Arya Vaidya Sala, popularly known as Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala, is a health care centre located in Kottakkal, in the Indian state of Kerala, known for its heritage and expertise in the Indian traditional medicine system ofAyurveda. The firm, most of whose facilities and assets remain at Kottakkal where Vaidyaratnam PS Varier founded a small Ayurvedic clinic and pharmacy in 1902, has a unique management model mandated by the founder. It is run by a trust comprising seven members – five come from two families associated with the founder and two from among the staff.
The Arya Vaidya Sala (AVS) group of institutions has its headquarters in Kottakkal in Malappuram district, located 16 kilometers from Malappuram and 48 kilometers from Kozhikode. Two of the hospitals run by the group are based atKottakkal. The group consists of five hospitals of which one is a charitable centre, 15 branches, a research centre, two medicine factories, a Marketing Division overseeing over 1500 retail outlets, and four herbal gardens. The group is reported to be treating over 800,000 patients, through consultation and in patient services. Arya Vaidya Sala is credited with pioneering the concept of ready made ayurvedicmedicines and dispensing ayurvedic medicines in the form of pills which are reported to have revolutionized the ayurvedic medicine system.
Kerala’s verdant forests have, for long years, nourished a profusion of herbs, plants and trees that are extremely valuable in the preparation of Ayurvedic medicines. Not surprising therefore, that the ancient tradition of Ayurveda has been kept alive in this State by master Vaidya. The Chief Vaidyas belonged to just eight families and were called Ashta Vaidyas due to their competence in all the eight branches of Ayurveda. Calicut is not only Kerala’s commercial hub and centre for its timber industry but also the home of Ayurveda-an ancient system of medicine that operates in tune with nature. In fact about 50 kilometres from Kozhikode lie the largest herbal gardens in the world.
The centuries-old tradition of Ayurveda is fast turning Kerala into a global medical tourism destination, attracting holidayers as well as international celebrities to the State. Ayurveda, practised in Kerala in its traditional and authentic form, has been a major attraction for tourists. It can help Kerala become a 365-day destination and ensure repeat visits. From autism to Alzheimer’s, from migraine to diabetes, from sexual disability to slip disc, there is not a single problem that Ayurveda does not have an answer for. Even for Cancer and Epilepsy there are medicines to reduce the intensity and frequency of seizures and attacks.
Instead of taking Kashayam with bitter taste early in the morning on an empty stomach, now you can prefer pills as an alternative. The unique herbal formation is working wonders. There are no side effects but at the same time is somewhat a slow process. The patient needs to have patience and belief in Ayurvedic medicines. Regularly taking these medicines will show the desired results also. Ayurvedic medicines can be taken alongside English medicine. These ayurvedic medicines promote brain functions like memory, intelligence and concentration for young children of growing age. The antioxidants help to scavenge free radicals and relieve stress and anxiety. For cold, cough, fever and asthma granules like Pankaj Kasthuri provides immunity and work as a positive health promoter. Dosage should be taken as directed by the physician. Chavanprash is yet another health booster which provides resistance power to withstand diseases during monsoon season.
Pankajakasthuri, Kottakkal, Kairali, Santhigiri and Vaidyaratnam are among the major private players in the Ayurveda sector. In view of the growing fascination for Ayurveda, the private sector has entered in the wellness sector in a big way, as is evident from the number of spas, hotels and resorts coming up in Kerala. Kerala health measures are considered good for the wellness and long life of the people in the present day hectic busy life.
CK SUBRAMANIAM,
SANPADA NAVI MUMBAI
