Ayurvedic Doctors practice Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine which focuses on holistic healing using natural remedies and lifestyle. The qualification is BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) – a 5.5-year degree (4.5 years study + 1 year internship) similar in duration to MBBS.
Ayurvedic Doctors practice Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine which focuses on holistic healing using natural remedies and lifestyle. The qualification is BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) – a 5.5-year degree (4.5 years study + 1 year internship) similar in duration to MBBS. BAMS graduates are taught modern medical sciences as well as Ayurvedic subjects (like Dravyaguna, Rasashastra, etc.), enabling them to use herbal medicines, Ayurvedic therapies (such as Panchakarma), and also some allopathic treatments. An Ayurvedic practitioner can work in government Ayurveda hospitals/dispensaries, run private practice, or even in wellness spas and Ayurvedic pharmaceutical companies.
Complete Class 12 with PCB. A minimum of 50% is typically required.
Appear for NEET-UG. BAMS admissions in most states are through NEET (Ayush courses including BAMS/BUMS/BHMS use NEET merit lists). Some states/universities may have separate AYUSH entrance exams or consider board marks plus an aptitude test, but NEET has become the norm.
Secure admission in a recognized Ayurvedic college (government Ayurvedic colleges are affiliated to state health universities; there are also private colleges). The course is 5½ years with a one-year internship.
Study Ayurvedic principles (like Charaka Samhita, Ayurvedic philosophy of Vata-Pitta-Kapha), herbal pharmacology, Ayurvedic anatomy (Marma points, etc.), along with basic modern anatomy, physiology, pathology. In later years, learn Ayurvedic diagnostics (Nadi pariksha, etc.) and therapies (Panchakarma, yoga, dietetics).
During the final year rotating internship, work in Ayurvedic hospitals/clinics and also in community health centers. Gain hands-on experience in preparing formulations, administering Ayurvedic treatments, and also some exposure to modern medicine integration.
Register with the respective State Ayurvedic and Unani Medical Board or Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) to get the license to practice as an Ayurvedic doctor.
Consider MD (Ayurveda) or MS (Ayurveda) in specialties like Kayachikitsa (Medicine), Shalya Tantra (Surgery – limited to specific procedures in Ayurveda), Dravyaguna (Pharmacology), etc., which are 3-year courses via AIAPGET (All India Ayush PG Entrance).
Since 2018, NEET has been implemented for AYUSH courses admissions across many states. Cut-offs for BAMS in government colleges might be lower than MBBS/BDS, but high-tier Ayurvedic institutions (like BHU’s Faculty of Ayurveda, or Govt. Ayurvedic Colleges in metro cities) still require good NEET scores.
All India Ayush Post Graduate Entrance Test is for MD/MS (Ayurveda) after BAMS. It covers Ayurvedic syllabus.
Same as for MBBS – focus on PCB of 12th standard. However, if you are targeting BAMS specifically, note that the NEET cutoff for BAMS (AYUSH) might be slightly lower than for MBBS in general category. Still, prepare earnestly; getting a seat in a top government Ayurvedic college can require a decent rank.
AYUSH admissions might happen via separate counseling authority (for example, Ministry of Ayush or state AYUSH departments) after NEET. Be sure to register for AYUSH counseling if interested in BAMS.
Certain universities (like Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar) in the past had their own entrance but now mostly accept NEET. Always check the latest prospectus of specific Ayurvedic universities.
BAMS grads often set up an Ayurvedic clinic or work in established Ayurvedic hospitals. They diagnose patients as per Ayurveda (e.g., assessing dosha imbalance) and treat using herbal medicines, Ayurvedic proprietary drugs, diet advice, and therapies. Some also prescribe basic allopathic medicines if allowed (Ayurveda practitioners in some states have limited rights to use modern medicines in practice for primary care).
Opportunities as Medical Officers in government AYUSH dispensaries and hospitals. States and central government (through UPSC) recruit BAMS as Ayurvedic Medical Officers. For example, CGHS hires Ayurveda doctors for dispensaries. Salary is on government doctor scale.
