Harnessing Nepal’s Traditional Knowledge: Strengthening the Ayurveda ecosystem and exploring opportunities for global collaboration

Ayurveda is a vital component of Nepal’s healthcare system and cultural heritage, rooted in Vedic traditions and enriched by the country’s Himalayan biodiversity. It provides a strong foundation for holistic, preventive, and promotive health, and its global relevance is increasingly recognized. This paper synthesizes evidence from government policies, institutional reports, and peer-reviewed studies to analyze the Ayurveda ecosystem in Nepal, with emphasis on Education, Healthcare Delivery, Medicinal plant resources, Regulations, and Research. Nepal has developed a structured network that includes the Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery program, regulatory oversight by the Nepal Ayurveda Medical Council, and more than 325 government clinics managed by the Department of Ayurveda and Alternative Medicine. The National Ayurveda Research and Training Center has emerged as a key institution for clinical research, herbal standardization, and specialized training, while private wellness centers are expanding Panchakarma therapies and supporting the growth of health tourism. Together, these developments reflect the sector’s integration into public health priorities and its potential for international alignment. Strengthening evidence-based research, promoting sustainable use of medicinal plants, adopting digital health innovations, and fostering academic and research collaborations present major opportunities for growth. Advancing these areas will safeguard Nepal’s Traditional Knowledge, enhance healthcare delivery, and position Ayurveda as a significant contributor to global health and sustainability goals.