The True Meaning of Ayurveda: More Than Just Herbs (Noob Series 1)

Introduction : 

• Whenever we hear about something...

or hear any specific word,

'we can only get a basic idea. Either from its name or by getting reviews from other people.'

     - But the best clarity can only be given by an expert in that field.

• Today we will talk about one such word, Ayurveda.

• Even though it's globally popular, you might have heard about Ayurveda in your yoga class, or in some wellness product...

But how would it be if I told you that this one word in itself gives all the clarity?

So, well hello guys I'm Dhananjay from India. From here, a series will start... 

  - we will call it the "Noob Series".

• We will clarify all the basic fundamentals of Ayurveda one by one in this series. 

• But the most important thing is to present this series in a sequence so that all the basics of Ayurveda become crystal clear to you, and you can understand the depth of Ayurveda.

For all the love you have given so far, the emails you sent, the doubts you asked me, for all that love and support, thank you very very much.

The special thing about this series will be...

- We will see the journey of Ayurveda.In the easiest language, we'll talk about 

✓ Its myths, 

✓Its facts, 

✓and the public's understanding of Ayurveda.

And what Ayurveda actually considers. 

• As an expert in it, I will make you understand in easy language... 

• so that you can guide others as well.

So, let's get started. 

Why is there so much confusion around Ayurveda?

- It's because most of us have only heard about it from the outside—through a yoga class, a movie, or a product label. 

- We see the branches and leaves, but we miss the roots and the trunk of the entire tree.

- We know it has something to do with being healthy, but nobody knows the actual principles (सिद्धांत) that Ayurveda is built upon. 

- What are the core rules? 

- What is the actual goal?

All these things will become clear to you in the further discussion, we will have to clear the misconceptions about Ayurveda, this is the most important..

1. The Foundation: The Core Principle

This is the most beautiful starting point to clarify what Ayurveda truly stands for.

"स्वस्थस्य स्वास्थ्य रक्षणं आतुरस्य विकार प्रशमनं च" (च.सु. 30/26)

(Svasthasya svaasthya rakshanam aaturasya vikara prashamanam cha)

· Misconception: "Ayurveda is just for when you are sick". 

· Reality: 

- This Sutra means "To protect the health of the healthy and to alleviate the disorders of the sick." 

- Ayurveda is unique because its primary goal is prevention. 

- It provides a detailed framework for

Daily routine (Dinacharya) and seasonal (Ritucharya) routines to maintain balance before disease manifests. 

• Ayurveda's first priority is preventing disease. Its second priority is curing it.

2. Beyond "Jadi-Buti" (Herbs)

• A lot of people have this misunderstanding because they don't have proper guidance. 

• In India, some people perceive it as a "magical plant science."

• To put it simply in English, they think of it as the "science of plants," which is completely false.

Misconception:  Ayurveda = Herbal Medicine.

 It says, 

- The idea is that Ayurveda just means mixing some"powerful" ingredients together to make decoctions (kadhas).

Reality: 

- While herbs (Dravyaguna) are a powerful part of its pharmacopeia, they are just one tool. 

- Ayurveda is a complete medical system with its own:

· Principles: Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), Sapta Dhatus (7 tissues), Malas (Metabolic By-Products).

(Note : These are not just "tissues" in the modern sense, but successive layers of life-supporting energy and material that nourish the entire body. They are formed in a specific sequence)

· Diagnostic Methods: 

Thorough examination including 

✓Trividh Pariksha

✓Nadi Pariksha (pulse diagnosis),

✓ Jihva (tongue analysis), 

✓ Akriti (appearance).

· Treatments: 

✓ Diet (Aahar),

✓ Lifestyle (Vihar), 

✓ Panchakarma (detoxification therapies), Yoga, 

✓ and Pranayama.

• Herbs are prescribed based on an individual's unique constitution (Prakriti), not as a one-size-fits-all approach.

3.Not an "Alternative" but a "Parallel Universe

Misconception: 

- "Ayurveda is just a natural alternative to modern medicine."

