
Ayurveda, "the science of a long and healthy life", is the oldest bequeathed health system. It embraces over 5000 years of tradition. Ayurveda has its roots in the Vedas, the oldest preserved Indo-Aryan scriptures. Ayurvedan medicine sees humans as an entirety, one unit of body, spirit and soul. It considers the interplay of organisms in their relationship between nature and the environment. The harmony and balance of the three Doshas is considered to be the most important prerequisite for health:
VATA
Energised power and the principle of exercise
PITTA
Heat-producing force and maintenance of the process of transformation
KAPHA
Cohesive force and preservation of Creation