Ayurvedamagazine

Category: AYURVEDA

  • Career options after Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine & Surgery

    “ Practical experience is equally required for becoming a successful practitioner. It is advisable that a student works with senior practitioners for at least 1–2 years before setting up his own practice. “

    Career-options-in-ayurvedaIn the past, there was only one option available for freshly graduated doctors (after passing BAMS), and that was to start one’s own practice. However, today there are many promising opportunities available for BAMS graduates. The areas which are available for a BAMS graduate to build a career successfully can be broadly classified into the following five categories:

    • Clinical practice
    • Academic
    • Research
    • Management and administration
    • Drug manufacturing

    The present article discusses some of these options in detail. While selecting a career, a student should try to match his or her own interest, basic qualities as well as specific qualities, which a specific field may demand (e.g., a student planning to pursue a career in management must have good communication skill), and the resources available to him/her with the requirement of the career option.

    Clinical Practice

    ayurveda-clinical-practiceA student entering Ayurvedic practice cannot avoid the detailed study of Ayurvedic Samhitas. The student should also be well aware about modern medical science and interpretation of modern diagnostic tests. Practical experience is equally required for becoming a successful practitioner. It is advisable that a student works with senior practitioners for at least 1–2 years before setting up his own practice. Along with regular practice, a student can also opt for specialized practice after acquiring proper knowledge, e.g., therapy of skin diseases, spinal disorders, ophthalmologic conditions, ano-rectal diseases, etc., where Ayurveda has a special role to play today.

    In India, there are various traditions of Ayurvedic practice like Panchbhautik Chikitsa, Nadi Pariksha, Dhatu Chikitsa, etc. Students can learn such traditions and follow them in their practice. Students can add value to their practice by combining various therapies such as Panchakarma, Yoga, Ayurvedic dietetics, Counseling, Physiotherapy, etc., by doing additional diploma/certificate courses available.

    A postgraduate diploma in Emergency Medicine, which is a short course of 6 months conducted in Modern Tertiary Healthcare Hospitals (e.g., Hinduja Hospital in Mumbai or Ruby Clinic in Pune) can help give value addition to the clinical practice of a BAMS student.

    Academics

    ayurveda-researchWhen a student plans to pursue a career in academics, it is necessary to do post graduation. Students, who cannot get opportunity for MD, can go for post graduate diplomas available in various subjects such as Panchakarma, Balaroga, etc. In Maharashtra, almost 16 subjects are available for MD in 15 government colleges and 10 private colleges. In India, Institutions like BHU, Gujarat Ayurved University (Jamnagar), National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, Kerala and Karnataka University have post graduation facility. The student has to appear for an entrance exam for securing admission for MD. More information about these institutions is available at the website of CCIM. MPhil available at Pune University is also an option.

    Anyone who has 10 years of clinical experience or 5 years of teaching experience is eligible for PhD. Almost all the above institutions have facilities for PhD. Ayurved students can even do PhD in non-Ayurvedic subjects like analytical chemistry, biochemistry, etc. After post graduation, students can join government or private colleges as demonstrators or lecturers.

    There is a large space in private sector for the teaching profession. Private tuition classes for BAMS students, tuition classes for entrance exams, conducting workshops to teach particular skills, i.e., Kshrasutra, Agnikarma, Panchakarma, etc., are good options. Recently, there are MSc programs made available in various science disciplines like Anatomy/ Physiology/Microbiology for BAMS students, which are offered by many universities in Karnataka/Tamil Nadu/ Maharashtra (University of Madras, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Sri Ramachandra Medical college, M. S. Ramaiah Medical College, Jawaharlal Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research, etc.)

    Research

    ayurveda-researchApart from MD and PhD courses, there are other good courses useful for a career in research such as MSc or PG Diploma in Clinical Research. These courses are available at various institutions and universities throughout the country. Cranfield University (UK), through its branches in India, also offers a masters degree in clinical research. The duration of such studies varies from 6 months to 2 years. The course modules are extensive and include various aspects of clinical research with more focus on data analysis and management. After completion of this course, students can get job as Clinical Research Associate in research unit of pharmaceutical companies.

    MSc (Biotechnology/Bioinformatics/ Health Sciences) is a very challenging course and is also available for BAMS students at some universities. This is a 2-year, full time course.

    Students who are interested in fieldwork as well as research can go for this course which has promising opportunities in future. Some courses useful for research careers are short course on statistics and epidemiology (Christian Medical College, Vellore), and Clinical Toxicology (Kalina).

    In the research field, a student can join as Jr. Research Fellow on research projects which are conducted by various institutions/colleges/university departments which are financially supported by ICMR, CSIR, CCRAS, DST, etc. On getting experience, they can get Sr. Research Fellowship and this work can lead to a PhD.

    Management

    ayurveda-clinincal-practiceFor students who are not interested in clinical practice but want to have a career related to the medical field, there are ample choices. MPH (Masters in Public Health), MHA (Masters in Health Administration) and MBA (Hospital and Healthcare management) are in great demand.

    Other than this, courses like Sports Medicine, Disaster Management, Industrial Management, Preventive and Promotive healthcare, Masters in Personnel Management are also good options.

    UPSC examinations and state level administration examinations are conducted every year. BAMS students are eligible to appear for these examinations and enter in the government services as administrator.

    Drug Manufacturing

    ayurveda-drug-manufacturingIn the manufacturing sector, production of Ayurvedic medicines is a booming business. Apart from actual manufacturing, other allied aspects such as cultivation of medicinal plants, trading raw materials in the form of powder, extracts, oils, etc., are also in great demand. Not only medicines, but also Ayurvedic cosmetics and food products have equally big market. It is the need of time that many Ayurvedic graduates should come in this field and use their knowledge and skill. Courses such as BPharm (Ayurved) in Jamnagar and BHU, MSc (Pharmaceutical Medicine), MBA (Medicinal Marketing) (MUHS, Nasik), Diploma in Herbal Medicinal Manufacturing (Pune University and IPER Pune) are also available.

