The Legal and Educational Status of Āyurveda in Nepal: Challenges and Prospects

A bstract The origin of Āyurveda practices in Nepal traces back to the ancient Vedic period. Deeply embedded in Nepalese culture and healthcare traditions, Āyurveda coexists with other traditional healing systems, emphasizing the use of indigenous herbs and spiritual practices. This study analyzes the current legal and educational landscape of Āyurveda in Nepal, exploring regulatory frameworks, integration into formal healthcare systems, and associated challenges. A mixed-methods approach—including literature review and policy analysis—revealed that while Āyurveda is formally recognized under the Nepal Āyurveda Medical Council Act and supported by the Ministry of Health and Population, challenges persist in standardizing education and practice and integrating Āyurveda with public health systems. Despite these hurdles, Āyurveda holds the potential for significant contributions to Nepal’s healthcare system. Future efforts must focus on policy refinement, institution development, curriculum updates for quality education, international collaboration, and enhanced research integration.