The Untapped Potential-Research In Ayurveda

Introduction

Ayurveda is a complex science that is rooted in history, nature & tradition. A science with untapped & unlimited potential that can thrive eternally. In an era where lifestyle diseases are becoming increasingly common, more & more people are moving towards natural forms of healing that can provide a long-term & safe solution to their ailments. A lot of young professionals are ditching degrees in allopathic medicine to dedicate their lives to Ayurveda. Bhopal's Sri Sai Institute of Ayurvedic Research and Medicine allows aspirants to pursue the science professionally. This ayurvedic research institute in Bhopal is not just known for its cutting-edge treatments, but also its educational courses for youngsters looking to segue into the field of alternative medicine.

However, western domination in the field of medicine has prompted misconceptions around traditional forms of healing. Ayurveda is often dismissed as a subject with no scientific basis, principles, or approach. Misuse of ayurvedic remedies amid the Covid-19 pandemic has also prompted misinformation around the science. Medicinal plants like Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) and Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) were promoted as 'miracle cures' to the deadly virus, which has also contributed to a trust deficit among citizens. This article will focus on Research in Ayurveda to highlight its untapped potential

The science of Ayurveda is centered around Lakshana of Swastha and Vyadhi (meaning syndrome or pattern). This means analyzing symptoms causing disharmony in one’s body. These symptoms are correctly identified using Darshana (inspection), Sparshana (palpation), and Prashana (interrogation). The right ayurvedic institute will focus on these practices to roll out quality ayurvedic physicians. Sri Sai Institute of Ayurvedic Research and Medicine is known for its focus on both basic & advanced principles of ayurvedic treatment.

This is where allopathic practitioners can learn from Ayurveda. Identifying symptoms or Lakshanas correctly and connecting them to the root cause of disharmony in the human body. This will allow doctors to ditch the path of over-medication & prescribe a lifestyle overhaul to patients who need it. Western scientists should incorporate ayurvedic methodologies to bring out the best in their research. The use of herbs, spices & natural ingredients in medicine should not be dismissed as mere hogwash. The amalgamation of research methodologies will help both western & ayurvedic research institutes come up with modernized treatments for diseases. This will also allow researchers to shift their focus to not just treatment but long-term management of chronic & debilitating lifestyle diseases.

Even as Ayurveda is rooted in tradition, it can incorporate modern technologies pioneered by western schools to improve the quality of medication it produces. Ayurvedic research institutes are in desperate need of modern technologies to not just popularise but also improve their treatments. This is where ayurvedic research institutes like Sri Sai Institute of ayurvedic Research and Medicine set an example with their groundbreaking & modernized approach towards traditional & natural healing. They have combined western science & state-of-the-art technology to create a 100-bed facility & advanced research institute that offers breakthrough treatments for crippling ailments like kidney stones, migraines, sleep apnoea etc. Although Ayurveda & Western medicine are starkly different in their approach towards healing, finding points of commonality can prove beneficial for patients-They can play a greater role in managing their health & wellness. To put it more in perspective, integration of western & ayurvedic medicine is far more than the sum of these parts-it can accelerate the current transformation of health care systems from mere disease management to health and lifestyle overhaul across the globe.

While we’re at it, It is also important to point out that we cannot pick faults with just western medicine and its research methodologies. Ayurveda has lost opportunities to popularise itself on a global platform due to unregulated treatments by unlicensed practitioners. This practice of misinformation has especially gained traction amid the Covid-19 pandemic. As western medicines fail to battle the deadly virus & its numerous mutations despite best efforts, quacks are taking advantage of desperate patients to not just eke out a living, but also rake in profits. For instance, an ayurvedic company was embroiled in controversy due to their infamous production & promotion of an ‘immune-boosting kit’ that helps fight the virus. Since this wasn’t backed by adequate research, it spread misinformation among the general public, along with promoting distrust. These empty marketing tactics adversely affect efforts by licensed practitioners to popularise beneficial treatments by getting them published in peer-reviewed journals. While natural ingredients are safe for the body, it is important to remember that they are also extremely potent. Unregulated use of these medicines by unlicensed frauds can do more harm than good. Ayurvedic research institutes need to be as strict as western institutes in giving out degrees and research licenses. Ayurveda should incorporate large sample sizes and a robust study design to bring out its best. Again, Sri Sai Institute of Ayurvedic Research & Medicine sets an example with its rigid educational & research protocol—only the best & most deserving students are given BAMS course degrees and allowed to practice. Only the best treatments are popularised & implemented in their ayurvedic institute & hospital.

However, many covid case studies also made it to peer-reviewed journals. These studies have been published along with studies by The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) & have shown promising results. Many patients have benefitted from ayurvedic treatments in their post-covid recovery process.

To conclude, Ayurveda stands for more than just traditional medicine or natural treatment of disease- It stands for holistic lifestyle overhaul & is even a philosophy of life. Ayurveda promotes self-awareness & a deeper understanding of the functioning of one’s body, mind & soul. To put it simply, Ayurveda has boundless potential which can be brought to the fore through the right research methodologies along with cooperation between western and ayurvedic practitioners. Modernizing & legitimately popularising traditional forms of healing is set to benefit not just patients but the world as a whole.