Everything you should know about Ayurvedic treatment before you go for it

Having stood the test of time, Ayurvedic treatment provides exceptional results in managing and treating different types of disorders holistically. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is one such example of a life-threatening disease that can be effectively managed with Ayurvedic intervention. While an increasing number of people are willing to embrace the Ayurvedic way of life to fight diseases or stay healthy in general, some misconceptions still surround this ancient system of medicine and the way it works. People must be aware of the approach Ayurveda takes so that they can avail the maximum benefit from it.

Ayurveda focuses on your ahara and vihara
The food you consume (ahara) and the lifestyle you have (vihara) play a crucial role in directing the outcome of your treatment. Ayurveda requires that you bid adieu to unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking excessive alcohol as they weaken the immune system and thus make you vulnerable to many infections and diseases. In addition, your body’s circadian rhythm has a lot to do with your overall health. Ayurveda encourages an uninterrupted quality sleep of 6-8 hours to optimize the benefits of the treatment.

Ayurveda is for those with patience
Yes, that is correct and a requirement if you are willing to embrace Ayurveda. The ancient system of medicine does not believe in quick fixes but rather in providing benefits that go a long way in preventing, managing, and treating the disease from the ground up. Observing visible results might take some time as instead of only treating symptoms, Ayurveda tries to address the underlying cause of an illness. For best outcomes, patience and consistency are crucial.

Ayurvedic formulations contain more than just herbs
Many people are under the impression that Ayurvedic formulations contain only herbs. While this may be the case in certain formulations, it is not always true. Oftentimes, Ayurvedic formulations are a concoction of active ingredients and components from animal, mineral, or plant origin.

Ayurveda can be integrated with other medicines
People can avail themselves of the benefits of Ayurveda while also sticking to conventional medicines. However, this has to be in the knowledge of your treating doctor. This is important as the medicines you are taking can interact with the action of other medicines and only a doctor can help you choose the right treatment regimen that has the highest chances of success in your case.

Ayurveda treatment could utilize acupuncture and yoga
Ayurveda believes in curing the imbalances (doshas) of the body. It does so by making use of acupuncture and yoga in addition to diet and medications. These approaches synergistically stimulate the body to flush out toxins, thus healing the body naturally. Body movement through yoga helps the release of hormones called endorphins in the body that reduces stress and relieves pain, thus enhancing the treatment outcome.

Diagnostic tests are needed in Ayurveda as well
As in the allopathic system of medicine, an Ayurvedic doctor would also do some preliminary tests and based on the reports would furnish a diagnosis and then work out the treatment regimen best suited for that individual case. It is important to understand that no two individuals will have the same treatment plan as Ayurveda is personalized medicine. Although Ayurveda uses natural products to cure diseases, self-medication is a definite no as all formulations may not be beneficial to everyone. Therefore, consulting a professional practitioner is a must.

Summing up

Embarking on an Ayurvedic journey calls for the need to know Ayurveda better and decide for yourself if you are ready to embrace the life Ayurveda demands. If you are willing to make a few healthy changes in your diet and lifestyle, you are more than ready to start an Ayurvedic treatment for holistic well-being or treating any condition. One must seek medical help from an experienced registered Ayurvedic medical practitioner only. Ayurveda alone or in combination with conventional medicine can work to contribute to comprehensive care.

The author is Founder & Director of Karma Ayurveda