What is Ayurvedic Medicine?
Ayurveda, often referred to as Ayurvedic medicine, is a holistic healing system that originated in India thousands of years ago. It emphasizes the balance between mind, body, and spirit and is based on the idea of using natural remedies, such as herbal preparations, diet, lifestyle changes, and exercise, to promote health and well-being. Ayurveda is considered one of the world’s oldest medical systems and remains a key part of traditional Indian health care practices.
Is Ayurvedic Medicine Safe?
While Ayurvedic medicine offers many natural remedies, concerns have been raised about the safety of some preparations. Some Ayurvedic products may contain potentially harmful metals, such as lead, mercury, and arsenic, in quantities that could be toxic. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about the dangers of using some Ayurvedic products due to the presence of these heavy metals.
A 2015 survey found that 40% of users of Ayurvedic preparations had elevated blood levels of lead, and some also had increased mercury levels. Toxic levels of these metals have been associated with poisoning cases, particularly in individuals who purchase these products online. Therefore, it’s crucial to exercise caution when selecting Ayurvedic treatments, especially those not certified for safety.
Is Ayurvedic Medicine Effective?
Ayurvedic medicine has been studied for its potential benefits in managing several health conditions. However, much of the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited or based on small, poorly designed studies. For example, Ayurvedic treatments have shown promise in managing pain and improving joint function in people with osteoarthritis. A 2013 clinical trial involving 440 participants compared two Ayurvedic formulations with glucosamine sulfate and celecoxib (a conventional drug for osteoarthritis). All four treatments were found to reduce pain and improve joint function equally.
Ayurvedic medicine has also been explored in managing type 2 diabetes. A small trial with 89 participants suggested that an Ayurvedic formulation containing five herbs might help manage blood sugar levels. However, due to inadequate study designs, firm conclusions about its efficacy for diabetes cannot yet be drawn.
How Much Do We Know About Ayurvedic Medicine?
Despite its rich history and widespread use, the amount of scientific research on Ayurvedic medicine published in Western journals is limited. Few well-designed clinical trials have been conducted, and much of the research remains preliminary. In the United States, about 240,000 adults use Ayurvedic medicine, but more extensive research is needed to fully understand its benefits and risks.
What Does Science Say About Ayurvedic Medicine?
The scientific community has conducted some studies on Ayurvedic medicine, particularly in areas like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and type 2 diabetes. A 2011 study compared Ayurvedic treatments to the conventional drug methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis, with both approaches showing similar effectiveness. Additionally, turmeric, a commonly used herb in Ayurvedic preparations, has been studied for its potential benefits in treating inflammatory bowel disease, particularly ulcerative colitis. However, the studies conducted were small, involving only a limited number of participants.
What Does Science Say About the Safety of Ayurvedic Medicine?
Ayurvedic products can contain metals, minerals, or other natural elements that pose potential risks. In particular, some Ayurvedic formulations may include high levels of lead, mercury, or arsenic, which are harmful when consumed in large amounts. The FDA has issued warnings about these risks, and several cases of metal poisoning linked to Ayurvedic products have been reported.
For instance, a 2015 case report from the CDC described a 64-year-old woman who experienced lead poisoning after using Ayurvedic products purchased online. Some studies have also found that a significant proportion of Ayurvedic supplements contain harmful metals, which makes it important for consumers to be aware of potential risks.
Ongoing Research on Ayurvedic Medicine
Researchers continue to investigate the benefits and mechanisms of Ayurvedic medicine, particularly in areas like cancer survivorship and arthritis treatment. One area of interest is the potential for Ayurvedic interventions to improve the quality of life in breast cancer survivors. This research focuses on integrating Ayurvedic dietary, lifestyle, yoga, and pressure point treatments into patients’ routines to enhance their overall well-being.
Additionally, ongoing studies are exploring how specific Ayurvedic herbs, such as extracts from Butea monosperma, can protect against joint damage caused by osteoarthritis.
Considerations When Using Ayurvedic Medicine
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you’re considering Ayurvedic medicine, consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. Ayurvedic products can interact with conventional treatments and may not be safe for everyone.
- Use Reputable Sources: Only purchase Ayurvedic products from trusted sources to avoid exposure to harmful metals or other contaminants.
