The term Ayurveda comes from ancient India and is made up of two words: Ayus (life) and Veda (science). According to an old definition, the purpose of this science is to "maintain the health of the healthy and treat the sick". Ayurveda sees itself as a comprehensive health science.

Ayurveda, also known as “knowledge of long life”, is part of the four holy scriptures (Vedas) of Hinduism and is based on the idea that the cosmos with its five elements “fire, water, earth, air and ether” is reflected in the human organism. Man is thus seen as a mirror image of the universe.

From the five elements, three complementary control systems (doshas) are said to determine the human organism and regulate all physical and psychological processes in humans. Traditional medical applications include internal medicine, surgery, ophthalmology, nutrition and herbal medicine. External oil applications, such as those offered by Sächsische Staatsbäder GmbH, are widespread in Ayurveda. According to Ayurvedic ideas, they serve to remove toxins from the skin. Healing successes have also been recorded for stress-related illnesses and disorders.

The three doshas are:

• Vata (air / ether): regulates movement, breathing and nervous activity
• Pitta (fire / water): regulates heat balance, metabolism and digestive performance
• Kapha (water / earth): regulates fluid balance and the immune system

Each person is said to have a different balance of these doshas. Their individual distribution determines the personality and health of the person. The aim of the treatment is to create a balance between the doshas.

This can be achieved through various components of Ayurvedic therapy, including synchronized massages, forehead oil pouring or the herbal sweat bath (also called Svedana), but also relaxation exercises (yoga). External oil applications are widespread in Ayurveda. According to Ayurvedic ideas, they serve to remove toxins from the skin or mucous membranes.

Ayurveda has been shown to be successful in treating stress-related illnesses and disorders, as well as migraines, neuralgia and gastritis. Ayurveda is not recommended for patients with acute illnesses or heart disease, as the massages and heat treatments in particular could have a detrimental effect.