English

Abstract

BACKGROUND: In India, Ayurveda is the most widely used form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). This study was aimed at understanding the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of medical students towards ayurvedic medicine use. METHODS: It was a cross- sectional and prospective study. After the approval from Institutional Ethics Committee, II year medical students were approached and were given preformed validated questionnaire to assess KAP towards ayurvedic medicine use. RESULTS: Majority of the students were unaware of the concept of CAM while only 19% could explain it. 27% students could elaborate the term AYUSH. Most of the students had very little knowledge about the doshas and panchakarma. Most of the students heard of Ayurveda from family and colleagues. Many students (78%) were in favour of integration of ayurvedic and conventional therapies. Though most of the students (89%) wished to learn the basics of Ayurveda, 55% students were not in favour of Ayurveda being included in MBBS curriculum. Out of the total students who used ayurvedic medicines, 92% found it to be effective. For most of the students, delayed relief and prolonged duration of treatment were the barriers to use ayurvedic medicines. CONCLUSION: This study reveals that the medical students had little knowledge about Ayurveda though they showed positive approach in learning and practicing the same.