The Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) is a degree that is awarded to individuals who have passed the first three years of undergraduate study in this field. The BAMS degree typically lasts four years, but some universities offer it in five years.
History of Ayurvedic Medicine
Ayurveda has a long and esteemed history dating back thousands of years. The practice of Ayurveda is based on the belief that health and well-being can be achieved by understanding the natural principles of life.
Ayurveda originated in India and is one of the oldest medical systems in the world. Ayurvedic medicine is based on the premise that disease is caused by an imbalance of the four doshas – Vata, pitta, Kapha, and bile – in the body. Ayurveda practitioners use traditional remedies and treatments to restore balance and improve health.
Ayurvedic medicine has been widely accepted as an effective form of treatment for a variety of conditions, including dyspepsia, headache, asthma, skin problems, and infertility. In recent years, Ayurveda has also been shown to help treat chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
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What is Ayurvedic Medicine?
Ayurveda, or “the science of life”, is a system of medicine that derives its philosophy and practice from the ancient texts of India. The primary goal of ayurvedic medicine is to maintain balance in the body through the use of herbs, spices, and other natural ingredients.
Students who study ayurvedic medicine learn about the body’s systems and how to identify and treat common ailments using a holistic approach. Ayurvedic doctors also use massage, yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques to help their patients achieve optimal health.
What is the Role of the Ayurvedic Doctor?
There are many roles that a BAMS can play:
- Primary Care Physician:
A primary care physician who also practices Ayurveda is typically responsible for treating acute illnesses and managing chronic diseases. They may also provide preventive care and recommend lifestyle changes.
- Internal Medicine Physician:
An internist who also practices Ayurveda is a specialist who treats patients with complex internal health problems. They may treat conditions such as heart disease, lung cancer, and diabetes.
- Family Medicine Physician:
A family medicine physician who also practices Ayurveda cares for patients of all ages, from newborns to adults. They provide comprehensive care for patients’ overall health and well-being, including preventive care and treatment of acute illnesses.
- Basic Medical Doctor:
A basic medical doctor is trained in general medicine and may also be qualified to prescribe medication. They are typically the first point of contact for patients who have problems that don’t fit into one of the other categories.
- Medical Herbalist:
A medical herbalist is trained in the identification, synthesis, and therapeutic uses of medicinal plants. They may also be able to prescribe medications made from medicinal plants.
- Physician Assistant:
A physician assistant is a highly trained professional who helps doctors diagnose and treat patients. They have completed an accredited training program and typically have a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO).
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How do they Diagnose and Treat Patients?
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to diagnosing and treating patients in the field of Ayurvedic medicine and surgery. Instead, practitioners use a variety of methods, including observation, questioning, and laboratory tests. Some of the most common diagnostic techniques used in Ayurvedic medicine and surgery include:
- Pulsed wave electrocardiogram (PWECG) to assess heart function
- Computed tomography (CT) scanning to assess internal organs and tissue structures
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to diagnose diseases such as cancer
- Urinalysis to screen for kidney abnormalities
- Immunoassay tests to screen for common diseases such as tuberculosis
Benefits of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery
- Ayurveda is a holistic approach to healthcare that emphasizes the use of natural remedies and therapies.
- Ayurvedic medicine is considered to be more effective than conventional medical treatments in treating chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
- Ayurvedic medicine has been shown to help improve overall health by restoring balance in the body’s four doshas (humors): Vata, pitta, Kapha, and vighna.
- Ayurveda also helps prevent and treat various types of cancer.
- Ayurvedic medicine can help improve mental health by restoring equilibrium in the mind-body relationship.
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Challenges of Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery
One of the biggest concerns is the high tuition cost. The BAMS program is one of the most expensive undergraduate degrees available, and it’s not uncommon for students to end up owing thousands of dollars after graduation. This can be a huge financial burden, especially if you’re unable to find a job in the medical field after completing your degree.
Another major challenge facing graduates of the BAMS program is the shortage of jobs in Ayurveda. While there are certainly opportunities out there, they tend to be limited and competitive. If you want to make a career out of Ayurveda, you’ll need to be prepared to put in a lot of hard work and dedication.
How to Become Ayurvedic Medical Doctor and Surgeon
If you are interested in becoming an Ayurvedic medical doctor or surgeon, you have come to the right place. The Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) program at the University of California, Davis is one of the most comprehensive and rigorous programs in the United States.
The BAMS program provides students with an interdisciplinary background in Ayurveda, classical Indian medicine, and surgery. In addition to traditional classroom instruction, students complete a professional residency program in an ayurvedic hospital or clinic. This unique combination of theory and practice provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful physicians and surgeons.
The BAMS program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The program also offers several scholarships for applicants from underrepresented groups, such as women and minorities. If you are interested in becoming an ayurvedic medical doctor or surgeon, the BAMS program at the University of California, Davis is worth considering.
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Notable Ayurvedic Medical Doctors
- Raghunath J. Dabholkar
Dr. Dabholkar is a renowned Ayurvedic physician and an expert on migraine headaches. He has written extensively on the subject and has helped to popularize the use of ayurvedic treatments for treating this condition.
- Deepak Chopra
Chopra is a pioneer in the use of alternative and complementary therapies, particularly in the field of neurophysiology and stress management. He is also a noted author and speaker on topics related to health and well-being.
- Prakash Javadekar
Javadekar is a prominent ayurvedic physician and politician in India. He is currently serving as the Minister of State for Human Resource Development in the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- Kirit Somaiya
He is a prominent ayurvedic doctor and the current president of the Indian Medical Association (IMA). He is also a fellow of the American College of Physicians (ACP) and has been awarded the prestigious Padma Shri by the Indian government.
- P. C. Srinivasan
He is another highly respected ayurvedic doctor who has authored several books on the subject. He has also served as the vice president of the Indian Association for Ayurveda, Siddha, and Homeopathy (IAASSH), and as president of the Medical Council of India.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the BAMS program?
A: The BAMS program is a two-year fully accredited medical degree that prepares students to become Ayurvedic physicians and surgeons.
Q: How long does it take to complete the program?
A: It takes two years to complete the program, although some students may take longer due to extenuating circumstances.
Q: What are the classes like?
A: Classes in the BAMS program cover subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, herbal medicine, clinical practice, and patient care.
Q: How do I apply to the program?
A: Applicants must apply through the university’s website. The application process includes submitting letters of recommendation and an online application.