    Miscellaneous

    There is great potential in manufacturing of equipments required for Ayurvedic treatments like Panchakarma.

    Medical transcription, medical tourism, medical event management, medical journalism, medical photography and documentation are also fields with a bright future. BAMS graduates can complete LLB and work as legal medical advisor.

  • Choose your right partner The Dosha Way

    ‘Life,’ according to Ayurveda, is the intelligent coordination of one’s soul, mind, senses, and the body, with the totality of nature around him and the universe as well. We interact with nature around us, other planets, we interact with a lot many people in the society and we are in continuous communication with our own mind. What happens externally has definitely an impact on our bodymind complex. In short, we affect and are affected by every other animate and inanimate thing in existence. Bringing balance in each interaction – within and without – is the key to health. Practical Ayurveda revolves around the physiological basis of humors. The theory of three humors is developed primarily as a tool to quantify the pathogenesis and consequently to quantify the need of healthcare interventions in any given condition. Assessment of the status of the humors has become the preferred way of decision-making in therapeutics in Ayurveda. Lissa Coffey from USA writes about doshas from a different angle. A certified instructor with The Chopra Center, Lissa Coffey is a renowned authority on Ayurveda and relationships. She has had six books published. Her best-selling book “What’s Your Dosha, Baby? Discover the Vedic Way for Compatibility in Life and Love” is the only book ever published on Ayurveda and Relationships, and it has been translated into five languages.

    There are many ways of looking at our compatibility with other people – such as the Mars/Venus theories, and the Love Signs system based on astrology, among others. But long before any of these formulas were in the reckoning, philosophers and scientists in Ancient India devised a system of health care called “Ayurveda” – or “the science of life.” At over 5,000 years old, Ayurveda is the oldest known health care system in the world, and now it is the fastest-growing system as well. Within this holistic system lies everything we need to know about life, and love.

    Ayurveda explains the nature of everything in the universe. It is a compelling way of looking at all of life, the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. Ayurveda tells us how we “tick,” and how we relate to the rest of the world, including the other people in it!

    When you know your dosha, and that of your partner, you can use this information to create a personal and passionate relationship!There are three doshas, Vata, Pitta and Kapha. We each have all three in our physiology, but the idea is to find which is the most dominant, and you can do that by taking a simple quiz, like the one at http://www.whatsyourdosha. com.

    Vatas, for example, tend to have a delicate digestion. They need to eat warm, cooked foods. Because Vata is cold and dry, Vata types are more comfortable when they stay warm, and use moisturizers and oils on their skin. Vatas are creative. They like to mix things up. They are spontaneous. Their dominant senses are touch and sound, so they love to give and get messages, and they prefer to listen to beautiful music. Vatas like to have fun, and will always surprise you! Vatas get cold easily. They prefer warm atmosphere.

    Vatas, for example, tend to have a delicate digestion. They need to eat warm, cooked foods. Because Vata is cold and dry, Vata types are more comfortable when they stay warm, and use moisturizers and oils on their skin. Vatas are creative. They like to mix things up. They are spontaneous. Their dominant senses are touch and sound, so they love to give and get messages, and they prefer to listen to beautiful music. Vatas like to have fun, and will always surprise you! Vatas get cold easily. They prefer warm atmosphere.

    Pittas tend to run hot, so they need to make sure that they find ways to cool off, especially during the summer days. Pittas can also be intense, so they need to set aside some relaxation time, away from work. Pittas are more practical. They are very organized and planned-out in their romantic approach. They don’t like to spend money generally, but they will splurge on luxuries, like a weekend-getaway or a beautiful diamond bracelet. Their dominant sense is sight, and beautiful scenes like sun-set etc. make them happy. When romancing a Pitta, remember to create beautiful lighting, with candles or fire-light. Pittas run hot, so keep the room cool and they’ll be
    comfortable.

    Kaphas may gain weight easily, so they need to watch their diet, and avoid sugar and dairy products. And they need to exercise more strenuously than the other doshas to stay in shape. Kaphas are loving and romantic, sentimental. They remember things like the anniversary date of their first meeting! Their dominant senses are taste and smell, so they are drawn to things like a romantic dinner for two, or scented candles, or fragrant flowers. A wonderful bubble bath, with some bubbly champagne is just the ticket for the sensual Kapha. Try feeding each other chocolate -covered strawberries!

    As important as our relationships are to us, how much time and effort do we really put into them? So often we go about living our lives and expect that another person either fits into that picture or doesn’t. But we each have needs, and temperaments, and ideas about how we like things to be. When we better understand ourselves, and each other, we can focus on what is important, and what makes a relationship work.

    This system shows us how we can please each other and ourselves at the same time. Ayurveda has been described as the art of living in harmony with nature. It shows us how we can live blissfully with those around us by recognizing a person’s natural qualities and how we can bring more love into the world by being accepting rather than judgmental.

    One thing’s for sure. Finding love and peace in connection is one of the most important – and pleasurable – things we come here to do. My hope is that Ayurveda, with its ancient Indian secrets for keeping life shining bright, will not only help you in your process of self-discovery but also enable you to find and nourish the love matches of your dreams.

  • It’s nature that cures


    “ Life is fast, and we need everything quicker, even if diseased, we need quicker relief. Anyhow we need to come back to the pace of nature, we need to follow a healthy routine and we need to be careful, not to break the golden laws of nature. “

    It is just 8 months passed, since I came to know the word ‘Ayurveda’. Believe it or not, I have changed tremendously after that moment!

