HOLISTIC HEALING AND UNDERSTANDING THE AYUSH SYSTEM FOR FIRST-YEAR MBBS STUDENTS
Keywords:
AYUSH, Integrative Medicine, Holistic Healing, Traditional Medicine, MBBS Curriculum, Ayurveda, Yoga, Evidence-Based MedicineAbstract
The National Medical Commission has mandated the inclusion of AYUSH systems in the foundational curriculum for Indian medical graduates, reflecting a paradigm shift toward integrative healthcare. This initiative aims to broaden the perspectives of future physicians beyond conventional allopathic practices. Objective: This paper aims to raise awareness among first-year MBBS students about the principles, scope, and growing integration of AYUSH systems (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homoeopathy) with modern medicine, enabling informed patient communication and collaborative care. Methods: The article synthesises information from official government publications, curriculum documents, research council reports, institutional models of integration (notably AIIMS Rishikesh), and global health data to present a comprehensive overview of AYUSH systems and their evidence base. Key Findings: AYUSH systems operate on holistic principles, including individualised treatment based on constitutional assessment (Prakriti/Mizaj), prevention and health promotion, mind-body-spirit connection, and natural therapeutics. Significant policy initiatives including the National Health Mission, National Ayush Mission, and Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have mainstreamed AYUSH through co-location in over 11,000 healthcare facilities. The establishment of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar and the Department of AYUSH and Integrative Medicine at AIIMS Rishikesh exemplify integration efforts. Collaborative research with premier institutions (AIIMS, NIMHANS, IITs, ICMR) is generating evidence for conditions including diabetes, arthritis, fistula-in-ano, and mental health disorders. AYUSH products are exported to over 150 countries, with the global Ayurvedic market estimated at $14.4 billion (2023). Conclusion: Understanding AYUSH is essential for future physicians to navigate India's pluralistic healthcare landscape, respect patient health beliefs, and participate in integrative, patient-centric care models. The evidence base for AYUSH continues to develop through rigorous scientific inquiry, positioning integrative medicine as the future of comprehensive healthcare delivery.
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