Ayurveda and Health Economics: A Preventive, Affordable and Sustainable Model for Contemporary Healthcare

Abstract

Background: Escalating healthcare costs and the rising burden of chronic non-communicable diseases pose major challenges to global health systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. There is increasing recognition that preventive and holistic approaches are essential for sustainable healthcare delivery.

Objective: To analyse the role of Ayurveda in preventive healthcare from a health economics perspective and examine its relevance to affordability, sustainability, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Methods: A narrative review was conducted using published literature, government reports, and WHO documents focusing on health economics, preventive medicine, Ayurveda, and integrative healthcare models. Economic implications of Ayurvedic preventive strategies were analysed at individual and societal levels.

Results: Ayurveda emphasizes lifestyle modification, individualized care, and early disease prevention, which aligns with modern health economic principles of cost-effectiveness and efficient resource utilization. Evidence suggests that Ayurvedic interventions can reduce long-term healthcare costs, lower dependency on pharmaceuticals, and improve productivity by preventing or delaying chronic disease progression.

Conclusion: Ayurveda represents a cost-effective and sustainable preventive healthcare model. Integrating Ayurveda with conventional medicine may contribute significantly to reducing healthcare expenditure, achieving universal health coverage, and meeting global sustainability goals.