Ayurveda is arguably one of the most prominent forms of medicine and treatments available for humans. Unlike some of its other counterparts, Ayurveda tries to understand the root cause of the alimentt and treats it holistically, rather than just subsiding the symptoms. Another noteworthy fact about Ayurveda is its medicine. Unlike a large chunk of English medicines, Ayurvedic medicines are known to be very safe for humans and in certain cases, healthier.
Ayurveda can be broken down into eight fundamental branches of ayurveda, focusing on each department of our body to ultimately help achieve optimal health. In this blog, we will explain the branches of ayurvedic medicine.
Translating to “the treatment of the body,” Kayachikitsa is the foundation of Ayurvedic medicine. It focuses on diagnosing and treating various internal health conditions like digestive disorders, respiratory problems, and metabolic imbalances. Ayurvedic practitioners in one of the 8 branches of ayurveda use a variety of techniques including pulse diagnosis, analyzing physical signs and symptoms, and assessing the patient’s prakriti (constitution) and vikriti (current state of imbalance). Treatment plans might involve dietary modifications, herbal remedies, and lifestyle adjustments to restore balance within the body’s three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha).
While Ayurveda emphasizes preventative and holistic care, Shalya Tantra acknowledges the need for surgical intervention in certain situations. This branch is dedicated to surgical procedures, encompassing everything from minor incisions to complex surgeries. The Sushruta Samhita, one of the foundational texts of Ayurveda, is a testament to the advanced surgical knowledge possessed by ancient Ayurvedic physicians. Shalya Tantra emphasizes pre-and post-operative care, including specific dietary guidelines and wound healing practices.
Shalakya Tantra translates to “science of projections,” referring to the various protruding structures on the head and neck. This branch encompasses the treatment of ailments related to the ears, nose, throat, eyes, teeth, and head. It includes specialized techniques like earwax removal, nasal cleansing (neti), and eye washes. Shalakya Tantra also addresses conditions like sinusitis, tonsillitis, and dental disorders using herbal remedies, massage therapies, and lifestyle modifications.
Bala Chikitsa, also known as Kaumarbhritya, focuses on the health and well-being of children from conception to adolescence. This branch recognizes the unique needs of a growing body and mind. It emphasizes proper prenatal care, dietary guidelines for infants and children, and specific herbal formulations to address childhood illnesses. Bala Chikitsa also promotes healthy growth and development through physical activities and educational practices tailored for different age groups.
Graha Chikitsa, sometimes referred to as Bhutavidya, delves into the mind-body connection. It acknowledges the influence of psychological and spiritual factors on health. This branch deals with conditions believed to be caused by unseen forces or “grahas,” which could be interpreted as emotional imbalances, environmental factors, or even past life experiences. Treatment approaches in Graha Chikitsa might involve herbal remedies, mantras (sacred chants), and specific rituals to promote emotional well-being and spiritual balance.
While previously mentioned as separate branches, Shalakya Tantra and Shalya Tantra often work hand-in-hand. Shalakya Tantra addresses a wider range of conditions affecting the head and neck region using non-invasive techniques. However, in some cases, surgical intervention might be necessary. This is where Shalya Tantra comes into play, providing specialized surgical procedures for conditions like cataracts, nasal polyps, or complex dental issues.
Vajikarana translates to “invigoration” and focuses on promoting sexual health, fertility, and overall vitality. This branch employs various methods to enhance reproductive health in both men and women. It includes herbal formulations, dietary recommendations, and specific lifestyle practices. Vajikarana also addresses issues like low libido, erectile dysfunction, and infertility using a holistic approach that considers physical, emotional, and energetic factors.
Rasayana, often referred to as “rejuvenative therapy,” is the jewel in the crown of the eight branches of Ayurveda. It aims to promote longevity, prevent age-related diseases, and enhance overall well-being. Rasayana utilizes various techniques like herbal tonics, specialized massages, and yogic practices to detoxify the body, strengthen tissues, and improve immunity. This branch emphasizes living a life aligned with natural rhythms and promoting a healthy mind and spirit for a fulfilling life.
The Interconnected Web of Ayurvedic Healing
The eight branches of Ayurveda are not isolated entities; they function interdependently to create a comprehensive system of healing. Understanding the unique focus of
The eight branches of Ayurveda are not isolated entities; they function interdependently to create a comprehensive system of healing. Understanding the unique focus of
each branch empowers individuals to take a proactive approach to their health. Here are some key takeaways:
The eight branches of Ayurveda offer a roadmap to a healthier and more fulfilling life. If you’re curious to explore this ancient wisdom, it’s recommended to consult an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner. They can assess your individual needs and recommend specific branches of Ayurveda and treatment plans that resonate with your health goals. Remember, Ayurveda is a journey, not a destination. By embracing its holistic philosophy and incorporating its principles into your daily life, you can pave the path towards a life of optimal health and well-being.
