Thiruvananthapuram: Today is World Ayurveda Day. The day celebrates Ayurveda’s ancient wisdom and its growing role in modern healthcare. Dr Raji R Nair, Medical Officer at the Government Ayurveda Hospital in Neyyattinkara at Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram, spoke to Mathrubhumi about Ayurveda’s relevance today. She uncovers the deeper significance of World Ayurveda Day, dispels common myths surrounding Ayurvedic treatment, and explains how Ayurveda’s natural therapies can harmonise with Western medicine to enhance overall wellness.

What is the purpose of World Ayurveda Day, and what does this year’s theme represent?

World Ayurveda Day is celebrated on Dhanvantari Jayanti to honour Lord Dhanvantari, the Hindu god associated with medicine and healing. This year marks the ninth observance since the inception of World Ayurveda Day in 2016. Each year has a specific theme, and the 2024 theme is ‘Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health’. 

This theme highlights the relevance of Ayurveda in addressing global health challenges and emphasises the role of innovation in bringing ancient Ayurvedic wisdom into modern medical practice. Our aim is to bridge traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern research, making Ayurveda accessible and relatable to a broader, global audience.

We are leveraging social media to increase public awareness and are also supporting startups in the Ayurvedic space. Many of these initiatives are youth-led, which helps in bringing fresh perspectives and presenting Ayurveda as a viable treatment option for a younger, global audience.

What are some common myths about Ayurveda, and how can these be addressed?

There are several misconceptions about Ayurveda. One widespread myth is that Ayurveda is mainly for older people. In reality, Ayurveda offers health benefits for people of all ages. Another misconception is that Ayurvedic treatment is limited to kashayams (kadha) and arishtams (concoctions) or that applying oil alone can resolve any health issue, which are all false.

Another misbelief is that Ayurvedic medicine has no side effects, which leads some individuals to self-medicate without medical assistance. While Ayurveda generally promotes balance and wellness, its treatments -- like any form of medication -- require proper dosing and should be consumed that is prescribed by the doctor. It’s also essential to rely on advice from credible sources rather than self-diagnosing or following information from YouTube or other unverified online platforms.

We are committed to changing these perceptions and promoting Ayurveda as more than just a treatment option -- it's a holistic approach to wellness. To dispel these myths and raise awareness, we have organised outreach programs. Last year, for instance, we invited a group of students to our facility. During their visit, they saw firsthand the diverse treatments available, including various medicines beyond the commonly known kashayams. We plan to expand these efforts to make Ayurveda more accessible to all.

How is Ayurveda addressing the rise in non-communicable diseases in Kerala?

Kerala has a high rate of non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cholesterol. To address this, we’ve established clinics that screen and monitor patients for early intervention. For example, if a patient is identified as pre-diabetic, we recommend tailored preventive measures and track their progress to prevent the development of full-blown diabetes. Similarly, if a patient is diabetic, we recommend a treatment plan and track their progress, ensuring that the condition doesn’t worsen.

Our efforts include awareness campaigns, such as the “I Support Ayurveda” initiative, to promote Ayurveda’s role in managing lifestyle-related health issues. We are also running specific programs focused on women’s and children’s health. For instance, we visit anganwadis (childcare centres) to assess children’s growth and development, providing additional support when needed. ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) workers are also trained to inform local communities about Ayurveda’s preventive and therapeutic options, including postnatal care, which helps spread awareness more effectively.

Can Ayurveda be safely combined with Western medicine, and what should patients know about this approach?

Yes, Ayurveda can work well alongside Western medicine, especially in palliative care, where the focus is on alleviating pain and other symptoms of serious illness. We guide patients to understand that combining Ayurvedic and allopathic approaches can be safe and beneficial. For example, Ayurvedic treatments like external applications for skin conditions are effective without interfering with Western medications, and many patients experience significant relief with this approach.

At our outpatient palliative care clinic, we focus on treating chronic pain, constipation, and many more through Ayurvedic treatments. We monitor each patient closely, initially starting with small doses and gradually adjusting as needed. This individualised approach has led to positive outcomes, and patients now have more confidence in our treatment methods.

What community health initiatives does your Ayurveda Hospital participate in?

Our hospital conducts various community health initiatives to address the health concerns of local workers. For example, there are several handlooms in Thiruvananthapuram, and many weavers experience joint and muscle strain, varicose veins, and eye issues from long hours of work. In response, we offer support and teach them exercises tailored to alleviate these specific health issues.

We have also conducted health camps specifically for the KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) bus drivers and conductors. Many of the drivers and conductors face conditions like back pain, sleep disturbances, and several other problems due to prolonged sitting or standing. In these camps, specialists provide practical advice and treatments tailored to their needs. We have successfully conducted one camp at our nearby KSRTC depot, and two more camps are to be conducted shortly.

Eye doctors, orthopedicists, and skin experts are available to offer support. Additionally, we provide diet counselling to promote preventive health practices rather than just treating existing conditions.

How is research helping to spread awareness of Ayurveda’s benefits?

Research is a crucial aspect of raising awareness and credibility for Ayurveda. By conducting and publishing research studies, we can demonstrate Ayurveda’s effectiveness in a way that is scientifically validated, which encourages more people to consider it as a treatment option.

Treatments are tailored according to each person’s unique 'prakruthi' and 'dosha', rather than applying a one-size-fits-all solution. We assess each patient’s case history and predominant dosha before creating a personalised treatment plan, ensuring the most appropriate care for their specific needs.

In Ayurveda, the same treatment may not work the same way for two different individuals. The treatment's effectiveness depends on various factors, including a person’s constitution and dosha imbalances. This personalised approach is one of Ayurveda’s strengths, allowing us to address health issues at their root rather than merely alleviating symptoms.