Ayurveda by Ashok Majumdar

Vata, pitta and kapha in turn are ruled by the five elements that make up all matter: fire, air, water, earth and space.

Ayurveda - a Sanskrit word meaning the science of life and longevity - is the traditional Indian system of holistic medicine.

Ayurveda understands the teamwork of body and mind to achieve optimal health and happiness. This system of healing gaining worldwide popularity integrates mind, body, spirit wellness.

The concepts behind Ayurveda are built upon the concept of tridosha, the three bioregulatory principles that sustain the human body: vata, pitta and kapha. Vata, pitta and kapha in turn are ruled by the five elements that make up all matter: fire, air, water, earth and space.

Ayurveda is used effectively not only for healing but for prevention of illness as well. Tools of healing include, lifestyle changes, herbs, metals, massages, meditation and yogasana, among other holistic methods.

Ayurveda aims at proper cleansing of the body - internally and externally, and the mind. Thus increasing the prana or life force, to bring about optimal health.

Ashok Majumdar's book on Ayurveda is a valuable resource for a better understanding of this holistic healing system. The book brings out the scientific aspect of Ayurveda in an easy to understand writing style. 

The book is intelligible for general readers as well as research scholars.

Book Excerpt

Ayurveda is being practiced in India even before the birth of Buddha (557 BC). A sub-branch of the Atharva Veda, which is one of the four vedas, this medical science was developed in close association with the natural environment.

It uses products available in nature to remedy various ailments of the human body. Its approach is towards protecting, curing and prolonging human life. Over the years, Ayurveda developed as a popular science of life.

Lineage of Ayurvedic practitioners

The legend of the origin and development of Ayurveda during the Vedic period is interesting. Brahma, the creator of universe, evolved the science of Ayurveda through meditation and imparted the knowledge to Prajapati Daksha.

This knowledge was then conferred on the twin-brother gods, the Ashwins, who became divine physicians. The science was made known to Indra, who is considered the king of Gods. who in turn, taught Ayurveda to saints out of compassion towards humanity. Two of these pupils, sage Bharadwaja and sage-king Deodas Dhanwantari became prominent instructors of the subject. Sage Bharadwaja taught Ayurveda to Punarvasu Atreya, who later formed the Atreya School of the School of Physicians.

About Author

Ashok Majumdar is a practicing physician, alternative medicine and stress relaxation consultant.He is also involved with the cultivation of medicinal plants and the production of herbal medicine.

Anisha Sharma