Ayurveda in Kerala

With a history dating back over 3,500 years old, Ayurveda happens to be the ancient treatment method in human history. Today, Ayurveda has created a buzz all across the globe. Not only patients, but the time-tested science of medicine is attracting hordes of tourists and travelers including Hollywood celebrities. Over the centuries, the time-tested medicinal science has been passed orally from the master to its disciples. Thanks to the advancement in scientific research, Ayurveda therapies are nowadays available in a wide range and in its most effective forms. What’s more Ayurveda colleges have also been established across the country offering complete 5-year degree courses in Ayurveda. The doctors of Ayurveda are considered equally competitive with the doctors of modern medicine.

As an Ayurveda destination, Kerala is second to none. The science of Ayurveda has been practiced in the state for years now. The state has a number of Ayurvedic centres that feature world-class facilities and have gained international recognition.

Ideal Time for Ayurveda Therapy

Though once can go for Ayurveda treatment anytime of the year, the ideal time is during the monsoon season. During monsoon, the pores on the skin are open and body is at its acceptable best. Another essential factor is the easy availability of natural herbs during that period. Monsoon tourism in Kerala is, therefore, becoming more and more popular. Regional travel agents offer a wide range of Ayurveda tours that can be combined with an exotic holiday in Kerala. If you are planning an Ayurveda tour in Kerala during monsoons, you need to do the bookings in advance to avoid any hassles.

Basics of Ayurveda Treatment

It is a time-tested traditional science of life. According to the Ayurvedic philosophy, the body of a human being has an individualized constitution. Therefore, the treatment and the application of medicines differ from individual to individual. Ayurveda states that the body of a human being is comprised of three basic elements or constituents – Vatha, Pitha and Kapha, collectively known as ‘Tridoshas’. Varying from individual to individual, one of these three constituents predominates over the other two. And it is this individual variance that determines the Ayurvedic treatment required for a person.

What determines the perfect health of a person is actually the harmonious combination of the three basic constituents or ‘Tridoshas’. These constituents, at the same time, also need to harmonize with the five basic elements of the Universe – Air, Water, Fire, Earth and Ether. Illnesses or ailments occur due to the disharmony among the ‘Tridoshas’. In actuality, Ayurvedic therapy does kill an infection, instead it bolsters up the defensive power (the immune system) of the body of an individual.

Ayurvedic Therapies

Rejuvenation therapies of Ayurveda are today considered to be a better alternative to other medicinal sciences. Popular Ayurveda therapies include Pizhichil (oil massage), Navarakizhi, Sirodhara (bathing of head with medicated milk/ oil) and other herbal baths and oil massages. Ayurvedic treatment also includes numerous herbals diets and products that Ayurveda practitioners recommend during the programme.