The Truth About Medicines: Why Ayurveda Offers Sustainable Healing


It’s often believed that only allopathic medicines provide quick relief, making them the first choice for many. However, the common perception that Ayurveda is only a "last resort" because it takes time to show results is a myth. This article will explore whether chemical-based medicines truly offer permanent solutions and why holistic healing through Ayurveda can be more sustainable for long-term health.

Are Chemical Medicines a Permanent Cure?

Many people believe that allopathy offers a quick fix for most health problems. But can you name a single disease that is permanently cured just by taking pills? Let’s take a closer look at chronic conditions like blood pressure (BP), diabetes, and thyroid disorders—these diseases are rarely, if ever, cured by medications. People end up taking tablets for a lifetime, and the dosage often increases over time. For instance, a diabetic patient might start with oral medication, but eventually may need insulin. Unfortunately, this insulin treatment can have side effects, leading to complications across multiple organs like the liver, kidneys, and heart.

Patients who initially visit hospitals for treatment often find themselves stuck in a cycle where they become lifelong dependents on medications. Allopathic treatments might suppress symptoms temporarily, but they don’t eliminate the root cause. And these chemical-based drugs sometimes lead to further health complications.

The Risk of Antibiotics and Chemical Pills

Overuse of antibiotics is another significant issue. Antibiotics not only kill harmful bacteria but also destroy the good bacteria in the gut, leading to digestion issues and other health problems. In countries like the U.S., where antibiotics are widely used, people are increasingly turning towards holistic treatments like Ayurveda. Ayurveda works on healing from the root cause, ensuring the problem doesn’t return or worsen over time.

In India, over-the-counter medications, including pills like Nimesulide, are readily available and commonly used for fevers or minor illnesses. Though they offer quick relief, these pills have severe side effects, such as liver and kidney damage, which are often not immediately apparent. Shockingly, many of these drugs are banned in Western countries but continue to be prescribed or misused in India.

Ayurveda: Healing the Root Cause, Not Just Symptoms

Unlike allopathy, Ayurveda adopts a holistic approach to healing. It treats the mind and body as a single entity, addressing the root cause of illness rather than merely suppressing symptoms. For instance, if a person treats diabetes early with Ayurveda, they can avoid the need for insulin or other lifelong medications. By maintaining balance within the body, Ayurveda prevents the occurrence of additional complications in vital organs.

Even surgical practices are not new to Ayurveda. Acharya Sushruta, the father of plastic surgery, performed complex surgeries, including rhinoplasty (nose reconstruction), thousands of years ago. Back in ancient times, it was common to cut off the noses of criminals, and Sushruta’s surgical centers worked to restore them. His advanced techniques in Ayurveda were so effective that his teachings are still respected today, with statues in his honor found in universities in Germany and other parts of the world.

The surgical tools used in those ancient times were made of seven metals and were far superior in quality to modern-day iron tools, as they were rust-resistant and more durable. This demonstrates just how advanced Ayurveda was, even in fields like surgery, which are often associated with modern medicine.

The Downside of Instant Relief

Our obsession with instant relief is contributing to the rise of hospitals and pharmacies worldwide. As fast food chains multiply, so do medical chains offering quick fixes through chemical medicines. But these medications leave behind side effects that manifest later in life, leaving patients unaware that the problems were caused by years of pill consumption. For example, a painkiller taken for a headache or joint pain might suppress the discomfort temporarily, but its regular use can damage the liver or kidneys over time.

People often forget that what seems like a solution today could turn into a bigger problem tomorrow. The issue is that medications banned in other countries continue to be available in India, leading to severe health complications. These so-called "magic pills" might relieve fever instantly but carry dangerous long-term effects.

Mind-Body Connection: A Core Principle of Ayurveda

A crucial aspect of Ayurveda is the connection between the mind and body. Modern research shows that our mental state directly influences our physiology—a happy mind releases positive hormones, making the body energetic and lively. Conversely, when we are stressed or depressed, the body goes into defensive mode, leading to fatigue and low immunity.

Ayurveda emphasizes aligning the mind and body through a combination of diet, meditation, yoga, and lifestyle practices. Unlike allopathic medicines, which often have side effects, Ayurvedic treatments offer side benefits—meaning that a remedy for one issue can also improve other areas of health. For example, an Ayurvedic herb taken to manage digestion may also enhance mental clarity and emotional well-being.

By treating the individual as a whole, Ayurveda ensures that healing happens on multiple levels—physical, emotional, and mental. This comprehensive approach to wellness is becoming increasingly popular worldwide as people seek alternatives to chemical-based treatments.

The Way Forward: Embracing Ayurveda for Long-Term Health

In today’s world, where chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension are on the rise, it is essential to rethink our approach to healthcare. With over 102 million Indians suffering from diabetes and an equally high number dealing with blood pressure issues, it is clear that chemical medicines are not providing permanent solutions. In ancient times, diseases were much less common, and people lived healthier, longer lives. So, what has changed?

We have moved away from natural practices and forgotten the wisdom of Ayurveda. To reclaim our health, we must return to our roots and embrace Ayurveda. While modern medicine plays a vital role in emergencies, Ayurveda offers a sustainable solution for long-term health and well-being.

By adopting Ayurvedic principles in daily life—such as eating balanced meals, practicing yoga, and maintaining mental clarity—we can prevent illnesses and lead healthier lives. Instead of becoming lifelong patients dependent on chemical drugs, we have the opportunity to heal holistically and live free of disease. The choice is ours: do we want to suppress symptoms temporarily, or do we want to eliminate the root cause and enjoy lasting health?

The answer lies in embracing Ayurveda and adopting a holistic lifestyle that nurtures both body and mind.


Acharya Kartikay

International Yoga Teacher
E-RYT 500 | YCB Level 3 certified | Astrologer
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