Ayurveda is one of the world's oldest holistic health systems, but it can seem unfamiliar if you've never encountered it before.
What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that originated in India over 3,000 years ago. The word translates roughly to 'knowledge of life'. It takes a holistic view of health, considering physical, mental and lifestyle factors together rather than treating symptoms in isolation.
Core concepts
- Doshas — Ayurveda describes three core energies (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) believed to govern different aspects of body and mind
- Balance — wellbeing is understood as a state of balance between these doshas, individual to each person
- Lifestyle integration — diet, daily routine and stress management are considered as important as any specific treatment
How it's practised today
Modern Ayurvedic practice often includes therapies such as herbal treatments, specific massage techniques, dietary guidance and lifestyle recommendations, tailored to an individual's constitution and current imbalances.
Is it evidence-based?
Ayurveda sits primarily within complementary and traditional medicine rather than mainstream Western clinical guidance. Many people use it alongside, rather than instead of, conventional healthcare — it's worth discussing with your GP if you have an existing medical condition.
Learn more with us
Our Chiswick clinic offers Ayurvedic treatments delivered by trained practitioners. Book a consultation to learn more about what it could offer you.
.jpg)
.jpg)
