Ancient Ayurveda Meets Modern Science: ITRA to Lead Veterinary Research for Wild Animals
The Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) in Jamnagar has been designated as the nodal agency in India for pioneering research that integrates ayurveda with veterinary science. This initiative aims to scientifically validate ancient ayurvedic remedies for application in treating wild animals, marking a significant step in bridging traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific methods.
Collaboration with Vantara for Wildlife Care
ITRA will conduct comprehensive scientific studies in collaboration with Vantara, India's largest private rescue and rehabilitation centre for wild animals located in Jamnagar. Vantara provides advanced medical treatment and care for rescued and injured species, making it an ideal partner for this research. The collaboration focuses on developing and testing ayurvedic treatments specifically tailored for wild animals, subject to necessary regulatory approvals.
Research Methodology and Recruitment
Tanuja Nesari, director of ITRA, announced that the institute has entered into an agreement with Vantara to perform integrated validation studies. "This means we will carry out practical research to scientifically validate ayurvedic remedies based on evidence," she explained. The project plans to recruit five ayurveda MD graduates to work across five distinct research areas. Over 100 applications have been received, and a careful scrutiny process is underway to select the most qualified candidates.
Nesari highlighted that while most veterinary universities primarily focus on domesticated animals, this project is uniquely aimed at treatments for wild animals. The research team will utilize ayurveda literature to prepare treatments and conduct trials in strict adherence to Institutional Animal Ethics Committee (IAEC) rules. Findings from these studies will be published in reputable medical journals, and upon securing regulatory approvals, the remedies may be made available to veterinary practitioners nationwide.
Historical Foundations in Ayurvedic Texts
Ayurveda literature contains extensive references to veterinary medicine, demonstrating its long-standing significance in ancient India. Key texts such as:
- Gau Ayu
- Hasti Ayu
- Palakapya Samhita
- Matanga Lila
- Shalihotra Samhita
provide detailed guidance on animal treatment, covering disease management and methods to maintain animal health. Shubhangi Kamble, a professor in the Department of Basic Principles of Ayurveda, noted that "Hasti Ayu and Palakapya Samhita contain detailed descriptions related to elephants, explaining the types of diseases they may suffer from, the medicines used for treatment, their preparation and formulations, and the ointments that should be applied."
Interconnected Realms and Modern Relevance
Kamble further emphasized that several ancient texts on elephants and horses are considered encyclopaedias of veterinary science. "In ancient times, animals were widely used in warfare and agriculture. Books were written to ensure their longevity and proper care, and these texts still serve as references today," she stated. Additionally, ayurveda describes three interconnected realms: the human kingdom, the animal kingdom, and the plant kingdom, all of which are interrelated and interdependent, underscoring the holistic approach of this traditional system.
This research initiative not only revitalizes ancient wisdom but also positions India at the forefront of innovative veterinary care, potentially offering sustainable and effective treatments for wild animals in need.
