Ayurveda is probably the most ancient system of medicine known to human beings. It formed part of the Vedic philosophy and sciences that flourished on the banks of the great rivers of India 5,000 - 10,000 years ago.

Ayurveda is based on principles which are universally observable in nature; and treatment looks at a person's unique constitution, their environmental and lifestyle influences, and the particular qualities of their disease condition.

What happens in an ayurvedic consultation?

Your health history is taken, your body type assessed, and your condition determined ayurvedically.  Then a treatment plan is designed to include diet and lifestyle advice, herbal prescriptions, massage and yoga to promote optimum mental and physical harmony.

Herbs

When prescribed with skill and care by qualified practitioners, ayurvedic herbs are extremely safe, and can offer wonderful benefits. Many ayurvedically-used herbs have rejuvenative effects on the various organs and systems, and have stress-adapting and immune-enhancing effects as well.  While generally less direct and potent than conventional drugs, they have a more balancing effect on body, and can be used to support and enhance conventional medical treatment.

An exciting research area of ayurvedic herbs is Rasayana, the science of longevity. Rasayana herbs are traditionally taken throughout life, and have been found to have anti-oxidant, anti-stress, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Ayurvedic massage and other therapies

In Ayurveda, massage is often used for specific therapeutic purposes. Generally, however, this luxurious therapy is highly effective for releasing stress, building the immune system, and keeping all systems healthy. It revitalises tired muscles, improves circulation, rejuvenates and detoxifies, leaving your skin glowing!

Regular ayurvedic massage is highly recommended as part of your health plan - the benefits are profound. Different clinics offer different ranges of body therapies, including sauna heat treatment, herbal body scrubs, and ayurvedic colonic therapy. Ayurveda has a comprehensive detox and nourishment programme (called Panchakarma) which has been developed over millenia to combat serious diseases and optimise youthful health.

Mental wellbeing

Ayurveda can help you balance your emotions through the diet plans, herbs, relaxation therapies, yoga and counseling.  Because the treatments are so natural and intuitive, you quickly gain more self-awareness and self-understanding. Reconnecting with your body becomes an exciting and meaningful journey back to your essential, blissful self!