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Bust Your Common Ayurveda Myths

Bust Your Common Ayurveda Myths

Today, many people have moved towards embracing a holistic and natural lifestyle. However, Ayurveda has always been shrouded in misconceptions and myths. These are mainly because of a lack of awareness and proper knowledge regarding this science. This post aims to bust your common ayurveda myths and highlight the true facts related to Ayurvedic treatments. 

Let us look at the biggest myths which have affected the spread of Ayurveda amongst the masses.

Myth 1: Ayurvedic medicines are not clinically tested. It is a pseudoscience which is based on tradition

Fact: 

Ayurveda has been practised for more than 5000 years, and it is still practised today due to its efficacy. If it was not efficient, it would not have lasted until now. The ancient Indians carried out research and clinical trials using Ayurvedic remedies. 

Bust Your Common Ayurveda Myths

They diagnosed all diseases and all the facts related to herbs, foods and minerals were well-documented. Surgery was also practised. Furthermore, there are many references which state that these people held Ancient Ayurvedic Conferences, where all the experts exchanged knowledge based on opinions, facts and discussions.

However, with an increase in the popularity of the modern medicine system, Ayurveda began declining during 1200 CE-1800 CE because of the invasion of the Afghans and British. Nevertheless, because of the increase in spirituality, healthy eating and holistic lifestyle, there has been an increase in the popularity of Ayurveda, worldwide.

Ayurvedic medicines are also tested similar to modern medicines. The Ayurvedic drugs are regulated by the Drug and Cosmetic Act (1940) and are based on the mandatory pharmacopoeia standards, like the Good Manufacturing Practices and Standard Operating Procedures. 

To avoid any complications, ALWAYS buy all medicines from a reliable source after consulting a registered Ayurvedic practitioner.

Myth 2: Ayurvedic treatments take a long time

Fact: 

People who seek Ayurvedic treatments have tried all the various treatment systems and did not achieve a desirable result, before turning to Ayurveda. However, if you go to an Ayurvedic practitioner when the disease has advanced significantly, then definitely the cure requires a long time. 
Bust Your Common Ayurveda Myths

Also, the modern medicine system offers a symptomatic treatment, however, Ayurveda aims to uproot the complete disease, which can be time-consuming. 

Furthermore, the amount of time needed for curing a disease depends on how soon the issue is detected, the severity of the problem, the receptiveness of the body to the prescribed medicine and the dedication shown by the patient in following the prescribed routine. 

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Myth 3: Ayurveda is purely vegan and only consists of spicy or Indian foods

Fact: 

Though many people believe that Ayurveda is synonymous with a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, it is not true. A detailed description of milk, meat and eggs has been given in the different Ayurvedic texts.

For instance, a meat-based soup is strongly prescribed for treating people for emaciation. Also, Bone broth has been used for thousands of years to build bone tissue in those suffering from fractures, dislocation of joints, etc. Additionally, Ghee (clarified butter) is extensively used in the various Ayurvedic dietary and treatment protocols. 

Many types of meat, fish and eggs have been prescribed due to their desirable food properties. In fact, you can cater any type of diet like keto, paleo, vegan, pescatarian towards your dosha type. 

Bust Your Common Ayurveda Myths

Ayurveda is NOT restricted to only Indian food. The Ayurvedic practitioners personalise your treatment strategy based on your lifestyle, dietary preferences and daily routine. 

Myth 4: Ayurveda has no side effects

Fact: 

Any food that we eat in an improper manner can cause diseases. If there is an effect, there is bound to be an after-effect. A lot of the side effects seen with Ayurveda are because of self-diagnosis and treatments by untrained individuals. 

For instance, if you eat an improperly cooked meal, you will suffer from stomach ache. Here the food is not to be blamed, but the cooking technique. Similarly, if you pick up any Ayurvedic drug by reading on the internet or start any dietary regimen without understanding your body or the necessary effects, you need to be prepared to be surprised. 

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Myth 5: You need to follow strict dietary restrictions during an Ayurvedic treatment

Fact: 

All forms of medical systems recommend a few dietary restrictions during the course of the treatment. Even modern medicine systems have recognised the importance of dietary restrictions before treating certain diseases. Ayurveda is no different. 

The Ayurvedic doctors ask you to refrain from eating certain foods which aggravate your condition and cause health disturbances. A restricted diet is not always salt, sugar or condiment-free. It is generally acceptable, palatable, and nourishing to the body while serving the actual purpose of being a dietary regimen.

For instance, you are advised to restrict salt intake if you are suffering from high blood pressure, renal disorders, or gout; while sugar intake is restricted in diabetes. These restrictions are advised in the modern and Ayurvedic medicine systems, alike.


Myth 6: Ayurveda only prescribes Herbal Medicines, massage or Home remedies

Fact: 

It is a myth that Ayurveda only prescribes herbs, massages or home remedies for treating any problem. However, herbs are a major component of all Ayurvedic medicines. Ayurveda makes use of diet, lifestyle, minerals along with surgical practices for treating diseases, based on the condition and constitution of a person.

An Ayurvedic massage makes use of herbal extracts, aromatic compounds and medicines for treating your health problems. These medicinal oils are able to soothe your mind and relax your body. Additionally, they detoxify your cells and eliminate the accumulate ama (toxins) through your skin.


It is also wrong to assume that Ayurveda only includes home remedies. If only home remedies would work against a specific ailment, you would not need to visit any doctor. Home remedies offer temporary relief to your problem, however, if your problem persists or recurs, you need to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner. 

Myth 7: Ayurvedic Medicines Do not have an expiry date

Fact: 

It is wrong to assume that Ayurvedic medicines have no expiry date. These medicines are generally made using herbs, which tend to lose their medicinal qualities over a long period of time. 

The expiry date of the Ayurvedic medicines is based on the following factors:
  • Use of wet or dry herbs 
  • Presence of antioxidating compounds while preparing Ayurvedic medicines
  • Dosage and Quality of the herbs
Generally, the expiry date of the Ayurvedic herbs ranges between 2-5 years of their manufacturing. For instance, the Ayurvedic churna or tablets need to be consumed within 2 years, while herbal salts can be used till 5 years. 

The list of myths is never-ending. This post aims to debunk some of the wrong notions and bust your common ayurveda myths. People have developed erroneous notions, framed their own opinion, formed misconceptions about Ayurveda and have lost all confidence in the effectiveness of this treatment system.

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