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6 Common Myths About Ayurveda and the Truth Behind Them

Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of treatment that is truly a treasure for our country, yet often undervalued by people. It is not just a medical system but a complete Shastra that teaches us how to live a healthy and balanced life. Unfortunately, due to several myths and misconceptions surrounding Ayurveda, many people are misguided and fail to understand its true essence and scientific approach. People often lack proper knowledge about Ayurveda and have developed many myths in their minds regarding it. In this blog, we will explore some of the most common myths about Ayurveda and uncover the true facts behind them. Myth no 1- Ayurveda Works Slowly Fact-The most common myth about Ayurveda is that it works slowly. In reality, Ayurveda does not work slow; instead, it works on the root cause of the disease. When treatment is done under a qualified Ayurvedic doctor by identifying the body type (Prakriti) and correcting the doshic imbalance, Ayurveda can give instant results. Many Panchakarma therapies such as Agnikarma, Viddhakarma, Marma therapy, and Raktamokshan provide immediate relief in pain. Ras Aushadhis (herbo-mineral medicines) are known to act quickly, even in chronic conditions. Basti Chikitsa offers fast pain relief while also addressing the root cause of nervous system disorders. Even common problems like acidity respond instantly to Ayurvedic medicines—for example, ENO, one of the most popular remedies for acidity in India, is based on Ayurvedic formulation, making it a perfect example of how Ayurveda can act fast. Myth no 2- Ayurveda means only Herbal Medicine Fact- This is one of the biggest myths about Ayurveda—that it only involves herbal medicines or jadibooti, as people commonly say. In reality, Ayurveda is a vast medical science that also includes specialized Ras Aushadhi (herbo-mineral medicines). These medicines are prepared from purified minerals and metals, processed through classical methods, and converted into Bhasma (nano-particle form). Because of their fine particle size, they have high potency, quick absorption, and faster results. Ras Aushadhi are widely used in Ayurveda to treat many chronic and complex diseases, where only herbal medicines may not be sufficient. Myth no 3- Ayurvedic Medicine Means Only Bitter Churnas Fact- This is another very common myth people still believe—that Ayurveda means only taking churnas (powders). In reality, Ayurveda has a wide range of medicines available in different forms such as tablets, syrups, capsules, oils, avaleha (like chyawanprash), and much more. With the help of modern technology, Ayurveda has evolved further, and today we even have Ayurvedic creams, cosmetics, shampoos, and health supplements.  It is also a misconception that all churnas are bitter. In fact, Ayurveda classifies herbs according to different rasas (tastes)—some are sweet, some sour, some pungent, and not all are bitter. Thus, Ayurveda is not limited to churnas alone but offers a complete system of medicine in multiple convenient and effective forms Myth no 4- Ayurveda is a  Pseudo Science and not Scientific Fact- Ayurveda is one of the oldest and most systematic medical sciences in the world, with a history of more than 5,000 years. It is based on well-documented principles like Tridosha theory (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), Agni (digestive fire), Dhatus (body tissues), and Srotas (channels). Ancient Ayurvedic texts such as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita describe detailed concepts of anatomy, physiology, pathology, diagnosis, and treatment. Modern research has validated Ayurvedic herbs and formulations for their pharmacological and therapeutic effects. Moreover, Ayurvedic Rasayana (rejuvenation therapy) and Panchakarma detox therapies are increasingly being studied and practiced worldwide. Ayurveda is not unscientific—it is a time-tested, evidence-based holistic science, now being re-validated through modern clinical research.  For example, the most common Ayurvedic herb Haridra (Haldi/Turmeric) is described in classics as Kushtaghna (useful in skin diseases), Kandughna (relieves itching), Raktashodhak (blood purifier), Vranaropana (wound healer), and Yakrituttejak (liver stimulant). Modern research has also validated this, as turmeric is found to contain Curcumin, a powerful compound with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. Chyawanprash, which is used by millions today for boosting health and immunity, is a classical Ayurvedic formulation made from a combination of multiple herbs processed through a scientific and standardized procedure. Its effectiveness is well-recognized across generations. If such time-tested and well-documented formulations exist, then Ayurveda can never be called a pseudo science. Myth no 5: Ayurvedic Medicines Have No Side Effects and herbs can be taken without guidance of Ayurvedic Doctor Fact- Ayurveda works on the fundamental concept of Tridosha – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, and every herb acts differently depending on an individual’s body type and doshic imbalance. That is why even simple herbal medicines should always be taken under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic doctor. Many people consume commonly known herbs like Triphala or Ashwagandha on their own, assuming they are suitable for everyone. However, in some cases, these may cause issues like constipation, acidity, or discomfort if not prescribed according to one’s prakruti and current health condition. This often leads to the misconception that Ayurveda works slowly or causes side effects, whereas the real issue lies in self-medication without proper consultation. For example Some people experience body heat or acidity after taking Ashwagandha because in Pittaj prakruti individuals, long-term or high doses can aggravate Pitta. Hence, even Ayurvedic medicines should always be taken under proper doctor’s guidance. Myth no 6- All Ayurvedic Medicine Are  “Heating” In Nature   Fact-Another common myth is that all Ayurvedic medicines are “heaty” in nature. The fact is that Ayurveda is a highly scientific system where every herb and formulation is prescribed according to the individual’s body type (Prakriti) and the imbalance of doshas. Some medicines are indeed ushna (hot in potency), but many are sheeta (cooling) or madhya (neutral). For example, herbs like Amla, Giloy, and Shatavari are cooling in nature and are widely used to balance excess heat in the body. Therefore, it is wrong to generalize that all Ayurvedic medicines cause heat—when prescribed properly by an Ayurvedic physician, medicines balance the body rather than create imbalance. An Ayurvedic doctor always prescribes medicines according to your Prakruti and balances them with suitable herbs, so you will never be given only heating medicines. Conclusion Ayurveda arise from lack of awareness and half-knowledge. Ayurveda is not just about bitter churnas or jadibootis—it is a scientific, holistic, and time-tested medical system that includes herbal medicines, Ras Aushadhi, formulations like Chyawanprash, modern dosage forms, Yoga, Panchakarma therapies, and even surgical practices described by Acharyas like Sushruta. Ancient wisdom combined with modern research continues to prove the effectiveness and scientific basis of Ayurveda. Instead of labeling it as slow or pseudo-science, it is time we recognize Ayurveda as a treasure of health and healing that India has gifted to the world.