Some Ayurvedic herbs such as terminalia chebula or emblica officinalis, are indigenous only to India, and have no Western equivalent (Bushkin pp). Amlaki, Indian gooseberry, is the cornerstone of Chyavan-prash, the most famous Ayurvedic formulation, which is a potent anti-inflammatory, immune builder, and lower cholesterol (Bushkin pp). Ginger improves digestions and helps to ward of colds and coughs, while Gota kola improves cognitive function and increases collagen in veins and arteries (Bushkin pp). Shallaki, a sticky tree gum resin, is a "super strength anti-inflammatory that effectively treats both osteo and rheumatoid arthritis," and its pain relieving effects are considered comparable to morphine (Bushkin pp). Cloves is considered another pain reliever, while Shatavari, wild asparagus, is the female tonic used to treat symptoms of menopause and enhance the immune function, and garlic is used as an antibacterial and anti-parasitic (Bushkin pp). Spices, used to enhance the flavor of a dish, are a particularly important part of food preparation and correct use and blending is crucial to Indian cuisine (Food pp). Even oil is a vital part of cooking, "whether it's mustard oil in the north or coconut oil in the south, each section of the country has it's preferences" (Food pp). The cow is considered holy in India, and thus is never eaten (Taboo pp).

Surveys indicate that throughout India primary health care is insufficient and inadequate, "doctors lack drugs as well as motivation and training to serve the poor," and moreover, medical and housing facilities for doctors are unsatisfactory, and physicians may leave their rural posts for months at a time without being replaced (Messer pp).

Whether providing health care for a rural or urban patient, it...

With the exception of emergency or surgical treatment, home care would provide the most nurturing environment for the patient. Respecting religious customs and preferred medicine system would be necessary in order to provide appropriate care, with western medicines administered only if approved by the family, however, local clinics seem to be in short supply of medications. In India it is important to treat the whole person, not just the symptom. As in Ayurvedic system, treating the mind, body and spirit of the patient is the core of the healing practice. Moreover, it would be mandatory that the entire extended family be included in the home care of the patient.
Works Cited

Food Taboos; pp. http://library.thinkquest.org/18802/everfood.htm

Food in India; pp. http://www.asianinfo.org/asianinfo/india/food.htm

Bushkin, Estitta. "Ayurveda: Health Lessons From the Ancients."

Health Products Business; 10/1/1999; pp

Messer, Ellen. "Social science perspectives on primary health care activities." http://www.unu.edu/unupress/food/8F123e/8F123E07.htm

Nissim, Rina. "Action-Oriented Research on Alternative Medicine: Shodhini in India.' Contemporary Women's Issues Database; 1/1/1994; pp.

Family Life; pp. http://www.settlement.org/cp/english/india/family.html

Family Ideals: India; pp. http://countrystudies.us/india/83.htm

Indian Family; pp. http://www.indianchild.com/indian_family_structure.htm