Research In Ayurveda Is Presently A Global Phenomenon

Ayurveda is now a global phenomenon. There is a lot of research going on in the field of Ayurvedic medicine development. BE’s Saptarshi Deb spoke to M.M. Rao, Director, Central Ayurveda Research Institute for Drug Development, Kolkata, on the institute’s role in the development of Ayurvedic drugs.

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Q) In an age chiefly dominated by allopathic treatment and medicine, why will people turn to Ayurvedic treatment?

A) Ayurveda, ‘the science of life’ is a 5,000-year-old Indian system of medicine that has truly stood the test of time. Ayurveda stands on certain basic principles and reinforce them with observations and researches. The aim of Ayurveda includes keeping a subject healthy in a healthy state and also to cure diseases. Ayurveda emphasises on the ‘prevention is better than cure’ principle. The approach of this system is not only to cure the disease. It also entails taking care of the subject as a whole.

Ayurveda has no contradiction with other contemporary medical sciences. If you see the history of drug development, most of the wonderful and life-saving drugs have been invented from medicinal plants. Allopathic treatment is mainly used in emergency conditions, in case of infectious diseases and surgeries as the allopathic system is well acquainted with modern technologies whereas Ayurveda is useful in primary healthcare, in prevention of chronic, progressive, degenerative and lifestyle-oriented diseases.

Globally, the average life span of human beings is increasing due to control of communicable diseases and therefore degenerative and progressive diseases are gaining an upper hand. In this area, Ayurveda has a tremendous role to play. Additionally, Ayurvedic medicines are based on medicinal plants and other organic products.

Q) Please mention a few common ailments that can be better treated with Ayurveda and why?