Known as an ancient healing system originating in India, Ayurveda is a holistic medical system that focuses on a spiritual way of life. Highly individualized the Ayurveda treatment can incorporate a wide variety of methods such as changes in diet, exercise, herbal therapy, massage and meditation.

History

Written between the second and fourth centuries the first recorded book of Ayurveda is believed to be based on an older oral tradition. Focusing most of its attention on digestion the book discusses all the principles of Ayurveda. Ayurveda tradition influenced the development of traditional Chinese medicine which only furthered the development of Ayurveda. Continue reading →

Aromatherapy is a modern alternative therapy with a history as old as time itself. It is based upon the healing and relaxing effects that arise from the use of many scents. It is similar to the use of herbal remedies and organic medicines, with the main difference being the mode of delivery.

The term “aromatherapy” was initially coined by Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, a French chemist from the early 1900’s. He described his seemingly miraculous burn cure as “Aroma-therapie” and published his findings about the uses of aromatic extracts for various therapies in 1937. Continue reading →

Historical Use

The marijuana plant has long been used in medicine as well as in religious rituals for most of pre-historical, medieval and modern history. It has been described in medical texts from China and India as early as 3000 years ago.

The indigenous people of South American have used marijuana in rituals as well as in medicine. In the US, as late as the 1930s, the use of marijuana as a mild sedative and pain reliever was so pervasive that it was taxed. It was only in 1951 that it was declared by law as a drug that was of no medical use and can be potentially abused.

Problems in using marijuana as medication: Continue reading →