Medical pluralism in india and ayush: a review
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Medical pluralism in india and ayush: a review
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Original source:
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Avanee Khatri*
ICSSR Post-doctoral fellow, Department of Anthropology, Panjab University, Chandigarh
A.K. Sinha
Professor, Department of Anthropology, Panjab University, Chandigarh
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Medical pluralism in india and ayush: a review
Year: 2018
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The healthcare system in India reflects a complex interplay of various medical traditions, prominently featuring allopathic medicine alongside Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicine (TCAM) systems, collectively referred to as AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homeopathy). Since India's independence, the preference has largely been for allopathic medicine, guided by policymakers who sought to create a structured health framework. However, recent efforts aim to integrate different medical systems, recognizing the potential of traditional practices in promoting Universal Health Coverage. The paper explores the evolution of medical pluralism in India, the unique characteristics of these medical systems, and how they can work together for better health outcomes.
Medical Pluralism and AYUSH Integration
Medical pluralism in India is characterized by an array of healing practices that coexist within the public health landscape. The AYUSH systems, entrenched in the country’s heritage, offer vital healthcare services, particularly in rural areas where access to modern medical facilities is limited. Despite historical neglect, there is a growing acknowledgment of the role that non-mainstream practitioners play in making healthcare accessible and affordable. Evolution towards an integrated model under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) demonstrates policymakers' efforts to incorporate AYUSH practitioners into the mainstream healthcare structure while also promoting their unique contributions to health management, especially preventive and rehabilitative care.
Challenges and the Role of Folk Healing Practices
The integration of AYUSH into the healthcare system faces significant challenges, including a lack of standardized training, underutilization of resources, and barriers to collaborative practice with allopathic providers. Additionally, traditional folk healing practices offer essential healthcare services to many communities, often providing remedies that are more culturally accepted and accessible than modern medicine. However, factors such as colonial history, urbanization, and the impact of modern medical practices have led to a decline in these indigenous practices. Reviving these systems while addressing healthcare needs through an integrated approach can enhance the overall health landscape in India.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the path towards a pluralistic healthcare system in India necessitates a commitment to integrating traditional medicinal systems with modern medical practices while honoring their unique contributions. Medical pluralism presents both opportunities and challenges, underscoring the need for innovative policy frameworks that bridge gaps between different healthcare modalities. The revitalization of AYUSH systems, alongside folk healing traditions, can foster a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system that meets the diverse needs of the Indian population, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and the preservation of rich medical knowledge.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What does AYUSH stand for in the Indian healthcare system?
AYUSH stands for Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. It represents traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine systems in India, aiming to integrate these with allopathic practices for comprehensive healthcare.
How does medical pluralism manifest in India's healthcare?
Medical pluralism in India is evident through the coexistence of various medical systems, including allopathy and traditional practices. Patients often choose therapies from multiple systems to meet their diverse health needs, reflecting a complex and inclusive healthcare landscape.
What are the challenges faced by AYUSH practitioners in India?
AYUSH practitioners face challenges like inadequate infrastructure, support, and low compensation compared to allopathic doctors. Additionally, systemic neglect and legal restrictions hinder their integration into the mainstream healthcare framework, limiting their effectiveness and recognition.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Medical pluralism in india and ayush: a review�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Ayus (Ayush):
[see source text or glossary: Ayus]
2) Medicine:
In the context of the provided text, medicine refers to both modern, allopathic practices and various traditional systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and others categorized under AYUSH. These forms of medicine coexist and are being integrated to form a more comprehensive healthcare system in India.
3) India:
India is the country where medical pluralism is prominently observed, involving diverse medical systems like allopathy and AYUSH. The nation strives to integrate traditional forms of medicine with modern healthcare practices to provide a broad spectrum of treatment options to its populace.
4) Knowledge:
Knowledge in this context refers to the medical wisdom and practices derived from both indigenous traditions and introduced forms of healthcare. It also encompasses the information and methodologies passed down through generations in AYUSH systems, contributing significantly to India's healthcare landscape.
