Ayurveda: It’s Impact in Portugal and Paths for Future Growth

A bstract This article discusses the introduction and growth of Ayurveda in Portugal, a country with historical connections to India. Until 2014, Ayurveda was practically unknown in Portugal. Strategies, including partnerships with Indian universities, were implemented to draw attention to Ayurveda. These partnerships facilitated teaching, monitoring of procedures, and the creation of educational videos. The Portuguese Association of Ayurvedic Medicine (AMAyur) has played a key role, including developing training courses and conducting outreach activities in schools and media. AMAyur is working with the government for formal recognition of Ayurveda as a medical practice. Portugal recognizes nonconventional medicines such as Chinese medicine, acupuncture, chiropractic, herbal medicine, naturopathy, homeopathy, and osteopathy. Ayurveda currently falls under herbal medicine and naturopathy. Ayurveda is gaining public traction through clinics, therapies like Pañcakarma, and a growing supplement market, reflecting Europe’s broader shift toward holistic and eco-conscious healthcare.