In India, Ayurveda is considered a form of medical care, equal to conventional Western medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, naturopathic medicine, and homeopathic medicine. Practitioners of Ayurveda in India undergo state-recognized, institutionalized training.

Drawbacks of Traditional Ayurveda Another concern with traditional Ayurvedic medicine is that some remedies may contain heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and mercury. While these metals are used in small doses to treat certain conditions, excessive use can lead to toxicity and have harmful effects on the body.

But many practices of ayurveda have been shown to improve health and well-being. If you have conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, ayurveda treatments may improve symptoms. Ayurveda has also been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

Ayurveda believes that the entire universe is composed of five elements: Vayu (Air), Jala (Water), Aakash (Space or ether), Prithvi (Earth) and Teja (Fire). These five elements (referred to as Pancha Mahabhoota in Ayurveda) are believed to form the three basic humors of human body in varying combinations.