The Northeast Centre for High School Research has issued an advisory cautioning students from the region against opting for Ayurveda (BAMS) or Homeopathy (BHMS) courses as a fallback after not clearing MBBS entrance exams.
In an article shared with Mokokchung Times, it stated, while many aspirants are drawn to such degrees in order to attain the “doctor” title, these systems are not equivalent to modern medicine.
Citing decades of research, the Centre described Ayurveda and Homeopathy as lacking credible scientific evidence, warning that such choices could “mislead both students and patients.”
The advisory recalled controversies such as the inclusion of “medical astrology” in the BAMS curriculum, which drew criticism from scientists in 2022 for suggesting cures based on mantras and charms. It also quoted Indian medical doctor and researcher Dr. C. Abby Philips, who has argued that “Ayurveda has no basis in science and is based on pseudoscientific principles.”
On homeopathy, the group pointed out that remedies are often diluted to the point where “no molecules of the original substance remain,” making them no different from sugar pills. It noted that international health agencies, including the World Health Organization, have cautioned against using homeopathy for serious conditions such as HIV and malaria.
The Centre further raised concerns over reported cases of heavy metal contamination in some Ayurvedic preparations, with substances such as lead and mercury found at unsafe levels.
Instead of treating these alternative systems as an easy route into medicine, the advisory urged students to consider other science-based health professions where demand is high, including dentistry, veterinary science, nursing, paramedical sciences, pharmacy, biotechnology, and public health.
“Dentists, vets, nurses, and paramedics save lives every day with proven methods. No one calls them fake doctors,” the advisory stated, adding that India faces a shortage of trained healthcare professionals across these sectors.
The note concluded that while traditional remedies may offer cultural value, students aspiring for a medical career should pursue evidence-based fields for the sake of both professional credibility and patient safety. ( Read the full article here)
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