Definition of Ayurveda
Ayurveda: Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine from India that uses a constitutional model. Its aim is to provide guidance regarding food and lifestyle so that healthy people can stay healthy and those with health challenges can improve their health. Ayurveda, which originated in ancient India more than 5,000 years ago, is probably the world’s oldest system of natural medicine. When translated, its name means “science of life,” and it stems from…Read more
Explore Ayurveda research in the following databases:
PubMed Trip Cochrane*
*The Cochrane database requires users to enter the search term manually. Enter “ayurveda”
Research Spotlight
The databases often return hundreds of medical studies for a single wellness approach. This section summarizes a sampling of five studies – providing just a taste of the available research.
- Ohio University Pilot Study Points to Effectiveness of Ayurveda
An Ohio University (US) review showed Ayurveda (in pilot studies) had positive results for depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. But concluded larger clinical trials were needed.
Access this research on Ayurveda - Some Positive Results for Diabetes Type 2 and Ayurveda
A Cochrane review (2011) analyzing six studies that used Ayurvedic herbal mixtures – and one that tested ‘whole system’ Ayurvedic treatment – for type 2 diabetes concluded that despite some positive results, firm conclusions couldn’t be drawn due to design/size of the studies – also noting that Ayurvedic physicians prescribe an individualized course of herbs, diet, exercise, etc., and that these trials may not have replicated “whole system” Ayurvedic practice.
Access this research on Ayurveda - Norwegian Study Explores Ayurveda’s Impact on Fibromyalgia Patients
A pilot study (Norway) showed Ayurveda purification therapy (combining diet, herbal food products and Transcendental Meditation) improved pain, fatigue, anxiety and depression symptoms in fibromyalgia patients.
Access this research on Ayurveda - Harvard (Observational) Study Points to Improved Behavioral Patterns
In a small, observational study at Harvard Medical School (US), a 5-day Ayurvedic cleansing retreat improved subjects’ adherence to new, healthier behavior patterns.
Access this research on Ayurveda - Berlin Meta-Study Focuses on Rumalaya and Shunti-Guduchi
An Immanuel Hospital (Berlin) meta-review (2014, 33 trials, 2,952 patients, testing 12 Ayurvedic drugs) concluded that the drugs Rumalaya and Shunti-Guduchi were safe, effective treatment for osteoarthritis – however further trials were needed.
Access this research on Ayurveda
Studies-in-Progress/Clinical Trials Underway
A clinical trial is any research study that assigns people to health-related interventions to evaluate the outcomes. “Interventions” include drugs, surgical procedures, devices, behavioral treatments, preventive care, etc.
- ClinicalTrials.gov: explore trials underway in the U.S.
- World Health Organization: explore trials happening across the globe. When you reach WHO’s search page, please type in “ayurveda.”
Access all studies currently available for Ayurveda in these databases:
PubMed Trip Cochrane*
*The Cochrane database requires users to enter the search term manually. Enter “ayurveda”
