Stay informed about traditional medicine practices, like Ayurveda. They’ve been around for thousands of years – providers need to know how to best counsel patients utilizing these therapies along with Western medicine.
Ayurveda means “science of life.” It originated in India and utilizes diet, herbs, exercise, meditation, yoga, and bodywork to achieve optimal health at all levels: physical, psychological, and spiritual. Its practitioners believe disease occurs when there is imbalance in the three bodily "humors" (doshas) that regulate bodily function. Specific combinations of herbs and other remedies may be used to treat illness and re-establish balance.
Evidence of benefit for Ayurveda relates to the specific therapies used. For example, yoga and Shirodhara, a technique that involves pouring different liquids over the forehead to heal various conditions, have been studied independently for specific uses. Some studies have also evaluated their use in combination with other Ayurvedic remedies such as herbal mixtures. Review the evidence based on specific use cases to best evaluate whether they may be beneficial for certain patients.
Potential safety concerns of Ayurveda will relate to whatever remedy is prescribed, and whether that remedy may delay the use of more proven therapies. But keep in mind that there are known quality concerns with Ayurvedic herbal products – including contamination with prescription medications and high concentrations of heavy metals. Advise patients to be cautious about where they source their herbal products and to seek out those with quality certifications. And as always, keep an eye out for potential interactions with medications.
Check out our Ayurveda monograph to learn more.
The information in this brief report is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions. Copyright © 2025 NatMed. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited. NatMed is the leading provider of high-quality, evidence-based, clinically-relevant information on natural medicine, dietary supplements, herbs, vitamins, minerals, functional foods, diets, complementary practices, CAM modalities, exercises and medical conditions. Monograph sections include interactions with herbs, drugs, foods and labs, contraindications, depletions, dosing, toxicology, adverse effects, pregnancy and lactation data, synonyms, safety and effectiveness.
