Ayurveda Myths And Facts

A tradition, a health system, a lifestyle…Ayurveda is so many things in one. While many look upon it as a solution to their illnesses, thousands of others rely on it to experience the heights of health and wellness. Ayurveda’s history is rich; it has been around for thousands of years. And it now attracts people from all over the world. Being so ancient, widespread and popular, it gets misunderstood. So here, we bust some common myths and share with you the facts about Ayurveda. How many of these did you think were true?

Myths and Facts about Ayurveda

Myth:

Ayurvedic medicine takes much longer to cure the illness, as compared to allopathic medicine.

Fact:

This is one of the most widely accepted myths. However, it gives us the opportunity to address two facts about Ayurveda.

First, the truth is that allopathic medicines usually deal with only the symptoms, often suppressing the problem rather than curing it. So they certainly seem to work quickly. But Ayurveda explores the underlying causes of the illness. For example, it works with emotional and mental imbalances in addicts. And then, it begins to remove not just the illness, but also the factors leading to it. In this way, the process of Ayurveda does take longer. But the difference is that it sets out to truly cure the illness and the conditions that caused it. This is one of the biggest advantages of Ayurveda. Allopathic medicine normally works on the surface level.

Second, not all Ayurvedic medicine works slowly. The amount of time taken to cure each person depends on how soon the issue was found, the severity, the receptiveness of the body to the remedy, and the dedication with which the patient follows the routine. Also, Ayurveda encourages developing self-awareness. So when you follow this system, you can discover the onset of illnesses and aggravation of doshas much earlier. This boosts the chances of the remedy working faster since you can begin the cure at a less severe stage.

Myth:

If it’s herbal, it’s Ayurvedic.

Fact:

Ayurvedic medicines are most often natural and plant-based. There are various combinations of herbs, the properties of which have been studied by experts for years. There are plenty of other ingredients in the remedies, like minerals, ghee, honey, milk, metals, and rock salt. Some remedies even have certain synthetic components. So, Ayurvedic is not synonymous with herbal.

Several companies these days market herbal remedies as Ayurvedic. But just because something contains of herbs or natural ingredients, that doesn’t mean it’s Ayurvedic. Ayurvedic remedies are based on the age-old system – they are not just any combination of plants. Remember these facts about Ayurveda to not get misled!

Myth:

Ayurveda doesn’t form its basis on science.

Fact:

“Ayurveda” comes from “Ayush” meaning life and “Veda” meaning science. So by definition, Ayurveda is the science of life. Its approach is not based on faith or speculation, but on facts and evidence.

For years, the ancients studies the body, mind and emotions as well as the connections between them. Further, they analysed the properties and composition of the ingredients used in the medicines. They then went on to formulate the remedies and procedures that Ayurvedic experts prescribe. Today, you can find plenty of studies that prove the effectiveness and legitimacy of Ayurvedic remedies. A simple example is ghee, which has been recommended as helpful for ages in Ayurveda and one that purifies food. Science also now accepts this as a superfood for its nutrients. Another example is yoga – hundreds of studies now prove its effectiveness for a whole range of mental as well as physical issues.

Myth:

Ayurveda is a cure.

Fact:

While a large part of Ayurveda aims at curing a host of illnesses, much of it helps build and maintain a healthy body and mind. In that sense, Ayurveda is a lifestyle. Apart from medicines, the Ayurvedic lifestyle includes other elements detoxifying routines, meditation, yoga, and a diet that best suits the dosha or prakriti. All put together, they bring about physical strength, mental and emotional stability and a state of balance.

Final Words

Having the right understanding of the path of Ayurveda is essential in order to benefit from it in the right manner. Share these facts about Ayurveda and spread awareness of this ancient, valuable system!