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ayurveda
(i-yurŽved-ә)
(i″yәr-vaŽdә)
the classical system of medicine founded in the Indus valley civilization as oral tradition 5000 years ago and currently practiced
in India. It is distinguished by its emphasis on balance with the environment and interpersonal communication and is based
on the principles that humans are microcosmic representations of the entire universe and that health is the natural end of
living in harmony with the environment. Disease results from disharmony between the person and the environment, and each case
of disease is a manifestation of a unique state in a unique individual. Because no two cases of disease are exactly the same,
no two cures are exactly alike. The goal of the practitioner is to maintain or restore the balance of the doshas. Therapy includes diet; herbal, color, and sound therapies; aromatherapy; application of medicated oils to the skin and massage; and meditation. adj., ayurvedŽic., adj.
Written also Ayurveda.
Copyright 2007. An Elsevier publication. All rights reserved.
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