The ancient Vedic documents gave guidelines for people to live healthy lives, according to previous beliefs dating back more than 3,500 years. Medical knowledge is summarised in the holy books. There are eight medical components:

• General medicine
• Gynaecology and Paediatrics
• Otolaryngology and Ophthalmology
• Mental disease
• Surgery
• Toxicology
• Health promotion and revitalisation
• Sexual medicine

Ayurvedic medicine is the theory of three doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha), which define a person’s characteristics or temperament, depending on the mix of fire, water, earth, air and space. The relationship between Vata, Pitta and Kapha characterises each human make-up (Prakriti). This explains a person’s strengths and weaknesses, their resistance to disease and the relationship between mind and body, which should be in balance with the environment. If there is an imbalance, it can cause diseases. A detailed diagnosis includes an investigation of the pulse, skin, urine, stools, body language and a discussion on home life, environment and nutrition. A variety of methods can be used to balance out the harmony between the body, mind and spirit. These are cleansing treatments, according to your make-up, special diets, full body massages or colour, aroma and music therapies as well as herbal and mineral supplements. Ayurvedic medication consists of a variety of ingredients. Plants often form the basic elements as well as animals and a variety of minerals. Classic recipes often consist of more than hundred components.

Ayurveda is used to prevent and cure chronic diseases.