- "It uses the same principles as modern medicine; only the ingredients are different."

Reality: 

- Ayurveda and modern medicine (allopathy) are fundamentally different paradigms - but the aim is cure

- Modern Medicine is largely materialistic and evidence-based, focusing primarily on treating the disease and eliminating pathogens.

- Ayurveda is a holistic science that acknowledges the existence of consciousness (Atma) and the profound connection between the mind, body, and spirit. 

- It considers the influence of cosmic elements and doesn't just target an external agent. Instead, 

- it focuses on the internal environment (kshetra) of the body.

"Why was this body vulnerable to this imbalance or disease in the first place?"

and works to correct the underlying imbalance. 

In essence, "It is a science of life and wellness, not just a science of disease."

4. The Vastness of Purity: The Science of Living

Misconception: 

- "Ayurveda is just an outdated, ancient practice and has no relevance to modern life."

Reality: 

- I literally had to laugh when I first heard this misconception.

- Ayurveda has a subject called Padartha Vijnana (the science of substances and reality), which is not just pharmacology.

- It is a profound metaphysical inquiry into the very nature of existence, life, and how to consciously interact with the material world.

It answers foundational questions like:

• What is the nature of reality?

• What is the purpose of life?

• How does one achieve true health (Swasthya), defined as a state of complete physical, mental, and spiritual well-being?

In Padarth Vignyan

 (the philosophy of Ayurvedic metaphysics),

• The nature of Darshan (philosophy) is I'll explained. 

There, a verse is referenced:

"दृष्यते अनेन इति दर्शनम्" (Drishate Anena Iti Darshanam)

It means, "That by which something is seen or perceived is Darshan."

But what is it that we are supposed to "see"? 🤔

 Then we get this definition:

"The philosophy is that by which we resolve or contemplate the ultimate problems of life and the world."

• The beauty of this science (Ayurveda) is found in its deep, thoughtful knowledge.

 •You don't find such a deep and integrated guide in any other medical system—a guide that shows you how to live a meaningful and healthy life.

And that's just talking about Padarth Vignyan alone.

• Beyond this, texts like the Ashtanga Hridaya and Charak Samhita elaborate on food combinations (Viruddha Aahar - incompatible diets)

 and daily routines (Dinacharya).

- The point is not that the knowledge is old. The real point is that we are failing to integrate that complete knowledge into our lives.

5. The Knowledge of Ethical living 

You’ve probably heard of Ayurveda as the ancient science of diet and herbs. 

But what really caught my attention is that it’s about so much more : 

• The sages who created it were geniuses of the mind-body-spirit connection. 

• They believed you couldn’t be truly healthy if your daily actions were out of sync with your conscience.

• They called this Sadvratta—basically, how to be a decent human being. 

• They packed it all into one powerful idea: to find peace, we need to clean up our act on three levels—body, speech, and mind.

• They even gave us a specific checklist, a sort of "top ten" of inner turmoil.

• Here’s the original verse, and more importantly, what it means for us today.

हिंसास्तेयान्यथाकामं पैशुन्य परुषानुते ।

सम्भिन्नालापं व्यापादमभिध्यां दृग्विपर्ययम् ।

पापं कर्मेपि दशधा कायवाङ्मानसैस्त्यजेत् ॥     

                                                      (अ.हृ. 2/21,22) 

The List of It:

- "Avoid these ten things that mess with your peace,whether you do them, say them, or just think them:

   - violence,

   - theft, 

   - unhealthy desire, 

   - gossip, 

   - harsh words,

   -  lying, 

   - pointless chatter,

   -  ill will, 

   - jealousy,

    and holding onto beliefs that just make you miserable."

Let's break them down. I’ve been trying to notice these in my own life, and it’s wild how often they pop up.

The 10 Things That Steal Your Peace (And How to Spot Them)

1. Himsa (Violence): We think of punching someone, but it’s subtler. It’s that sharp tone with a loved one when you’re stressed, or the quiet resentment you hold onto. 

