Origin
Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word derived from 'Ayus' and 'vid', meaning life and knowledge respectively. It is a holistic science encompassing physical, mental and spiritual health. While this science is evident in all four Vedas having 3,3345 mantras, the Atharva Veda has the greatest number of aphorisms. In addition to the Vedic texts, Ayurvedic references are found in the Purans, Upanishads, Darshans, Smrutis, Dharmashastras, Arthashastra, Ramayan, Mahabharat and the Gita. Therefore Ayurveda is undoubtedly the oldest health science in the world.

Basic Concepts
Ayurveda's fundamental mode of action is based on Tridosh; on the three humors - 'vata' (wind), 'pitta' (choler) and 'kapha' (phlegm). An equillibrium of these maintains health. An individual inherently has a constitution of two of these, one of which usually predominates. For example, a person having a predominantly kapha (or phlegm) constitution is more susceptible to cold and cough, and generally should avoid foods which increase these symptoms.

Foods also inherently possess the three humors and thus are capable of enhancing, vitiating or nullifying the effects of one or more of these in the body. Herbs and Ayurvedic preparations have the ability to correct a vitiated 'dosh', thus re-establishing a balance.

Ayurvedic physicians proficient in 'Nadi Chikitsa' are able to determine the composition of an individual's 'dosh' by the wrist pulse, from which they make a diagnosis and treat the patient accordingly. This method remains unique among all systems of diagnosis in the world. It is especially a boon in diagnosing little children who are unable to express their ailments.

Primarily, Ayurveda advocates prevention through sincere observance of 'Rutucharya' (seasonal activity), 'Dincharya' (daily activity) and 'Jivancharya' (lifestyle). If diet and activity are in harmony with these three, health prevails.

Treatment of disorders may involve any of the following: fasting ('langhan'), diet restrictions ('pathyaa-pathya'), detoxification ('shodhan') by Panch Karma, herbal preparations or surgery. These are all detailed in the Charak Samhita, Sushrut Samhita and other Ayurvedic texts. Surgery through ayurvedic means has now almost become extinct due to lack of trained practitioners.

Ayurveda's approach is to treat a person holistically without side-effects, In the last two decades, increasing disenchantment with allopathy has witnessed a rapid proliferation of alternative therapies all over the world, such as: Chinese medicine, acupuncture, aromatherapy, chiropractic and yoga, to name a few. Ayurvedas, too, has gained immense popularity, especially in the United States of America. Colleges teaching Ayurveda have sprung up even in Europe.

With the ever-growing demands in Ayurvedic medicines many companies and manufacturers produce a vast array of medicines. The 'Amrut' brand of products manufactured by BAPS Swaminarayan Herbal Care maintain strict standards. Only the best quality raw materials are hand-picked by experienced hands. Using modern techniques and equipment, while preserving the age-old recipes and processes, the medicines are prepared in a scientific manner under the guidance of experts.

Moreover, Amrut products are perhaps the only Ayurvedic formulations manufactured under God's divine auspices and blessings, on the premises of the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Shahibaug, Amdavad, India. Hence the befitting name Amrut - the elixir which imbues immortality and salvation.

Amrut medicines are available in India at various outlets, especially at the bookstalls in our major mandirs.

Click here for the list of medicines available.