With an MD (Ayurveda) or PhD, one can become a lecturer or professor in Ayurvedic colleges. Research opportunities are growing – for instance, CCRAS (Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences) conducts research and hires BAMS/MD grads as research officers. There’s work on validating Ayurvedic drugs, integrating Ayurveda in public health, etc.
The wellness industry is booming. Ayurvedic doctors can work in spas, wellness resorts, or start wellness centers focusing on Panchakarma detox, Ayurvedic diet counseling, yoga therapy, etc. Positions like “Ayurveda Consultant” at high-end retreat centers (in India and abroad, especially in Kerala or Sri Lanka resorts) are available.
Many Ayurvedic pharma companies (Dabur, Himalaya, Zandu, Patanjali, etc.) employ BAMS graduates in roles like product development, quality control, clinical trials for Ayurvedic medicines, or as medical officers for their clinics. There is also scope to become an entrepreneur by formulating and selling your own Ayurvedic products (with proper licenses).
Some BAMS doctors pursue MPH (Public Health) or MBA (Hospital Administration) to work in healthcare management or public health programs with an emphasis on traditional medicine.
Countries like Germany, USA, Australia have a market for Ayurveda. While you cannot directly practice as a “doctor” without local qualifications, BAMS holders work as Ayurveda therapists or consultants internationally, often in wellness centers. Some pursue master’s courses abroad in complementary medicine.
One challenge is that Ayurveda sometimes faces skepticism. An Ayurvedic doctor must work to gain patient trust and also stay evidence-based. Bridging the gap between traditional wisdom and modern validation is key.
Ayurveda requires a holistic diagnostic approach – considering diet, lifestyle, mental state. This takes time per patient. Skills in counseling and understanding patient psychology are valuable.
There are hundreds of herbs and classical formulations. Memorizing and understanding their properties (Rasa, Guna, Vipaka, Prabhava) is intensive. A passion for botany and pharmacy helps.
Ayurveda includes hands-on therapies (like abhyanga massage, basti enemas, etc.). While therapists often perform these, as a doctor you should know the procedures well. During internships, getting proficient in Panchakarma procedures is important.
In emergencies or when disease exceeds Ayurveda’s scope, knowing basic modern treatment is crucial. BAMS curriculum includes basic modern pharmacology and surgery for this reason. Ayurvedic doctors in remote areas often serve as primary care physicians, so they need to recognize red-flag symptoms and refer or manage appropriately.
Ayurvedic practitioners cannot perform large surgeries (though historically Ayurveda has surgical branches, today the scope is defined by CCIM). This can be limiting for those interested in surgical interventions (some Ayurveda MS in Shalya do perform minor surgeries). Also, certain potent allopathic drugs (antibiotics, etc.) are not typically within Ayurveda practice (though some states allow restricted usage). Knowing your legal scope is important.
Need to educate patients who might be more familiar with quick-fix allopathic pills. It takes skill to convince them to follow dietary restrictions or take bitter herbal decoctions regularly.
Ancient texts are in Sanskrit – while taught in translation, having some grasp of Sanskrit helps in deeper learning of classical Ayurveda literature.
Yes, BAMS graduates are considered doctors in the field of Ayurveda and can use the prefix "Vaidya" (Dr.). They are registered under the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) and are recognized medical practitioners for Ayurvedic medicine in India.
To an extent, yes. BAMS syllabus includes Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology, Microbiology, Surgery, etc. from modern medicine (though not in as great depth as MBBS). This is to ensure Ayurvedic doctors understand the human body and disease in modern terms too. They do not become licensed to practice full-fledged allopathic medicine, but this knowledge helps in emergency handling and communicating with allopathic professionals.
They can prescribe Ayurvedic medicines (herbo-mineral formulations, classical preparations), perform Panchakarma (detox procedures), suggest diet and lifestyle modifications per Ayurveda. Some states allow BAMS to prescribe a restricted list of modern medications (like certain painkillers, antipyretics) – this is a contentious area known as "bridge course" concept. They cannot perform major surgeries (though some minor surgical procedures using Ayurvedic techniques, like Kshar Sutra for hemorrhoids, are within their scope). They also often advise Yoga and meditation as part of treatment.
