is ayurvedic medicine harmful - #25216
I am really confused about something that’s been bothering me for a while now. A friend of mine was telling me about how great ayurvedic medicine is for all sorts of health issues like digestion, stress, etc. But then I heard some people say that is ayurvedic medicine harmful and that you have to be careful what you take. Like, I started using some herbs they suggested for my anxiety after trying a ton of other treatments that didn’t work. At first, I thought it was helping, but then I felt more dizzy and tired than usual. Now, I’m worried that I might be reacting badly to it. I read a bit online, but there's just so much conflicting info! Is ayurvedic medicine harmful? How do I know if what I’m taking is safe? Should I stop using it? It’s kinda overwhelming, really. Other than that, I've been having some stomach issues too, and I don't know if it’s connected. Would love to hear what you all think, thanks!
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Doctors’ responses
Whether Ayurvedic medicine is harmful depends on several factors, including the specific herbs or formulations you’re using, the source, and how they’re being consumed. It’s crucial to approach Ayurveda with the same care as any medical treatment because it can have side effects, just like any medicine. The first thing to assess is whether the products you’re using are from a trusted, reputable source. Some non-reputable products may contain harmful additives or be improperly dosed.
For your dizziness and tiredness, it’s possible these symptoms could be a reaction to the herbs. Ayurvedic treatments should be personalized to your body’s specifics—your dosha balance, lifestyle, and existing medical conditions. The reactions might indicate that the herbs are not suitable for your body type or that the dosage needs adjustment. Before continuing with these, it’s advisable to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner who can guide you based on your unique constitution (prakriti) and current health status.
Concerning your stomach issues, it may relate to how the herbs are interacting with your digestive system, or they might be unrelated. Ayurveda emphasizes the maintenance of agni, or digestive fire, which is pivotal for overall health. If herbs were impairing your agni, that’s something that would need addressing.
In terms of ensuring safety, here’s what you can consider: work with an Ayurvedic practitioner, who will assess your prakriti in-depth, alongside your current symptoms, to tailor the herbs specifically to you. Monitor how you feel with each supplement, and if adverse symptoms arise, it might mean that particular remedy isn’t suitable, or the form needs adjusting.
If uncertain, discontinuing the current regimen temporarily might be wise until you’ve gotten professional advice. Always communicate openly about any Western medications or treatments you’re undergoing too, ensuring there’s no adverse cross-reaction. Balancing these alongside conventional practices carefully ensures a holistic approach without unintended stress on your body.

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