Keralam has become a haven for Ayurveda seekers

Keralam, formerly known as Kerala, has emerged as a prime destination for those seeking Ayurvedic treatments, integrating wellness into the travel experience alongside its scenic backwaters, beaches, and cultural attractions. The Indian state has built a strong reputation around Ayurveda, which employs a holistic approach utilizing herbs, oils, diet, massage, and other therapies to enhance well-being.

Visitors to Keralam can opt for a brief treatment or undergo a long-term personalized wellness program. During a visit to cover Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's official trip, Bernama observed an Ayurvedic center within The Raviz Kadavu resort in Calicut, where guests can receive treatments while enjoying the resort's amenities. Dr Roufi Ahammed C, an Ayurvedic physician, clarified that Ayurveda is far more than just massage; it encompasses a comprehensive lifestyle approach that includes food, medicine, massage, treatment, external therapies, yoga, and meditation.

Keralam's Ayurveda centers are rated based on cleanliness, staff qualifications, safety standards, patient records, and treatment facilities, providing travelers with an assurance of quality. However, it's essential to note that Ayurveda should not replace conventional medicine in emergencies, as both systems have their roles and limitations.

The personalized nature of Ayurveda, which considers each individual's constitution and condition, ensures that treatments are tailored accordingly. For example, two people with the same ailment may receive different medicines and therapies due to their unique differences. Longer Ayurvedic programs, like Panchakarma, which includes cleansing procedures, require a significant time commitment, necessitating a minimum of 21 days at Dr Roufi's center to ensure proper preparation.

Keralam's success in Ayurveda tourism could offer valuable insights for Malaysia as it explores wellness tourism opportunities. K Saravana Kumar, Malaysia’s consul-general in South India, believes that Keralam's experience in integrating traditional medicine with modern healthcare and research can serve as a beneficial model for Malaysia to develop its wellness offerings thoughtfully and responsibly, focusing on clear standards and proper regulation to complement rather than mimic India's model.