The Ayurveda Encyclopedia: Natural Secrets to Healing, Prevention & Longevity

by Swami Sadashiva Tirtha

Here is an all-inclusive reference to ayurveda beneficial for families as well as health practitioners. Included are the basic principles of ayurveda; its history; and a generous selection of therapies including herbs, nutrition, aromas, meditation, colors, gems, exercise, special message techniques, and rejuvenating measures known as pancha karma. Pathology and diagnosis are covered in plain English along with a discussion of the most commonly used ayurvedic herbs. Other new information includes ayurvedic hatha yoga, general healing, pregnancy and post-partum, and stress reduction.

Genres: Reference, Alternative Medicine, Spirituality, Health

686 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1998

Reviews

[Kunzang Dolma · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is probably my most read book. I love this book!!! Swami is truly a knowledgeable Guru of Ayurveda.

[Keshia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an excellent resource for those new to a holistic, ayurvedic, eastern, alternative approach to medicine and healing. This book reads as an introductory volume in a collection of encyclopedias as it leaves the reader hungry for more which could not comprehesively be covered in one encyclopedia. Each chapter could be its own volume. And I say this because the book was so informative, it left me wanting to read more.

You will have to excuse the author as there are some spelling and formatting mistakes. While slightly noticable they don't do much to detract from the author's intention--to bring the centuries old practice of Ayurveda to the masses which is no easy feat considering that the origin of ancient scrolls are written in sanskrit, translation, passing down of knowledge.

This is a great book that will serve the reader well.

[David]

A friend sent this to me from India. It came in a sewn linen sack- no cardboard. The book is a good reference and covers a great deal- including a glossary of herbs and treatments for specific illness. It covers things in a piece meal fashion, focusing more on ailments and treatments and less on Ayurveda as a system. The graphics don't always seem to suit the topic or are very generic and are not always helpful. But regardless I have found a number of helpful hints and this makes a nice quick reference, especially good for someone who is most interested in remedies.

[Sb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clear and informative

[Sourov Kabir · Rating 4 out of 5]

the depiction of holistic approach to face our diseases is extra-ordinary. the book consists facts and commentaries on many foods n plants, and our approach on them. the book is somewhat okay with our current state of taste buds, and processed foods. this two issues need to addressed more critically. i deeply feel in presenting ancient wisdom in any form no amount of effort to be needed to comply it modern standard. ancients were classy millenniums ago.

[S · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.9/5

I like ayurveda books which give me clear suggestions and ideas I can implement. This was more like a manual that was not user friendly. It had a lot of information theory wise [like a textbook] but it seemed a little dull for me.

[Danita Topcagic · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is great, it provides natural remedies to prevent and treat illness, and shows a path to a natural, healthy life.

[Manuel Pulido Mendoza]

A enciclpedia

[Michael Weaver · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is exhaustive, all-inclusive, authoritative reference on the subject and an excellent 'must have' reference tool.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent and easy to read reference to an intricate and ancient medicine. Enough said.

[Vannoy Fite · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book that I use often to get the most out of my Ayurvedic teachings.

[Blair · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent reference!