Conflict Between Allopathy and Ayurveda in India

Source-This post on Conflict Between Allopathy and Ayurveda in India has been created based on the article “Hold Ayurvedic therapy to the scrutiny of truth” published in “Live Mint” on 29 August 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-2- Issues relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health

Context– The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 triggered a conflict between allopathic and Ayurvedic medicine. Patanjali Ayurveda’s quick release of Coronil as a COVID-19 cure faced backlash from allopathic doctors. In 2022, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) sued Patanjali and its founder for criticizing allopathy. The Supreme Court intervened, requiring Patanjali to issue a public apology.

What are the interventions made by the Supreme Court?

1) Ban on Misleading Ads –The Supreme Court blocked a July 2023 notification from the Ayush Ministry that sought to lift India’s ban on misleading ads for Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani drugs, thereby reinforcing its commitment to protecting public health.

Read More- Perils of misleading advertisements

2) Court Reaffirms Enforcement of Rule 170 -The Court ruled that Rule 170 of the Drugs and Cosmetic Rules, 1945, which prohibits misleading advertisements about the therapeutic claims of traditional medicines, must remain enforced.

3) Reinstatement of Rule 170 -In August 2023, the Ayush Ministry told states and Union territories to ignore the ban on misleading ads. The Supreme Court ordered the ministry to retract this directive, but the ministry then issued a notice that omitted Rule 170. The Court then reinstated Rule 170 and requested an explanation from the ministry for its omission

What is the difference between Allopathy and Ayurveda system of medicines?

1) Allopathic drugs are rigorously tested for safety and effectiveness through clinical trials, while Ayurvedic products are regulated less strictly, focusing mainly on safety and adherence to traditional texts.

2) Allopathic medicines are held to high standards due to rigorous clinical trials, which enhances their credibility but can also make other products seem more credible. On the other hand, Ayurvedic medicines are regulated less strictly. While Ayurvedic practitioners can conduct their own trials, many herbal remedies still lack solid scientific evidence.

Way ahead- India should support traditional medicine and ensure people have the freedom to choose. To prevent misleading health claims, traditional treatments should be tested and their results publicly available. Hence, a strict advertising code for Ayurveda is necessary.

Question for practice

What is the difference between Allopathy and Ayurveda system of medicines?