Ayurveda sees the world as having an intrinsic order. Illness is a departure from this, a loss of balance or equilibrium. Fundamental to Ayurvedic philosophy is the belief that we all possess three doshas (humours): vata (wind or air): pitta (fire): and kapha (water/earth). Together these are known as the tridoshas and disease is the result of imbalance among them. Each individual may express various aspects of each, but usually one time predominates. If there is deficiency or excess of any dosha, disease can result- an excess of vata may result in dizziness and debility; an increase in pitta may lead to fever, inflammation and infection. Kapha is essential for hydration and lubrication; a deficiency here could produce painful limbs and influenza type illness.

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian holistic way of healing. The word Ayur literally implies ‘life’ and Veda implies ‘the knowledge.’ Ayurveda thoroughly believes in the concept of ‘prevention is better than cure’. Ayurveda prescribes the pros and cons of leading a healthy, happy and comfortable life, taking the mind, body and soul in unison. Ayurveda concentrates not only on the affected part or a particular disease, but on the individual as a whole. It is therefore, an effective channel to invigorate one’s weary mind, body and soul.
Ayurveda treatment aims to restore the balance, and hence good health, principally through two methods: Panchakarama (internal purification) and Massage. The herbs used for both grow in abundance in Kerala’s most climates, and every town and village in Kerala has its Ayurvedic pharmacy where the medicinal plants, fresh and dried, are sold. Each Dosha is identified with particular foods, and diet is crucial to Ayurvedic treatment.

Kerala - The Land of Ayurveda
Kerala's tranquil climate, natural herbal eco systems (with a wealth of herbs and medicinal plants), rejuvenating backwaters and the cool monsoon season are appropriate for Ayurveda’s therapeutic and restorative programs. Today Kerala is the only state in India, which practices this system of medicine with complete dedication. Explore the magic of Ayurveda and revitalize your body, mind and soul. Rejuvenation therapies are available for 7 days, 14 days or 28 days. Ayurveda indeed is an art which needs to be experienced in order to be believed.

Ayurveda practice in Kerala places special emphasis on massage which is claimed to be particularly beneficial for those suffering chronic ailments such as arthritis and rheumatism. The type of oil is used in massage differs according to the ailment being treated, but ranges from castor and neem to mustard and camphor. To these are added various powdered herbs, nuts and bark.

Having an occasional Ayurvedic massage, something offered at tourist resorts all over Kerala, is relaxing but reaping any long term benefits necessitates rather more dedication- usually a 15-day or longer commitment, which will generally involve an Ayurvedic diet, exercises and a range of treatments as well as regular massages.