An Introduction to Ayurveda  (English, Paperback, M S Valiathan)

1. Write-up for the back cover and brochure: Ayurveda has been practiced for several centuries throughout India. It has been influenced by several schools of thought from the earliest Vedic principles to the period of the Brhatrayee (or the three pillars), namely, Charaka, Susruta and Vagbhata along with the extensive Buddhist stream in between. Through the ages, Ayurveda has evolved from a faith-based system to a reason-based one. It is this journey that has been captured in the book. It discusses the main branches of Ayurveda and the techniques and instruments used. The methods of training are also covered. An ideal book to get an introduction to the subject in a lucid language.
2.  Write-up for the website (This should be short and precise): This book is an introduction to Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine that had been practiced in the Indian subcontinent for several centuries. It seeks to acquaint the reader, without too many technical details, with the evolution of Ayurveda from its religious moorings to one based on reason and examination. It also discusses the strong influences of Buddhist thought on the development of Ayurvedic practices. The instruments and techniques used as well as the training methods for aspiring practitioners are discussed.

About the Author
Dr MS Valiathan is the author of the popular Legacy series also published by UPIL. He is at present the National Research Professor at Manipal University.