Ayurveda
Ayurveda or Ayurvedic Medicine is a system of medicine that originated in India several thousand years ago. Ayurvedic medicine is one of the world’s oldest medical systems and remains one of India’s traditional health care systems. It is based on ancient writings that rely on a "natural" and holistic approach to physical and mental health.
Ayurvedic treatment combines complex products (mainly derived from plants, but may also include animal, metal, and mineral), diet, exercise, and lifestyle.
Some well-designed clinical trials and systematic research reviews suggest that Ayurvedic approaches are effective.
If you’re pregnant or nursing, be sure to consult your (or your child’s) health care provider as some Ayurvedic products may contain products that could be harmful.
Note: If anything an CAM practitioner says or recommends directly conflicts with advice from your physician, discuss it with your physician and do your own research before making any major changes in any current treatment regimen or in your lifestyle.
Browse Related Info:
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Mind and Body Interventions or Practices
- Tai Chi
- Qi Gong
- Yoga
- Hypnosis
- Meditation
- Relaxation Techniques
- CAM Natural Products
- Herbal Remedies
- Wellness and Well-Being
- Health Pages
- Testing Treatments
Did You Know?
Complex herbal-mineral combinations play key roles in Ayurvedic medicine and other approaches such as diet and lifestyle modifications are also used.
Some Ayurvedic preparations may contain lead, mercury, or arsenic in amounts that can be toxic.
For supplements, particularly botanicals, pharmacists can be an excellent source of information, especially if they are familiar with other medications you are taking.
The absence of documented danger is not the same thing as proof of safety.
Tips on How to Select Health Care Practitioner
Selecting a health care practitioner of conventional medicine or complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is an important decision and can be key to ensuring that you are receiving the best health care.
If you are seeking a complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practitioner, speak with your primary health care provider(s) regarding the therapy in which you are interested. Ask if they have a recommendation for the type of CAM practitioner you are seeking.
Make a list of health care practitioners and gather information about each before making your first visit. Ask basic questions about their credentials and practice. Where did they receive their training? What licenses or certifications do they have? How much will the treatment cost?
Check with your insurer to see if the cost of therapy will be covered.
After you select a practitioner, make a list of questions to ask at your first visit. You may want to bring a friend or family member who can help you ask questions and note answers.
Come to the first visit prepared to answer questions about your health history, including injuries, surgeries, and major illnesses, as well as prescription medicines, vitamins, and other supplements you may take.
Assess your first visit and decide if the practitioner is right for you. Did you feel comfortable with the practitioner? Could the practitioner answer your questions? Did he respond to you in a way that satisfied you? Does the treatment plan seem reasonable and acceptable to you?
Ask about qualifications (training or education) before accepting recommendations from anyone.