    In this note I just wish to share my journey, started from my motherland to the land of Ayurveda. I am from Indonesia, my name is Kadek Dwi Muras Mei Permata Sari, or simply call me ‘Kadek’ ! Now I am 19 years old, doing my BAMS course in Aroor Laxmi Narayana Rao Memorial Ayurvedic Medical College in Koppa, Chickmagalor district, Karnataka.

    Ayurveda is not so popular In Indonesia. Thank God, If I haven’t reached here, me also won’t be much aware about this amazing science of healing.

    It was my parents , who decided to send me here to learn Ayurveda. But after my schooling, I had a feeling deep inside me that I have to go abroad to learn something, but I didn’t know what exactly was that to learn. Besides, it was so difficult for me to live away from my loved ones. Now I am so thankful to my parents, because, without their support I will never be able to come here and learn Ayurveda.

    First 4 months in the college was of difficulties. Basic Ayurveda lessons were in Sanskrit, a language which was totally alien to me! But now, I understand the depth and beauty of this language. Even though I am not an expert in it, and even though I am not able to understand actual pronunciation of many words, I can assure you one thing. Just start by hearting the slokas! For a beginner, it may be difficult, but when you are on track, it will be so easy for you, and moreover, if you could remember at least a single word of the verse, the whole will suddenly flash into your mind. I think this is the peculiarity of Sanskrit. Words in a verse have an unseen connection, an uninterrupted flow, which makes it easy to imprint the whole text into your mind. (I have experienced this many times in examination hall!) I think big theories/ philosophy expressed in small, accurate verses are so intelligent a method to keep the whole knowledge in your mind without failing to remember. For an Ayurveda practitioner, this is much helpful.

    In Indonesia we have traditional medicine, but we don’t have special colleges to learn traditional health science. There is one such Institution in Bali started in 2007: Universitas Hindu Indonesia (UNHI), Denpasar. One such traditional medicine which I use is Antangin JRG (Indonesian herbal medicine), good for stomach related problems. This medicine contains zingiberis rhizome, ginseng, and honey.

    (It is so funny to remember now that before coming to India, Ibelieved that Ayurveda cures people using mantras only)!

    Kadek Dwi Muras

    This verse which I learned in the beginning changed my whole ideas about Ayurveda: “svastasya svastya raksanam aathurasya vikara prasamanam” – Which means the aim of Ayurveda is to maintain the health (svastya) of healthyperson(svastya) and remove disease(vikara) of the diseased person (atura). It shows how broad a vision this science has!

    It is so unfortunate to see that, despite all these technical advancements today, we have diseases increasing in number and impact, day by day! Now I can say that, the main reason is we have not a single drop of faith in nature’s power. Life is fast, and we need everything quicker, even if diseased, we need quicker relief. Anyhow we need to come back to the pace of nature, we need to follow a healthy routine and we need to be careful, not to break the golden laws of nature.

    On food

    I like this lesson of Ayurveda very much: ”Never eat when you are not hungry”. Man is the only animal lacking proper sense to control eating when he is sick. Ayurveda teaches that ‘food need to be fresh, natural, whole and simple(pathya food)’. Food as nature made it, not as man mucks about with it. Every other creature on earth is satisfied with water to quench its thirst. Man is not so! (The most important food is oxygen, without it we die in three minutes). The best way to increase oxygen intake is to exercise in fresh air (Pranayama).

    Ayurveda has another dimension, it considers our ‘whole’ self, and Ayurveda teaches us ways leading to peace. Peace comes from thoughts of love , faith, and forgiveness , and that is the way to be in harmony with nature . The secret of health lies in what we eat, the physical work we give to our body, and the thoughts we hold in our minds. The human body is an incredibly marvelous instrument, if we give it the respect it deserves. It will repay us with good health. This is the wisdom Ayurveda shares with us: how to maintain health with proper lifestyle.

    It is good to see that our Government is stepping forward to institute Ayurvedic hospitals in Indonesia. My friend Komang from Indonesia is now on her fourth year of BAMS in an Ayurveda college in Chennai. Last year, it was me and my friend Arcci, (we both study in same college) got opportunity to visit India from our country to learn Ayurveda. And for this year also our country will be sending 3 students for studying Ayurveda.

    And the kind support from our country reminds me of my responsibilities. Indonesia started sending more students to India than previous year, which indicates the bright future of Ayurvedic practices in our country. I am so grateful  for getting this opportunity to learn Ayurveda and I wish to become a lecturer of Ayurveda in our country.

  • Ayurveda: The Art of Being


    ” In Ayurveda…they have said that the first factors that can create a disease are related with human intelligence. How did they know, two thousand years ago … that stress was going to be such a factor in our life? “

    Dr. Nicolos Kostopoulos

    It is around 11 years passed since the release of ‘AYURVEDA: THE ART OF BEING’, an exceptional movie, probably the first of its kind, which was written, edited and directed by Pan Nalin. The movie celebrates Ayurveda that went almost unrecognized during two centuries of British colonial rule in India, and examines some of the reasons why Ayurveda

    has become incredibly popular all over the world. Ten years back, from Paris, Pan Nalin wrote:” During the three long years while preparing the film I have been surprised to discover how scientific Ayurveda is. I personally believe that our world of today, into a new millennium, is going to need natural arts of healing like it never did ever before. Spirituality and natural balances will play a vital role in governing our happiness in near future”. After a decade, his intuitive words claim more relevance than before.

