Ayurveda, literally, "the science of life," is the ancient Indian art and science of healing and rejuvenation through the use of natural herbs, roots and minerals. It is said that over 3000 years ago, Nature revealed the curative and therapeutic properties of each tree, plant, herb, root and flower to a great sage, Dhanwantari, as he sat in deep meditation in the midst of a forest. Ancient Rishis and sages continued to learn of the beneficial link between the vegetable, mineral and human worlds, and discovered that bodily health comes from cultivating a harmonious balance of Nature's three subtle energies, or doshas: vata, pitta and kapha, which are present in all life and matter. The doshas have certain qualities or attributes which characterize their effects on the human body. The individual remains healthy as long as these elements are in a state of equilibrium. But if this equilibrium is disturbed beyond a point, the body succumbs to disease and decay. Ayurveda provides rational means for the treatment of many internal diseases which are considered to be obstinate and incurable in other systems of medicine. Simultaneously it lays a great deal of emphasis upon the maintenance of positive health of an individual. It thus aims at both the prevention and cure of diseases. Ayurveda also studies basic human nature and natural urges like hunger, thirst, sleep, sex, etc and provides measures for a disciplined, disease-free life.
