Vrikshayurveda is, to put it simply, healing the world through Plants and Empathy

In this current era of climate change, wanton destruction of ecosystems and overwhelming human disconnection with nature, an ancient science holds the key to restoring balance: Vrikshayurveda.

This is the Ayurvedic science of plant life. With a storehouse of wisdom to fall back on that extends a millennium or more, Vrikshayurveda is much more than a mere practical guide on the nurture of plant life. It is actually a philosophy that holds sacred the intimate interdependence of person and nature.

Just as plants grant us oxygen, medicinal properties, and food, so do our nurturing and caring for plants provide their just treatment in nature, and that will, in turn, lead to our survival within it.

The Heart of Vrikshayurveda

If modern-day environmental movements stress mainly conservation and sustainability, Vrikshayurveda is not limited to that -

“It goes beyond that and weaves into plant care, emotional and ethical responsibilities.  I repeat, emotion and ethics for plants.”

The science of Vrikshayurveda understands one's interaction with a plant and imbues that with empathy to help the plant grow and blossom.

“The very essence of Ayurveda is a holistic view of health which perceives the individual and the ecosystem as one. The human operates within all realms of his environment, hence whatever he does to his surroundings shall evidently reflect upon himself: Therefore, the conclusion is that through the interrelationship of human and ecological health emanates holistic health.”

A Call to Restore Action in a Disturbed World

The contemporary world is set upon with so many problems of concern, like major catastrophes: deforestation, soil depletion, water scarcity, and pollution. Vrikshayurveda provides certain solutions, such as natural farming techniques, plant-based medicinal therapies, sustainable forestry, urban greening, and many more. However, the real treasure that Vrikshayurveda offers us is to develop that mindset of responsibility: If, in all interactions with our immediate ecosystem (read nature),  we consciously bring compassion,  care, and action -  nature will sustain and heal us.

Beyond Theory: Bringing Vrikshayurveda to Life

As an Ayurveda doctor conferred with the Vanamitra Award  by the State Government, I have witnessed Vrikshayurveda transform landscapes and mindsets. This movement holds a unique opportunity for institutions, organizations, and communities to become involved in not just planting trees but engaging profoundly with their stead, their medicinal properties, and the culture of coexistence around nurturing them.

The Itoozhi Model for Vrikshayurveda

Vrikshayurveda, to be accepted and embraced more in the popular mainstream, needs calibrations for the times we live in, and create pathways that are more delightful to the present generations. And, there has to be specific plans of consideration and action that can also mobilise involvement. Keeping these in mind, the Itoozhi Illam Ayurveda Foundation & Charitable Trust have put in motion, varied programs created around Vrikshayurveda, but in formats that have been wholeheartedly embraced by the older and present generation alike, in Mayyil and regions around us.  And that would need a detailed article too.. Presently,  for those interested, do visit Mayyil.

Witness Vrikshayurveda in Action, in Mayyil

I warmly welcome all those interested to Mayyil, where they can experience Vrikshayurveda in action.

Here, one can touch, feel, and learn how this profound science is creating a healthier and more compassionate world—one plant, one person at a time.

Let us work together to build an ecosystem where both nature and humanity flourish.

This article was first published on LinkedIn Pulse on March 17, 2025