My first exposure to ayurvedic medicine was listening to this kindly, elder ayurvedic physician speak at a conference, where he explained the nuances of ayurvedic detoxification and elimination (known as panchakarma), beginning with vomit therapy. This got my attention, as it is not often you hear those two words used together. He went on to explain that the view of ayurveda is that illness is an imbalance within the body, and to regain balance, one must nourish and detoxify the body and spirit, eliminate toxins, and balance the doshas within. Treatments are aimed to promote self-healing and balance. I thought, this is a very lovely, gentle medicine, addressing the wellness of the whole person, spirit, mind, and body. Still curious about the (actually, turns out, not so shocking) vomit therapy, I later learned that it is indeed used, but typically sparingly, under medical supervision, and is not commonly prescribed in the West.

Ayurvedic medicine is an ancient form of health care native to India, dating back to 3,000 B.C. The word ayurveda literally means “life knowledge,” however, also translates to “knowledge of a long life” and “science of life.” It is widely practiced in its country of origin, as well as throughout Sri Lanka and Nepal. Ayurveda is now gaining popularity in westernized countries, as people are searching for healthy alternatives.
The basis of Ayurvedic medicine is interconnectedness, with oneself, others, the earth and spirit. This connection affects the prakriti, or one’s constitution, which is a unique combination of physical, mental, and spiritual characteristics. A person’s constitution is a balance of the three doshas, or characteristics, vata, pitta and kapha, although one dosha is typically prominent. Imbalances of the doshas can be due to an unhealthy lifestyle or diet, too much or too little mental or physical activity, or exposure to viruses or bacteria.

Vata is responsible for the major physiological processes of the body. Vata dominant people are thought to be thin and energetic, who tire easily, are quick learners, and have irregular routines with a love for sweet and salty foods. When out of balance they can have cold hands and feet, variable digestion, dry skin and insomnia. Vata people are thought to be susceptible to skin, mental, and neurological diseases.

Pitta represents digestion, metabolism, hormones and heat. Pitta dominant people are thought to be of medium build, ambitious, intelligent, and dominant with a good appetite. When out of balance, they can be irritable, jealous, and short-tempered with a tendency towards acne, digestive disturbances and bad breath.

Kapha represents nourishment, and helps to build strength and immunity. Kapha dominant people are heavily built, strong, move slowly, but with grace, are lovely, affectionate and reliable, and slow to anger. When out of balance, they can develop asthma, other respiratory illnesses, diabetes and digestive issues.

Ayurvedic practitioners assess you and determine your primary dosha and imbalances through a combination of pulse and tongue diagnoses, in addition to an assessment of diet, lifestyle, urine, stool, skin, and overall appearance. Digestion, personal habits, and the ability to recover from illness or stress are all considered when developing a health plan.

Treatment generally requires active participation from the individual, as changes in diet, lifestyle, and habits are typically recommended. Elimination of impurities, reduction of worry and symptoms, an increase in harmony and treatment of physical and psychological issues are all possible treatment goals. These can be accomplished through recommendations of herbal formulas, yoga, meditation, fasting, enemas, special diets, botanical nasal sprays, sweating, exercise, and massage with medicinal oils. And for the brave, let’s not forget vomit therapy.

Candace Magnuson, a Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist and Licensed Massage Therapist, is a practitioner of Ayurvedic medicine in Moscow at Healing Wisdom, (208) 882-2578.

Dr. Jaeggli is a naturopathic physician who practices in Pullman and specializes in integrative family medicine, (509) 432-4301. www.sagemedicineclinic.com