Glossary term · Wellness
Ayurveda (also: Ayurvedic medicine): Ayurveda is India’s traditional medical system using diet, lifestyle, herbal preparations and therapies, recognised and overseen by the Government of India’s Ministry of Ayush.
Ayurveda is India’s traditional system of medicine. It uses diet, lifestyle, herbal preparations and therapies such as Panchakarma. It is one of the Ayush systems overseen by India’s Ministry of Ayush. IndiaMedica treats Ayurveda as supportive wellness care. It is not a replacement for treatment your doctors recommend.
What does Ayurvedic care involve?
The US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health calls Ayurveda one of the world’s oldest medical systems, based on ancient writings. It takes a holistic approach to physical and mental health. Treatment combines products with diet, exercise and lifestyle advice. The products are mainly plant-based but may include animal, metal and mineral ingredients.
The National Institute of Ayurveda describes two broad approaches: purification (Samshodhana) and palliative care (Samshamana). Panchakarma is the main purification therapy.
What safety points should you know?
- NCCIH warns that some Ayurvedic preparations may contain lead, mercury or arsenic in amounts that can be toxic.
- Tell all your doctors about any Ayurvedic products or therapies you use, so your care stays coordinated.
- Do not stop prescribed medicines without speaking to the doctor who prescribed them.
- Ask what each product contains and keep the labels.
How can international visitors access Ayurveda in India?
India introduced a separate Ayush visa on 27 July 2023 for foreigners seeking treatment under Ayush systems, including therapeutic care, wellness and yoga. PIB says treatment should be at a hospital or wellness centre accredited and registered with a government authority. NABH is one of the named accrediting bodies.
Our approach
Ayurveda can support wellbeing alongside conventional care. It is never offered by IndiaMedica as a substitute for medical treatment.
Questions people ask
Can I combine Ayurveda with surgery in India?
Some patients add a wellness programme before or after a medical trip. Your surgeon must agree first, because some herbal products can interact with anaesthesia, blood thinners or other medicines. Share a full list of products with every doctor treating you.
Do I need a special visa for an Ayurveda programme?
Foreigners whose sole purpose is treatment under Ayush systems can use the Ayush visa, available in regular and e-visa forms with attendant categories. Check current rules on the official Indian visa portal before you apply.
Sources
- NCCIH: Ayurvedic Medicine: In Depth
- PIB: Ayush Visa for foreigners (Dec 2024)
- National Institute of Ayurveda: Panchakarma department
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. How we write and check.