Today's wellness-oriented world has led to the frequent use of the words natural, organic, and Ayurvedic as synonyms. You can find dozens of products labelled as natural or Ayurveda-based on store shelves and online platforms. However, one question that people often overlook is, "Are all natural products Ayurvedic?" The straight answer is not necessarily.
We spoke to Atul Kumar, Ayurvedic Expert, Founder, Vedikroots, who explained the differences between ayurvedic and non-ayurvedic products.
Natural vs Ayurvedic
While both natural remedies and Ayurvedic medicine can be derived from herbs and minerals, their similarities tend to stop there. “Ayurveda is a structured, science-based system of health and healing, documented over thousands of years. It's not just about using plant-based substances, it's employing them in a specific way, for certain reasons, based on an individual's constitution (Prakriti) and imbalances (Vikriti)," said Kumar.
For instance, neem is a naturally antibacterial herb. But in Ayurveda, its application would be based on dosha balance and the time of year, strengthening the body instead of throwing it out of balance. A natural neem face wash might not adhere to any of these regulations, which is what makes it natural, but not Ayurvedic.
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The Rise of Misleading Labels
With more people now taking up Ayurvedic wellness, especially those interested in purchasing Ayurvedic medicine online, most brands are labelling their products as Ayurvedic merely because they use one or two herbs. Ayurveda isn't about specific ingredients though, it's about holistic formulations, ancient processing techniques (Samskara), and therapeutic purposes.
When a product lacks this foundation, calling it Ayurvedic can be misleading. This trend not only confuses consumers but also risks diluting the essence of authentic Ayurveda.
Why Does It Matter?
The difference matters because Ayurvedic medicine is preventive and individualised, while most natural products are generic. Ayurveda does not merely treat symptoms; it seeks to restore balance within. The misuse of natural ingredients, even if plant-derived, can induce imbalance instead of healing.
"Additionally, the misuse of the term 'Ayurvedic' without any regulation can complicate the process of distinguishing truly effective remedies for consumers, particularly when attempting to solve chronic issues, such as digestion, immunity, stress, or hormonal imbalances. It becomes all the more important when individuals look for solutions and want to purchase Ayurvedic products from online platforms where authenticity is more difficult to ascertain," added Kumar.
Ayurveda is increasingly integrated with conventional medicine, providing a holistic approach to health care. This integration helps in treating chronic diseases, enhancing quality of life, and reducing dependency on synthetic medications. The emphasis on personalised medicine and preventive care aligns well with contemporary health trends, suggesting a significant potential for Ayurveda to contribute to global wellness.
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How to Identify Truly Ayurvedic Products
If you want to introduce Ayurveda into your lifestyle, here are a few tips to spot truly Ayurvedic products:
- Verify the formulation: Does it follow classical Ayurvedic literature?
- Ensure synergy: Are several herbs combined, or not alone?
- Know the process: Was the product made in traditional Ayurvedic fashion?
- Certification and honesty: Is the company honest about its sources and processes?
Bottomline
Kumar concluded, "Not everything natural is Ayurvedic. Though the two seem the same on the outside, the philosophy, the preparation, and the intent distinguish Ayurvedic products. The more that awareness of Ayurveda increases, the greater the onus on brands as well as consumers to not lose its essence.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a medical professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]