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Attapallam PO Thekkady,
Kerala, 685509. India
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Indication
Arthritis, rheumatic joint pains and swellings, sprains, etc.
Usage
The bundles, warmed in medicated oil or neem oil, are applied all over the body/part till the desired perspiration is attained. The treatment is carried out for around 45 to 60 minutes.
Ingredients
Sathahwa(Anethum sowa) – 20gm
Arka(Calotropus gigantic – 16gm
Eranda(Ricinus cummunis) – 20gm
Punarnava(Boerhavia diffusa)- 16gm
Shadee(Zingiber Officinale) – 16gm
Devadaroo (Cedrus deodar) – 16gm
Indication
Cleanses and conditions the hair, and also protects from dandruff and hair fall.
Usage
Mix 2 tbs of powder with water to make a thick paste. Apply it on the wet hair and scalp, soak well and then wash it off.
Ingredients
Emblica officialis – 10gm
Hebiscus rosa – 10gm
Albizzia lebbeck – 10gm
Phaseolus aureus – 10gm
Sapindus trifoliatus – 10gm
Indication
Sumukam nourishes and cleans the facial skin and keeps it soft and smooth.
Usage
Mix 1tsp powder with rose water to make a thick paste. Apply on the face and neck in a circular motion. Wash with lukewarm water before it gets dry.
Ingredients
Azadirachta indica – 12.5gm
Phaseolus aureus – 12.5gm
Vetveria zizanoides – 12.5gm
Rosa centifolia – 12.5gm
Indication
It nourishes and rejuvenates the facial skin. Removes pimples, wrinkles, scars, black spots, and black heads. Enhances facial nourishment, promotes new collagen formation. Removes facial tension and stress. Restores normal health of the facial skin.
Usage
Mix 2 spoon powder with milk for dry skin and with rose water OR fresh juices for oily skin to make a smooth paste. Apply a thick layer evenly on the face and neck. Keep in wet state for 20–30 minute and then wash off with warm water, and pat dry.
Key ingredients
Contains ayurvedic flowers of
Michelia champaca – 10gm
Nelumbo nucifera – 10gm
Mimusops elaegi – 10gm
Jasminum officinale – 10gm
Rosa centifolia – 10gm
Indication
Sinusitis, Tonsillitis, Otorrhoea, Allergic sneezing, chronic rhinitis, Bronchitis, migraine headache.
Usage
Gentle massage on head 10 minutes before bath.
Ingredients
Aengle marmelos – 250mg
Ocimum sanctum – 250mg
Vitex nigundo – 250mg
Zingiber officinale – 250mg
Plumbago zeylanica – 20mg
Embelia ribes – 20mg
Boswellia serrata – 20mg
Piper longum – 20mg
Moringa ptrygosperma – 20mg
Coconut Oil – 1ml
Indication
Saffron is regarded as the ‘queen’ in beauty treatment.
Safroil restores the natural glow and moisture of the facial skin. It helps to protect face from pimples and black heads. It removes the wrinkles, scars and gives a glowing beauty and freshness to the face. Removes facial tension. Enhances fairness.
Usage
Massage on face and neck daily in a circular motion.
Ingredients
Curcuma longa – 500mg
Aloe barbadensis – 500mg
Crocus sativus – 0.25mg
Rubia cordifolia – 1.65mg
Nelumbo nucifera – 1.10mg
Caesalpina sappan – 1.1mg
Rosa centifolia – 1.4mg
Mesua ferrea – 1.2 mg
Hemidesmus indicus – 0.9 mg
Vetiveria zizanioides – 1.35mg
Cow milk – 4ml
Seas mum oil – 1ml
Indication
‘Raksha’ – means one that protects. ‘Raksha’ includes natural roots blended with herbs like Sida, Aloe, vetivera, etc. General body massage oil helps to remove body fatigue, excess fat, skin dryness, stimulate nerves and remove bad odour and nourish the skin.
Usage
Massage by self or others and take warm water bath.
Ingredients
Sida cordifolia – 100mg
Aloe vera – 100mg
Withania somnifera – 16mg
Cyperus rotundus – 1.55mg
Hemidesmus indicus – 0.85mg
Rubia cordifolia – 1.45mg
Vetiveria zizanoides – 12.5mg
Cedrus deadar – 1.75mg
Pluchea lanceolata – 15.5mg
Seasame oil – 1ml
By tradition the women of Kerala have taken more care in their natal period as a protective measure to their pregnancy and health. Specially prepared medicated oils are used for it.
Usage & Indication
As a pre-natal care gently massage partially OR the whole body from six months of pregnancy to get relief from cramp pains, lumbago, varicose vein and stretch marks. And as post-natal care-use from the third day of the delivery onwards (in caesarean, use only after healing) for the pro-delivery fatigue. It also helps in the contraction of the uterus and the vagina. After usage take warm water bath.
