Your questions, answered

Frequently Asked Questions

New to Ayurveda, or wondering how consultations work? Answers to the questions people ask most.

If you don't find your answer here, you're always welcome to reach out or start with a free discovery call.

Understanding Ayurveda

What is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is a complete system of natural medicine that originated in India more than 5,000 years ago. Its name means "the science of life."

Rather than treating symptoms in isolation, it looks at the whole person — body, mind, digestion, sleep, emotions, and environment — and works to restore balance through personalized diet, daily routine, herbs, and lifestyle. Care is always tailored to your unique constitution (Prakriti), because what keeps one person well may imbalance another. Discover your Dosha →

Is Ayurveda safe?

Ayurveda's core tools — wholesome food, daily routine, gentle herbs, and mindful living — are safe when guided by a qualified practitioner.

The most important safety step is transparency: always tell Vandana about any medications or conditions you have, so any Ayurvedic herbs or supplements recommended can be chosen to work well alongside your current care.

Does Ayurveda replace my doctor or my medications?

No. Ayurvedic consultations are educational and complementary. They are not a substitute for medical examination, diagnosis, or treatment, and you should never stop or change a prescribed medication without your physician's guidance.

Vandana works to support your overall balance and wellbeing alongside the conventional care you already receive.

Is Ayurveda scientific, or is it just home remedies?

Authentic Ayurveda is a rigorous medical science studied at university level in India — a full degree (BAMS) followed by postgraduate specialization (MD). Vandana trained for 8½ years and holds a postgraduate degree in Ayurvedic Obstetrics & Gynecology from Banaras Hindu University.

The "home remedies" many people know are a simplified version of a much deeper, systematic tradition. Modern research studies Ayurvedic herbs, diet, and its emphasis on digestion and gut health. Read the blog →

Do I have to be vegetarian or follow a particular religion?

No. Ayurveda is a health science, not a religion, and it does not require any particular faith or diet. Recommendations are personalized to your constitution, your health goals, and your own preferences and lifestyle.

Consultations with Vandana

What happens in a consultation?

Vandana learns about your health history, digestion, sleep, energy, stress, and lifestyle, and assesses your constitution (Prakriti) and current imbalances.

You then receive a personalized Ayurvedic wellness plan — diet, daily routines, herbs, and practices chosen specifically for you. First-time clients are welcome to begin with a free discovery call.

Are consultations in person or online?

Both. Vandana sees clients in person in Columbus, Ohio, and online by video anywhere in the world. Online consultations are just as thorough as in-person visits.

Do you only work with women?

Vandana works with women, men, and children, with a deep specialty in women's wellness — menstrual health, fertility, pregnancy, and menopause. Classical Ayurveda has always cared for the whole family.

What conditions can Ayurveda help with?

People come to Ayurveda for support with digestion, sleep, stress and energy, and for women's health concerns such as menstrual irregularities, fertility, pregnancy care, and the menopausal transition — as well as to feel more balanced and prevent future imbalance.

Ayurvedic care is educational and focuses on restoring balance; it does not diagnose or treat disease. For any medical condition, continue to work with your physician.

Will you recommend Ayurvedic herbs or supplements — and are they safe with my medications?

Vandana may recommend Ayurvedic herbs or supplements as part of your plan — gentle, food-based supports rather than pharmaceutical drugs.

These supplemental herbs are chosen to work alongside your current care. As always, it's best to share what you're taking with Vandana and keep your physician informed.

What does a consultation cost? Do you take insurance?

A free discovery call lets you start with no commitment. Current fees for full consultations and follow-ups are listed on the Book a Consultation page.

Ayurvedic consultations are not covered by insurance. Payment is collected directly with Vandana following your session.

Is my information kept confidential?

Yes. Everything you share is kept private and is used solely to prepare for your consultation.

Getting started

I'm new to all this — where do I begin?

Two easy first steps, both free: take the Discover Your Dosha quiz to learn your mind-body type, and book a free discovery call with Vandana to talk through what you're looking for. There's no commitment — just a conversation.

How do I book a session?

Visit the Book a Consultation page, choose the session that fits you, and pick a time on the calendar. You'll receive a confirmation with a video link (for online) or the Columbus location details (for in-person).

A note on this page: The information here is educational and general. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for care from a licensed health professional. Always consult your physician about your specific health situation.

Still curious?

Start with a free discovery call

A short, no-commitment conversation to see how Ayurveda can help you.

Book a Consultation