    Ayurveda: The Art of BeingPan Nalin is an Indian film director, screenwriter and documentary maker. Nalin is best known for directing award-winning films like Samsara, Valley of Flowers, and Ayurveda: Art of Being. His debut film, Samsara went on to win awards like “Grand Jury Prize Special Mention” at AFI Fest and “Most Popular Feature Film” at Melbourne International Film Festival in 2002. Pan Nalin (Nalin Kumar Pandya), a self-taught film maker, was born in a remote village in Gujarat, India. As a child, Nalin disliked schools; instead he used to paint and draw. His mind was wandering through the world of colors, light and shade. He actively staged mythological dramas and folk plays. But it was until he was nine years old, that Pan Nalin saw a film for the first time. He always had dreamed of making movies himself!Ayurveda: The Art of Being

    At teenage, he left his village in pursuit of cinema. He got a chance to study Fine Arts at the M. S. University of Baroda and eventually got an opportunity to learn Design at the prestigious National Institute of Design. He made four animation films and twenty short silent films before moving to Mumbai where he worked as production runner until directors realized his potential and started to give him opportunities to direct commercials and corporate films. Pan Nalin, came into global limelight with his debut feature Samsara (2001).

    Nalin lived in USA and UK for a short period and then set out for six-month long nomadic existence in Europe. On returning to India, he roamed the Himalayas deep and wide -in search of his voice. After a long process of unlearning, he developed ideas for several feature films -and started writing.

    Ayurveda: The Art of Being

    In the year 2001, Pan Nalin made a movie on Ayurveda featuring five elements, earth, water, fire, air and ether in visible and invisible form. The movie was 102 minutes long. It travels nearly 15,000 kilometers through landscapes of exceptional beauty and geographical variety in India, Greece and USA. Pan Nalin and his research team constantly searched out people and places inorder to voice the story of Ayurveda through exceptional ‘Vaidyas’, patients and experts. His words pictures that wonderful journey: “Some of the Vaidyas have revealed their secrets and open their home and clinics to us. Plant searching tribes took us into a dark corner of jungle where a rare endangered plant still grows wild. Ancient Palm-leaf manuscripts locked away for three to five centuries were in front of us. Ancient ‘Mud-Scanning’ method of Diagnosis has been considered extinct and lost but our months long efforts managed to track down the last surviving place.

    A rarely seen lost science of Marma, vital points, and how it can kill or cure; was demonstrated on a goat for the first time revealing vital points which can paralyze”. AYURVEDA: ART OF BEING was theatrically released worldwide with major success. The film celebrated a yearlong theatrical run in Spain and record-breaking three-year long run in France. The film met with similar success in USA, Canada, Germany and Holland.

    “No single film can do justice to the vast science of Ayurveda but for me the film is just a sharing, but the sharing that inspires, naturally” says Pan Nalin. Presently, this well-known film director lives in India & France.

  • When Ayurveda Beckoned Me – Debi Mingus

    “ As the seasons change so do I… I must embrace the temple that is my mind and body and know that if I take the time to listen, Nature will guide me; and if I ask I will receive. That health and happiness is not in a bottle or pill form but in the spirit to which I am “

    My journey into Ayurveda started purely as a spiritual quest. After quitting my job I studied and did many things. But what I found was my life flowed smoothly when I had started experiencing the divine and listening to it without question. So what was it I wanted to do? Many told me I have a lot to do in the field of healing and teaching.

    When Ayurveda beckoned me

    Ms Debi Mingus lights the traditional lamp at a medical camp organised by Pattarumadom Clinic and Ayurveda Nursing Home at Kariyad, Ernakulam

    I need a subject to teach that others do not in US. For 12 years I searched and studied subjects of a spiritual nature and anything that related to healing. I joined a company that allowed volunteers to do healing work on dying patients. I found I could read the “signs” of death simply by feeling the pranic energy of the patient. Not giving it much thought I went onto do other programmes. But I felt that I have to learn and teach Eastern philosophy. I happened to mention it to a neighbour who for the last 14 years had been living the Vedic practices. He gave me Bhaghavad Gita to read. Shortly thereafter my life moved very quickly. I was introduced to a product formulated by some Ayurvedic doctors. One of whom was a director of an Ayurvedic Institute in California. When I starte reading about Ayurveda and how it incorporated the healing of the body, mind and spirit I had to learn more.

    There was now a fire within me and I knew I was on the right path. I believe spirit was guiding me in the right direction. During the programme a classmate informed me of a trip occurring in a couple of month to India and asked whether I would be interested in joining. I could not wait to go On my first trip to India some of the time was spent in the school in Aluva where I met a nice person, one of my best friends in Kerala, who extended his hand and helped me in my search for making connections with a doctor who would agree to teach me more on Ayurveda on my subsequent returns. On returning to US, I realised that my education and spiritual experience had only just begun in India.

    During my studies of Ayurveda in the US, I was introduced to diagnosing using the pulse, tongue,eyes and marma points, plus many others not mentioned. That combined with my understanding of reading ‘pranic’ energy I now feel I have a field of understanding that I may teach others in an area most do not desire to delve into but is greatly needed. So what is Ayurveda teaching me now? As the seasons change so do I… I must embrace the temple that is my mind and body and know that if I take the time to listen nature will guide me and if I ask I will receive. That health and happiness is not in a bottle or pill form but in the spirit to which I am. I am now in the process of partaking in the treatment programme panchakarma, a 21-day process in Ayurveda to release the toxins in my body (that I hold on to so dearly) so that I may become fuller and can embrace that, for what I came to India to do.

  • Time-tested tests

    Ayurveda has been in practice for more than 4000 years, taking care of people’s health. It is still a vibrant branch of medical science, is part of the human fight against diseases, helps men and women keep healthy. At times it comes up with solutions to problems for which modern science has very little to offer. All in a
    natural way. It has enjoyed a flawless continuity of legacy. How does Ayurveda, which had its origins when there was little opportunity for chemical examinations and colleting empirical evidence, has been successful in keeping up its legacy? How is it that its remedies work regardless of age, time, region and sex? It is told that a pupil once asked Acharya Charaka: “You have taught us all about diseases, their origins, their cures, specifications about medicine etc. But what if we meet a new disease, which you have not described yet? What should we do then?” To this Charaka is said to have answered as follows: “All diseases change. Some disappear, other appears in new forms and new diseases arise. We cannot learn all about the disappeared, existing and newly appearing diseases. Therefore you should learn ten principles of examination of diseases, which you should apply always in diagnosing diseases. Each time, if you do so carefully, you will find cause, nature and treatment of the diseases.” Ayurveda physicians till today follow those ten principles of examination (dasa vidha pariksha) which help them keep the flag of Ayurveda afloat in a changing world.