The 12-month internship is usually divided rotating through departments like Kaya Chikitsa (Medicine), Shalya (Surgery), Stri Roga (Gynecology), Bala Roga (Pediatrics), etc., often including a posting in an allopathy hospital for a few months. This gives a blend of exposure. Interns typically assist in outpatient consultations, prepare and dispense Ayurvedic medicines in the pharmacy, and perform panchakarma under supervision.
Ayurveda is globally popular as alternative medicine, but most countries don’t recognize BAMS as a medical license. You may work as an Ayurvedic practitioner or consultant in wellness centers abroad, but you might not be allowed to use the title “doctor” or prescribe freely unless that country has specific recognition. Some countries have Ayurveda associations and require you to register or get a license from local complementary medicine boards. Always research the specific country’s regulations.
National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA) – Jaipur, Rajasthan. (Deemed university; top-ranked Ayurveda institute with excellent facilities for UG, PG, and research).
Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) (Gujarat Ayurved University) – Jamnagar, Gujarat. (Oldest Ayurveda university; renowned for research and classical teaching).
Faculty of Ayurveda, Banaras Hindu University (BHU) – Varanasi, UP. (Highly prestigious faculty under BHU, offers BAMS and MD; strong integration of Ayurveda with modern science).
Pune, Maharashtra. (One of the oldest Ayurveda colleges, affiliated to Maharashtra University of Health Sciences).
Government Ayurvedic College, Kottakkal (V.P.S.V. Ayurveda College) – Kottakkal, Kerala. (Famous for being attached to Arya Vaidya Sala; strong clinical exposure in classical Ayurveda).
Udupi, Karnataka. (SDM is well-known; high academic standards and hospital facilities).
Panchkula, Haryana. (One of North India’s top government Ayurvedic colleges, good infrastructure.)
Bangalore, Karnataka. (Also known as GAMS Bangalore; a reputable institution in Karnataka).
IPGTRA (Institute of Post Graduate Teaching & Research in Ayurveda) – Jamnagar, Gujarat. (Primarily a PG institute but its UG (BAMS) is highly valued, now merged under ITRA Jamnagar).
Kerala. (Known for quality Ayurveda education and being in the heart of authentic Ayurveda hub).
Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra. (Notable private college with modern facilities integrated with D.Y. Patil University campus).
Kollam, Kerala. (Part of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham; offers BAMS with good campus and research opportunities).
Maharashtra. (Historic college in Central India, known for scholarly faculty.)
Rajasthan. (Another government college aside from NIA in Jaipur with good patient flow.)
Bengaluru, Karnataka. (Renowned private college, also called SKAMCH, attached to a charitable hospital).
Ahmedabad, Gujarat. (Top Ayurvedic college in Gujarat, besides Jamnagar.)
Belgaum, Karnataka. (Good private institute under KLE deemed university).
Ernakulam, Kerala. (Noted private college in Kerala with decent facilities).
Nadiad, Gujarat. (Historic institution, one of the oldest running Ayurveda colleges in Gujarat).
Haridwar, Uttarakhand. (Run by Patanjali Yogpeeth; newer but has gained prominence due to the Patanjali brand and facilities).
A fresh BAMS graduate might start with a salary of around ₹20,000–₹30,000 per month in an Ayurvedic hospital or clinic (₹2.5–₹3.5 LPA). In government service (e.g., as a contract medical officer in a primary health center), it could be slightly higher, say ₹35,000/month depending on the state.
Many Ayurvedic doctors go into private practice. Early on, earnings may be modest until they build a reputation. Typical consultation fees can be ₹150–₹500 per patient. If you see say 15 patients a day at ₹200 each, that’s ₹3,000/day, ~₹90,000/month gross, but you must subtract medicine costs (if dispensing herbs) and overheads. As practice grows (especially if you offer Panchakarma packages or have a wellness center), monthly earnings can cross ₹1–₹2 lakhs.
The Ministry of AYUSH and state governments have been increasing Ayurvedic positions in public health centers. A permanent government Ayurvedic Medical Officer can earn as per the pay matrix (often starting around Level 10: ₹50,000–₹60,000/month plus allowances for entry level). There are also NRHM (National Rural Health Mission) positions for AYUSH doctors with salaries in the ₹30k–₹40k range.
