In the final chapter of his life, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga made a choice that revealed more than just a search for a cure—it was a profound act of faith. Battling a host of serious health challenges, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and chronic kidney disease, Raila turned to an ancient healing tradition that has stood the test of millennia: Ayurveda.
This wasn’t just a medical decision; it was deeply personal. Years earlier, his daughter Rosemary Odinga had faced a life-altering tragedy—a stroke and brain tumor surgery in 2017 robbed her of her sight.
Conventional medicine had failed to restore her vision despite treatments in multiple countries. But hope came from an unexpected place—Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital in Kerala, India.
Through ancient therapies that treat the body as a whole—mind, body, and spirit—Rosemary’s sight began to return within four months. By 2022, her recovery was hailed as nothing short of miraculous, reigniting worldwide interest in the healing power of Ayurveda.
Inspired by this remarkable healing journey, Raila himself embraced Ayurveda in his fight against multiple illnesses.
Though he tragically passed on October 14, 2023, while undergoing treatment, his choice to turn to this ancient wisdom speaks volumes about the enduring power and relevance of holistic healing.
What Is Ayurveda?
Originating over 5,000 years ago in India, Ayurveda (Ayur = life, Veda = knowledge) means the “science of life”—is much more than medicine. It is a philosophy that views health as a delicate balance of three vital energies, or doshas:
- Vata (air and space)
- Pitta (fire and water)
- Kapha (water and earth)
When these energies are balanced, the body thrives; when disturbed, disease takes root. Unlike conventional medicine that often treats symptoms, Ayurveda seeks the root causes of illness, healing the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.
Healing Beyond the Surface: Ayurvedic Eye Treatment
In Ayurveda, the eyes are “windows to the soul,” reflecting the health of the entire body. Vision loss isn’t simply an eye problem; it signals deeper imbalances. Treatments such as Netra Tarpana (medicated eye baths), Nasya (herbal oils through nasal passages), and oil massages work to detoxify, restore, and rejuvenate.
Rosemary’s experience is a testament to the power of this holistic approach—an approach that revived hope where modern medicine had none.
Ayurveda’s Growing Global Recognition
Recognized by the World Health Organization as a legitimate medical system, Ayurveda is embraced by over 170 countries worldwide. Its roots even extend into modern pharmaceuticals, with nearly 40% of today’s drugs tracing back to traditional herbal knowledge.
In Africa, and Kenya specifically, Ayurveda is becoming part of the healthcare landscape, complementing indigenous traditions and gaining support from insurance providers and national policies.
A Legacy of Healing and Hope
Raila Odinga’s embrace of Ayurveda was more than a medical choice—it was a symbol of trust in the oldest healing science known to humanity. His journey, and his daughter’s miraculous recovery, remind us that healing is not just about fighting disease but restoring balance and harmony in every part of our being.
As the world moves toward wellness that honors both ancient wisdom and modern innovation, Ayurveda stands at the forefront, offering hope to many like Rosemary and Raila—proof that sometimes, the oldest paths hold the deepest healing.
Key Takeaway
Ayurveda offers a powerful, holistic approach that treats the whole person—not just isolated symptoms. While it is not a replacement for emergency medical care, it provides complementary therapies that have transformed lives, rekindling hope when all else fails.