    The ten principles underline the fact that the appearance of diseases always changes with time, nutritional habits, climate, society, way of life etc, and hence it is impossible to foresee all future diseases. Today, new diseases such as AIDS break out and new forms of cancers are diagnosed. While it could put any physician, especially those who follow modern branches, in a spot, a learned Ayurevda physician would not waver as he always has a comprehensive tool to understand the disease. All that he needs to do is to strictly follow the golden principles of diagnosis Acharyas had prescribed. As Ayurveda focuses beyond the symptoms and seeks to unravel their reasons, instead of finding methods to suppress them, every physician conduct these examination,
    if he were to be successful. This examination is divided into three stages where every possible causative aspect of the ailment is examined. The three stages are as follows:

    Observation (Darsanam): This is the first stage. Here, various factors like appearance, body build, age and other physical characteristics of the patient is thoroughly examined.

    Physical checking (Sparsanam): In this stage, the body is examined physically by checking the pulse, palpation, (a method of examination in which the examiner feels the size or shape or firmness or location of something) percussion (tapping a part of the body for diagnostic purposes) and auscultation (listening to sounds within the body) are some different ‘sparsanam’ techniques.

    Interrogation (Prasnam): In this stage the patient is asked about his ailments and the symptoms that he is observing on a daily basis. It helps synchronize the observation of the doctor with the feelings of the patient. The three steps are further elaborated in two ways – Dasavidha Pareeksha (tenfold examination) and Ashtasthana Pareeksha (eightfold examination).

    The 10 point examination (Dasa vidha pariksha): It is important that the practitioner gain a thorough knowledge of the patient’s state prior to treatment through an analysis of the following ten components:

    Body Constitution (prakruti): Prakriti refers to the physical condition of a human being. It is the sum total of the state of tridoshas and trigunas. Identifying the states in each place forms the first step in assessing the physical and mental state of a person. Ayurevda says one of the thridoshas is predominant in each human being, and classifies people accordingly. In some people, it could be a mixture of more than one. Determined by relative predominance of doshas during foetal development, the prakriti can be vatika, paithika, kaphaja, vata paittika, vata kaphaja, pitta kaphaja or samdoshaja.

    Pathological State (vikruti): Vikruti is the vitiation of prakruti. Diseases caused due to vikruti are easier to treat than diseases caused due to prakruti itself. The state of vikruti is identified by closely examining the dhatus, malas, and the emotional control of the person. Related to the biological history of the diseases in its entirety, it enables physicians to consider the signs and symptoms of the disease in order to assess the strength of the disease, the causes, the doshas, the affected body elements, body constitution, time and strength of an individual.

    Tissue Vitality (sara): Broadly speaking, there are seven vital tissues, namely lymph (rasa), blood (rakta), muscle (mamsa), adipose (meda), bone (asthi), bone marrow (majja) and reproductive tissue (sukra). Lymph in the skin is assessed by its smoothness, softness, clearness, thinness and whether the skin is covered with short, deep rooted and delicate hair. Percentage of blood in body is evaluated from the condition of the eyes, mouth, tongue, lips, nails and soles of the feet. When muscles are in perfect condition, the temples, forehead, nape of the neck, shoulders, belly, arms, chest, joints of the body, jaws and cheeks are covered firmly with the skin. People with healthy adipose tissue have oily skin and healthy hair, nails, voice and teeth. The health of bones is determined by pliable but firm forearms, chin, nails, teeth, ankles, knees and other joints of the body. Healthy bone marrow leads to good complexion and stout, long, round and stable joints. People with perfectly healthy reproductive system are strong and cheerful.

    The condition of dhatus are classified into three: good (pravara), medium (madhya) and poor (avara). Pravara suggests excellent immune system and condition. It helps the predominance of the trigunas in the patient: a person is said to belong to the satwa group with if he has high emotional stability, clarity of thoughts, calmness, optimism etc. The lower levels will qualify him to be included in the rajas and tamas of trigunas, the three qualities of mind.

    Physical build (samhanana):Body examination is carried out by direct perception – a healthy body being well- built with symmetrical

    Adaptibility (satmya): Satmya is a process of measuring the capabilities of the person to physically or mentally adapt to changing conditions. It is a complex process, measuring the mental and physical reaction of the person to demanding conditions. His/her psychological, neurological, immunological conditions are checked. Indicating substances intrinsic to the bo y, satmya refers to two types of people: those that are strong, can adjust easily to difficulties and have excellent digestive capacity and those that are generally weak, intolerant to change and can have only few food options. This is an examination tool unique to Ayurveda.

    Psychic Constitution (satwa): Satwa refers to the mind which controls the body in contact with the soul (atma). It is the capability of the person to continue doing what is required of him without giving heed to distractions—both physical and mental. A person can be judged to be of high, moderate or low mental strength.

    Digestive Capacity (ahara sakti): This has to be judged from the individual’s capacity to ta1ke, digest and absorb food to the body. It also indicates the metabolic capacity of the person.

    Capacity for Exercise (vyayama shakti): It indicates a person’s ability to stand physical exertion, and do hard work. Appropriate secretion of metabolic or endocrine products during physical exercise is essential for good endurance in demanding situations. It is can be low, moderate or high.

