Ayurvedic medicine, a practice that began in India thousands of years ago, has become more and more popular over the past few years, but it’s really nothing new. Read on to learn some of the biggest myths and the truth behind this ancient therapy.
Myth: Ayurvedic medicine is just a new fad.
While Ayurvedic medicine is experiencing a new surge in popularity, it’s actually over 3,000 years old. And today you’ll still find it being used in India as a traditional medicine.
You’ll also find that there has been much research on Ayurvedic medicine, but most of it has been performed in the East and isn’t part of the Western medical system.
Myth: Ayurvedic medicine is just a form of herbal medicine.
While Ayurvedic medicine does use herbs to help restore balance and wellness to the body, it’s also a larger practice that works with other things such as diet and minerals. It also addresses the idea of proper sleep and exercise to enhance your health.
This practice looks at your entire lifestyle and your body as a system rather than looking only at specific health problems.
Myth: Ayurvedic medicine can’t be harmful, so anyone can practice it.
If Ayurvedic medicine is carried out by someone trained properly, it’s generally safe. But herbal medicines can be very powerful and shouldn’t be used unless they’re prescribed by a professional. There are many things to consider such as drug interactions and health conditions.
Herbal medicines can have side effects just as pharmaceuticals can have them. You should never self-prescribe. It’s important to go to a professional practitioner in order to get the best and safest results.
Myth: Massage is part of Ayurvedic medicine.
Many people associate Ayurvedic medicine with massage, but in truth massage is not included in this type of treatment. However, massage is a good treatment to practice to add to your wellness routine.
Myth: Ayurvedic medicine isn’t fast or effective.
Ayurvedic medicine can work quickly, but it can also take longer depending on the problem you’re addressing and how out of balance your body is. But there are many Ayurvedic prescriptions that work quickly to resolve problems and restore your body’s balance and wellness.
As with any health condition, the problem determines how long the treatment will take to be effective. It’s also important to talk with your practitioner about any other treatments you’re receiving.
The herbal formulas as well as lifestyle suggestions can be very effective at improving your health. You may be able to reverse illness or injury as well as improve your overall health by following proper advice.
