Globalisation of ayurveda through evidence-based nutraceutical route

We are increasingly realizing that the one disease–one target–one drug concept does not always lead to successful disease control. This concept has led to new developments in drug discovery including systems-based approaches using the principles of multitarget pharmacology. It is generally accepted worldwide that modern pharmaceuticals will remain out of reach of many people and “health for all” may only be materialized by the use of adequately assessed nutraceutical/phytomedicinal products including Ayurvedic medicines.

Ayurveda can be considered as a complex intervention, which includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle and using Ayurvedic therapies and medicines and lastly the spiritual intervention. The globalisation of Ayurvedic medicines and their spread to the postmodern West is a paramount challenge. The integration of contemporary biomedical subjects like biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology, emergency medicine etc with Ayurvedic medicine in terms of practice and education (bilateral) may be the most important reforms towards globalizing Ayurveda. Embracing modernity by Ayurvedic community does not mean blind acceptance of Western logic and reductive methodologies. We need very balanced and evidence-based integrative model of two systems of medicines and through nutraceutical route.