Does Ayurveda has side effects

The ancient practice of Ayurvedic medicine has clearly helped millions of people create healthier lives. However, like any other medical system, Ayurvedic therapies have contraindications and the potential for adverse effects or side effects. This is of particular concern when therapies are used incorrectly, are abused or administered improperly, or are prescribed by unqualified practitioners.

Thus, consumers must take responsibility when seeking Ayurvedic therapies. It is imperative to check all practitioners’ credentials, training, and experience.

Consumers must also communicate, both with their conventional and Ayurvedic practitioners. Patients must practice full disclosure about the therapies they are using, and the effects they are experiencing, to avoid potentially dangerous herbal or other therapeutic interactions.

Because many Ayurvedic therapies involve herbal elements, it is important to note that the United States Food and Drug Administration does not regulate herbs or dietary supplements. The International Society for Ayurveda and Health (ISAH), a professional society of Ayurveda in the United States, recommends Ayurvedic therapeutic herbal use only when prescribed and properly supervised by a trained practitioner.

Some frequently asked questions about Ayurveda’s safety include:

Is there good scientific research around Ayurvedic medicine?

Many Ayurvedic adherents argue that the system’s incredible longevity offers a powerful argument for its success and safety. However, most of the information regarding Ayurveda’s efficacy has been passed from teacher to student. In addition to this “oral history, ” the ancient books Charak Samhita and Sushruta Samhita contain observational documentations about the system’s effectiveness.

Although there is not a large body of clinical research on Ayurveda, many of the system’s principles and practices are now recognized and used in conventional medical settings. For example, the Ayurvedic tenant of the psychological and physical impact humans experience during the changing of seasons is borne out in research on SAD (seasonal affective disorder).

There is also medical and layperson acknowledgement of the health benefits of Ayurvedic practices, such as yoga, massage, and meditation. Herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine, such as tumeric, ginger, and neem, are now recognized as beneficial for heart health and as antioxidant-boosters. See the References and Further Reading section below for examples of research studies that are beginning to emerge on the use of specific Ayurvedic herbs.

Western knowledge of Ayurveda is still in its infancy, thus skepticism exists. As the use of Ayurvedic medicine grows, and as more practitioners share their knowledge with other healthcare providers, this wariness of Ayurveda may transform into appreciation and knowledge of the system.