What is Ayurveda all about

asks H Gray:
A. Ayurveda, despite being the new biggest thing in alternative health, is one of the oldest medical systems in the world. It is part of the Vedas, the divine texts of Hinduism, and dates back 4,000 years. The name Ayurveda means 'the science of life', and it aims to treat symptoms, prevent illness and sustain life.

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Q. What is it based on
A. According to Ayurveda, the entire universe is made up of five elements: air, fire, water, earth and ether (the panchamahabhutas), and the three doshas (vata, pitta and kapha). The theory is we can achieve perfect health by balancing our doshas.

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Q. How does a dosha work
A. Doshas determine what we're like, from how we look and the sort of illness that's likely to affect us to the foods we prefer and the type of relationship we'll have. We all have elements of each dosha, but one or two will be dominant.

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Q. How are illnesses treated
A. Diagnosis is made by testing the pulse, examining the tongue and analysing urine. Treatments include herbal remedies, dietary and lifestyle advice, massage, exercises and acupuncture.

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Q. Isn't it a beauty therapy
A. Absolutely not. Nor is it a quick fix. Gopi Warrier, chairman of the Ayurvedic Company of Great Britain, says, 'Ayurveda is not for stars and beauty therapists. It is more profound and spiritual.'

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Q. How do I know I'm seeing a real ayurvedic doctor
A. It's a bit of a problem: there are many unqualified ayurvedic practitioners around. In India, ayurvedic doctors must obtain a university degree to qualify. However, a new three-year BA in ayurvedic studies has been launched at Thames Valley University, teaching anatomy, physiology, botany and the pharmacopoeia of Ayurveda, and practical training in detoxification, yoga and meditation.

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Q. How can I find out more
A. Contact the Ayurvedic Company of Great Britain.

• Identify your dosha
• Vata: Restless with an active mind. Slightly built, dark hair and eyes. Indecisive and emotionally insecure. Suffers from stiff joints and constipation. Tends to have insomnia and get depressed. Artistic and enjoys the arts. Prefers sweet foods.
• Kapha: Big-boned, overweight, pale complexion. Wavy hair and wide-set eyes. Needs a lot of sleep. Calm, loyal and emotionally secure. Suffers from sinus problems, lethargy and nausea.
• Pitta: Average build with ruddy complexion or red hair, and moles, freckles or acne. Tends go grey or bald early. Often with green eyes. Intense, argumentative and precise. A good leader. Can be irritable and angry. Likes sports and politics.

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By Sheena Miller