All about Ayurveda

  Ayurveda is fast emerging as an interesting option for those seeking a career in alternative medicine. 

A balanced and healthy life requires a good sync between the mind, body and the spirit. And that’s what Ayurveda is all about. Cleansing and purifying the body of three main elements or 'doshas' - ‘vata’, ‘pitta’ and ‘kapha’ through natural healing.

                Ayurveda as a subject is gaining prominence today as they are believed to be safer than conventional ones and the limitations of modern medicine have also added to its popularity. Many colleges and universities like Ayurveda medical college, V P S V Ayurveda College, Kottakkal, Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College, Ollur, are offering graduate and post graduate degree courses in Ayurveda.

Eligibility
Students, who have completed their plus two in science stream with 50% marks and a good grade in the state entrance examination, can opt for a degree in Ayurveda. “Following a five and half year degree course in Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicines and Surgery (BAMS), one can either work as an independent practitioner or opt for a three year post graduation,” says Dr Eswara Sarma M P, principal, V P S V Ayurveda college, Kottakkal. 

Skill sets
According to Dr Anil V Kaimal, senior physician, Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda foundation, a sound knowledge of Sanskrit is a pre requisite for any student of Ayurveda. “In this era of alternative medicine, a traditional background or a proper guidance from a reputed Ayurvedic doctor is very important to a career in Ayurveda,” he adds. 

       Advances in Ayurveda involve treatment for skin problems, lung and heart disorders, options for purgation and laxation. “Apart from these, other post graduate disciplines include specialisation in management of fractures and disfiguration, psychiatry, gastroenterology, paediatrics, toxicology, gynaecology, pharmacology, public health and medicine,” says Sarma.

Career opportunities
The prospects of a bachelor’s degree in Ayurveda are numerous from teaching in Ayurveda colleges to private practice of general medicine. Employment opportunities also exist in Ayurvedic hospitals, health centres, private wellness care centre and Ayurvedic resorts.

“Infertility management, adverse skin conditions and upper respiratory disorders are some of the unexplored areas in Ayurveda. Lifestyle clinics dealing with lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, stress management, etc., is an upcoming area in Ayurveda,” informs Kaimal. With more people resorting to alternative medicine and alternate therapies finding more takers today, Ayurveda is here to stay.

                                              

-Sherene Joseph