It’s even the violent news we consume without a second thought. The antidote? A conscious choice toward kindness, starting with yourself.

2. Steya (Theft):

Sure, taking a pen from the office. But what about stealing someone’s spotlight? Or
their time by being chronically late?
 Or, in our digital age, stealing ideas? If it isn’t freely given, taking it costs you your integrity.

3. Anyathakama (Illicit Desire):

- This is about cravings that control you, not the other way around. 

- It’s that "I need it now" feeling, whether it's for junk food, drama, or scrolling. 

- Ayurveda is all about balance—enjoy life, but don’t let your desires run the show.

4. Paishunya (Gossip): 

- The classic "Did you hear about…?" Talking about someone who isn’t there.

- We’ve all done it, but it’s like drinking poison and expecting the other person to get sick. It just breeds distrust.

- Is the temporary buzz worth the toxicity it leaves behind?

5. Parusha (Harsh Speech):

This is gossip’s in-your-face cousin. It’s the insult, the brutal "honesty" that’s really just cruelty. 

You can disagree without demolishing someone. Harsh words create fractures that are hard to mend.

6. Anruta (Falsehood): 

Lying. We often tell ourselves it’s to avoid trouble, but each lie builds a cage.

The mental energy spent keeping a story straight is exhausting. 

Speaking the truth, even when it’s hard, is incredibly freeing.

7. Sambhinna-alapa (Frivolous Talk): 

- Meaningless chatter or bragging.

- It’s that conversation that leaves you feeling emptier than when you started. 

- Speaking with purpose doesn’t mean being serious all the time; it means adding value, not just noise.

8. Vyapada (Malice):

-  Holding a grudge. Wishing someone would fail. It’s a heavy, dark weight to carry.

-  As the saying goes, "Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die."

- Letting go isn’t for them; it’s for you.

9. Abhidhya (Covetousness):

- The green-eyed monster. 

Scrolling through social media and feeling that pang of "Why them? Why not me?" 

- Instead, what if we saw someone’s success as proof that good things are possible, and got inspired?

10. Drigviparyaya (Wrong Views): 

- Clinging to beliefs that keep you small and separate.

-  It’s a stubborn refusal to see a bigger picture. It’s not about blind faith, but about being open to wisdom that has stood the test of time.

But Here’s the Most Important Part

This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about awareness. And context is everything.

• Is a parent yelling to stop a child from running into traffic an act of "harsh speech"? No, it’s an act of love.

• Is a soldier defending their country committing "violence" in the same way as an aggressor? Of course not.

• The real tool here isn’t a rigid rulebook; it’s discernment.

• It’s asking yourself, "Is this action coming from a place of fear and separation, or from love and connection?"

• Just noticing these ten habits in your own life can be a game-changer. 

• It’s not about adding more rules, but about letting go of the stuff that weighs you down.

• When you start to clear out the mental and emotional clutter, you make space for the real you to shine through—healthier, happier, and more at peace.

What do you think? 

Which of these do you find the most challenging?

Final thoughts : 

Let's keep our discussion here for now.

In the upcoming posts of this 'noob series,' I will gradually make you an expert on each topic, one by one.

Many secrets of Ayurveda are still left to explore. This was just an introduction to open your mind about Ayurveda. When this series ends, you will have a whole new perspective.

Ready for more?

Join our Ayurvedic community below and get exclusive updates on personalized articles coming your way

Explore this flowchart revealing more Ayurveda misconceptions! 👇

Liked what you learned?

 Help spread authentic Ayurvedic knowledge by sharing this with friends and family. 

Together, let's clear the misunderstandings surrounding this ancient science!

Ayurveda: Beyond the Misconceptions

A visual exploration of Ayurveda's true principles and philosophy through an interactive tree diagram

1. The Foundation

Swasthasya Swaasthya Rakshanam...

