The debate that has been going on for years between modern medicine and traditional Ayurvedic treatment in India has once again become a topic of discussion. Recently, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Baba Ramdev’s company Patanjali Ayurveda, which has dealt a major blow to the Indian Medical Association (IMA). IMA has been constantly criticizing Patanjali’s advertisements and claims.
Supreme Court rejects IMA’s petition
IMA had questioned some of Patanjali’s promotions and claimed that the company was exaggerating its products without scientific evidence. The organization said that such claims confuse the common people and harm the credibility of scientific medicine. But in August 2024, a bench of Justice Hema Kohli and Justice Sandeep Mehta of the Supreme Court temporarily suspended Rule 170, on which this petition was based. With this, the court dismissed the petition of IMA.
The decision provides Patanjali with temporary legal relief and it can now market its products – especially the popular Rogan Badam Shirin – without any immediate legal hurdles.
Focus on Rogan Badam Shirin
Patanjali’s Rogan Badam Shirin is an ayurvedic oil that is said to be beneficial for mental and physical health. It is especially popular among children and the elderly as it is believed to boost brain power. It contains nutrients like vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that are believed to be beneficial for the nervous system.
Growing popularity in the international market
With rising health awareness, people are now turning to natural and ayurvedic options. This is the reason why the demand for Rogan Badam Shirin has grown rapidly not only in India but also abroad. Patanjali has positioned this product as a pure and versatile health supplement for people of all ages.
How To Consume
Ayurvedic experts recommend various uses:
- For drinking: Mix 5 to 10 ml of oil in lukewarm milk and consume it before going to bed at night.
- Head massage: Massage the head before going to bed for better sleep and mental clarity.
- Nasal use: Put 2–3 drops in the nose to sharpen the brain and relieve sinus discomfort.
Modern vs Traditional medicine: An ongoing debate
The verdict highlights the ongoing ideological conflict between allopathic and ayurvedic systems of medicine in India. While the IMA emphasises on scientific evidence, Ayurveda proponents believe that these age-old systems of medicine are naturally effective.
While the verdict is not the end of the controversy, it does show that traditional systems of medicine and brands, such as Patanjali, are gaining a strong legal foothold in India’s healthcare system. The final decision in this balance of science and tradition now depends on public trust.
