Ayurveda Is Untested And Potentially Dangerous

Why Is Ayurveda Taught In Universities?

It is a fact that Ayurveda is continued to be taught in over 200 universities around the world, however a deeper look needs to be taken as to the laws that govern its existence.

In India, the country of its origins, a concerted effort is being undertaken to protect what the nation sees as "intellectual property". The government wants to make sure that it has ownership on any patents, usage of terminology and most importantly tourism that is borne out of Ayurveda.

There is nothing wrong with that. It is, after all, a part of the history of a nation and should be taught to help understand how modern medicine has evolved, taking aspects from ancient systems from all over the world. It should not, however, be allowed to function as an alternative system of medicine. That is dangerous, foolhardy and in fact downright devious.

The government of India has exempted Ayurvedic preparations from being subjected to safety and efficacy studies. This is preposterous. The tenets for belief in Ayurvedic principles seem to be based on spirituality and faith rather than any rational thought.

This is extremely convenient. How can you argue with something that portrays itself to be above the rules or beyond the understanding of science? Should the fact that it has existed for thousands of years be proof enough that Ayurveda works?

Ayurveda should be continued to taught in universities but only as a part of history and culture. Not as medicine.

Toxic Metals   

Ayurvedic medicines are sold all over the world without being subjected to any sorts of tests or efficacy. The most that they are tested for is the presence of hazardous materials that may cause long term damage and irreparable harm.

Studies conducted in 1991 in India found that over half the medicines sold contained Arsenic, Mercury or Lead. High levels of these same toxic metals were found in Ayurvedic medicines being sold in the United States in 2004. Over 40 percent of medicines purchased at random from the internet from suppliers based in India and USA were found to have high levels of toxic elements. This study was conducted in 2011. The use of toxic metals is described in ancient texts as something to enrich the herbal concoctions.

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Conclusion

There is nothing more dangerous than blind faith. It is astounding that people continue to believe in knowledge that only the "ancients" possessed. This belief is found in people all over the world and through all levels of society. Science and its principles have been responsible for every major breakthrough, convenience and advancement our world has seen. Have faith in that instead. Trust science to help you decide and make the right decisions.