- Pregnant or Nursing? Ayurvedic treatments may contain ingredients that are unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before use.
- Avoid Self-Diagnosis and Treatment: Ayurvedic medicine should not be used to postpone or replace conventional medical care, especially for serious health conditions.
For More Information
For more details on Ayurvedic medicine and related research, visit the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). The NCCIH provides valuable resources on complementary health approaches, scientific research, and clinical trials.
Contact the NCCIH Clearinghouse:
- Toll-Free: 1-888-644-6226
- Website: www.nccih.nih.gov
- Email: info@nccih.nih.gov
Know the Science:
NCCIH and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) offer a range of resources to help consumers understand the basics of scientific research, making it easier to make informed decisions about their health. Visit the Know the Science website for interactive modules, quizzes, and more.
Clinical Trials:
For information on clinical trials related to Ayurvedic medicine, visit the NIH Clinical Research Trials and You website: www.nih.gov/health-information/nih-clinical-research-trials-you.
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews:
For evidence-based reviews of clinical trials on Ayurvedic interventions and other health topics, visit the Cochrane Library at www.cochranelibrary.com.
Key References
- Breeher L, Mikulski MA, Czeczok T, et al. A cluster of lead poisoning among consumers of Ayurvedic medicine. International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health. 2015;21(4):303-307.
- Chopra A, Saluja M, Tillu G, et al. Ayurvedic medicine offers a good alternative to glucosamine and celecoxib in the treatment of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, controlled equivalence drug trial. Rheumatology. 2013;52(8):1408-1417.
- Clarke TC, Black LI, Stussman BJ, Barnes PM, Nahin RL. Trends in the use of complementary health approaches among adults: United States, 2002–2012. National health statistics reports; no. 79. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics. 2015.
- Furst DE, Venkatraman MM, McGann M, et al. Double-blind, randomized, controlled, pilot study comparing classic Ayurvedic medicine, methotrexate, and their combination in rheumatoid arthritis. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology. 2011;17(4)185-192.
- Koch I, Moriarty M, House K, et al. Bioaccessibility of lead and arsenic in traditional Indian medicines. Science of the Total Environment. 2011;409(21):4545-4552.
- Kuptniratsaikul V, Dajpratham P, Taechaarpornkul W, et al. Efficacy and safety of Curcuma domestica extracts compared with ibuprofen in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a multicenter study. Clinical Interventions in Aging. 2014;9:451-458.
- Kurian GA, Manjusha V, Nair SS, et al. Short-term effect of G-400, polyherbal formulation in the management of hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia conditions in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Nutrition. 2014;30(10):1158-1164.
- Meiman J, Thiboldeaux R, Anderson H. Lead poisoning and anemia associated with use of Ayurvedic medications purchased on the Internet—Wisconsin, 2015. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 2015;64(32):883
- Sridharan K, Mohan R, Ramaratnam S, et al. Ayurvedic treatments for diabetes mellitus. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2011;(12):CD008288. Accessed at http://www.cochranelibrary.comLink to External Link Policy on June 23, 2016.
- Taylor RA, Leonard MC. Curcumin for inflammatory bowel disease: a review of human studies. Alternative Medicine Review. 2011;16(2):152-156.
- White B, Judkins DZ. Clinical inquiry. Does turmeric relieve inflammatory conditions? Journal of Family Practice. 2011;60(3):155-156.
Other References
- Darvesh AS, Aggarwal BB, Bishayee A. Curcumin and liver cancer: a review. Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. 2012;13(1):218-228.
- Patwardhan B. Bridging Ayurveda with evidence-based scientific approaches in medicine. EPMA Journal. 2014;5(1):19.
- Pinto B, Goyal P, Flora SJ, et al. Chronic arsenic poisoning following Ayurvedic medication. Journal of Medical Toxicology. 2014;10(4):395-398.
- Singh HK. Brain enhancing ingredients from Ayurvedic medicine: quintessential example of Bacopa monniera, a narrative review. Nutrients. 2013;5(2):478-497.
By being informed and cautious, you can explore the potential benefits of Ayurvedic medicine while ensuring your safety.
