An Overview of Biotechnological Applications in Ayurveda: Amalgamation of Modern Techniques and Science

Abstract

Abstract: Health trends are constantly evolving, and so are health systems. No health system is perfect, hence the needed complement. Therefore, Western medicine (WM) practitioners are looking for traditional medicine (TM) and vice versa, as WM has an edge in an emergency while TM has in chronic diseases. However, the purpose of both systems is similar, which is a relief, despite different philosophies and methodologies. Globally, acceptance of TM by the scientific community is limited due to the lack of scientific evidence of benefits and efficiency, despite its potential. Ayurveda is one kind of the oldest TM systems of the world, serving humankind without changing a little, despite changes in geography, environment, weather conditions, and soil composition, which result in new diseases. Hence, the challenge of good health is arising. Therefore, there is a need to carry out research that would apply in its own way and satisfy the tenets of biomedical research too. The best way of doing this is multidisciplinary research by involving technology and Ayurvedic experts. Biotechnology can offer techniques from diagnosis to treatment of disease through substances of natural origin, including plants, animals and minerals. The present review is merely an overview of the possibilities which may be applied in Ayurveda in the present scenario. Ayurveda is the “science of life, and biotechnology is like “the service provider.” Therefore, biotechnology has all those techniques to serve Ayurveda up to the maximum and humankind at large. Even it may give rise to a new approach by combining Ayurveda and biotechnology.