    Age (vaya): The age of a person provides vital clues for the diagnosis and treatment. The physician compares the actual age of the person with his or her apparent age. If a person appears younger than he or she really, then it is a sign of health.
    It is broadly categorised into childhood, middle age and old age. Along with the dasavidha pariksha, Ayurveda suggests an eight point examination (Ashtasthana Pariksha) to help the physician make the right diagnosis, especially the doshik imbalance. The following examinatiosn are part of it: pulse (Nadi), tongue (jihwa), stool
    (malam), urine (mootram), voice and speech (Sabdam), body temperature, skin and tactile sense (sparsanam),
    eye balls and vision (drik) and the physique (akriti).

    Pulse (nadi): It provides deep insights into the history of the patient. It gives the physician an idea about body nature, pathological state and imbalances of the tridhosha.

    Tongue (jihva): By examining the tongue, a physician can assess the doshic state: a Vata-aggravated tongue is dry, rough and cracked, Pitha-aggravted tongue is red with a burning sensation and Kaphaaggravated one is wet, slimy and coated. It also gives an idea about the digestive system.

    Voice (sabda): The voice is natural and clear when a person is healthy with the doshas in balance. It vecomes heavy when Kapha is aggravated, cracked under Pitha is aggravated and hoarse and rough when afflicted by Vata.

    Skin (sparsha): Skin gives away the tridosha state in a person’s body. It becomes coarse and rough with below normal temperature (Vata), high temperature (Pitha) and cold and wet (Kapha).

    Eyes (drik): A person with Vata domination has his eyes sunken, dry and reddish brown in colour. When Pitha is aggravated, they turn red or yellow and the patient suffers from photophobia and burning sensations. Vitiated Kapha makes them wet and watery with heaviness in the eyelids.

    General appearance (akriti): A trained physician can judge the doshic influences from examining the face of the patient.

    Urine (mutra): Examination of the urine helps identify the doshik imbalance in a body.

    Stool (mala): When Vata is aggravated, the stool becomes hard, dry and grey/ash in colour. Excess Pitta makes it green/yellow and liquid in form whereas high Kapha lines it with mucus.

  • In the name of Ayurveda

    Since the days of Charaka and Susruta, India has been blessed with a glorious code on medical ethics. An Ayurvedic master and his student were always being reminded that their profession aims only at the welfare of the patient. At the same time, fair compensation was not frowned upon. Acharyas said thus: “Patients trust their physicians implicitly to the extent of placing their lives unhesitatingly under his care. This is true even of patients who have no trust in their own relations, parents and sons. Hence a physician should take as much care of each and every patient as he would of his own family.”

    There were some basic principles followed by all who had chosen their profession as a ‘vaidya’. A passage in the Charaka Samhita sums up the ethical injunctions of that time: “He who practises medicine out of compassion for all creatures rather than for gain or for gratification of the senses surpasses all.” But now, in this modern period, one can see a slow but progressive decay of character in many members of the medical profession. Some are forgetting its glory and responsibility. Indian Medical Council Regulations (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) states: ‘The prime object of the medical profession is to render service to humanity; reward or financial gain is a subordinate consideration. Who-so-ever chooses his profession assumes the obligation to conduct himself in accordance with its ideals.’

    The relevant rules bans advertisements of all kinds. Unfortunately, very often advertisements which are quite against the above said norms appear. It can be said as clearly against the medical ethics. Though being given in the name of ‘authentic Ayurveda’, some of the advertisements are really confusing and are even against the fundamental principles of Ayurveda! Some of them argue that the regular usage of certain products for a particular problem (sometimes single product for a number of problems) will cure you easily. They sell the product in the name of Ayurveda, and they don’t want to know the patient, his body constitution, digestive capacity etc.! The basic diagnostic method of Ayurveda is simply being ignored, and still they all claim them as ‘100 per cent Ayurveda’. Treatment in Ayurveda is a positive, long-lasting relationship between the patient and the physician.

    For any problem, the physician has to see the patient and through proper diagnostic methods, he understands the patient’s problem and helps him cure that with proper lifestyle and medications. The term Ayurvedic cure never means ‘over the counter cure’. Some advertisements are being decorated with a photograph of certain ‘vaidya’ who claims generations of Ayurvedic treatment and ‘research’ experience, though, in fact, there would be none. These kinds of advertisements are smearing the pristine purity of Ayurveda with faulty, misleading claims. All those money motivated individuals and companies, who are playing behind these kind of negative trends, should step back from their activities which are harmful to authentic Ayurveda. There are advertisements which may inspire drunkards by claiming all-cure for lever problems. Some advertisements are on ‘Vajikarana’, the ‘ideal therapy’ for the enhancement of male vigour. Their much-indemand product will be ‘hassle free’ and with ‘no side-effects’.

    They offer great relief to the men who lead a hectic stressful life. These medicines are said to give one the strength and potency of a horse and enhance erection for a longer duration! There is no magical cure in Ayurveda. These advertisers are sure that, those who buy these medicines, just by seeing the advertisement, will be silent, even if they couldn’t get the expected result! Recently, there was an advertisement given in some main news papers and magazines claiming that their newly found medicine can cure diabetes completely! These tendencies should be removed as soon as possible from the field of Ayurveda. Faulty and misleading advertisements on over the counter products attract a number of ignorant public and they misunderstand these fake claims as of Authentic Ayurveda.

    This demoralises Ayurveda and its genuine followers. Moreover, as it is against rules and regulations, authorities should take action against those people who are making Ayurveda a cash cow.

  • Back to health

    Ayurevda, which had been the science of health through the ages, went into a phase of decline in the 18th and 19th centuries, before making a comeback in the 20th century. What led to the loss of sheen for Ayurveda? There are three reasons.

