Getting an Ayurvedic Treatment in India

Ayurveda is the medical side of yoga. It’s India’s traditional natural healing system, which has been practiced for over 5,000 years.

Ayurvedic resorts have become popular destinations for relaxation and rejuvenation in India, while ayurvedic hospitals cater for people seeking ayurvedic treatment for more serious health problems.

Ayurvedic medicine is particularly effective for metabolic, stress related, and chronic conditions. Treatments are also very helpful in relieving the effects of surgery and debilitating treatments such as chemotherapy. Other popular uses of ayurveda are for general rejuvenation and beauty care.Ayurveda is a pranic system of medicine, which works to balance the body’s life energy -- refered to as the doshas. This is achieved by diet, different types of massage, pouring herbal liquid onto the body, and covering the body with herbal leaves and powders. You’ll be assessed by a qualified doctor and a treatment program tailor made to address the root of your problem. Generally, at least a couple of weeks are needed to complete a full course of ayurvedic treatment. However it’s also possible to get simple renewal treatments, such as ayurvedic massage, by themselves.The rainy season, during the monsoon from June to September, is an ideal time for ayurvedic treatment because the atmosphere remains cool, moist, and dust free. This helps the body’s pores to open up, making it most receptive to herbal oils and therapy.Most places that offer ayurvedic treatment are located in the southern state of Kerala, due to the climate and abundant supply of medicinal plants and herbs there. You’ll also find quite a few ayurvedic centers in Goa. Ayurvedic treatments are available both at ayurvedic hospitals and ayurvedic resorts, as well as most five star hotels in these states. Another innovative option is to book an ayurvedic houseboat and explore the picturesque Kerala backwaters while receiving treatment.Ayurvedic hospitals are the cheapest option, and it’s possible to receive treatment at an ayurvedic hospital for around $1,000 per month excluding accommodation. Alternatively, the minimum price charged by resorts for ayurvedic treatment is between $60-100 per day. Seven day ayurvedic houseboat packages are available from around $1,500 for two people. Alternatively the whole houseboat (which sleeps 8 people) can by hired for $6,600, for seven days.You’ll find that there are two main types of ayurvedic treatment on offer in India -- general rejuvenation treatments catering to tourists and given by resorts in tourist areas, and intensive medical treatments administered by centers in geographic locations with the most suitable climate. Resorts are fine for anyone just wanting to get some pampering, a massage, or an overall feel for ayurveda. However, those who are serious about receiving quality ayurvedic treatment for medical reasons should go to a proper hospital.Some of the top places to receive authentic ayurvedic treatment in India are the ayurvedic hospitals managed by the Arya Vaidya Sala charitable institution. The main one is in Kottakkal, in Kerala. There are others in Kochi, Delhi, and Kolkata (Calcutta). All types of accommodations are provided, from budget to luxury.Reputable ayurvedic resorts in Kerala include the Beach and Lake Ayurvedic Resort and Surya Samudra Spa Niraamaya near Trivandrum, Nikki’s Nest Holiday Resort and the Somatheeram Ayurvedic Beach and Health Resorts near Kovalam, Keraleeyam Ayurvedic Resort near Alleppey, and the new and innovative Ayurkshethra ayurveda and yoga resort at Kumarakom. In Goa, the Ayurvedic Natural Health Centre near Calangute is good. You’ll find these places offer attractive discounts for stays during the monsoon season.