More Considerations for Ayurvedic Medicine Users
Ayurvedic medicine, while rooted in ancient wisdom, should be approached carefully in modern health care. As interest in natural remedies grows, understanding the scientific backing and safety considerations is essential for informed decision-making. Here are additional factors to keep in mind:
1. Lack of Regulation in the U.S.
Unlike conventional medicine, Ayurvedic practices and products are not tightly regulated in the United States. There are no uniform standards for Ayurvedic practitioners, and the U.S. does not require licensure for those practicing Ayurveda. As a result, the quality of care and products can vary widely. Consumers should be cautious and research the credentials of any practitioner they consult. Ensure that Ayurvedic products are sourced from reputable companies with transparent quality control processes.
2. Combining Ayurveda with Conventional Medicine
Many people who use Ayurvedic medicine combine it with conventional medical treatments. It’s important to share this information with all your health care providers to avoid potential interactions. For instance, certain herbs in Ayurvedic medicine may affect how medications are absorbed or metabolized by the body. This can lead to increased or decreased effectiveness of conventional treatments, which may result in unintended side effects.
3. Ayurvedic Diet and Lifestyle
Ayurvedic treatments often emphasize the role of diet and lifestyle in maintaining health and treating illness. These recommendations are typically tailored to an individual’s constitution or “dosha” (Vata, Pitta, or Kapha), which Ayurvedic practitioners believe governs physical and mental processes. While there is limited scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of dosha-based diets, some lifestyle recommendations—such as regular exercise, mindfulness practices like yoga, and eating a balanced diet—are widely recognized as beneficial to overall health.
4. Ayurvedic Herbs and Supplements
Many Ayurvedic formulations use a combination of herbs that are thought to work synergistically to promote healing. Common herbs in Ayurveda include ashwagandha (used for stress and energy), turmeric (for inflammation), and triphala (for digestion). While some of these herbs have shown promise in small studies, more research is needed to confirm their safety and efficacy.
Due to the potential for contamination, it’s crucial to ensure that Ayurvedic supplements are third-party tested for purity and safety. Look for certifications or approvals from organizations that assess the quality of dietary supplements.
5. Special Populations: Pregnancy and Nursing
If you are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant, you should be especially careful when using Ayurvedic products. Some herbs can have strong effects on the body and may pose risks to you or your baby. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new treatments, including natural or herbal remedies, during pregnancy.
6. Researching Ayurvedic Products and Practices
When considering Ayurvedic medicine, it is important to look for reliable sources of information. Some valuable resources include:
- PubMed: A database that contains publication information from scientific journals. It’s a helpful tool for finding studies on Ayurvedic medicine.
- Cochrane Library: A collection of systematic reviews that assess the effectiveness of health care interventions, including complementary medicine.
- RePORTER: A database that provides information on federally funded scientific and medical research projects, which can help you explore the latest research on Ayurvedic medicine.
7. Know the Risks of Heavy Metals
The presence of heavy metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic in some Ayurvedic formulations is a serious concern. These metals can accumulate in the body over time and lead to poisoning. Symptoms of heavy metal poisoning include fatigue, cognitive issues, headaches, and digestive problems. If you experience any unusual symptoms while using Ayurvedic products, stop use immediately and seek medical attention.
The risk of contamination is higher with products purchased online, especially from uncertified or non-reputable vendors. Ensure that Ayurvedic products are tested for heavy metals, and consider avoiding products that contain metals as part of the formulation unless prescribed and monitored by a qualified practitioner.
Conclusion
Ayurvedic medicine offers a wealth of knowledge on natural and holistic approaches to health. However, its use must be informed by caution, especially when it comes to product safety, potential heavy metal contamination, and the lack of stringent regulation. While some Ayurvedic practices and products show promise for managing conditions such as osteoarthritis and diabetes, more research is needed to validate their effectiveness and safety.
If you are considering Ayurvedic medicine, always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that it complements your overall health strategy and does not interfere with conventional treatments. By combining ancient wisdom with modern science, Ayurveda can potentially enhance health and well-being, but it’s essential to approach it with knowledge and care.
For further inquiries and trusted information, consult the resources provided by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) or other reputable health organizations.