But don’t worry. We’re here to shed some light on this holistic way of life and separate fact from fiction - once and for all…
Myth: Ayurvedic medicine isn’t safe
Yep, we’re going right in with the real stuff. The truth is, Ayurvedic practices are completely natural and safe for all ages. While some medicines can cause damage to other areas of your body such as your organs, or have an impact on your mind, Ayurvedic medicine supports a healthy and happy mind, body and gut. As with all supplements, before taking herbal/Ayurvedic supplements, it's always best to consult your healthcare practitioner or doctor, especially if you’re pregnant or taking other medication.Myth: Ayurveda isn’t real science
At more than 5,000 years old, Ayurveda has actually paved the way for lots of other science and medicine over the years. In fact, Ayurveda has been talking about the connection between the brain and gut for millenia, and now modern research has begun to back this up with evidence that the cells of the brain and the gut are connected.
Even more impressive is that there’s more than 5,000 research publications on Ayurvedic medicine and its ingredients. This study highlights the benefits of Turmeric on the digestive system and joints. And, research into Ashwagandha has frequently found that it’s an effective treatment for lots of health conditions as well as stress, anxiety and brain performance. This also shuts down another common myth that there are no clinical studies about Ayurveda.
Myth: Alternative medicine and Ayurvedic treatments take longer to work
Ayurveda is all about lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes. Whereas Western medicine is great for treating acute symptoms, Ayurveda is about getting to the root cause, and that can take a bit longer. After all, Ayurveda is about long-term prevention rather than just a cure.
While Western medicine might work quicker than Ayurvedic approaches, there isn’t a Western medicine that will cure you instantly. Even painkillers take around 20 minutes to kick in. It’s important to remember that the speed in which someone will be cured or find relief will depend on how quickly the concern was diagnosed as well as how dedicated to Ayurvedic medicine they are.
Ayurveda might not be a quick fix but its results build up in the body over time, correcting your imbalances and making you stronger, healthier and happier from within.
Myth: Ayurveda is a restrictive vegetarian diet
When it comes to diet, Ayurveda says we should try to eat as many wholesome, home-cooked meals as possible, with lots of seasonal ingredients. While vegetarian diets are encouraged, because of their fantastic health benefits, the consumption of meat is not restricted in Ayurveda. Your individual dosha - Vata, Pitta and Kapha - will also determine how much meat and dairy product your body can tolerate, and which meat/dairy foods are better or worse for you. Ayurvedic approaches are all about balance so don’t restrict yourself too much.
If you don’t know your unique dosha yet, you can take our quick and easy quiz to find out.
Myth: Ayurvedic practitioners aren’t qualified
This is another myth. Ayurvedic doctors have degrees in Ayurvedic Medicine, and this is a necessity if they want to officially practice.
Myth: Ayurvedic approaches only use herbs
If you’ve followed us for a while, you’ll know that this is wrong too. As well as herbs, milk, honey and spices are essential in both Ayurvedic diets and medicine. And there’s also non-herbal Ayurveda treatments like tongue scraping, yoga and massage which help to keep your body, mind and gut in balance.
Myth: Ayurveda can’t be used by everyone
From diabetes, heart disease and IBS to Parkinson’s, aging and the common cold, Ayurvedic approaches can help to treat a number of health conditions in the mind, body and gut for all ages. As well as this, it supports a healthy and holistic lifestyle that has many benefits and prevents many illnesses from happening in the first place. For this reason, Ayurvedic approaches can be used by anyone.
So there you have it. Some of the most common myths surrounding Ayurvedic medical practices. Of course, we’ve only just scraped the barrel so if you do come across another one or have any burning Ayurveda FAQs, don’t be a stranger and get in touch!
At Deja, we’ve combined years of experience into this system of medicine to bring you a complete range of Ayurvedic supplements and natural products like tongue scrapers. You can shop the full range online or head over to our Insta to get some more Ayurveda inspo.