    1. Possession of knowledge

    Painting

    Painting of Susrutha, the patron saint of surgeons, performs a surgery.

    From ancient times onwards, across the cultures worldwide, there has been a tendency to possess and hide knowledge, without sharing. People who had custody of knowledge in a particular field always kept it as their secret possession and exposed that knowledge only to limited hands, mostly of the same clan. This mystification of knowledge was in vogue in India also. The old Indian system of education— the Gurukula tradition— was a face-to-face transmission of knowledge, and this individuality was its main characteristic. But this method had certain limitations. On due course of time, it became just repetitions or re-distribution of same old information. Research, an important facet in the process of knowledge creation, is found missing here. All ancient Indian sciences, including Ayurveda, faced this saturation point. This means, knowledge, possessed by a certain group, had to face a declension in growth in due course of time.

    2. Lack of well trained physicians

    Only a limited percentage of students were lucky enough to get proper, complete training in the Gurukula tradition due to several reasons. This limited number of experts could not cover the healthcare problems of all members of society. This resulted in the entry of a number of non-experts in the field, which adversely affected the quality of treatments. This problem became severe when the British rulers of India brought a rule which insisted on the arbitrary registration of all traditional healthcare professionals. The presence of non-experts was a reason for Ayurveda’s decline.

    3. Foreign rule

    The main factor which catalysed the downfall of Ayurveda in 19th century was the introduction of the allopathic system of medicine to India. Foreign rulers brought this system and practitioners to India for their own healthcare, but it spread fast in society and took the prime position with the whole-hearted support of the rulers. In the beginning, Ayurveda vaidyas neglected ‘English’ medicine and they were not ready to accept it as something worth in healthcare. But it was too late when they could understand that they were losing the soil under their feet so fast. By this time, the rulers could conduct a good campaign against Ayurveda and its efficacy. They spread the message that Ayurveda is unscientific and it is just a tribal/folk subject. Not only Ayurveda, but also its practitioners, became disrespected in society.

    A new integration

    health
    Ayurveda entered a phase of rejuvenation in the 20th century in the background. The reforms occurred in two areas. The first was the removal of the weaknesses entered into Ayurveda and to strengthen it from within. The second was to make it capable of standing in its own feet, in par with allopathy. In order to strengthen Ayurveda, the new government in independent India promoted scientific restructuring of Ayurvedic education. Instead of individual gurukulas, governments started academic institutions which opened the horizons of Ayurveda to all. It really became as asset for all. This was also the starting point of a number of institutions and research centers in the field of Aurveda. At present, there are more than 250 Ayurveda colleges in India which produce more than 9000 Ayurveda graduates every year. More than 60 colleges have post-graduate programmes and approximately 1000 post-graduates pass out a year. Till the last century Ayurvedic treatment was limited to the relation between the physician and the patient. It was the physician who visited the patient at his home, and not the other way as is practised now. He will examine the patient thoroughly and give a detailed prescription or list of herbs out of which he can make the medicine at home. Occasionally patient may visit the physician also.

    During the effort to compete with the western medicine, many other elements replaced the very simple ‘physician patient’ relationship. New companies which manufactured medicine in huge quantities, hospitals with inpatient facilities, modern diagnostic methods- all these helped popularizing Ayurveda. Today, Ayurveda in India is a business with an annual turnover of around `4,000 crore with about 9000 Ayurvedic pharmacies, 22,000 dispensaries, 2,500 hospitals and 4.4 lakh of Ayurveda doctors! At a glance this may be counted as a huge development. But the reality is different. If we take the healthcare industry as a whole, the role of Ayurveda in it is very less. It was not so in centuries back. Ayurveda was the healthcare system of the total society. In that sense, the current status indicates not a growth, but a slight relief from the decline it had faced.

    The global scenario

    Image of Charaka, the first physician

    Image of Charaka, the first physician

    It is just recently that Ayurveda gained global acceptance. And this popularity is not older than two decades. The first official discussion on Ayurveda in a foreign country was held in 1984 in Indonesia. It was a meeting of the world wide traditional medical practitioners. That meeting was focused on studying various traditional medical practices in Asia. And Italy hosted the first such meeting held outside of Asia, in 1985. Representatives from various countries took part in that conference. But most of the participants in that meet were not really aware of Ayurveda and its legacy. But that global meet witnessed the formation of a worldwide holistic society. Several such meets were conducted later in various countries. Altogether, through those conferences Ayurveda got more popularized and a number of doubts regarding the efficacy and genuineness of Ayurveda had been cleared. Till that time, Ayurveda was considered something like a folk medicine. It was not known to much of them that Ayurveda was backed up by a proven, written knowledge store of more than 3000 years. Through those conferences, the Western world was convinced that Ayurvedic wisdom is formed through centuries of research and is being enriched by a number of basic texts and their interpretations. Now no foreigner would dare say that Ayurveda is not a scientific system.

    Another such incident which helped to popularise Ayurveda in the West was the well known Alma Ata declaration from Russia. The International Conference on Primary Health Care, held under the auspices of the World Health Organisation, in the declaration, said: “Globally, 80 per cent health care issues are being taken care by the traditional treatment modalities and the modern medicine covers only the remaining 20 percentage’s healthcare requirements. Hence all traditional medical systems should be recognised and supported with due importance.” After the Alma Ata declaration, traditional methods like Ayurveda were entitled as ‘Alternative ‘or ‘Complementary’. All the above said factors helped Ayurveda’s global acceptance today.

