0.1 CME

AYUSH: Present Healthcare Perspective

Speaker: Dr. Prof. Dr. B. D. PATEL​

Former Principal, Govt. Homeopathic Medical College & Hospital, Bangalore & Chandigarh

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Description

Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy systems of medicine are collectively referred to as AYUSH. Drug therapies are crucial to the prevention and treatment of disease in modern healthcare systems. In comparison to synthetic chemicals, these medications contain natural molecules that are better absorbed and utilized by the human body and generate effects without causing negative drug reactions. Understanding that the 21st century is known as the "Century of Natural Drug Molecules." The AYUSH system has a long history. But as other medical systems have gained confidence over the years, so has it. There is a wealth of scientific evidence that supports the idea that no one medical system can adequately provide all of the needs for healthcare. When used in conjunction, they can be more effectively applied, allowing patients to receive comfort and treatment and paving the road for improved health. They can't be seen as rivals because they are supportive of one another. Recent trends demonstrate that several nations have already incorporated AYUSH into their national health systems. It will soon have a lot more to give in order to achieve full wellness.

Summary Listen

  • **Scope of AYUSH and Government Initiatives:**
  • The present government encourages AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) and has established a separate ministry for its promotion. The Ministry of AYUSH has signed MOUs with 18 countries for cooperation in traditional medicine, 19 MOUs for research and academic collaboration, and 30 MOUs for setting up AYUSH academic chairs in foreign countries. The government is promoting AYUSH systems both in India and abroad.
  • **Advantages of AYUSH Systems:**
  • AYUSH offers safe treatment options with fewer side effects and can help avoid surgery in certain cases. Many patients who are reluctant to undergo modern medicine surgeries are finding relief with AYUSH treatments. These systems also help build immunity and are often more affordable than conventional treatments.
  • **Homeopathy as a Career:**
  • Despite the perception of AYUSH, particularly homeopathy, being easy, the education and practice are challenging. A deep understanding of various parameters, gained through experience and patient handling, is crucial. It involves more subjects than some other medical systems, highlighting the difficulty of becoming a skilled practitioner.
  • **Qualities of a Healthy Person (According to Ayurveda):**
  • Ayurveda emphasizes a holistic view of health, characterized by regular bowel movements, smooth skin, an energetic feeling, a good appetite, sound sleep, and a lack of body pain or discomfort. A healthy individual is always present, happy, and doesn't frown excessively.
  • **Global Status of Homeopathy:**
  • Homeopathy is the second most common form of alternative medicine globally and the most common in higher-income countries and the Americas. Its popularity is driven by its low cost, minimal side effects, and perceived effectiveness. India is considered a superpower in homeopathy, although its origins are in Germany.
  • **Homeopathy's Role in COVID-19 and Beyond:**
  • Homeopathy played a role in fighting COVID-19, increasing its popularity, with Arsenicum album widely used preventatively. Homeopathy is also used to treat psychiatric conditions like anxiety and depression.
  • **Examples of Success with AYUSH (Homeopathy):**
  • The presentation includes anecdotal evidence of homeopathy's effectiveness in treating various conditions, including speech loss after accidents, acne vulgaris, tuberculosis, fistula, nasal polyps, eczema, and ingrown toenails. These examples serve as evidence for the benefits and potential of AYUSH.
  • **Career Opportunities and Specializations:**
  • Numerous career opportunities exist for BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery) graduates in central, state, and local government bodies, teaching institutions, hospitals, research organizations, and the pharmaceutical industry. MD and PhD programs are available, offering specializations in areas such as Repertory, Pharmacy, Practice of Medicine, and Psychiatry. AYUSH practitioners can also specialize in particular fields like orthopedics or hair treatment.
  • **Busting Myths about Homeopathy:**
  • The presentation aims to dispel common myths about homeopathy, such as the notion that it can be self-taught, that it involves strict dietary restrictions, and that it causes initial aggravation of symptoms. The speaker emphasizes that homeopathy should be practiced by qualified professionals and that its medicines do not contain steroids.
  • **Mantras for Success in Any System of Medicine:**
  • Key principles for a successful career in any medical system include specializing in one system, avoiding criticism of other doctors or systems, not promising to cure all diseases, advising necessary investigations only, being empathetic to patients, providing service as a professional (with money not being the sole aim), and educating the public about the specialized system. The concept of “take what’s useful and leave the rest” is emphasized.

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