Alternative therapy, also known as complementary medicine, is an umbrella term used to describe a range of healing practices and modalities that are not part of conventional Western medicine. These can include everything from Ayurveda, yoga, acupuncture, naturopathy, homeopathy and traditional Chinese medicine to different types of massage therapies, energy healing and meditation practices .
WHAT IS ALTERNATIVE THERAPY AND ITS HISTORY?
The history of alternative therapies dates back thousands of years to ancient civilizations like India, China and Greece. In India, Ayurveda and Yoga have been the main forms of alternative therapy for centuries. However, in India, the above forms are not considered alternative therapies per se, as they are deeply ingrained in one’s body. ‘dincharya’ or daily routine.
In recent years, Ayurveda and other alternative healing practices have attracted growing interest across the world. People are looking for natural and holistic solutions to their health problems and that is exactly what Ayurveda offers.
According to a report from the Global Wellness Institute, the global wellness industry is now worth more than $4.5 trillion and alternative healing practices like Ayurveda account for a large part of this growth. Another report by Grand View Research shows that the global alternative medicine market was valued at $117,210.3 million in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25.1% from 2023 to 2030.
CONSUMPTION
“The consumption pattern of alternative therapies has also seen a huge change after Covid-19. The pandemic has led to increased stress, anxiety and mental health issues, which has led to an increase in demand for therapies alternatives including Ayurveda, Yoga and Homeopathy,” said Akshi Khandelwal, Founder and CEO, Butterfly Ayurveda.
She also added that these therapies have gained immense trust and appreciation from people for their ability to offer a holistic approach to treatment. They also have the ability to heal while treating the root cause of the health problem, without causing any side effects, while providing lasting relief and rejuvenation to the individual.
India is a hub of such practices as Ayurveda and naturopathy are at the heart of Indian cuisines and make an essential contribution to the daily lifestyle. They not only help treat a range of health conditions ranging from stress reduction, anxiety and depression, but also help relieve chronic body conditions including digestive health, joint health and of the nervous system. They improve overall well-being and provide individuals with a greater sense of health awareness.
However, it is important to consult alternative therapy with qualified professionals who have received extensive training and have the appropriate knowledge and experience necessary to successfully use these methods to improve overall health and quality of life.
India has formalized alternative therapy and healing under the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda Yoga Unani Siddha Homeopathy) of the Government of India, and has provided a series of opportunities and faculties to improve education and awareness on the subjects , while formalizing the evaluation and certification of alternative medicine manufacturing capacities and brands working in this industry.
Furthermore, India realized the need to invest in research and development of such practices, particularly that of Ayurveda, and the Indian Ministry of Finance increased the total budgetary allocation to the Ayush Ministry by 20 per cent. cent to reach Rs 3,647 crore in 2023. The budget also focused on promoting evidence-based research on Ayush systems through Ayush research councils.
RISING DEMAND
The growing demand for natural, holistic solutions to health problems and the growth of the global wellness industry have brought Ayurveda and other alternative healing practices into the spotlight. According to a report by Mordor Intelligence, AYUSH and alternative medicine industry in India is expected to register a CAGR of 8.6% during the forecast period 2023-2028.
“It is important that we continue to invest in research and development, promote education and awareness, and improve modern processes for scientific validation of alternative therapies to ensure that these practices are safe and effective to use and become accessible worldwide,” said Akshi Khandelwal. .
Prioritizing sustainable forms of healing practices points to a bright future for the planet, and India is poised to lead the way in the global alternative therapy and healing market.
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