Fourth World Ayurveda Congress Begins in India

I am in Bangalore, India for the 4th World Ayurveda Congress, an impressive collection of events focused on Ayurveda that brings together leaders from industry, academia, government, healthcare, and other relevant sectors. The event is also expected to draw more than 200,000 consumers over the next several days. Today I visited the exhibit hall that is being prepared (I will have a booth if you are coming to the event). This event is much more than a trade exhibition though. It includes more than 20 events including the Arogya (health and wellbeing) Expo, a buyer-seller meet up, many scientific presentations, interaction with government regulators and related bodies, gatherings of practicing doctors and current students, and far too many specialized meetings, roundtables and presentations to list here. Full details of the event are at www.ayurworld.org.

In addition to supporting and stimulating the use of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) throughout India, the intent of this gathering is to export this health system to other countries, including the U.S. With the state of our health care (or sick care) system, we might want to pay attention. In addition to the thousands of years of practice in these areas, India also has a thriving modern scientific effort to help define and substantiate the practices for us. The commitment and energy that I see in this area is very exciting. I hope to help bring more awareness and understanding of this field to the U.S. In that regard, I am gathering as much information as I can in order to share it with you.

There are so many unique natural ingredients and compositions in use here in India that hold great potential for commercial success in the U.S. and can really contribute to public health. There are obstacles of course. Beyond simple awareness and understanding, it will be a challenge to gain acceptance. In India, many of these products and practices are used to treat and prevent diseases and conditions that would render them drugs in the U.S. regulatory system. It may be some time before we cross that bridge. In the shorter term, we can learn a great deal from the rich tradition and deep understanding of wellness found in India. And there are many ingredients and formulations that can and should find commercial success as dietary supplements in our market. It is also no secret that India is rapidly becoming an important market for our goods and services. I look forward to working with my friends and colleagues here and at home to help move this important relationship forward. If you are interested in learning more and getting involved, just send me an email (jonb@vpico.com) or give me a call (+1 480-990-1101).