Ayurveda Books

First let me say, I had 3 books on this topic and none ofthem were as good as this one. Of the ones I've seen this is the best at trying to understand the concepts here but I must admit I'm still a bit lost. There are great pictures throughout as well as some exercises to figure out what profile you are (I also found one on the web that was a bit better). I'm only giving it 3 stars because I think the information needs to be linked together better but like I said, its the best book I've found so far. So, for the beginner I'd look around but if you don't find another that appeals to you then come back and try out this one. I think its very complete, its just difficult information to convey.

There are so many books about Ayurveda now and this is still my favorite to introduce the topic to new people. The illustrations are great, the explanations straightforward and yet there is still a nice depth to her knowledge.

Ayurveda offers a wholistic paradigm that addresses all parts of our selves, differing from the western approach that attempts to compartmentalize our bodies and lives. A book like this can lead us to know ourselves better and start us on the road to good health and inner peace.

I love this book. I even lent it out and forgot who it got passed around to and re-bought it. The way this book is laid out makes it so easy to reference. It is not a book for the student who has lots of knowledge/experience. For the lay-person it is a must. Also it makes a great gift. This is the book which expanded my interest in Ayurveda (and yoga). I refer to it often when I fall off track. It provides a dosha assessment test and an extensive list of foods along with some important recipes. Also it is a great book to flip through when you need to be reminded of some important dos and don'ts of eating, exercise, sleeping habits, etc. This was the best [$$] I ever invested. Or...RE-invested, that is.

This is often the first book I loan to friends who are interested in learning about Ayurveda(I own two copies!). The photographs and illustraitons flesh out concepts that are hard to grasp with words alone. Holistic in its approach, this excelent introduction also contains a good deal of information that can be put into immediate use. More than worth the price.

On a trip to Paris, I picked up a magazine that contained an article by Dr. Joshi. It intriqued me. I followed the diet that he recommended for 21 days in the article and I felt amazingly better. So when I returned home from France, I decided to look up this Dr. Joshi and see what else he has written. Took the book to read on another trip and I was very impressed. His caring and non-critical nature comes through in his writing. He explains the Ayurvedic medical concepts thoroughly. He explains what doshas are and how to begin to accept yourself as the type of person that you are...all with distinct kindness and gentleness reflective of himself and his culture. He doesn't push or sell an agenda. He states facts. This would be a good book to read after something like Perfect Health by Chopra, because it reinforces and further explains principles in a slightly more clinical form. I liked the book very much and would not hesitate to recommend to the curious health addict.

I love this book! It clearly explains aspects of Ayurveda that I never could understand before. For example the difference between Agni & Pitta, is usually explained in a confusing way in other books, but here it totally makes sense. Dr. Joshi explains concepts using real-life examples drawn from his years of clinical experience, with real people/clients. It get the feel that he knows what he is talking about, which is something I don't find with many of the other books. Most of the other books on Ayurveda that I have read seem to be written by folks that are more students of Ayurveda, rather than practioners with years of clinical experience. For me I want to know that suggestions work in the Real World, with real people.
If you want want a great intro to Ayurveda you can't go wrong with this book.

Dr. Joshi has done a great job with this book. The principles of Ayurveda are clearly presented in a way you can identify with. Many other books are over cumbersome and difficult to comprehend or apply to your life. Joshi shares home remedies as well as a succinct description fo Pancha Karma. If we all did this deep cleansing/nourishing rejuvenation program on a regular basis we would not only improve our quality of life but our cash flow as well, without the abundance of prescriptions masking the real source of dis---ease. Thanks Dr. Joshi for sharing the ancient knowledge of Ayurveda.

This is a great book for students of ayurveda. Must use book with The Global Oracle also by Tarabilda. The only issue I have is, it does not explain how you know what your specific disease type is, nor can I find a book that does.

This book not only gives one of the best summaries of modern day Ayurveda I have ever read, but also shows how modern Ayurveda must be complimented by a more ancient Ayurvedic model to be truly effective. It's thesis is a radical one so, if you are attached to traditional Ayurveda, be forewarned.

As an Ayurveda practitioner for the last nine years I highly recommend this book which offers a new slant on this ancient system of healing. This book changed my thinking about Ayurveda, and truly "revolutionized" the way I work with clients. In it, the author claims to have rediscovered a more ancient system of Ayurveda that goes back to a time when Ayurveda and a True Science Of The Stars were one system. This system focuses less on Constitution, and instead places emphasis on the way the body goes out of balance, which he calls the Seven Disease Tendencies. This is a controversial book because it challenges our assumptions about Ayurveda, but if approached with an open mind it could yield great riches for you.

With Ayurveda: the Ancient Indian Art, Scott Gerson clearly and meticulously interprets the beautiful practice of Ayurveda, making it accessible to the 21st Century American. Dr. Gerson takes you through its history and basic tenents in language that any one could understand without ever "talking down" to his readers, and best of all, he doesn't skimp on details. I especially find the guidelings for lifestyle very useful.
This book is a must for all who are curious about Ayurveda or for those who are truly serious about learning this ancient art and science.

