Ayurvedic medicine is an ancient Indian medical system that has been practiced for thousands of years. It is based on natural and holistic approaches to physical and mental health. Ayurvedic treatment combines various elements, including herbal remedies, diet, exercise, and lifestyle modifications .
Principles of Ayurvedic Medicine
The concepts of universal interconnectedness, the body’s constitution (prakriti), and life forces (doshas) are the primary basis of Ayurvedic medicine. The goal of Ayurvedic treatment is to aid the person by eliminating impurities, reducing symptoms, increasing resistance to disease, reducing worry, and increasing harmony in life. Herbs, plants, oils, and common spices are extensively used in Ayurvedic treatment .
Ayurveda and Modern Healthcare
In India, Ayurveda is considered a form of medical care equal to conventional Western medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, naturopathic medicine, and homeopathic medicine. Practitioners of Ayurveda in India undergo state-recognized, institutionalized training. However, in the United States, Ayurvedic practitioners are not licensed, and there is no national standard for Ayurvedic training or certification. Nevertheless, Ayurvedic schools have gained approval as educational institutions in some states .
Effectiveness of Ayurvedic Medicine
Few well-designed clinical trials and systematic research reviews suggest that Ayurvedic approaches are effective. For example, a 2013 clinical trial compared two Ayurvedic formulations of plant extracts against the natural product glucosamine sulfate and the drug celecoxib in 440 people with knee osteoarthritis. All four products provided similar reductions in pain and improvements in function .
Integration of Ayurveda and Modern Medicine
Ayurveda, as one of the most ancient medical systems still practiced on the Indian subcontinent, can be used in combination with modern medicine to provide better treatment for various conditions, including cancer. Ayurvedic concepts of the causes of cancer, its linkage with inflammation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment can be integrated with allopathic medicine to enhance treatment outcomes .