MOD018 – Ayurveda

Definition

Ayurveda is an ancient and holistic system of medicine originating from India, with a history spanning over 3,000 years. The term “Ayurveda” translates to “the sacred knowledge of life” from the words  in Sanskrit of “Ayus” meaning life and “veda” a collection of sacred texts outlining several different aspects of Holistic wellbeing. This comprehensive approach to health and wellness emphasises achieving balance in the body, mind, and spirit through personalised diet, lifestyle modifications, herbal remedies, and therapeutic treatments. 

Explanation

Ayurveda, often referred to as the “Science of Life” or “Knowledge of Longevity”, is one of the world’s oldest holistic healing systems. Originating in India over 5,000 years ago, Ayurveda is deeply rooted in the ancient Vedic culture and was taught for many thousands of years in an oral tradition from accomplished masters to their disciples.

The fundamental principle of Ayurveda is the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit with the universe. It posits that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between these elements. In essence the state of wellness in an individual is based on the experiences that they go through and how they interpret those experiences. Ayurveda recognises that each person has a unique constitution, or prakriti, composed of three doshas: vata (space and air), pitta (fire and water), and kapha (water and earth). These doshas govern physical, psychological, and immunological traits.

Traditionally, Ayurveda has been used for a wide range of health concerns, from common colds to chronic diseases. It emphasises prevention and health promotion, aiming to maintain balance through diet, lifestyle, herbal remedies, and various therapies. These include panchakarma (detoxification procedures), abhyanga (oil massage), and yoga.

Ayurveda’s approach to treatment is highly personalised. Practitioners assess an individual’s dosha balance through pulse diagnosis, tongue examination, and detailed questioning about lifestyle and health history. Based on this assessment, they recommend a tailored combination of dietary adjustments, herbal medicines, lifestyle changes, and therapeutic procedures.

Over time, Ayurveda has evolved and adapted. In India, it has been integrated into the mainstream healthcare system. Globally, it has influenced various holistic health practices and has been incorporated into spa treatments and wellness programmes. Modern research is exploring the scientific basis of Ayurvedic principles and treatments, leading to the development of evidence-based Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals.

In recent years, there has been growing interest in Ayurveda’s potential in managing chronic conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and mental health disorders. Its emphasis on individualised care and holistic wellbeing aligns with current trends towards personalised medicine and integrative healthcare approaches.

Evidence to Efficacy

There is growing evidence demonstrating the efficacy of Ayurveda for various conditions:

Ayurvedic treatments have shown promising results in managing chronic conditions. A systematic review published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2017 found that Ayurvedic interventions were effective in reducing pain and improving function in osteoarthritis patients.

For type 2 diabetes management, a comprehensive review published in 2022 evaluated 199 randomised controlled trials involving 21,191 participants and 98 Ayurvedic medicines. The review found that several Ayurvedic herbs and formulations showed potential in improving glycaemic control. For example, Tinospora cordifolia reduced HbA1c by -0.5% compared to control groups.

A 2018 laboratory study found that Withania somnifera root extract, a common Ayurvedic herb, demonstrated potential in supporting cellular health. The researchers noted the herb’s promising properties in promoting overall wellbeing.

In the realm of mental health, Ayurvedic practices have shown positive effects. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that a specific Ayurvedic protocol was effective in reducing anxiety symptoms in patients with Generalised Anxiety Disorder.

These studies highlight the potential of Ayurveda in supporting various aspects of health and wellbeing. As research in this field continues to grow, we are gaining a deeper understanding of how Ayurvedic principles and treatments can contribute to holistic health care.

Neuroscience and Physiology

Ayurveda, though rooted in ancient wisdom, aligns with many emerging understandings in neuroscience, physiology, and quantum biology. At its heart, Ayurveda operates on the principle that the mind, body, and consciousness are inextricably linked, and that health is the result of dynamic balance between these elements.

From a neurological perspective, Ayurveda’s emphasis on daily rhythms (dinacharya), meditation, breathwork (pranayama), and dietary balance directly supports the regulation of the autonomic nervous system. Many Ayurvedic practices down-regulate sympathetic activity (fight-or-flight) and enhance parasympathetic tone (rest-and-digest), helping to reduce stress hormones like cortisol and increase levels of calming neurotransmitters such as GABA and serotonin.

Modern research has confirmed that Ayurvedic practices such as nasya (nasal oiling) and abhyanga (self-massage) stimulate pressure points and nerve endings, supporting vagus nerve activation, improved circulation, and enhanced interoception – the body’s ability to sense its internal state. These practices foster greater nervous system resilience and emotional regulation.

