Ayurvedic Medicine - Insights from a Pharmacists Perspective

"Pharmaceuticals often focus on symptom management... Ayurveda, by contrast, treats the root issue—."

Integrating natural and conventional medicine can empower people to make well-rounded health decisions. Many patients face the difficult choice between intense medical interventions and natural options like Ayurveda. By fostering education and sharing real-world insights, especially through discussions with healthcare professionals, we can help others see that they don’t have to choose one path over the other. This holistic understanding could inspire many to explore balanced healing methods with confidence.

This week, I connected with Meghna, a pharmacist I met during our Ayurvedic course five years ago. Early in her career, Meghna opted for a more holistic approach to health. In this conversation, she shares her insights on balanced wellness and the challenges healthcare professionals encounter when strict protocols hinder a more comprehensive approach to patient care.

Do you believe that natural medicine or healing modalities such as Ayurveda should be more incorporated into mainstream medical practice, and why?

"100%. I wish Ayurveda and other natural practices were integrated into mainstream medicine, either alongside it or as an option for patients to choose their path. Ayurveda addresses the root cause rather than just treating the symptoms, and looks at the whole person rather than isolating an organ or system."

How do you explain the difference between treating symptoms with pharmaceuticals versus addressing the root cause with Ayurveda?

"Pharmaceuticals often focus on symptom management, like using antacids (Gaviscon) or Proton Pump Inhibitors (Omeprezole) for heartburn without investigating the cause and asking, why is the heartburn happening in the first place?

Ayurveda, by contrast, treats the root issue— according to Ayurveda heartburn is linked to too much fire in the body—by recommending dietary and lifestyle changes, along with herbs to naturally cool the system this approach offers a more holistic long term solution."

What motivated you to pursue or learn about Ayurveda after practicing as a pharmacist?

"Seeing patients with repeated admissions and complex medication regimens made me wonder what can be done to prevent diseases. I sometimes felt helpless and I did not like that patients may see a specialist but they would often only focus on one area without a holistic view. Ayurveda changed my perspective, helping me see how interconnected the body is, like understanding the link between constipation and anxiety."

Given that many people remain hesitant to explore natural medicine, How do you compare the role of pharmaceuticals with Ayurvedic treatments in terms of effectiveness and safety?

"I understand why people may be hesitant - sometimes that is from what we hear about Ayurveda and other holistic practices. But what we hear is not always the truth. If medicines are used appropriately with correct monitoring, there should not be any problems. All herbal remedies need to be purchased from a trusted source. If Ayurveda was more integrated with Western medicine, perhaps there would be more studies and better guidance in terms of dosing, interactions, monitoring as well as ensuring products being sold are safe."

For those who are skeptical, what would you say to encourage them to consider natural medicine as part of their healthcare regimen?

"Your body has a natural ability to heal itself, and Ayurveda supports this. Medications might fix issues like acne temporarily, but if excess ‘fire’ is the root cause, it may reappear as another condition, like migraines. Ayurveda helps address the underlying issue to prevent further problems."

Pharmacist and Ayurvedic Practitioner

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~ If you’re interested in following Meghna's journey toward a more holistic approach to health, be sure to check out her Instagram @bliss.by.balance or visit her website Bliss by Balance.

Thank you Meghna for your amazing work!