India has taken an independent stand on asserting the quality of its ayurvedic medicines sold across the world. The Indian clarification has come in the wake of increasing complaints from several developed countries on the presence of toxic substances like lead beyond the permissible limits of those countries.

Indian position was made clear by Union Health Minister Dr Anbumani Ramdoss while inaugurating an exposition on Indian medicine in Geneva on May 24. The minister said, "India is in a position to call upon global partners, particularly USA, European Union, Asian and African countries to go for mechanisms to regulate Ayurveda teaching, practice and medicines based on guidelines of the World Health Organisation. New Delhi is willing to provide technical cooperation to countries, which want to evolve regulatory mechanism for Ayurveda."

Dr. Ramadoss stated that use of Ayurvedic formulations and drugless therapies like Panchakarma and yoga to treat chronic problems has gained acceptance in the USA, UK, Russia, Germany, France, Hungry and other countries. He said that many distinguished modern practitioners in India and abroad are using these drugs for treating chronic conditions like rheumatic arthritis, leukoderma, diabetes, hypertension, liver problems and other degenerative disorders relating to ageing.

Stating about adverse publicity due to presence of heavy metals in these medicines, Dr. Ramadoss said "5-10% Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani drugs have heavy metals for therapeutic value and are processed in such a way that they are de-toxified." He stated that Government has introduced mandatory testing to scientifically validate these drugs. The Minister also called for synergy between modern and traditional medicines to provide health for all.