5) Indian:
Indian pertains to anything relating to India, including its rich heritage of medical pluralism which integrates traditional practices like Ayurveda and Siddha with modern medicine under the scope of AYUSH to enhance the nation’s healthcare system.
6) Disease:
Disease in the text refers to health conditions that are treated using a combination of allopathic medicine and AYUSH systems. Efforts are made to handle diseases through a collaborative approach integrating modern and traditional healthcare methods to improve accessibility and effectiveness.
7) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is one of the principal traditional medical systems integrated under AYUSH in India. It focuses on holistic health and well-being through natural remedies, dietary practices, and lifestyle interventions, contributing to the country's diverse medical framework.
8) Siddha:
Siddha is an ancient system of medicine originating in South India and is included under the AYUSH framework. It uses medicinal herbs, metals, and minerals to treat various diseases and is considered part of India’s efforts to offer a comprehensive healthcare system.
9) Yoga:
Yoga, a component of AYUSH, encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual practices aimed at improving health and well-being. It is recognized as a therapeutic approach that complements conventional medical treatments within the Indian healthcare system.
10) Education:
Education in the context of AYUSH involves the training and qualification of practitioners in traditional medical systems like Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Yoga. Strategies include support for AYUSH education to ensure these systems are effectively integrated into India’s healthcare initiatives.
11) Family:
[see source text or glossary: Family]
12) New Delhi:
[see source text or glossary: New Delhi]
13) Khatri:
Khatri refers to Dr. Avanee Khatri, an ICSSR Post-doctoral fellow who co-authored the review on medical pluralism in India and AYUSH, highlighting the developments and challenges in integrating traditional medical systems with mainstream healthcare.
14) Delhi:
[see source text or glossary: Delhi]
15) Simha:
Sinha refers to A.K. Sinha, a professor in the Department of Anthropology at Panjab University, Chandigarh, and co-author of the review paper on medical pluralism and AYUSH. His work contributes to the understanding and implementation of integrative healthcare in India.
16) Drug:
Drug in this context includes both modern pharmaceuticals and traditional remedies used in AYUSH systems. The integration efforts focus on standardizing and regulating these drugs to ensure safety, efficacy, and accessibility within the healthcare system.
17) Science (Scientific):
Scientific validation is crucial for AYUSH practices to gain wider acceptance and integration into mainstream healthcare. The paper discusses the need for scientific research and evidence-based approaches to elevate the status of traditional medicine alongside biomedicine.
18) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is a state in India where studies have highlighted the community role of traditional healers and the integration challenges of AYUSH within local healthcare systems. It represents a microcosm of how traditional practices are utilized and regulated at the state level.
19) Discussion:
Discussion in the text refers to the analysis and evaluation of the integration of AYUSH systems into India's healthcare framework. It includes examining the benefits, challenges, and outcomes of medical pluralism and its role in achieving Universal Health Coverage.
20) Village:
Village settings often lack access to modern medical facilities, making AYUSH practices crucial for primary healthcare. Traditional healers in villages use locally available medicinal plants to treat common ailments, highlighting the importance of these practices in rural healthcare.
21) Mineral:
Mineral use in AYUSH systems like Ayurveda and Siddha involves therapeutic practices that utilize various minerals for their medicinal properties. These form a vital part of traditional treatments and are regulated to ensure safety and efficacy within integrated healthcare.
22) Kerala:
Kerala, a state in India, has a distinct approach to AYUSH integration with standalone facilities rather than co-located health centers. This unique model illustrates the state's commitment to preserving traditional medical practices while integrating them within the broader healthcare system.
23) Andhra (Amdhra):
[see source text or glossary: Andhra]
24) Priya:
Priya refers to R. Priya, an author of studies evaluating the role and status of AYUSH and local health traditions under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM). Her work provides insights into the challenges and prospects of integrating traditional medicine into public health.
