Thousands of years ago, Ayurveda described multiple levels of the radial pulse that could be used to interpret the status of the organs and systems of the body as well as the mental and physical constitutions of the individual. As the first text on pulse diagnosis for the Western student, this book provides a method by which anyone can learn to read his own pulse. Imbalances and potential disease states can be detected in their early stages, giving one the opportunity to correct them before they affect the quality of life. With practice and guidance, one can acquire the proficiency to use this knowledge to heal self and others.

In his Ayurvedic Studies Program, Vasant Lad, Ayurvedic Physician, teaches Ayurveda as a science of moment-to-moment living. Each lecture that he gives flows from his own heart in a river of healing wisdom that is inspired by and pertinent to the students who are present at the time of the lecture.
This textbook is a presentation of Dr. Lad's years of teaching in that classroom setting. It conveys the philosophical and fundamental principles of his first year Ayurvedic Studies Program at the Ayurvedic Institute in a dynamic and inspirational way. This book will give the student a detailed foundation upon which to pursue deeper knowledge, including that of the future volumes in this series.

Vasant Lad presents this ages-old science in a framework that is clearly accessible to the modern student while remaining true to its ancient roots, clarifying the mysteries of Ayurveda from the classical Sanskrit texts. This text builds upon the information in Volume One, imparting the essential elements of clinical assessment.

Vasant Lad describes the many categories and stages of disorders and disease from the ancient texts of Ayurveda. He then shows you how to detect and evaluate the conditions of the client. Offering a thorough training in client assessment, the reader will come away with a new level of expertise in service to and knowledge of one s patient. Knowing precisely where the client is in the disease process enables the clinician to determine the most effective level of care necessary for them. Filled with illustrations, tables, charts, clinical forms and practical examples, this book will lead the student through the methods of assessment using the historical applications of Ayurveda as well as more modern terms and techniques.

* Discover in-depth techniques of assessment that include the five clinical barometers, three categories of clinical examination, eight methods of clinical examination, constitutional assessment and assessment of agni and metabolic waste. * Outlined as well are detailed and specialized information on disorders of the doshas, tissues, prana, tejas, ojas and the bodily channels. * Gain new understanding of the disease process, its stage of progression and the subtleties of the inner workings of the body. * Included are assessment forms for a full patient evaluation. These are the very methods used by Dr. Lad in his clinics.

This book brings forth the practices of Ayurveda from the ancient texts and presents them in a systematic organization that is readily accessible to a Western audience.

Vasant Lad provides comprehensive information on therapeutic modalities including diet and lifestyle recommendations, palliative and cleansing therapies, subtle healing methods including individual rejuvenation protocols, yoga and pranayama practices, and herbal substances as well as management techniques according to dosha, dhatu, srotamsi, and the subtle essences. Each section clearly explains the principles of the healing techniques, often with the steps outlined for the reader, in addition to the herbal substances and their practical application. It is an essential reference for the Ayurvedic practitioner.

One of Dr. Lad's favorite sutras from Charaka says that a true physician knows the body, mind, thoughts, feelings, and consciousness of the patient. Unless you enter the heart of your patient with the light of awareness, knowledge, compassion, and insight, you will not be able to diagnose their problem and treat the person accordingly.

Dr. Lad's students from all over the world learn Ayurveda, step by patient step, grounding their knowledge in the principles of a system that pre-dates Western medical concepts by thousands of years. Next, they learn the sophisticated methods of evaluation that Ayurveda provides. Mastering these techniques takes practice and dedication. The previous steps, well practiced, have prepared the student to enter into the next stage, where they can stand beside the client and guide them on their journey of healing.

From the archives of the quarterly journal, Ayurveda Today, published since 1988, this is a compilation of Vasant Lad's best articles on Ayurvedic remedies for both common and complex health problems. A must-have for the Ayurvedic practitioner, these clear, concise articles put forth a path to health and well-being for the layperson as well.

With almost twice the number of articles as the first, the new edition has 30 in-depth articles on common medical conditions including diabetes, headaches, and chronic fatigue syndrome presented from the perspective of Ayurvedic medicine. These articles talk about classic remedies such as herbal therapies, yoga postures, diet, and panchakarma therapies. Learn natural ways to support other therapies and improve your overall health and well-being.

This unique compendium is a testament to the relevance of Ayurveda in our modern world. Applying time-honored insights from this ancient science, it establishes an approach to disease management that is free from unwanted side effects. This book has arisen from Vasant Lad's decades of clinical and classroom experience. By elucidating the fundamental imbalances behind a range of diseases, these articles guide practitioners towards addressing causes, alleviating symptoms and eliminating the conditions that allow a disease to reoccur. They will inspire valuable insights in the hearts of those wishing to manage these diseases that are so prevalent in our current age.