Integration of Ayurveda with Modern Science
We at Imis align Ayurvedic principles with modern pharmacology, offering complementary approaches to healthcare.
The study of plant-based natural products bridges traditional wisdom with contemporary medicine for safer and more effective treatments.
Integration of Ayurveda with Modern Science
We at Imis align Ayurvedic principles with modern pharmacology, offering complementary approaches to healthcare.
The study of plant-based natural products bridges traditional wisdom with contemporary medicine for safer and more effective treatments.
Synergy in Ayurvedic Medicines
- Ayurvedic formulations often combine multiple herbs to create a balanced, more effective treatment.
- Example: Triphala, a blend of three fruits (Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki), works synergistically for digestion, detoxification, and immunity.
- The combination enhances bioavailability, absorption, and overall therapeutic impact.
- Different bioactive compounds from herbs act on multiple targets in the body, addressing diseases from various angles.
- Example: Ashwagandha and Brahmi, when used together, enhance cognitive function more effectively than when taken separately.
- Some herbal combinations counteract the toxicity of individual ingredients, making them safer for long-term use.
- Certain plant compounds improve the solubility and bioavailability of active ingredients.
- Example: Black Pepper (Piperine)—Piperine enhances the absorption of curcumin increasing their effectiveness
- Modern research, using network pharmacology, has validated Ayurveda’s holistic approach by identifying how multiple plant compounds interact at a biochemical level.
- Ayurveda’s synergistic formulations align with this approach, making traditional medicine an essential part of modern drug discovery.
Ancient Texts and the Origins of Ayurveda
Ayurveda, known as the ”Science of Life,” is one of the oldest healing systems, dating back thousands of years. The foundation of Ayurvedic knowledge is rooted in ancient Vedic texts, particularly the Atharva Veda, where the earliest references to medicinal herbs and healing practices are found. Over time, this knowledge was expanded upon in classical Ayurvedic texts such as:
- One of the four Vedas, it contains the earliest references to Ayurveda, detailing over 100 hymns dedicated to healing diseases like fever, wounds, infections, and even mental disorders.
- Discusses the use of charms, plant extracts, minerals, and natural forces like sun and water for healing.
- Written by Acharya Charaka, this text is considered the most comprehensive Ayurvedic treatise on Kaya Chikitsa (internal medicine).
- Focuses on disease prevention, dietetics, and the concept of doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in maintaining health.
- Highlights the importance of polyherbal formulations, stating that a single herb often lacks the full potency required for healing.
- Authored by Acharya Sushruta, this text is a pioneer in Shalya Tantra (surgery) and describes over 300 surgical procedures and 120 surgical instruments.
- Introduces Rasayana (rejuvenation therapy) and its role in promoting longevity through herbal formulations.
- Details the therapeutic properties of herbs and emphasizes their role in wound healing, infection control, and post-surgical recovery.
- Written by Acharya Vagbhata, it integrates teachings from both Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita into a more concise and practical guide.
Covers all eight branches of Ayurveda (Ashtanga Ayurveda), including internal medicine, pediatrics, toxicology, and rejuvenation. - Strongly advocates herbal combinations to balance the three doshas and optimize healing.
- an elaborated and detailed view on pharmaceutical procedures like taila, kashaya, arishta kalpanas etc, proving that combinations of herbs yield better therapeutic results than single herbs.
- Discusses herbal compatibility, dosage guidelines, and formulation techniques for achieving maximum efficacy with minimal side effects.
- Establishes the foundation for modern polyherbal medicine, influencing contemporary Ayurveda.
Ayurveda has been preserved for over 5,000 years through oral traditions and classical scriptures.
Ancient texts recognized the synergistic power of polyherbal formulations, laying the groundwork for modern Ayurveda.
These texts emphasize holistic healing, disease prevention, and natural treatments using herbs, minerals, and lifestyle modifications.
Is Ayurveda safe?
“Adhikam Amrutham Visham” meaning even Nectar if consumed in excess can become poisonous. While plant-based medicine is generally considered safe, some compounds may have toxic effects if misused or consumed in excess.
Ayurveda emphasizes proper dosage, purification methods, and combination therapies to mitigate adverse effects.
