Ayurveda, Branches in Ayurveda
Ayurveda, the science of life is the world’s most ancient and unique system of medicine.Ayurveda evolved around 600 BC in India.There are glimpses of Ayurvedic treatments and medicines in various ancient scripts.The word Ayurveda is derived from two words - Ayu meaning life and Veda meaning knowledge or science.It literally means knowledge about life.This system of medicine stressed on the prevention of body ailments in addition to curing them. Followed by the Dravidians and Aryans alike, Ayurveda has been practised ever since time immemorial. The formation of living organisms is described in the principles of Ayurveda- a complete naturalistic system.The focus is on obtaining a balance among the Tridhoshas, i.e. Vatha, Pitha and Kapha. Illness is the result of imbalance of the Tridhoshas. Like modern medicine, Ayurveda is also divided into several important branches of treatment dealing with various human aspects.Each branch follows various methods for regenerating the equilibrium of body, mind and soul.Ayurveda believes in the treatment of not just the affected part, but the individual as a whole, making it the natural way to refresh yourself, eliminate all toxic imbalances from the body and thus regain resistance and good health
Branches in Ayurveda
Kaya Chikitsa:The Ayurvedic equivalent to general medicine, this branch deals with the routine diseases that are likely to affect human beings, and their treatment.
Bala Chikitsa: This branch, equivalent to pediatrics, deals with prenatal and postnatal baby care as well as the care of a woman before and during pregnancy. It also covers various diseases of children and their treatment.
Graha Chikitsa: This Ayurvedic branch is the same as Psychiatry in modern medicine. It focuses on the detection and effective treatment of mental disorders. It also treats psychosomatic disorders.
Salakya Chikitsa: Corresponding to the E.N.T. field of modern medicine, this branch of Ayurveda diagnoses and treats diseases affecting organs like the ear, nose and head.
Salya Chikitsa: The great Maharishi, Susruta was the inventor of this branch of Ayurveda. He even wrote a book on surgery titled 'Salya Chikitsa'. This book describes various surgical operations and the devices associated with them.
Visha Chikitsa: This branch deals with the toxins that enter the body from vegetables, minerals and animal origins. It is equivalent to toxicology in modern medicine. Pollution is said to be the cause of various epidemics.
Rasayana Chikitsa: In addition to do's and don'ts for better living, this branch of Ayurveda contains various treatments for improving beauty, health and intellectual power. Rasayana Chikitsa is equivalent to rejuvenation therapy in modern medicine.
Vajeekarana Chikitsa: Equivalent to the aphrodisiac treatment in modern medicine, this branch of Ayurveda helps to stimulate the production of sexual hormones in one's body, thus increasing sexual activity.
Vajeekarana Chikitsa: Equivalent to the aphrodisiac treatment in modern medicine, this branch of Ayurveda helps to stimulate the production of sexual hormones in one's body, thus increasing sexual activity.
