A system of healing that’s been around for thousands of years, Ayurveda encompasses a huge body of medical knowledge ranging from herbal therapies to detoxification methods. A Sanskrit term, it translates to “knowledge of life,” which can give you an idea for how vast Ayurvedic medicine is.
While many people have a general awareness of what it is, because there is so much information to absorb and so many elements involved, those who don’t practice it may run into just as many misconceptions as truths.
To help you gain a deeper understanding of how Ayurveda works and what it can do to support your health, we’ve debunked some of the most common misconceptions about Ayurvedic medicine.
All Ayurvedic treatments are safe
Just because this is a natural form of healing and a holistic path to wellness, it doesn’t mean everything is safe. Certain herbs and medicinal preparations can be harmful if taken in the wrong dosages. If you’re considering taking any type of medicine, it’s always important to talk with a trained medical professional to ensure what you take won’t interfere with any other medications.
It is merely ancient India’s version of herbal healing
While using herbal remedies and cooking with certain herbs and spices are important parts of Ayurvedic medicine, herbal therapy is only one facet of the whole. In fact, as a form of holistic therapy, Ayurveda is more effective when you combine an Ayurvedic-based diet and herbal preparations with healthy lifestyle choices, exercise, and stress management.
The underlying principles of Ayurvedic medicine go far beyond taking an herbal remedy to address specific health issues. As a comprehensive healing system, it includes eight branches. Within each branch, there are various therapies and treatment methods, many of which have been developed over millennia.
- General medicine
- Pediatrics
- Psychiatry
- Surgery
- Treatment for the eyes, nose, throat, and head
- Toxicology
- Geriatrics
- Aphrodisiac therapy
You have to know your dosha type to benefit
Someone who follows an Ayurvedic lifestyle will make certain health and wellness choices in order to balance the three doshas, which are biological energies thought to influence overall mental and physical wellness. Ideally, you know what natural proportions of each dosha are natural for you. Then, an Ayurvedic practitioner would advise you on what you can do to restore those natural proportions.
At Soma Spa, we offer a full Ayurvedic Consultation that includes a physical evaluation. During the consultation, you’ll learn more about your doshas and how balancing the amount of Kapha, Pitta, and Vata in your body can support your health.
However, anyone can benefit from this ancient healing system. Whether you are interested in the soothing and restorative benefits of one of our Ayurvedic massages or you love using Ayurvedic skincare treatments to help your skin glow, you don’t need to know your exact dosha balance to enjoy the wonders of Ayurveda.
In fact, starting with a safe, nurturing Ayurvedic treatment can be a wonderful way to step into the world of Ayurvedic medicine. We’re sure once you experience the benefits yourself, you’ll want to find out more about living an Ayurvedic lifestyle.
