Understanding Ayurveda

The history of Ayurveda is full of glory. Its basic principles are of great importance. By their application, one may lead a healthy and happy life. The source material of Ayurvedic knowledge is basically in Samskrit, therefore, for better understanding of Ayurveda one has to be well-versed in Samskrit. However, a student may not have even the basic knowldege of Samskrit. For such persons, there is a great need for Ayurvedic books in other languages. The present phase of globalization of Ayurveda has increased the demand for Ayurvedic books, written in various foreign languages, especially in English.

The present book entitled "Understanding Ayurveda" fills this gap and is very relevant specially for persons who don't have even the basic knowledge of Ayurveda. The fundamentals of Ayurveda have been described in a lucid manner by Professor Banwari Lal Gaur which also reflect his command over the subject and his ability as a teacher. I am sure that this book will be very useful for the students of Ayurveda.

In India, flow of knowledge by tradition of hearing, is an ancient methodology. It was also adopted for propagation of Veda, Upanisahad, Purana, Itihas(history), Jyotisa(astrology), Dharma Shastra (religion texts), Ayurveda, etc. This methodology requires memorization of the literature, therefore, subjects were composed in small sutras (aphoristic forms). The knowledge acquired by this procedure was applied according to the requirement. Thus the traditional knowledge had been incorporated with various practical applications and modifications, from time-to-time. It was the ancient way of restoration of knowledge.