Ayurveda for Managing Noncommunicable Diseases in Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development Nations: A Qualitative Systematic Review

Abstract

Background

Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine, has gained recognition in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries as a complementary and alternative medicine for managing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Qualitative studies have been conducted in various OECD countries regarding the use of Ayurveda for NCD management. However, no qualitative systematic review has been conducted on this topic.

Aim

This review aimed to synthesize the experiences, perceptions, and perspectives of patients with NCDs and Ayurvedic practitioners on the use of Ayurveda for NCD management in OECD countries.

Methods

The JBI qualitative systematic review guidelines were followed. Several databases were searched to identify published and unpublished qualitative studies.

Results

Of the 18,541 records identified, 9 studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. Using the JBI checklist for qualitative research (10 criteria), the critical appraisal scores of the studies ranged from moderate to high quality. Patients turned to Ayurveda because of concerns about side effects and dissatisfaction with conventional Western treatments and were driven by the perceived gentleness and holistic qualities of Ayurveda. Complementing these patient insights, Ayurvedic practitioners emphasized that Ayurveda identifies and addresses the root causes of diseases rather than treating symptoms alone. Integration challenges, limited medication access, and regulatory constraints were identified as factors affecting Ayurveda's service delivery.

Conclusions

Patients preferred Ayurveda because of its natural approach and fewer side effects, whereas Ayurvedic practitioners valued its holistic approach. However, its wider acceptance has been hampered by hurdles such as regulatory barriers and limited access to medicines. Strategies to overcome some of the barriers identified in this review as well as to promote the strengths discussed in this review may facilitate the effective use of Ayurveda to manage NCDs in OECD countries.

Trial Registration: PROSPERO, Registration No. CRD42023397952.