Ayurveda, India’s ancient medical science, has always been associated with natural healing, herbal remedies, and holistic wellness. However, in recent years, a growing menace has tarnished its reputation—the illegal use of steroids in so-called Ayurvedic medicines. Unscrupulous manufacturers are lacing their products with powerful steroids to deliver quick results, often at the cost of severe health complications.
The Growing Epidemic of Fake Ayurvedic Medicines
Many people turn to Ayurveda as a safer alternative to modern allopathic medicines, hoping to avoid chemical side effects. However, the increasing demand has also led to a surge in counterfeit Ayurvedic products, some of which are nothing more than steroid-laced pills marketed under the guise of herbal remedies. These deceptive products are often sold without prescription, making them easily accessible to the public.
How Are Steroids Misused in Ayurveda?
Corticosteroids, such as dexamethasone, betamethasone, and prednisolone, are often secretly added to Ayurvedic medicines that claim to treat chronic illnesses like arthritis, asthma, skin diseases, and even sexual health issues. These steroids provide immediate relief, making patients believe in the efficacy of the medicine. However, prolonged consumption leads to serious health risks, including:
- Suppressed immune function
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Liver and kidney damage
Victims of the Scam: Who Suffers the Most?
This unethical practice primarily affects people from rural areas, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions who rely on Ayurveda for long-term treatment. Many patients unknowingly consume these medicines for months or even years, only to later suffer from severe health complications.
Why Is This Problem Widespread?
1. Lack of Regulation and Oversight
Despite Ayurveda being a centuries-old practice, regulatory oversight in India remains weak. While the AYUSH Ministry oversees Ayurvedic medicine production, enforcement is often lax, allowing shady companies to operate unchecked.
2. Unethical Manufacturers and Quacks
Certain small-scale manufacturers and self-proclaimed Ayurvedic doctors exploit people’s trust in herbal medicine. They promise miracle cures without scientific backing and lure unsuspecting customers with false advertising.
3. No Mandatory Testing for Steroids
Many Ayurvedic products do not undergo stringent quality checks, making it easy for unethical manufacturers to mix steroids without detection. The absence of strict lab testing means harmful drugs go unnoticed in the market.
Government Actions and What Needs to Be Done
1. Strengthening Regulatory Framework
The government must implement stricter policies to ensure Ayurvedic medicines are tested for steroids before being sold. Random quality checks and hefty fines for violations can act as deterrents.
2. Increasing Public Awareness
Many consumers remain unaware of the risks associated with fake Ayurvedic medicines. Public awareness campaigns should be launched to educate people about identifying genuine products and avoiding unverified remedies.
3. Encouraging Authentic Ayurvedic Practices
Genuine Ayurvedic practitioners and reputed brands must work together to uphold Ayurveda’s credibility by promoting safe, well-researched, and certified products.
Final Thoughts
Ayurveda, when practiced authentically, has immense potential to improve health and well-being. However, the growing menace of steroid-laced Ayurvedic medicines poses a grave threat to public health. It is crucial for authorities, medical professionals, and consumers to remain vigilant and work towards eliminating this dangerous scam before it causes irreparable damage to lives and the reputation of Ayurveda itself.
RTI: Steroids in many unbranded ayurvedic medicines | Mumbai News – The Indian Express