Indian Medicines: A Comprehensive Analysis
Introduction
Indian medicine, often referred to as Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH), forms a vital part of India's
healthcare system. These traditional systems are complemented by modern Allopathic medicine, contributing to a
diverse healthcare ecosystem.
Indian medicine has gained global recognition for its holistic approach, emphasis on preventive care, and utilisation of
natural resources. As per the Ministry of AYUSH, the Indian traditional medicine market is valued at USD 18 billion and
is projected to grow at a CAGR of 15% in the next decade.
Definitions
1. Ayurveda: Derived from Sanskrit, meaning the "Science of Life." Focuses on balancing bodily doshas (Vata,
Pitta, Kapha) using natural remedies.
2. Unani Medicine: Based on Greek-Arabic medical principles, emphasising the balance of four bodily humours.
3. Siddha: A traditional Tamil system focusing on "Eight Methods of Diagnosis" and herbal medicine.
4. Homeopathy: A system where "like cures like," using diluted substances to treat ailments.
5. Allopathy: Conventional medicine based on evidence-based practices.
Planning and Execution Framework
Government Initiatives and Policy Measures
1. Ministry of AYUSH (2014): Established to promote Indian traditional medicine.
2. National AYUSH Mission (NAM):
o Budget Allocation: ₹3,647 crore (2023–24).
o Focus Areas: Infrastructure, Quality Control, and Public Health Outreach.
3. Ayushman Bharat:
o Integrates AYUSH services into Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs).
o Benefits over 50 crore Indians.
4. Pharma Vision 2020:
o Goal: Make India a global hub for drug discovery and manufacturing.
Key Strategies
1. Integration with Modern Medicine:
o Collaboration between AYUSH and Allopathy under "Integrative Medicine" models in hospitals like
AIIMS.
o Example: Post-COVID care units integrating Ayurveda for recovery.
2. Digitalization:
o Launch of the National AYUSH Grid to digitise patient data and streamline research.
3. Global Outreach:
o WHO’s Traditional Medicine Strategy (2014–2023) aligns with India’s AYUSH export goals.
Statistics and Market Trends
1. Domestic Market:
o India accounts for 25% of the global demand for medicinal plants.
o Over 8,000 licensed AYUSH manufacturers and 5 lakh practitioners.
2. Exports:
o Key Markets: USA, Europe, and UAE.
o Export Value: ₹46,000 crore (2022-23).
3. Employment:
o Over 7 million people are employed in the pharmaceutical and AYUSH sectors.
Examples of Indian Medicine in Action
1. Turmeric:
o Recognized globally for its anti-inflammatory properties.
o Patented by India as a traditional knowledge resource.
2. Neem:
o Widely used in Siddha for its antibacterial properties.
o Example: Neem toothpaste by major FMCG companies.
3. Ashwagandha:
o Increased demand post-COVID for its immunity-boosting properties.
Challenges in Indian Medicines
1. Quality Control:
o Lack of standardised testing facilities.
o Initiatives: Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine (PCIM).
2. Research and Development:
o Insufficient clinical trials for traditional medicines.
3. Global Acceptance:
o Skepticism about efficacy due to insufficient documentation.
Recommendations
1. Strengthen R&D:
o Collaborate with institutions like ICMR and CSIR for clinical validations.
2. Promote Public Awareness:
o Campaigns like "AYUSH for Immunity".
3. Boost Exports:
o Incentivize AYUSH product manufacturers through tax breaks and subsidies.
4. Skill Development:
o Launch dedicated courses for integrative medicine practices in medical schools.
Government Schemes
1. AYUSH Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs):
o Target: Establish 12,500 HWCs by 2025.
2. Medicinal Plants Program:
o Promotes cultivation of medicinal plants under MNERGA.
3. Make in India for AYUSH:
o Attracts FDI for AYUSH manufacturing units.
Conclusion
Indian medicine is a cornerstone of holistic healthcare, deeply rooted in tradition and increasingly recognised globally.
By addressing challenges like quality control and enhancing R&D, India can position itself as a global leader in
healthcare innovation. A balanced approach integrating traditional wisdom with modern science is key to achieving
universal health coverage.
Sources:
1. Ministry of AYUSH Annual Reports (2023).
2. NITI Aayog - Indian Medicine and Pharma Policy (2022).
3. WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy (2023).
4. Global Market Insights - AYUSH Sector Report (2022).
