Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga passed away on October 15. He was 80 years old. His death came after a cardiac arrest.
Mr Odinga was undergoing Ayurvedic treatment in India when he died. Ayurveda is an ancient Indian healing system.
A History of Ill Health
It has emerged that Mr Odinga was suffering from numerous serious conditions. These included diabetes, high blood pressure, and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). He also contended with a brain bleed and chronic kidney disease.
He opted for Ayurveda, ‘the science of life,’ which originated in India over 5,000 years ago. This medical system views health holistically.
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Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to health that treats the person as a whole, body, mind, and spirit, rather than just addressing isolated symptoms.
Unlike conventional medicine, Ayurveda aims to treat the root causes of disease. It focuses on balancing the body, mind, and spirit.
Following a Daughter’s Recovery
The Odinga family had experience with the ancient treatment system. Raila’s daughter, Rosemary Odinga, had lost her sight in 2017. This followed brain tumour surgery and a stroke.
After conventional treatments in several countries failed, the family sought Ayurvedic help. Rosemary travelled to Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital in Kerala, India.
She received traditional therapies for secondary optic atrophy. Within four months, her sight began to return.
By 2022, her recovery was described as miraculous. This event helped reignite global interest in Ayurvedic medicine. Raila Odinga’s subsequent decision to seek his own treatment in India demonstrated his faith in the ancient healing science.
The Science of Life
Ayurveda is based on achieving a balance between three biological energies, known as the Three Doshas. These are Vata (air and space), Pitta (fire and water), and Kapha (water and earth). Disease occurs when these energies are disturbed.
Ayurvedic treatments rely on herbal formulations, diet and lifestyle corrections, and detoxification therapies. Globally, this traditional system holds significant recognition.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) recognises Ayurveda as a legitimate traditional medical system. It encourages its integration into public healthcare across countries.
Relevant statistics show the global reach of traditional systems. Approximately 170 countries use some form of traditional medicine.
In Africa, Ayurvedic medicine is a growing market. South Africa officially recognises the practice. Kenya's National Drug Policy (1994) and Development Plan (1989) acknowledge the value of traditional medicine.
Ayurveda aims to restore natural function by reviving damaged tissues. Raila Odinga’s personal journey confirms how this ancient system remains highly valued today.
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