Traditional medicine ( ayurveda) is an important part of the health system in Sri Lanka. Ayurveda is a holistic system of curative and preventive medicine, focusing on the prevention of disease through a deeper connection between the mind and the body. It concentrates on a state of total health based on vigour, energy and balance. The concept of balance is important in Ayurveda - the balance of body, mind and consciousness based on each person's individual constitution.
Ayurveda translates into English as the Science of Life (Ayur - life, veda - science). Considered to be the oldest healing science in the world, this ancient medicine is practiced extensively in Sri Lanka and India for over 3000 years. This curative art was passed down from time immemorial through an oral tradition, through old masters to their disciples. Modern day C 21st. ayurvedic treatment or alternative medicine based on natural healing has 2 aims: to preserve health - wellbeing and cure a body afflicted by disease or stress. Ayurvedic practice is different to western medicine using pharmaceutical medicines with side effects. Westerners visiting Sri Lanka use gentle alternative medicine nature treatments at ayurveda health resorts designed for foreign tourists to restore their general well being. The basic concept of ayurveda and ayurvedic medical treatment is just as animal and plant life has to live in harmony with the Laws of Nature to remain healthy and balanced so too do human beings despite industrialization. Ayurveda and ayurvedic treatments return patients to health by using the inherent principles of nature.
