Ayurveda, also known as ayurvedic medicine, is an ancient alternative system that has its roots in India and has been considered by many to be one of the oldest health care systems in the world, still in use today. The word Ayurveda can be translated from Sanskrit as "The Science of Life".

It comes from the ancient Vedic culture and has been taught for several thousand years through an oral tradition by masters honoured in their disciplines.

Ayurveda, like all other alternative practices, emphasises prevention and encourages the maintenance of health by paying particular attention to homeostasis, positive thinking methods, nutrition, lifestyle and plant use. In Ayurveda, the mind and body consciousness work together to maintain balance. They are simply considered as the different facets of the same being.