Ayurveda vs Modern Medicine: Understanding Safety Standards and AYUSH Certifications
However, this controversy between Ayurveda and modern medicine appears to be a conflict between traditional wisdom and modern science. Yet, in terms of safety for patients, the more relevant issue would be: What kind of standards govern the medicine, how is it produced, what claims can be made on its behalf, and what is done regarding any adverse reactions?
The difference between the regulations in India that govern Ayurveda and modern medicine may be helpful in making decisions about healthcare.
How Ayurveda Medicines Are Regulated in India
Ayurvedic drugs come under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and its subsequent regulations. The regulatory system also consists of provisions regarding manufacturing, labeling, packing, government analysts, and drug inspectors.
Pharmacopoeial standards of Ayurvedic drugs have been formulated by the Ministry of Ayush. Such standards assist in setting up the guidelines for the identification, purity, and potency of the medicines.
The manufacturers should adhere to the prescribed Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). The government has also been supportive in the form of drug testing laboratories.
What Does AYUSH Certification Actually Mean?
Misconception one relates to the use of the term “AYUSH certified.” The public should not immediately take it for granted that all the products that are labeled as AYUSH-certified have necessarily been licensed or certified by the Ministry of Ayush.
This Ministry has specifically warned manufacturers that the inclusion of the statement “Approved/Certified by Ministry of Ayush” on a product’s label or advertisement may lead to legal proceedings. On the other hand, the Ministry of Ayush offers the voluntary certification schemes of Ayush Standard Mark and Ayush Premium Mark, through the Quality Council of India. This is different from an approval of the medicinal efficacy of the product by the government.
The consumers need to look at the certificate, the manufacturer’s information, ingredient information and the batch information on the label.
Ayurveda vs Modern Medicine: What Is the Safety Difference?
The regulation of modern medicines follows a framework of authorities such as the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). This is especially true for newer drugs and regulatory requirements in regard to clinical trials. CDSCO says that the new drug framework adopted by it caters to safety, efficacy and quality criteria.
Ayurvedic medicines have their own framework of regulations as per the framework of traditional medicine. This doesn’t mean that natural medicine is always safe; similarly, modern medicines do not imply that they are without risks.
Herbal and Ayurvedic medicines may cause side effects, interaction and quality-related issues. For this reason, Ministry of Ayush has launched a pharmacovigilance programme for Adverse Effects Monitoring of Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Homoeopathy medicines.
What Should Consumers Check Before Buying?
The safest approach is to look beyond the word Ayurvedic or the presence of an AYUSH-related logo.
Verify that the product is manufactured by a reputable source and has proper labeling that includes ingredient and dosage information, along with claims that are consistent with relevant regulations. One should be wary especially of products which claim guaranteed cures or fast-acting remedies for severe health problems.
Above all, Ayurvedic medicine must never be used as a substitute for proper medical care in cases where it is needed. Individuals who are on multiple drugs should always consult their doctor regarding any Ayurvedic medications.
The Real Question Is Quality, Evidence and Safe Use
The discussion on Ayurveda versus conventional medicine is further meaningful only if it shifts from “traditional versus modern” to evidence, regulations, and quality and safety of the products involved.
Both the systems require a sense of responsibility in their application. Certification may offer certain details about the production or quality control process, however, consumers must know what exactly such a certification means and does not mean.
For the patients, the optimal strategy will be an informed decision: verify the product, know its purpose, ignore inflated promises and consult a qualified physician while dealing with serious diseases.
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