Bachelor of Ayurveda Medicine and Surgery

[one_half][ads1][/one_half]Modern medicine / Ayurvedic Medicine with its strong synthetic chemical drugs has failed many a times to offer the most convincing, less side effects & lasting health. People round the globe are looking out for treatments away from this synthetic system, get a taste of something very different, the uncommon drugs. As a solution are the traditional systems of Ayurvedic Medicine – Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Yoga & Naturopathy which deal with natural healing practices. The last century has seen tremendous growth, popularity and acceptance of these practices which evolved centuries ago.

Today, these traditional healing systems are part of an international multi-million dollar industry embracing their practice, research and development, and the manufacture of traditional medicine. Lets know about Ayurvedic Medicine in this issue.

About Ayurveda

An Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda evolved approximately around 600 BC in India and today is practiced and promoted in almost all countries. The name Ayurveda origins from the two Sanskrit words ‘Ayur’ meaning life and ‘Veda’ meaning knowledge. The ayurveda doctors are called by other name ‘Vaidya’ also.

Inside Ayurveda

Ayurveda emphasizes that ‘Prevention is better than cure’. It believes in use of nature – basically the plants, natural herbs, minerals and to produce medicines from these which can be used for restoring fundamental balance in human body. Also famous in Ayurveda is body massage, meditation and basic dietary plans which according to many practitioners have no side effects.

Current Trends

Ayurveda has been recognized by World Health Organization. With full support of successive governments (central & state), Ayurveda has gained more recognition worldwide compared to other traditional systems of Medicine. With rich resources of medicinal plants, Indians have the first access to learn this medicine and as well use it. But with the globalization, one can find Ayurveda taught and Practiced in developed American & European countries. Ayurvedic medicine treatment invites many foreigners to India around the year. This has in turn boosted “ Medical Tourism ” in India. With the popularity of the system the demand for Ayurvedic doctors are on the rise.

What do Ayurvedic doctors do ?

Ayurvedic doctors follow non-invasive practices: there are no surgeries in ayurveda. Doctors examine patients by asking questions, feeling the pulse and by sight. Medicines are prescribed for the prevention of diseases and general improvement of health.

Ayurveda Education

Ayurvedic Education in India is presently monitored by the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM), a Statutory Central Government body.

Course :

B.A.M.S (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine & Surgery) or “Ayurvedacharya”.
Eligiblity: Pass (atleast 50% ) in 12th std with Physics, Chemistry & Biology as optionals.
Duration: Main Course- 51/2 years or 6 years including Internship.

Masters in Ayureda – MD

After successful completion of BAMS, one can pursue MD in Ayurveda in the following areas of specializtion

1. Dravyaguna – Pharmacognosy and Pharmacology.
2. Kayachikitsa- Internal Medicine.
3. Ayurvedic siddhant & Darshan.
4. Mano Roga and Mano vygyan -Psychiatary&Psychology.
5. Shalya- Surgery.
6. Vikriturgyana and Roga Nidan – Diagnostic method and Pathology.
7. Rasshastra and Bhaishaya Kalpana-Pharmacy and Pharmaceutics.
8. Prasuti Tantra and shtri roga- Obstetics and Gynaecology.
9. Shalakya – Opthalomology.

Personality Requirements

1. Love for the subject & an unflinching faith in what you know.
2. Ability to learn new things, innovate & upgrade constantly.
3. Self confidence, Self motivation & willingness to work hard.
4. Ability to observe nature & closely monitor them.
5. Good communication & Interpersonal skills to handle patients.
6. Knowledge of a foreign language will be an added advantage if you wish to work abroad.
7. Since Ayurveda is recognized worldwide.

Job prospects

A well trained, competent and true Ayurvedic practitioner can get employment as

1. Medical officer/ doctor at Government and private Ayurvedic hospitals.
2. Enter private practice.
3. Health care practitioner at a wellness center, clubs, massage centers, etc..
4. Teaching Ayurveda – Colleges or Public Education classes.
5. Conduct workshops, seminars and retreats.
6. Do R&D in Ayurveda at Research Institutes. Ala Baba Ramadev.
7. Work with Ayurvedic Pharma Companies.
8. and many more opportunities to work with patients in India & Abroad.

Ayurvedic Pharmacy

With increasing number of patients opting for Ayurvedic medicine, the Ayurvedic pharmacies are also in great demand. The huge market potential of herbal plants has increased the manufacturing of Ayurvedic medicines. Hence to meet this requirement the following courses are offered :

1. Diploma in Ayurvedic Pharmacy (D.Pharma) – 2 yrs.
2. Bachelor in Ayurvedic Pharmacy (B.Pharma) – 4 yrs.
3. Master in Ayurvedic Pharmacy (M.Pharma) – 2 yrs.
4. Master of Science in Medicinal Plants (M.Sc Medicinal Plants) -2 yrs.
5. PG Diploma in Ayurvedic Drug Standardisation – 1 yr.
6. Certificate course in Ayd Cosmetics -1 yr.

Originally Written by Mr. Ameen-E-Mudassar for the Milli Gazette, Dated On 16 March 2006