Ayurveda and alternative medicine have seen a resurgence. Market size of Ayurveda in India is growing by double digits annually, propelled by companies like Patanjali, Dabur, Himalaya and increasing public trust. There’s also push for integration: many allopathic hospitals now have an AYUSH wing. Insurance coverage for Ayurveda treatments (like Panchakarma for certain ailments) is improving, which can increase patient turnout.
Especially in Kerala, Ayurvedic rejuvenation therapy for international tourists is big business. BAMS doctors with language skills and spa experience can tap into high-paying short-term roles at resorts. This segment commands premium pricing – for instance, a 2-week Panchakarma program for a foreign client can cost thousands of dollars, supporting good salaries for the practitioners involved.
If working in industry (product R&D, etc.), salaries might start around ₹4–₹6 LPA for BAMS graduates, and higher for those with MD/PhD. The Ayurvedic pharma sector is investing in clinical trials and scientific validation, opening jobs for Ayurveda experts.
Those with MD (Ayurveda) can become consultants in specialty clinics or professors. An experienced MD (Ay) as a professor can earn ₹70,000–₹1,00,000 per month in govt colleges per UGC pay scales. Senior consultants in metro cities focusing on chronic diseases (like an Ayurvedic specialist for autoimmune disorders) can charge higher consultation fees (₹500-₹1000 per consult) and thus have higher incomes.
While demand is growing, BAMS graduates also face competition from the sheer number of AYUSH grads (India has 400+ Ayurveda colleges). Thus, standing out via specialization or additional skills (like yoga, naturopathy, etc.) can help. The government’s push like establishing AYUSH health & wellness centers under AYUSHMAN Bharat is likely to create more jobs.
Rural postings might have lower pay but higher respect (often being the only doctor around, even allopathic treatments end up being provided by them). Urban practice might require more marketing but has clientele who can pay for wellness services.
Ayurveda treats the whole person (body, mind, spirit). Many find it fulfilling to heal with natural methods and see chronic issues improve through lifestyle changes, not just symptom suppression.
There is increasing global and national acceptance of Ayurveda. It’s part of India’s heritage and you become a custodian of that knowledge. The government support for AYUSH gives a stable platform.
You can be a clinician, or venture into wellness tourism, spa industry, herbal product business, or academia. The skillset is versatile within the domain of natural health.
Ayurvedic practice often deals with chronic ailments and planned therapies. There are far fewer midnight emergencies compared to allopathic practice. This can mean a less stressful routine (though you must refer out emergencies appropriately).
Studying Ayurveda often encourages you to adopt a healthy lifestyle (you learn yoga, meditation, proper diet). Many Ayurvedic doctors follow what they preach, potentially enjoying better personal health and work-life balance.
Society often places MBBS on a higher pedestal than BAMS. You might have to occasionally clarify that you’re a “real doctor” and combat stereotypes that Ayurveda is just “home remedies.” This is changing, but still prevalent in some urban perceptions.
On average, initial earnings for BAMS might be less than an MBBS graduate’s, especially without an established practice. It may take time to build a financially rewarding career unless you crack a good government job early or have a family business in Ayurveda.
Working in rural or government settings, you may face limited supply of quality Ayurvedic medicines. Also, research funding in Ayurveda, though improving, is still not as robust as allopathy.
You often need to spend more time with patients educating them on lifestyle, which is good but time-consuming. Convincing modern patients to stick with dietary restrictions or take bitter churnas regularly is challenging – compliance can be an issue.
Ayurveda relies on ancient texts and experiences. While there is inherent wisdom, modern evidence-based validation is catching up. As a practitioner, you might struggle when very scientifically-minded patients question the lack of modern trials. It requires you to stay updated with any research that does emerge for credibility.
For severe acute conditions (like heart attack, acute appendicitis), Ayurveda has limitations; you must refer to allopathy. Some practitioners feel a lack of empowerment in such scenarios, as they cannot intervene beyond first aid measures.