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The Western biomedical model, rooted in scientific methods, is widely seen as the most effective form of medicine and forms the basis for most national healthcare systems. However, complementary and alternative therapies have grown in popularity in the developed societies, with some, such as acupuncture and homeopathy, partially integrated into biomedical health systems. Studying the globalization of medical knowledge and practices could provide useful insights into the debate between advocates of globalization and glocalization.

It seems obvious that successful biomedicine is an example of globalization spreading outwards from the ‘West’ to ‘the rest’. But is this correct? Are there medical success stories moving in the opposite direction? And, if there are, have they changed in the process or are they changing biomedical practice? The article below approaches this issue by exploring the travels of Indian ayurvedic medicine. Is there a ‘global ayurveda’? Read the paper and answer the questions that follow.

Sujatha, V. (2020) ‘The Universal and the Global: Contextualizing European Ayurvedic Practices’, Society and Culture in South Asia, 6(1): 52–73.

1 What methods were used in this research? Where was it carried out?

2 The author identifies three phases in the movement of ayurveda into European societies since the 1980s. What are they?

3 Which elements of ayurveda are said to have global potential? Why are some elements unlikely to be adopted in Europe?

4 Outline how ayurveda made its way into Europe. Why was the method of transmission particularly significant in relation to its reputation and take-up?

5 ‘The case of ayurvedic medicine in Europe is an example of glocalization.’ List some reasons for and against this proposition, drawing on this paper and the ideas of Roland Robertson (discussed in this chapter).