If I could have only one book on Ayurveda this would be it. Ayurveda: The Ancient Indian Healing Art is comprehensive, clearly written, and well-organized; you simply absorb an understanding from it. Dr. Gerson is the only western medical doctor to have genuinely earned advanced degrees in Ayurveda from Indian universities and this gives a real value to his books. Unlike most other books on Ayurveda which are mere paraphrases of each other, Dr. Gerson is obviously conversant with the original Sanskrit texts and--more importantly--has been in clinical practice for many years. I would say this is a book for all levels of Ayurvedic students, from the beginner interested in creating more personal balance to the experienced vaidya seeking a lucid exposition of this venerable healing tradition. I particularly like the sections on the treatment of disease. I continually derive more information fromthis gem of a book than from all the other Ayurveda books on my shelf.

Not bad. Not that great, either.

What I liked about the book was the detail. A lot of books don't really address srotas (channels), dhatus (tissues), and the dosha's aspects, seats, and signs of imbalance in the same detail which this book has.

I also like the solid factual basis of the book. The truth is that a lot of Ayurveda books dwell on really abstract "absolute consciousness" philosophy and then lay out treatments the authors invented themselves. So for an honest and down-to-earth discussion of Ayurveda, this book also deserves recognition.

The down side is that this book is dry. Unless you're really, really interested, you may struggle. The doctor does not have a very imaginative style.

This is intro for beginners. Dr Vinod Verma provides a thorough job explaining the concept of Ayurveda. She provides useful daily tips that "revitalizes" certain parts of the body. This book includes several photo illustrations on massage techniques and yoga poses for certain purposes and ailments. The chapter on adjustments to natural forces provides insight on what certain emotions does to the body. Some aspect of Hindu is introduced which I skipped over. Additionally, I skimmed over a portion of a chapter going over remedy concotions due to the reality of me chasing down the ingredients needed for some of the recipes.

Dr. Vinod Verma teaches Ayurveda in a way that I have never seen before; simple, easy to understand and apply to daily life! She starts off by defining what the 5,000 yr. old philosophy and practice is about, then moves on to define the tridosha (vata, pitta, kapha)theory, allowing the reader to determine which type they fall under, then moves on to discuss numerous techniques that bring the reader to an improved quality of life based on mind, body and spirit. What also impresses me about this author is that she doesn't sound overly "new age-ish," but reveals herself as intelligent, well-spoken and knowledgable. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is interested in a more natural approach to total health.

Ayurveda is a science dealing with vedic medicine,which illustrates how illnesses of the body and mind can be cured through a gradual change in lifestyle. In her book, Dr Vinod Verma gives a very clear picture of Ayurveda for the beginner , right from remedies for common ailments(colds,insomnia etc) to yoga postures (Which actually do make you feel better!) However she has neglected an important aspect of the ayurvedic healing system.. the tridosha system wherein you determine what kind of body type you have and then based on that figure out an ideal diet for yourself or how to cure common ailments. THe tridosha system 1. vata(air) 2.pitta(fire) 3.kapha(water) are of vital importance . Thus the good doctor loses one star for dosha neglection. I suggest buying David Frawley's Ayurvedic Healing along with this book as these two books together will give you a decent understanding of Ayurveda,as a beginner.

If you know nothing about Ayurveda but are curious and want to know more, this is the place to start. Beautiful layout, art work and easy to read text, charts and photographs. This is not a how to manual but a layman's manual of concepts.

At last what many people have been looking for: a well produced , highly artistic illustrated guide to the often difficult and arcane world of Ayurveda! While there are a number of excellent introductory books on this subject, until this one none have been presented in such an accessible visual format. If you have trouble getting into Ayurveda or introducing Ayurveda to your friends, family, students, or clients, this book may be exactly what you need. The Complete Illustrated Guide to Ayurveda makes the study of Ayurveda not so much an intellectual excercise as an enjoyable adventure. It uses traditional Indian art as well as contemporary illustrations and examples, to make the subject relevant to people today. Yet the book does not sacrifice anything by way of content. Anyone interested in Ayurvedic medicine or natural healing will want to have this book, not merely on the shelf, but out in the open for everyone to look at and benefit from. The END

This book was interesting in that it explored regions of Ayurveda I had not encountered before. What I didn't care for was its lack of a doshic assessment test, lists of yes and no foods, and some common recipes. In that respect it was not specific enough to be used as a resource book. Then it was terribly specific in its case studies. At least in terms of herbs. It might use half a page to list ingredients in an herbal medicine then say nothing about dietary changes. I probably will not use this as a sourcebook. If you are looking for that (especially as a beginner) get Judith Morrisons THE BOOK OF AYURVEDA.

The book in my hand, has brought the knowledge to understand myself in a way I never thought possible, a book I will refer back to again and agian, a must for the experienced and the beginer!

Luke Rodd

This is a very slender book, but it has some of the best descriptions of the doshas, or humors, I have ever read.

The constitutional type test is the best I have seen. Yes, even better than Chopra's (though his is very good).

The book painstakingly describes each physical and temperamental trait and how it may mainfest in the individual according to his doshic make-up. Outstanding.