25) Kumar:
Kumar is mentioned in the context of authors and practitioners who have researched or contributed to the understanding of medical pluralism and AYUSH integration in India. Their work supports policy formulation and implementation strategies to enhance healthcare outcomes.
26) Birth:
Traditional birth attendants, part of local health traditions recognized within the AYUSH framework, provide essential maternal and child healthcare services. Their integration into the formal healthcare system ensures culturally sensitive and accessible care, especially in rural areas.
27) Southern India:
Southern India, particularly states like Kerala and Andhra Pradesh, has a rich tradition of Ayurveda and Siddha. Integration efforts focus on incorporating these systems into mainstream healthcare to provide comprehensive and culturally relevant medical services.
28) Mental health:
Mental health is addressed within AYUSH systems through therapies like Yoga and meditation, which are known for their stress management and psychological benefits. These approaches complement conventional mental health treatments, contributing to a holistic view of healthcare.
29) Common People (Common Folk):
Common people's reliance on AYUSH systems, especially in rural areas, underscores the importance of integrating traditional medicine with mainstream healthcare. Their usage of local health traditions points to the need for policies that recognize and support these practices.
30) Perception:
Perception of AYUSH practices by both practitioners and patients influences their acceptance and integration into the healthcare system. Understanding these perceptions helps in formulating strategies that promote the benefits and address the barriers of traditional medicine.
31) Gurukula (Guru-kula):
The traditional Gurukula system of education, which involved close, personal learning from a teacher, is an integral part of how knowledge in systems like Ayurveda was historically transmitted. This organic link to the community has eroded over time, impacting traditional practice.
32) Lakshmi (Laksmi):
[see source text or glossary: Lakshmi]
33) Citizen:
The healthcare choices of citizens often involve a pluralistic approach, utilizing both allopathic and AYUSH systems. Understanding these choices is vital for integrating traditional medicine into a comprehensive healthcare strategy that meets the diverse needs of the population.
34) Mysore:
Mysore, a city in South India, is noted for its Ayurvedic practices. Studies about Mysore highlight how traditional medicine is perceived and integrated with biomedicine, offering insights into the broader efforts of medical pluralism in the region.
35) Wisdom:
Wisdom in the context of AYUSH refers to the traditional knowledge accumulated over centuries in systems like Ayurveda and Siddha. This wisdom, combined with modern science, creates a robust foundation for promoting health and treating diseases within an integrative framework.
36) Nature:
In AYUSH systems, treatments are often derived from nature, including medicinal plants, herbs, and minerals. This natural approach to healthcare is central to traditional practices and complements synthetic drugs used in allopathy, supporting a holistic view of health.
37) Fever:
[see source text or glossary: Fever]
38) Death:
Death, within the context of traditional medicine, often involves different explanatory models and treatments compared to modern biomedicine. The understanding and prevention of death through these practices highlight the diversity and depth of traditional medical knowledge.
39) Ravi (Ravin):
Ravi refers to Ravi Narayan, an author who has discussed medical pluralism and the critical attention needed to integrate traditional and modern medical systems. His work underscores the importance of recognizing and formalizing local health traditions and practices.
40) Asha (Asa):
ASHAs (Accredited Social Health Activists) in India often utilize knowledge of local medicinal plants and home remedies. Their role is critical in bridging traditional practices with formal healthcare, especially in rural settings where AYUSH systems are prevalent.
41) Food:
[see source text or glossary: Food]
42) Sage:
[see source text or glossary: Sage]
43) Fear:
Fear relates to concerns about the integration of AYUSH practitioners into mainstream healthcare, such as ethical dilemmas and inadequate support. Addressing these fears is essential for the successful integration and acceptance of traditional medical systems within the healthcare framework.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Medical pluralism in india and ayush: a review�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Ayus, Medicinal plant, Allopathic medicine, Medical Pluralism, Cost-effective treatment, Universal Health Coverage, Folk healing practices, Bio Medicine, Integrative healthcare, Indigenous health systems, National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), Trans-disciplinary research.