It is pronounced as AYURVED because it tells us which substances, qualities and actions are wholesome- Charak. Su. 30.23.
Ayurveda literally means 'science of life' but it can be described as the way of living with awareness and promoting longevity. Ayurved is an ancient Indian science for prevention of disease and maintenance of health plausibly derived from Atharvaveda.
Ayurveda has literature of over 2000 years, hundreds of thousands of expert physicians, millions of healed patients and numerous positive clinical trials. The ancient treatise and modern Ayurvedic clinical work form strong platforms for future research.
For modern medical science, the knowledge of Ayurveda literature can comprehensively enhance the prescription knowledge for prevention of disease and lifestyle recommendations. And, this can be very well utilized to combat chronic disorders. Ayurveda also deals with health in all its aspects; physical health, mental health, as well as managing specific diseases.
Ayurveda is considered by many scholars to be the oldest healing science.
Ayurvedic knowledge originated in India more than 5,000 years ago and is often called the "Mother of All Healing". It stems from the ancient Vedic culture and was taught for many thousands of years hi an oral tradition from accomplished masters to their disciples.
समदोषः समाग्निश्च समधातु मलःक्रियाः।
प्रसन्नात्मेन्द्रियमनः स्वस्थइतिअभिधीयते॥ (सुश्रुत संहिता सूत्रस्थान १५/१०)