The other information is not very lengthy, but I think this book is incredibly valuable for what it does contain: treatment of the doshas in incomparable detail.

This guide has just the information I need to pay attention to my constitution - what to eat and what to avoid - good tips on exercising, good vastu tips. It's small enough to keep in my purse so I can refer to it whenever I need to. A really clever idea and a perfect holiday gift.

Being a proponent of the Ayurvedic system, I was thrilled to find this dosha guide that fits into your pocket or handbag. It's not always easy to remember what's best for your dosha, or as Cox calls it "mind-body type". The dosha system is a logical and extremely healthy way to gauge the optimal healthy regime, especially customized for your body. But what happens when you can't remember if you're supposed to eat lentils or avoid them when you're ordering dinner at a restaurant? This terrific dosha guide has a color-coded chart for Vatas, Pittas and Kaphas for not only food but exercise, the seasons and living conditions. What a great idea! And with the very affordable price tag, they also make an excellent present. I'm going to stuff a lot of stockings with this baby for Christmas.

The more I teach,the more I am interested in the therapeutic aspects of asana and how it links to our lifestyle that can be understood through the knowledge of Ayurveda. Nice explaination in the principles of movement and breathing section on gravity and strength. The section on observation and assessment is useful because it can help the teacher empower the student with greater self-awareness. The asanas illustrated from a chair aswell as from the floor makes the pranayama section meaningful for the student who may well have a bias in the body or be confined to a wheelchair. If you already have a basic understanding of prakruti and vikruti, the ayurvedic/yoga therapy section can be useful. The favorable vs unfavorable choice of asanas can help one understand the groups of asanas that may prove effective in a therapeutic scenario. Whilst I have yet to find a completely effective way to erradicate painful menses periodically, at least I feel more inspiration to continue
trying to find the route cause of the imbalance within me. Camella Nair - author of "Aqua Kriya Yoga"

Very good book but could use some user friendly things like a detailed index for quick reference.

I've only ever written one review before, but felt compelled to do so after reading this book. I'm not kidding when I say it's transformed my skin. I've struggled with adult acne for years, and my skin is the clearest ever - and best of all, I'm not spending $$$ on skin care. I love the fact that everything I'm using on my face I could eat! I'll be honest too, I'm not following everything recommended to the T. I've already bought this book for a couple of friends, and I've got to say, whether you have problem skin or just want a more natural approach, this book is definitely worth checking out. It's truly beautiful and inspiring, and I know I'll keep going back to it. PS there is one review by someone saying she has sensitive skin, she already knew that and so immediately started the program. I would urge her, and anyone planning to try the advice in this book, to actually read the book and go through the diagnosis process, rather than skipping to the suggested programs. I discovered my skin type is pita dominant, and was surprised as normally my body type is considered vattic. Take your time with the book, don't expect quick fixes, but read it and enjoy the journey it can take you on! It's not presciptive (ie, you have oily skin, do this... and if you read it that way, you are missing the point), it's an opportunity to tune into yourself in a far deeper way, and access the wisdom that is in your skin and in your body. I thank the author for sharing the wisdom she has gained.

Absolutely LOVE this book! (& actually I haven't yet finished reading it!) haha... I'm already experimenting with coconut oil on my face, tho, and FEELING the supple difference!

It's a very thorough read for anyone sincerely searching for a natural solution to their skin problems. There's no way that it could be harmful, only helpful.

Love the theory that everything you put on your skin is 'food for your skin'! So if you can't imagine eating it, you shouldn't be putting it on your skin! :-O ^_^

I really like the profiles of the different doshas and I love that it explains the common temperaments, etc. It really is about learning to de-stress in order to de-wrinkle! I really really could go on forever about how much I love this book :)

It's just been the answers to so many questions I had been searching for in terms of clearing my face and also gives me such great incentive to work towards clearing my worrying thoughts whenever they do creep up ^_^

Not only for the sake of facial beauty but for entire body and mind health!

Oh, I would love to be this woman's apprentice. She has obviously really done her research and there is a LOT of amazing facts from modern studies there to back up all the ancient wisdoms.

I haven't had this book for long and I have already learned so much. It's a big book full of tips to make being beautiful and living naturally go hand in hand.

Absolute Beauty is a comprehensive, in-depth resource for achieving 'beauty' through the ancient practice of Ayurveda. I am relatively new to the study of Ayurveda, and I found this book to be one of the most well written, user- friendly and practical books I have come across. Author, Pratima Raichur, approaches skin conditions primarily as a symptom of an underlying imbalance - treating the root cause of the symptom as well as the particular way in which it manifests in the skin. So while the book speaks directly to beauty through beautiful skin - it goes far beyond, providing a wealth of information to assist the reader along the path to beauty and health.

I bought this book over 10 years ago, it is absolutely wonderful! good for the person just discovering Ayurveda and for the seasoned scholar. Pratima shares a wealth of knowledge and insight. I have long since integrated her beauty techniques into my regiment, that its now second nature to me.This book still serves as a reference guide to me whenever a problem arises. It is whole heartedly recommended as a must to any female seriously interested in Ayurveda or naturalistic beauty. You'll refer to it again and again.