Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicine was developed by ancient sages through keen observation of life and functions. This system of medicine has prevailed for the past 5000 years, visualises the universe as a constant play of energies an imbalance of which induces disease and discomfort in the body. In this system of medicine priority has always been on prescribing an appropriate life-style blended to astrological, climate and geographical conditions. Kerala has a rich tradition in Ayurveda and the people adhere to a strict Ayurvedic life-style. Physicians classify a patients' health based on the degree of imbalance of the three doshas namely Vata, Pitha and Kapha. Vata is that which constitutes bodily movement and activity; Pitha, the entire bio-chemical process operating in a body and Kapha is the entire physical volume in living organisms. A disturbance in any of the three doshas results in a particular disease and the treatment administered accordingly. Treatments vary in duration and intensity. Treatment is either with medicines or with oil baths and massages. Ayurveda recommends Panchakarma processes of Vamana (emesis), Virechana (purgation), Vasti (enema), Raktamoksham (bloodletting) and Naysa (nasal medication) for rejuvenating the body and mind.

Kerala has a special type of Ayurvedic treatment. Though the texts of lessons studied are the same the system of treatment is entirely different and far more effective as well. These special Kerala treatments include Pizhichil (oil bath), Ilakizhi (leaf bundle massage), Navarkizhi (rice bundle massage) etc. which are widely and effectively used in the rheumatic astringent, paralysis, facial palsy, motorneuron disease, ankylosing spondylitis, acute infective polyneuritis, various spinal problems, gastric or peptic ulcers etc.

Pizhichil : In this treatment, luke warm herbal oil applied all over the body by two to four trained masseurs in a special rhythmic way continuously for a period of 7 to 21 days. This treatment is very useful for rheumatic diseases like arthritis paralysis, hemiplegia, paralysis agitanus, nervous weakness and nervous disorder etc.

Navarakizhi : It is a process by which the whole body or any specific part there of is made to perspire by the application of certain medical puddings externally in the form of boluses tied up in muslin bag. This treatment is for all types of rheumatism, pain in the joints, emaciation of limbs, blood pressure, cholesterol and certain kinds of skin diseases.

Dhara : In this process, some herbal oils, medicated milk, medicated butter milk etc. are poured on the forehead in a special method.

This treatment is mainly for insomnia, vata predominated diseases and mental tension.

Sirovasthi : Certain lukewarm herbal oils are poured into a cap fitted on the head. This treatment is highly effective for facial paralysis, dryness of nostrils, mouth and throat, severe headaches, burning sensation to the head and other vatha-originated diseases.

Udvarthanam : This is a typical massage with herbal powders. This treatment is for diseases like hemiplegia, paralysis, obesity (excess fat) and certain rheumatic ailments.

Snehapanam : Medicated ghee is given internally in a proportionally increased quantity. This treatment is for osteoarthritis, sporaris, leukaemia etc.

Kizhi : Herbal leaves and herbs or herbal powders are applied to the whole body in boluses with hot medicated oils. This treatment is for ostoarthritis with swelling, spondilosis, sports injuries etc.

Rejuvenation : This treatment includes Yoga, meditation, body massage with hand and foot by medicated oil, head massage and face massage with oil and cream, internal rejuvenative medicines, medicated steam bath etc. This therapy is to rejuvenate mind, body and soul, to tone up skin, to strengthen all systems so as to achieve ideal health and longevity.

Other Treatments are : Vasthi, Abhayangam, Nasyam, Medicated Steam Bath, General Massage, Rejuvenation massage etc.

Healthy mind is seen only in a healthy body - ayurveda believes. Mental aberrations can lead to ill health and vice versa. According to Ayurvedic Theory, no one can cure mental diseases permanently but reassurances, consolation and dietic treatment with the aid of drugs which have got soothing effect and which will restore the mental equilibrium will help in correcting the condition.

Ayurveda is not merely a collection of effective drugs, herbs and remedies, but is essentially knowledge of the art and science of living which man will need as long as there is life on this earth.