Directorate of AYUSH 
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Ayurvedic physicians rely on various diagnostic techniques explained in the classical texts like Nadi pariksha, Dashana pariksha, sparshana pariksha and Prahsna pariksha along with modern diagnostic tools and techniques as and when required.
The first and foremost aim of Ayurveda is “Swasthasya Swasthya rakshnam” i.e. propagation of health. For the purpose, Ayurveda offers a unique concept of Prakriti. The knowledge of one’s prakriti enables him to design individualistic lifestyle that will prevent origin of diseases in the body. For example, a Vataprakriti person should not take Vata aggravating dietetics. For more on Prakriti, go to Ayurveda section of this website.
Panchkarma is another such modality which is prescribed for healthy individua also. Use of Rasayana medicines is also indicated for prevention of diseases in body.
On the basis of ingredients, Ayurvedic medicines can be classified into three categories- Herbal, Mineral and Herbo-mineral. Consult your Ayurvedic physician regrding the medicine that has been prescribed to you. Take medicines under the supervision of a physician and only for the period as prescribed. Never self medicate based on other people’s experience
If someone is on any other medication, while taking ayurvedic medicines, they should tell their treating physician about the kind of medicine they are taking. The hpysician may need to alter dose or timing of his medicine acoordingly. This should always be done under the supervision of a doctor as this may vary from case to case.
Yes, Ayurvedic medicines do have expiry date and it is mandatory to mention the same on label. It is important to check the date of manufacturing and date of expiry on the label before buying medicines.
While taking Ayurvedic medicines, doctor may advise you to make certain dietary changes. You may be advised to refrain from certain foods and include some others in your diet in accordance with the disease and your body constitution i.e. Prakriti.
Many Ayurvedic medicines are available as Over the Counter (OTC) medicines. However it is not advisable to buy medicines without prescription. Ayurvedic medicines are prescribed in accordance with one’s body constitution and the medicine for one individual may differ from the other. One should always refrain from self-medication.
All kind of medicines including Ayurvedic medicines contain active ingredients having many actions and effects on body. The actions and the resultant effect which is not deisrable is side effect. Ayurvedic medicines do have side effects however since most of the medicines are herbal in origin, such side effects are minimal.