Ayurveda to Unani—traditional medicine systems can’t run on anecdotal evidence. Need research

In the last few years, there has been a push towards traditional medicine. And interest in indigenous medicinal systems has witnessed a boom in the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. A big reason for this shift in public opinion can be credited to the massive promotion done by the Ministry of AYUSH. AYUSH was once a mere department under the Union health ministry and got promoted to a full ministry in 2014. Although there has been some anecdotal evidence that suggests that ancient forms of medicine such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha are effective in treatment of a variety of diseases, there is dearth of reliable research to support such claims.

There have also been countless incidents that prove that harms caused by the traditional treatment are sometimes more than their supposed benefits. As we move towards achieving healthcare for all, it becomes extremely important that only evidence-based medicine is promoted and allowed.