One of the reasons that Ayurveda has become increasingly popular in recent years is because of the internet. People are able to study Ayurveda and share their knowledge much easier than they could before.
People are also easily able to purchase Ayurvedic products online. There are a number of benefits to this, but there are also some risks involved. We’re going to discuss the pros and cons of purchasing Ayurvedic products over the internet.
Why Buy Ayurvedic Products Online?
There are a number of reasons it could be smart to purchase Ayurvedic products over the web.
- To someone who has not studied the foundations of Ayurvedic medicine, the formulas involved in making Ayurvedic medicine may seem complex and confusing. Buying premade Ayurvedic formulas can eliminate this confusion.
- Because of the diversity of the ingredients used in Ayurveda, it can be very difficult (if not impossible) to source all of these ingredients from local stores.
- The simple convenience of being able to buy pre-made products, or pre-packed or prepared ingredients, makes the allure of online shopping very attractive.
In the West, Ayurvedic practitioners are becoming greater in number – but they are still far from common. Many people live in locales where they do not have access to a trained Ayurvedic professional. For this reason, the only way that they can gain access to Ayurvedic products and knowledge is by using the internet.
Risks of Buying Ayurvedic Products Online
It can be a great blessing and convenience to be able to purchase these products online, but there are risks that one should be aware of. These risks should be considered when buying anything online that you intend to consume or use as medicine, not just for Ayurvedic products.
- It’s important to ensure the authenticity of the product – especially when dealing with Ayurvedic products. Many Ayurvedic ingredients are unfamiliar herbs and powders that we can’t easily find in the West. For this reason, it’s important to ensure that the vendors you buy from are authentic.
- It’s important to make sure that the formulas of pre-made Ayurvedic products are accurate and contain the dosages that they say that they will.
- It could also help to have a basic understanding of Ayurveda, or to purchase from sites that clearly explain some Ayurvedic concepts. Ayurvedic formulas are very particular, with each ingredient fulfilling a specific function. If the functions of the herbs are not made clear, it could lead to the purchase of a product which may not be as beneficial as it claims to be.
Most of these issues can be easily avoided by making sure that you choose products from a company that clearly demonstrates their Ayurvedic knowledge, has good reviews, and provides products formulated by qualified professionals.
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Ayurvedic medicine is a very diverse science, and many people find that it’s easiest to purchase Ayurvedic products online. This article has outlined the benefits and potential risks involved with buying these items online. Good luck, and happy shopping!
Reviewed by Dr. Jayant Lokhande, MD (Botanical Drugs), MBA (Biotechnology)