    Future

    preparation
    In fact, it is not fair to say that Ayurveda has got global acceptance. Most of the foreign countries have not officially recognised Ayurvedic healthcare system. Ayurvedic medicines, mostly, are being exported to other countries in the label of ‘food supplements’. The countries which officially accept Ayurveda as a treatment system are Srilanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Bhutan, Mauritius, South Africa, Thailand and Pakistan. Ayurvedic centres are functioning as an alternative system in the US, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Russia, Australia, Japan, Holland, Brazil, UAE and Canada. But a number of patients from abroad visit India every year for Ayurvedic treatments. Last year people from around 45 countries had visited Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala, the pioneer in Kerala’s Ayurveda. More than official recognition, their own experience drives western people to seek the help of Ayurveda.

    This is quite a favourable and positive development for Ayurveda and its practitioners. Unfortunately, some narrow minded business men are trying to exploit this situation. Massage parlors are sprouting everywhere like mushrooms. It is a must that followers of authentic Ayurveda should be more and more vigilant against these negative minds. It is the only way to protect the purity of this age-old science of natural healing.

  • The beacon light

    A branch of science attains glory when great human beings appear on its horizon and practise it for the benefit of larger mankind, with little selfish motive. Vaidyabhooshanam K Raghavan Thirumulppad was an Ayurveda practitioner who used his knowledge and skills in this branch of medicine for the betterment of humanity.
    An accidental convert to Ayurveda—he became a disciple of Vasudevan Nambeeshan, an Ayurveda vaidya who cured him of TB—Thirmulppad took his profession seriously. He mastered its theory and practice so well that Ayurveda students find his books the most simple and comprehensive. He not only practised Ayurveda in its pristine form, but also ensured that it remained affordable. He often said, “A physician’s job is to cure a disease with medicines available in his courtyard.” He postulated this noble theory, practised it, and proved to the world that it was worthwhile to do so. The best way to pay homage to this great physician is to preserve and practise Ayurveda in its pristine form. A difficult calling, indeed. We hope that more and more physicians, especially of the younger generation, would find him a great beacon light to follow.

  • Faster Higher Stronger

    Sportspersons want to break records, not their bones. They neither want to sprain their muscles, nor suffer from some other injury and say good bye to their chosen field. But sometimes fate has it that they sustain injuries. Treatments in modern medicine are often helpless. But do not lose hope, yet. Daisman Ayurkendra, Sports Medicine & Nutrition Research Centre, with its nuanced approach of combining India’s ancient medical science and yoga, has become a beacon of hope for hundreds of sportspersons who were on the verge of leaving their chosen field. Daisman is India’s first and only Ayurvedic sports medicine injury management and rehabilitation centre. Our doctors are specialised in sports medicine, sports injury management and rehabilitation. The services of sports physiotherapists, fitness trainers, sports nutritionists and sports psychologists are also available here.

    We are the only centre in India that has treated more than 7,000 cases of injuries to sports persons including national and international athletes. Many medal winners of the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games have been successfully treated by us. Our centre has conducted official training programme for the Sports Authority of India (SAI), and organised more than 100 sports medicine workshops across the country. We were the first ones in Asia to develop a body composition analysis software. Apart from treating bone and spine disorders, fractures, etc., we also offer orthopaedic rehabilitation.

    Sports injuries

    We specialise in the management of sports injuries like meniscal tear, ligament tear, rotator cuff tear, hamstring tear, groin injury, shin pain, calf muscle strain, plantar fascitis, unknown foot pain, mid foot pain of athletes, thigh injuries (quadriceps), shoulder dislocations, ankle sprain grade I, II and III, ankle fracture, wrist injuries, triangular fibrous cartilage tear, muscle imbalance, back pain, disc prolapse, neck pain, achilles tendonitis, pattellar dislocation, fracture of fore arm, ankle, lower leg (conservative treatment), chronic muscle injuries, chronic shoulder injuries and myofascial pain.

    What’s unique about Daisman

    Combining Ayurveda and Yoga gives excellent results The unique approach to the management of sports injuries that combines Ayurveda, physiotherapy and Yoga has attained excellent results in various cases. We have successfully treated 7,000 cases including 276 national level and more than 800 State-level athletes. Management of sports injuries and rehabilitation are to be carried out with great care and responsibility as an athlete is a national asset. The treatment methods at our centre include Ayurvedic medication, Marma therapy, oil massage, range of motion exercises, strength training, proprioception, conditioning, core stabilisation along with physiotherapy modalities, muscle stimulators, bandaging with herbal combinations (upanaha swedha), deep heat therapies (with oil, stone, herbal leaves,dried herbal powder, sand and salt bag), etc. Expert knowledge in modern sports medicine , training modalities, periodisation, biomechanics, exercise physiology, kinesiology, sports physiotherapy and sports nutrition is essential for the management and rehabilitation of injured sports persons. Many of the treatment modalities adopted for sports injuries are very specific. Any faulty training or exercise may adversely affect a sportsperson’s career. The treatment mode should be chosen scientifically based on the nature of the sport.

    Back to the pole, thanks to Daisman

    Dija Chandran, national record holder in pole vault, is the beneficiary of the nuanced approach of Daisman Clinic towards sports injuries. Daughter of Chandran, Vazhikkadavu, Nilambur Via, Malappuram district, Kerala, Dija was suffering from static lower back pain for one year. She started getting slight back pain during practice. Later, it aggravated while sitting and standing. She consulted many doctors at superspeciality hospitals in Kerala and Coimbatore. Many orthopedic surgeons did not have an answer to her problem. They asked her to stop sports activities and take rest. She was told about the option of surgery in case of the problem getting worse. Finally, one of the orthopaedic surgeons told her about their limitation in treating her kind of condition, and referred her to us. We combined Ayurveda treatment procedures and Yoga to treat her. The condition of the patient was quite promising after two months. She was able to sit and bend the spine without pain, and started doing sports-specific exercises. After five months, she remarkably improved and was totally pain free while doing almost all activities. She went on to win the gold medal in pole vault by creating a personal record of 3.30 metres.