Ayurveda
The word Ayurveda is composed of two sanskrit terms - Ayu meaning life and Veda meaning knowledge. Therefore Ayurveda means the knowledge of life or science of life. It is defined as the science, through which one can obtain knowledge about the ways and nature of life. Ayurvedic system is applicable universally to all those seeking harmony and peace. The Classical Ayurvedic texts discuss all forms of science like biology, toxicology and subjects like philosophy and theology.
Kerala has developed its own Ayurvedic treatment modalities like Dhara, pizhichil, Navarakizhi, Elakizhi, Sirovasthi, Thalapothichil etc. which are highly effective in a number of diseases which includes Motor neuron diseases, Arthritis of various kinds, skin diseases, heart diseases, peptic ulcer, Asthama, Peripheral vascular diseases and Gynaecological disorders. Medicinal Knowledge about Ayurvedic type of medicine is divided into eight branches. The branches are:
1. Kaya chikilsa (general medicine),
2. Shalya (surgery),
3. Shalakya (ENT and Ophthalmology),
4. Graha (Psychotherapy),
5. Damshitra (toxicology),
6. Bala (Paediatrics and Gynaecology),
7. Jara (rejuvenation) and
8. Vrishya (Aphrodisiacs).