Ayurvedic Medicine: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Times

The ancient hospital complex at Mihintale, Sri Lanka - dating back to the 9th century AD under King Sena II - is celebrated as one of the oldest surviving hospital ruins in the world. This remarkable facility featured consultation rooms, herb preparation areas, steam baths, and medicinal stone troughs for therapeutic treatments. Even earlier, Sri Lankan chronicles like the Mahavamsa describe organised hospitals in the 4th century BC, founded by Kings Pandukabhaya and Devanampiya Tissa. Mihintale stands as a powerful testament to Sri Lanka’s deep-rooted medical heritage, blending physical, mental and spiritual care; a legacy that continues to inspire modern holistic healing.

Sri Lanka uniquely has three distinct medical systems: Allopathic (Western) medicine, Ayurvedic medicine, and Traditional Sri Lankan medicine. Alongside modern hospitals, a thriving Ayurvedic sector - including the renowned National Ayurveda Teaching Hospital in Borella - offers natural, personalised care. Traditional Sri Lankan medicine, passed down through generations of indigenous healers, combines local herbs, spiritual rituals, and ancestral wisdom. Together, these systems reflect Sri Lanka’s enduring respect for both ancient knowledge and modern science in promoting health and wellbeing.

Dr. Sulochana Senarathne, a Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) has over 14 years of clinical experience and will guide us through the enduring power of Ayurveda. This “science of life” balances body and mind through natural remedies and tailored treatments. Drawing on Sri Lanka’s unique heritage, rooted in indigenous herbs and shaped by Buddhist traditions, Dr. Senarathne will reveal Ayurveda’s success in treating diverse conditions and its vital role during the Covid-19 pandemic. Discover the potency of Sri Lanka’s medicinal plants and the future of ancient healing made modern. Dr. Senarathne holds a Master’s in Ayurveda Medicine and a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychology. She has led specialty clinics in neurological, skin, and weight management disorders, and served 28 rural villages as a Government Community Medical Officer. Now practicing at Amaya Ayurvedic Spa in Amersham, UK, and consulting for Nutrii Ceylon, she is dedicated to advancing Ayurveda for healthier communities worldwide.

Nutrii Ceylon, a proudly Sri Lankan brand established in the UK, creates natural wellness products rooted in Ayurvedic wisdom and modern health standards. Their Bone & Joint Strength tea is a potent herbal blend featuring green tea, turmeric, nettle, devil’s claw, rosehip, and more, formulated by nutritionists and pharmacists to support bone health, joint mobility, and overall flexibility while delivering antioxidant benefits. Their product range also features a Slim Fit tea, which blends herbs like Garcinia, senna, and green tea, designed to support healthy digestion, curb cravings, and enhance metabolism nutriiceylon.com. There will be an opportunity both before and after the talk to purchase teas from Nutrii Ceylon at a special price.

NB. We encourage attendees to bring a small bottle of water with them and perhaps afterwards friends, at their own expense, can saunter over to one of the many cafés at the Royal Academy for tea and cakes.

Host or Publisher Miss Chamali Fernando, Events Co-ordinator, Friends of Sri Lanka Association