Ayurveda is an ancient medical tradition from India. The term is derived from the Sanskrit Ayur, meaning "life" or "longevity," and Veda, meaning "knowledge" or "science."
The concept of Ayurveda is based on two major principles. The first principle is that the body and mind are interconnected, and the second principle is that the mind is powerful enough to heal the body. The body is cured of illnesses only when one's awareness of the self expands.
Ayurvedic medicine and yoga are closely associated. They both find their roots in the Vedas. Ayurveda aims to keep the body and mind balanced so that the individual remains healthy, and yoga is an art of body-mind coordination that ensures physical and mental fitness as well as enhances one's spirituality.
"Charaka Samhita," "Ashtanga Hrudaya" and "Sushruta Samhita" are the three most prominent ancient texts on Ayurveda. They elaborate on the five-element system and the importance of balance in a healthy life.