestion, metabolism, and body heat.
  3. Kapha (Earth & Water) – Maintains stability, lubrication, and immunity.
• A balanced state of these doshas leads to health, while an imbalance results in disease.

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

1. Herbal Drug Identification – Pharmacognosy helps in identifying and authenticating Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Tulsi, and Triphala.
2. Quality Control – Standardization of raw materials, ensuring purity and preventing adulteration.
3. Phytochemical Analysis – Understanding active constituents like alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, etc.
4. Formulation Development – Developing traditional formulations such as Churna (Powders), Ghrita (Medicated Ghee), Asava & Arishta (Fermented Liquids), and Bhasma (Metal-based Preparations).

Thank you for reading from Firsthope's notes, don't forget to check YouTube videos!