autofeed.msn.co.in

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, INDIA, June 12, 2005: With the rains lashing Kerala, ayurveda clinics are having a boom time. Be they big or small, tourist resorts across the state are getting Indian and foreign visitors seeking ayurvedic treatment in large numbers.

Ayurveda is India's ancient medical science that claims to cure a wide variety of ailments, ranging from the simple cold to even mental diseases. Ayurvedic healing, it is said, is more effective during monsoon when the lack of perspiration helps the body absorb the medicinal oil. The rains also help the body to relax, it is said.

Ayurveda clinics and resorts offer a simple rejuvenating body massage for as low as US$5.68 and charge up to $8,000 for an intensive four-week package. "We are expecting a much better monsoon season compared to previous years. Bookings are on at our six premium properties for ayurvedic packages," said Jose Dominic, chief of CGH Earth, one of Kerala's best-known resorts.

While ayurveda is becoming popular, the government is doing its best to see that no one takes tourists for a ride. Said E. K. Bharat Bhushan, the principal secretary in the tourism ministry: "We plan a foolproof system to eliminate all fly-by-night operators. Ayurveda should prosper in the right direction."