Key ingredients
Ficus racemosa – 50gm
Strobilanthes heynianus – 25gm
Aegle marmelos – 25gm
Curcurma longa – 2gm
Rubia cordifolia – 2gm
Cynodon dactylon – 2gm
Anethum sowa – 2gm
Lepidium sativum – 2gm
Sesamum oil – 100ml
Indication
Helps to prevent hair fall, dandruff and itching of the scalp. It stimulates thick and strong hair growth. Prevents scalp from bacterial and fungal attacks.
Usage
Mix 2 tbs of powder with water to make a thick paste. Apply a thick layer evenly on the hair and scalp. Keep in wet state for 20–30 minute and wash off with warm water, and then pat dry. Daily usage helps in making dry rough hair to tangle free soft and shiny hair.
Ingredients
Eclipta alba – 2.5gm
Emblica officianalis – 2gm
Psoralea corylifolia – 1.5gm
Terminalia belerica – 1.5gm
Nymbphasa stellata – 1.5gm
Azadirachta indica – 1gm
Indication
This natural hair nourisher enriched with Aloe and Hebiscus helps to prevent hair fall and dandruff. It stimulates thick and strong hair growth. It nourishes hair with natural proteins, and prevents bacterial and fungal attacks.
Usage
Massage 5ml of oil on scalp and hair from root to end before or after shower. Daily usage helps in making dry rough hair to tangle free soft and shiny hair. In just 6 month of regular use you will experience only normalized hair fall.
Ingredients
Indigofera tinctoria – 400mg
Aloe vera – 400mg
Hebiscus rosa – 100mg
Eclipta alba – 650mg
Emblica officinalis – 350mg
Azadirachta indica – 100mg
Cow milk – 1ml
Seasamum oil – 1ml
Pongamia pinnata – 3.75mg
Psoralea corylifolia – 3.75mg
Terminalia belerica – 5mg
Indication
Used to nourish and moisturise the baby’s skin. Protects from skin infections and skin dryness. Removes bad odour, gives glowing beauty and freshness, and also enhances fairness.
Usage
Massage on body and after 10-20 minutes give a bath with warm water.
Ingredients
Ficus bengalensis – 5gm
Ficus racemosa – 5gm
Ficus religiosa – 5gm
Ficus lacor – 5gm
Curcuma longa – 0.25gm
Leptadena reticulate – 0.25gm
Azadirachta indica – 0.25gm
Withania sominifera – 0.25gm
Ellettaria cardamomum – 0.25gm
Sesamum oil – 10ml
Cow milk – 20ml
Indication
Brahmi itself is a famous brain tonic.
Brami Head Massage Oil helps to reduce stress and strain, insomnia, headache, etc. Improves function of brain nerves. Provides mental serenity and calmness, and concentration of mind. Relaxes body and mind. Also helpful in insomnia and pre-menstrual head ache
Usage
Gently massage 5-10ml oil on scalp 10 minutes before wash.
For sleeplessness apply 15 drops on pate, and 15 drops on palms and feet before going to bed. You will be blessed with easy sleep immediately.
Ingredients
Eblica officinalis – 20mg
Bacopa monnieri – 1gm
Valeriana wallichii – 17.5mg
Withania somnifera – 15mg
Clitoria ternatea – 17.5gm
Celastrus panicuatus – 15mg
Centalla asistata – 15mg
Seas mum oil – 1ml
Indication
‘Aswan’ is the rare formulation of herbal extract, which is used for erectile dysfunction in men.
Usage
Daily massage once on the penis and pubic till the oil is absorbed fully.
Ingredients
Phaseolus mungo – 50gm
Leptadena reticulate – 50gm
Asparagus recemosus – 50gm
Benincosa hispida – 50gm
Withania somnifera – 2gm
Myristica fragrans – 2gm
Gossypium herbaceum – 2gm
Celastrus paniculatus – 2gm
Solanum indicum – 2gm
Cow milk – 400ml
Sesamum oil – 100ml
Indication
Rheumatic arthritis, osteo arthritis, spondylitis, sprain, body aches Joints pain, back pain etc.
Usage
Gently massage on affected area.
Ingredients
Tinospora cordifolia – 20gm
Ricinus cummunis – 20gm
Sida cordifolia – 20gm
Vitex nigundo – 20gm
Pluchea lanceolata – 20gm
Cissus quandrangularis – 5gm
Asparagus recemosus – 5gm
Tamarindus indica – 5gm
Moringa pterygosperma – 5gm
Allium sativum – 2.5gm
Anethum sowa – 2.5gm
Zingiber Officinale – 2.5gm
Boswellia serrata – 2.5gm
Sesamum oil – 100ml
Eucalyptus oil – 1ml
