Re: Kerala Ayurveda
Ashtavaidyas:
Ashtavaidyas are esteemed as the traditional physicians of Kerala. They are the
masters in eight disciplines of medicine from which the word "Ashtavaidya" is
originated. They wrote several books incorporating their observations and
clinical experiences. "Chikitsa Manjari", "Yogamritham", "Abhidhana Manjari",
"Alathoor Manipravalam", "Sindoora Manjari","Kairali commentary of
Ashtangahridayam" are some of them. They come under the family of
Vagbhatacharya, one of the member of Brihat trayee. Brihat trayees are the
three authentic acharyas, namely Susrutha, Charaka and Vagbhata.
While Ayurvedic physicians who practiced all the eight branches of Ayurveda were
rare in other parts of India, there were a number of families in Kerala called
the Ashtavaidyas who practiced all the eight branches for generations. Some of
the Namboothiri Brahmin families called the Ashtavaidyans are Pulamanthol,
Alathiyur Kuttanicherry, Thrissure, Thaikad, Eledath, Chirattam, Vayaskara,
Vellod. These Ayurvedic families, with their long practice and total
dedication, have developed a body of knowledge which gives Kerala a primacy in
Ayurveda
While Ayurvedic physicians who practiced all the eight branches of Ayurveda
were rare in other parts of India, there were a number of families in Kerala
called the Ashtavaidyas who practiced all the eight branches for generations.
Some of the Namboothiri Brahmin families called the Ashtavaidyans are
Pulamanthol, Alathiyur Kuttanicherry, Thrissure, Thaikad, Eledath, Chirattam,
Vayaskara, Vellod. These Ayurvedic families, with their long practice and total
dedication, have developed a body of knowledge which gives Kerala a primacy in
Ayurveda.
Ayurveda, the 5000-year-old natural herbal health care system has been
recognized the world over as the most perfected body-mind health care system.
Ayurveda, a holistic system of medicine that is rejuvenative and therapeutic,
is widely practiced in India. Kerala, the tropical paradise on the southwest
seaboard, is well known as the heart land of Ayurveda.
Specialty of Kerala Ayurveda
Kerala, the land of spices, is the best place to get to know and experience.
Ayurveda, be it Ayurvedic products or service.
Kerala, the confluence of different natural herbal systems, enriched and
fine-tuned Ayurveda. While the Ayurvedic system was enriched by Siddha and
Marma systems in southern Kerala, it joined hands with Kalaripayattu and Kalari
Therapy in northern Kerala. This resulted in the emergence of a new stream noted
for its special procedures and formulations
Kerala, situated in the tropical region, has an unparalleled herbal wealth
compared to the other parts of India. Though the very same herbs are found in
the Himalayas, the herbs of Kerala have a special potency due to its unique
geographical position and tropical climate. These aspects made it possible for
the healers of Kerala to perfect the preparation of Ayurvedic medicine. Even
for classic Ayurvedic preparations, Kerala Ayurveda has evolved its own
formulations that are superior in effect
Kerala has an unbroken tradition of Sanskrit (the language of ancient wisdom)
learning. This knowledge of Sanskrit enables the healers of Kerala to
interpret the Ayurvedic system accurately and get a proper insight. The
Namboothiri Brahmins even today follow the Vedic tradition and knowledge
systems. They are the only people who can perform the fire sacrifices or yajnas
as they were done during the Vedic times and pronounce the Vedic chants the
original way. They still practice Ayurveda and contribute to the efficacy of
the system. Sanskrit learning has spread to all layers of Kerala society.
Ayurveda is a living tradition belonging to people of all socio-cultural
groups.
Thanks for your mail
Thomas Chacko
moon_81_surfer wrote: What is special about Kerala
Ayurveda?What distinguishes it from Ayurveda as it is practised in other parts
of India?What are Ashtavaidyas?Conny
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