Traditional Knowledge and Intellectual Property Rights for Ayurveda: An Outlook for the Future

Abstract

Ayurveda is getting its due recognition at worldwide forums due to its ancient philosophy even though the medical and scientific fraternity around the globe has a very strong opinion regarding the safety and efficacy of Ayurvedic medicines. The provisions of Intellectual Property Rights under the World Intellectual Property Organization and patents have drawn interest from many individuals and organizations seeking commercial benefits from Ayurvedic traditional knowledge. However there are numerous challenges related to protecting traditional medical knowledge with unclear explanations. Efforts to safeguard traditional medicine face a complex array of national and international policies and governance systems primarily designed to address therapeutic efficacy safety concerns and challenges to rights held by traditional knowledge holders. Traditional knowledge has been categorized into three classes 1. Traditional medical knowledge 2. Traditional agricultural knowledge 3. Traditional ecological knowledge. This text is an attempt to assist traditional medical knowledge holders government representatives and third-party collaborators considering intellectual property law issues specifically related to traditional medical knowledge. Whether traditional healing knowledge is documented can significantly impact intellectual property protection commercialization promotion of traditional medicine regulatory submissions and collaborations. Its crucial for traditional knowledge holders to be well-informed to protect their reputations and interests when engaging with third parties. This understanding can empower them to navigate the complexities of traditional medicine and intellectual property enabling informed decisions on how best to utilize their knowledge.