The concept of the doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), while not directly translatable to Western science, correlates with observable physiological patterns. For example:

• Vata aligns with the nervous system and movement—linked to neurotransmitter function, synaptic activity, and breath regulation.

• Pitta reflects metabolic processes, including enzyme activity, hormonal balance, and inflammatory responses.

• Kapha governs structure and cohesion, associated with lymphatic flow, immunity, and cellular repair.

These doshic principles echo modern systems biology, where health is increasingly viewed as a network of dynamic interactions, not isolated symptoms.

Ayurveda’s impact on the gut-brain axis is particularly noteworthy. Its emphasis on digestive health (agni) and detoxification (ama removal) mirrors what neuroscience now calls the second brain—the enteric nervous system. A balanced digestive system is essential for neurotransmitter synthesis, immune modulation, and mood stability. Ayurvedic herbs such as ashwagandha, brahmi, and turmeric have been studied for their neuroprotective and adaptogenic properties, supporting memory, focus, and emotional balance.

Energetically, Ayurveda recognises the presence of prana (life force), tejas (inner radiance), and ojas (vital essence)—subtle energies which are believed to govern vitality, consciousness, and immunity. These concepts are increasingly echoed in the field of biofield science and quantum biology, where intention, coherence, and subtle energy are being explored as measurable and meaningful in healing.

Ultimately, Ayurveda’s influence on the body-mind system is one of harmonisation. Through sensory nourishment, breath, food, lifestyle and energy, it creates coherence between brain and body, enhancing the natural intelligence of the system and guiding it back into balance.

Governing Body

The Ayurvedic Practitioners Association (APA) is the leading professional organisation for Ayurveda in the UK. While not a statutory regulatory body, the APA plays a crucial role in maintaining standards and promoting Ayurvedic practice. They offer:

• A register of qualified practitioners
• Accreditation for Ayurvedic education programmes
• Continuing professional development opportunities
• A code of ethics and practice for members

Other notable organisations include:

• British Association of Accredited Ayurvedic Practitioners (BAAAP)
• Ayurvedic Professionals Association UK (APA UK)

Training and education in Ayurveda are offered by several institutions:

• Middlesex University: Offers a BSc in Ayurvedic Medicine
• College of Ayurveda UK: Provides diploma and degree-level courses
• Ayurveda Institute UK: Offers various levels of Ayurvedic training

While Ayurveda is not statutorily regulated in the UK, these organisations work to maintain high standards of practice and education. They collaborate with international bodies like the Department of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy) in India to ensure alignment with traditional standards.

 

What Good Looks Like

When Ayurveda is practised with depth, presence, and integrity, it becomes a deeply nurturing and insightful process of rebalancing. You should feel seen and met as a whole being – soul, mind and body – with clear links made between your physical symptoms, emotional patterns, and energetic state. The experience should feel personalised, intuitive, and grounded in both ancient wisdom and practical application.

• You feel deeply understood, not just assessed. A skilled practitioner takes time to observe you holistically, how you speak, move, and express yourself, as well as asking questions that explore your routines, relationships, digestion, sleep, and emotional life. You’re not just answering a checklist – you’re entering a conversation that invites self-awareness.

• You feel like your unique constitution is being honoured. Rather than being handed a generic list of dos and don’ts, the practitioner guides you to understand your specific prakriti (constitution) and vikriti (imbalance) in a way that makes immediate sense. Advice feels bespoke and you feel seen, not labelled.

• You leave with practical changes that feel achievable and aligned. Your protocol should feel supportive, not overwhelming. Dietary suggestions, daily rituals, herbs or treatments are offered with clear explanations of why they support your balance, and how they fit into your life.

• You experience sensory nourishment and grounding. Whether through touch (abhyanga), sound, scent (aromatherapy), or ritual, there is an emphasis on calming the nervous system and reconnecting with your senses. The space often smells beautiful, feels warm, and creates a sense of being held.

• You are gently reconnected to your own body wisdom. Rather than focusing on symptoms in isolation, your attention is drawn to subtle patterns, cravings, resistances, and preferences. You’re encouraged to listen more deeply to your body’s messages and rhythms.

• You feel part of a long, wise lineage. Even if it’s your first session, there’s a sense of stepping into something sacred and time-tested. You may be invited to reflect on seasonal rhythms, ancestral patterns, or energetic principles that deepen your understanding of yourself.

• You’re encouraged to build rhythm and consistency. Good Ayurveda isn’t about a quick detox or short-term fix, it’s about aligning your daily choices with nature’s rhythms. You should leave with a sense that you are stepping into a sustainable relationship with your health.

At its best, Ayurveda provides a deeply intuitive yet structured container for healing. It feels like remembering something you already knew—and being lovingly guided back to it.

