How should a Christian view Ayurvedic medicine?

Answer

The spiritual foundations of Ayurvedic medicine are rooted in the Hindu religion. It is believed that knowledge of Ayurvedic medicine was passed down from the gods and revealed through meditation. Some practices appear to be purely spiritual, such as harmonizing life energies with the universal life force. Today, this has gained popularity under the broader label of “New Age.” Other aspects of Ayurvedic medicine involve physical practices and treatments, including the use of herbs and essential oils.

Certainly, a Christian should reject any treatment that aligns with a pagan philosophy or involves participation in pagan rituals. If an Ayurvedic practitioner aims to guide a Christian towards discovering their inner divinity for healing purposes, then such treatment goes against biblical teachings and should be avoided. Since most self-professed Ayurvedic practitioners adhere to the entire treatment approach, we advise Christians to avoid it.

Conversely, the Bible does not prohibit the use of legitimate medical treatments. If certain elements of Ayurvedic therapy offer physical benefits without pagan associations or theology, such as using an herbal blend to alleviate intestinal inflammation or an essential oil for headache relief, they can be utilized like any other treatment.

It appears that many uninformed Christians are attracted to Ayurvedic and other alternative medicine practices due to their perceived “spiritual” nature and the perception that they avoid some negative aspects of conventional medicine. Some individuals reject modern medicine because they view it as a product of an atheistic, naturalistic worldview that introduces unnatural and harmful chemicals into our bodies, along with excessively high prices set by profit-driven pharmaceutical companies. Even those who onlyIn faith healing, some individuals will accept “natural” compounds such as those offered in Ayurvedic medicine. They may uncritically embrace a “spiritual” approach to their illness, believing it aligns more with God’s creation, even if the spiritual foundation of that approach is clearly unchristian.

The reality is that God has designed the universe with remarkable potential for human benefit, waiting to be discovered. Numerous “natural” chemical compounds found in plants and animals have healing properties. Similarly, many “man-made” compounds are essentially combinations of these “natural” elements. Ultimately, everything originates from God’s creation. While “man-made” medicine can have adverse effects, “natural” or homeopathic compounds may also pose risks. Caution is necessary from all angles.

Ultimately, the motto at Tenwek Hospital in Kenya rings true: “We Treat, Jesus Heals.” Christians rely on God and pray for healing, recognizing that one way He heals is through skilled medical professionals and both “natural” and “man-made” medicines and procedures. Certain aspects of Ayurvedic medicine may offer benefits. As long as a treatment does not involve anything pagan or anti-biblical, Christians have the liberty to consider it. However, if a practitioner is deeply rooted in a non-Christian faith or Eastern mysticism, the treatment process will likely involve pagan rituals, and Christians should abstain. If the treatment or medicine can be separated from pagan practices and proves medically beneficial, Christians can benefit from it, acknowledging God’s common grace that allowed non-Christian individuals to discover something beneficial in His creation.