BAMS stands for Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery. It's a degree program in the field of Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional system of healing that originated in India. The program typically spans five and a half years and includes both theoretical and practical training in various aspects of Ayurveda, such as herbal medicine, diet therapy, panchakarma, and more. The course prepares students to become practitioners of Ayurveda, where they learn to diagnose and treat various health conditions based on Ayurvedic principles. After completing the BAMS program, graduates are typically eligible to practice as Ayurvedic doctors or work in various healthcare settings related to Ayurvedic treatments.
To pursue a BAMS degree, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Educational Qualification:
Minimum Qualification: Candidates should have passed 10+2 (Higher Secondary) or equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects.
Minimum Marks: A minimum of 50% marks (relaxed to 40-45% for reserved categories like SC/ST/OBC) in 12th standard.
Age Limit:
Candidates should typically be between 17 and 25 years of age at the time of admission.
Entrance Examination:
Admission to many Ayurvedic colleges is based on an entrance exam. Popular entrance exams include NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test), or state-level exams specific to Ayurveda.
Language Proficiency:
Since many Ayurvedic texts are in Sanskrit, having a basic knowledge of Sanskrit can be helpful but is not mandatory in most cases.
The BAMS program lasts 5.5 years, including academic coursework and a one-year internship.
Sanskrit:
Introduction to Sanskrit, focusing on its use in understanding Ayurvedic texts.
Rachana Sharira (Anatomy):
Study of human anatomy from both Ayurvedic and modern perspectives.
Kriya Sharira (Physiology):
Understanding the function and workings of human body systems.
Biochemistry:
Chemical reactions and substances in the body.
Preventive and Social Medicine:
Concepts of hygiene, preventive health, and social medicine practices.
Vikriti Sharira (Pathology):
The study of the body’s pathological changes in disease.
Microbiology:
Study of microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, and their role in diseases.
Dravya Guna Vidnyana (Pharmacology):
Understanding medicinal plants, herbs, and their properties.
Ayurvedic Pharmacology:
In-depth study of Ayurvedic medicinal drugs and their preparations.
Nidan & Ashtang (Diagnosis):
Ayurvedic methods of diagnosing diseases, pulse diagnosis (Nadi Pariksha), and other diagnostic tools.
Rasa Shastra (Alchemy):
Study of metals, minerals, and their therapeutic properties in Ayurveda.
Panchakarma:
The five purification therapies in Ayurveda, including detoxification and rejuvenation methods.
Shalya Tantra (Surgery):
Study of surgical treatments and procedures as per Ayurvedic methods.
Shalakya Tantra (Ophthalmology):
Treatment of eye, ear, nose, and throat diseases through Ayurvedic techniques.
ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat):
Special focus on Ayurvedic treatments for ear, nose, and throat disorders.
Stri Roga and Prasuti Tantra (Obstetrics and Gynecology):
Study of women’s health, pregnancy, childbirth, and gynecological diseases.
Kaumarbhritya (Pediatrics):
Ayurvedic treatment of child health, pediatric care, and childhood diseases.
Kaya Chikitsa (Internal Medicine):
Diagnosis and treatment of internal diseases according to Ayurvedic principles.
Manas Roga (Psychiatry):
Treatment of mental health disorders from an Ayurvedic perspective.
Research Methodology and Medical Statistics:
Understanding of research methods and the statistical tools necessary for medical research.
Clinical Training:
Practical training in Ayurvedic hospitals, clinics, and patient care.
Case Studies and Practical Exposure:
In-depth case study analysis and clinical exposure under experienced Ayurvedic doctors.
1-Year Internship: Students must complete an internship, where they gain practical experience in Ayurvedic clinical practices, including diagnosing and treating patients under the supervision of qualified professionals.
Ayurvedic Theory: Learn about the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), Ayurvedic principles of health, and wellness.
Herbal Medicine: Emphasis on using plant-based medicine and treatments derived from nature.
Alternative Therapies: Techniques like Panchakarma, yoga, and meditation for holistic healing.
Surgery & Medicine: Ancient Ayurvedic surgical methods and their relevance in modern medicine.
Ayurvedic Doctor: You can practice as an Ayurvedic doctor in hospitals, clinics, or your own practice.
Consultant: Provide Ayurvedic consultations, health assessments, and customized treatment plans.
Ayurvedic Researcher: Work in research to explore and develop new Ayurvedic medicines.
Ayurvedic Pharmaceutical Industry: Work in the production, research, or marketing of Ayurvedic medicines and products.
Healthcare Sector: Work in wellness centers, spas, or in the wellness industry.
Teaching & Academics: Become a lecturer or professor in Ayurvedic colleges and universities.