What to Ask a Practitioner

Here are the key questions to assist people in choosing the right Ayurvedic practitioner:

How do you approach diagnosis and treatment planning?

Desired answer: You should expect the practitioner to explain that they perform a comprehensive assessment, including pulse diagnosis, tongue examination, and detailed questions about your lifestyle, diet, and health concerns. They should state that this information helps them determine your unique constitution (prakriti) and current imbalances (vikriti) to create a personalised treatment plan.

What specific Ayurvedic treatments do you offer?

Desired answer: The practitioner should list a range of treatments they provide, such as herbal remedies, dietary advice, lifestyle recommendations, panchakarma (detoxification procedures), abhyanga (oil massage), and guidance on yoga and meditation, all tailored to your individual needs.

How do you ensure the safety and quality of your herbal preparations?

Desired answer: You should hear the practitioner explain that they source their herbs from reputable suppliers who follow strict quality control measures. They should mention their awareness of potential herb-drug interactions and their practice of checking for contraindications before prescribing. Additionally, they may indicate that they use third-party testing for heavy metals and contaminants in their herbal preparations.

I apologize for not providing more focused and relevant questions. You’re right that these may not be the most critical questions for Ayurveda specifically. Let me provide a more targeted set of questions that are particularly important for Ayurvedic practice:

How will you determine my individual constitution (dosha)?

Desired answer: The practitioner should explain their process of assessing your prakriti (natural constitution) and vikriti (current imbalance) through pulse diagnosis, physical examination, and detailed questioning about your lifestyle and health history.

How do you ensure the purity and safety of the herbs you use?

Desired answer: The practitioner should explain their sourcing practices, any testing procedures, and how they ensure the absence of contaminants or heavy metals in their herbal preparations.

Can you explain how the recommended treatments will address the root cause of my health issues?

Desired answer: They should be able to clearly articulate how the proposed Ayurvedic treatments aim to restore balance in your body and mind, not just manage symptoms.

What potential side effects or healing reactions should I be aware of?

Desired answer: The practitioner should be open about possible reactions to treatments or herbs (see above for a list), explaining what’s normal and what might indicate a need to adjust the treatment plan.

Related Therapies

 Meditation (MOD099): A practice that focuses on calming the mind and enhancing awareness. Meditation can deepen the relaxation experienced during Reiki sessions and help individuals connect more profoundly with their inner selves.

Naturopathy (MOD113): A system of alternative medicine based on the healing power of nature.

Homeopathy (MOD070): A holistic healing system that uses highly diluted substances to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Flower essences are often used alongside homeopathic remedies.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)(MOD167): An ancient medical system that includes various forms of herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage, exercise, and dietary therapy.

Massage Therapy (MOD097): This hands-on therapy involves manipulating the body’s soft tissues to relieve tension, reduce pain, and promote relaxation. It can enhance the effects of Reiki by addressing physical discomfort and improving circulation.

Herbal Medicine (MOD067): The use of plant-based remedies to treat various health conditions. Herbal medicine can complement flower essence therapy by addressing physical symptoms alongside emotional imbalances.

Cupping Therapy (MOD005): While not strictly acupuncture, it is often used in conjunction with it. It involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, promoting blood flow and healing.

Tai Chi (MOD157): A Chinese martial art practiced for both defence training and health benefits, including stress reduction and improved balance.

Moxibustion (MOD006): Involves burning moxa (a type of dried herb) near or on the skin to warm and stimulate acupuncture points.

Reiki (MOD142): A Japanese energy healing technique that involves channelling universal life force energy through gentle or no touch. Reiki can be combined with sound healing to enhance relaxation and energy flow.

Chiropractic (MOD029): A healthcare profession focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine, using manual adjustments and other techniques to improve function and alleviate pain.

Osteopathy (MOD121): A system of medicine that emphasizes the physical manipulation of muscle tissue and bones to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury, based on the principle that the body’s systems are interconnected and capable of self-regulation and self-healing.

Yoga Therapy (MOD182): A physical and spiritual practice that combines postures, breath control, and meditation. Yoga can complement Reiki by promoting physical flexibility and mental clarity, enhancing overall well-being.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)(MOD106): A structured program that combines mindfulness meditation and yoga to cultivate awareness and reduce stress.

Panchakarma (MOD124):  An ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation program involving various therapeutic treatments

Insights

Read more about the background to Ayurveda on World Scientific: Chapter 1: History, Present and Prospect of Ayurveda

Find out your Dosha with an online quiz from Pukka teas.

---

PRACTITIONER RECOMMENDATION

---

EXPAND OUR KNOWLEDGE TOGETHER