Say No to Hidden Steroids, Say Yes to Ethical Healing: Dr. Shikha Sikri Raises Concern
Say No to Hidden Steroids, Say Yes to Ethical Healing: Dr. Shikha Sikri Raises Concern
With a rising number of people turning towards Ayurveda for lifestyle disorders such as diabetes, thyroid imbalance, joint pain and skin diseases, concerns have emerged over the misuse of the system by unqualified practitioners distributing steroid-mixed powders in the name of Ayurvedic medicine.
Dr. Shikha Sikri, Professor and Head of Department (Kayachikitsa) at Harmony Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital, Ferozepur, has warned the public against the growing practice of selling small, unlabeled paper packets (“pudiya”) falsely claimed to be Ayurvedic remedies.
According to her, many such powders contain hidden steroids or allopathic drugs that provide quick but temporary relief. “Patients may initially feel improvement such as reduced pain, clearer skin, or better sugar control. However, long-term steroid misuse can cause serious complications,” she said.
Dr. Sikri highlighted the potential side effects of prolonged steroid consumption, including facial swelling (moon face), rapid weight gain, uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension, kidney and liver damage, hormonal imbalance, and weakened immunity. She emphasized that such practices not only endanger patient health but also tarnish the reputation of authentic Ayurveda.
Referring to classical Ayurvedic literature such as the Charaka Samhita and the Sushruta Samhita, she stated that these texts clearly define the qualifications, ethical conduct, and scientific approach required of a physician. “Ayurveda is based on proper clinical assessment, including evaluation of dosha, prakriti, and agni. It does not promote blind faith or instant miracle cures,” she added.
She also expressed concern over certain communities promoting “faith healing (dumm)” rituals in place of medical treatment. While Ayurveda recognizes spiritual well-being, she clarified that it never substitutes scientific diagnosis with blind belief.
Dr. Sikri advised the public to consult only registered Ayurvedic practitioners with recognized qualifications such as BAMS or MD (Ayu). She urged patients to check for displayed registration certificates, ensure medicines are properly packaged and labeled, and remain cautious of instant cure claims.
“Sudden swelling, unexplained weight gain, or worsening blood sugar levels after consuming such powders should not be ignored and must be reported immediately,” she said.
Calling for strict adherence to ethical standards, Dr. Sikri stressed that mixing steroids or modern drugs and marketing them as Ayurvedic medicine is illegal and a betrayal of public trust.
She concluded by appealing to the public to preserve the dignity of Ayurveda by choosing qualified care and rejecting unsafe shortcuts, stating that awareness is the strongest safeguard against deception.
-Views expressed are personal.