The core principle defining Ayurveda's purpose

2. Beyond "Jadi-Buti"

More than just herbal medicine

3. A Parallel Science

Fundamentally different paradigm

4. Science of Living

Relevance to modern life

5. Treatment Speed

Not always slow-acting

6. Safety & Scientific Basis

Understanding proper use and validity

Click on each branch to explore the misconceptions and realities of Ayurveda

×

1. The Foundation: The Core Principle (Sutra)

"स्वस्थस्य स्वास्थ्य रक्षणं आतुरस्य विकार प्रशमनं च"
(Svasthasya svaasthya rakshanam aaturasya vikara prashamanam cha)

Misconception: Ayurveda is just for when you are sick.

Reality: This Sutra means "To protect the health of the healthy and to alleviate the disorders of the sick." Ayurveda is unique because its primary goal is prevention. It provides a detailed framework for daily (Dinacharya) and seasonal (Ritucharya) routines to maintain balance before disease manifests. Healing the sick is its secondary, albeit vital, function.

×

2. Beyond "Jadi-Buti" (Herbs)

Misconception: Ayurveda = Herbal Medicine. It's just about mixing some powders and making kadhas (decoctions).

Reality: While herbs (Dravyaguna) are a powerful part of its pharmacopeia, they are just one tool. Ayurveda is a complete medical system with its own:

• Principles: Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), Sapta Dhatus (7 tissues), Malas (waste products)
• Diagnostic Methods: Thorough examination including Nadi Pariksha (pulse diagnosis), Jihva (tongue), Akriti (appearance)
• Treatments: Diet (Aahar), Lifestyle (Vihar), Panchakarma (detoxification therapies), Yoga, and Pranayama

Herbs are prescribed based on an individual's unique constitution (Prakriti), not a one-size-fits-all approach.

×

3. Not an "Alternative" but a "Parallel Universe"

Misconception: Ayurveda is just the "natural alternative" to modern medicine. They work on the same principles but use different ingredients.

Reality: Ayurveda and modern allopathy are fundamentally different paradigms.

• Modern Science is largely materialistic, evidence-based, and focuses on treating the disease (pathogen-centric)
• Ayurveda is a holistic science that accepts the existence of consciousness (Atma), the connection between the mind, body, and spirit, and the influence of cosmic elements

It doesn't just kill a pathogen; it asks "Why was this body vulnerable to this pathogen in the first place?" and corrects the underlying imbalance. It's a science of life, not just of disease.

×

4. The Vastness of Purity: The Science of Living

Misconception: Ayurveda is an outdated, ancient practice with no relevance to modern life.

Reality: This is where its purity and vastness shine. Padartha Vijnana (the science of substances) is a branch of Ayurveda that isn't just pharmacology. It's a profound metaphysical inquiry into the nature of existence, life, and how to interact with the material world consciously.

• It answers questions like: What is the nature of reality? What is the purpose of life?
• How does one achieve true health (Swasthya), which is defined as a state of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being?

No other medical system provides such a deep, integrated guide on how to live a meaningful and healthy life. It covers everything from food combinations (Viruddha Aahar) to ethical living (Sadvritta).

×

5. Ayurvedic Treatments Are Always Slow

Misconception: Ayurvedic treatments take a long time to show results.

Reality: While Ayurveda addresses chronic root causes which can take time, many Ayurvedic interventions provide rapid relief for acute issues. For example, ginger for nausea or triphala for digestion can work very quickly. The perception of slowness comes from its approach of treating the root cause rather than just symptoms.

×

6. Safety & Scientific Basis of Ayurveda

Misconception 1: Ayurveda is 100% safe because it's natural.

Reality 1: Anything potent enough to create a healing effect is potent enough to create an imbalance if used incorrectly. Metals (Bhasmas) and herbs must be used under strict guidance of a qualified practitioner. Self-prescribing can be dangerous.

Misconception 2: Ayurveda is anti-science.

Reality 2: Ayurveda is a science—its own system of observation, logic, and application. The call is not to reject modern science but for integration (a symbiotic approach) and for modern science to expand its paradigm to study Ayurveda on its own terms.