BAMS vs BHMS: Which Alternative Medicine Path is Right for You?

Vaishali Pandey
October 4, 2024

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BAMS vs BHMS: Which Alternative Medicine Path is Right for You?

Choosing between BAMS and BHMS is a common dilemma faced by students interested in pursuing alternative medicine. While both BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) and BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery) are promising fields, they represent different approaches to medicine. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the difference between BAMS and BHMS, their career prospects, and salaries and help you determine which suits your interests and goals.

What Is BAMS?

BAMS is a degree focused on Ayurvedic medicine, which is deeply rooted in ancient Indian traditions. Ayurveda is a holistic healing practice that has existed for more than 5,000 years. It emphasises natural treatments, herbal remedies, and maintaining a balance between mind, body, and spirit.

Criteria Details
Duration 5.5 years (4.5 years academic + 1-year internship)
Eligibility 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB)
Core Subjects Ayurvedic fundamentals, herbal pharmacology, anatomy, physiology
Regulating Body Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM)

If you're interested in a career that emphasises traditional healing methods, BAMS may be the right choice when comparing BAMS and BHMS.

Also Read: Karnataka NEET UG Counseling 2024: Dates & Registration

What Is BHMS?

BHMS focuses on homoeopathy, an alternative medical system based on the principle that "like cures like." Homoeopathic remedies are made from natural substances and are highly diluted to stimulate the body’s healing processes. Homeopathy is a popular form of treatment in many countries and is recognised worldwide.

Criteria Details
Duration 5.5 years (4.5 years academic + 1-year internship)
Eligibility 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB)
Core Subjects Homoeopathic philosophy, material medica, repertory, anatomy, and physiology
Regulating Body Central Council of Homoeopathy (CCH)

If you’re more inclined toward alternative treatments with fewer side effects, BHMS could be the better option in the BAMS vs BHMS debate.

Also Read: BAMS Course Fees 2024: Syllabus, Admission and Top Colleges

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BAMS vs BHMS: Key Differences

BAMS vs BHMS: Key Differences

Let’s dive into the difference between BAMS and BHMS to help you understand which path is more aligned with your interests and which is better, BAM or BHMS.

Aspect BAMS BHMS
System of Medicine Ayurveda (Traditional Indian Medicine) Homeopathy (Alternative Medicine)
Philosophy Balance of mind, body, and soul through natural remedies "Like cures like" principle
Course Duration 5.5 years (including a 1-year internship) 5.5 years (including a 1-year internship)
Eligibility 10+2 with PCB 10+2 with PCB
Career Opportunities Ayurvedic hospitals, wellness centres, private clinics Homoeopathic hospitals, clinics, private practice
Salary Range (India) ₹3-8 lakhs per annum (entry-level) ₹2.5-7 lakhs per annum (entry-level)
Regulating Body Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) Central Council of Homoeopathy (CCH)
Global Recognition Limited, but growing Widely accepted in 80+ countries
Specialisation Options MD in Ayurveda, MSc, PhD MD in Homeopathy, MSc, PhD

The comparison between BAMS and BHMS shows that both fields have distinct advantages, depending on whether you lean more towards traditional Indian medicine or globally accepted alternative treatments. So, you can understand bhms or bams, which is better for you.

Also Read: BAMS Syllabus 2024: Explore Subjects, Top Colleges, & Books

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BAMS vs BHMS: Pros and Cons

When comparing BAMS vs BHMS, these points highlight why Ayurveda may or may not be the right fit for you.

Aspect BAMS BHMS
Pros - Rich history of Ayurveda (5,000+ years old)
- Holistic approach: Focuses on mind, body, and soul
- Growing global popularity of Ayurveda
- Variety of treatments (e.g., Panchakarma)
- Job opportunities in wellness centres and resorts
- Global recognition in over 80 countries
- Non-invasive treatments with minimal side effects
- Increasing demand for homoeopathic treatments
- Flexibility in establishing private practice
- Strong private practice potential
Cons - Limited global recognition outside India
- Lower initial salary compared to other medical fields
- Limited clinical exposure compared to allopathic fields
- Homeopathy remains controversial and lacks widespread scientific backing
- Treatments take longer to show results
- Fewer research opportunities

In the BAMS vs BHMS debate, BHMS offers stronger global recognition but can face criticism due to the ongoing debate about its efficacy.

Also Read: BHMS Fees 2024: Private/Government College Fees Structure

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Career Scope After BAMS

If you opt for BAMS in the BAMS vs BHMS decision, here are some career paths you can explore:

1. Ayurvedic Doctor

 Work in Ayurvedic hospitals or wellness centres, or open your own practice.

2. Ayurvedic Consultant

 Provide guidance on diet, lifestyle, and treatments based on Ayurveda.

3. Research and Development

 Join Ayurvedic pharmaceutical companies or research institutions to develop new treatments.

4. Teaching

 Become a lecturer or professor in Ayurvedic medical colleges.

5. Pharmaceuticals

 Work with companies that develop Ayurvedic products.

The salary after BAMS generally starts around ₹3-8 lakhs annually, with the potential for growth as you gain experience and specialisation.

Career Scope After BHMS

If you choose BHMS in the bams or BHMS salary debate, here are some potential career options.

1. Homeopathic Doctor

 Practice in homoeopathic hospitals or clinics, or start your own private practice.

2. Consultant

 Offer homoeopathic treatments and consultations to patients.

3. Researcher

 Engage in the research and development of new homoeopathic remedies.

4. Lecturer/Professor

Teach homoeopathic medicine in universities and colleges.

5. Medical Officer

 Work as a medical officer in government or private institutions.

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Salary Comparison: BAMS vs BHMS

Here’s a salary comparison for those torn between BAMS or BHMS salary debate.

Qualification Starting Salary With Experience (5-10 years) Specialisation Salary
BAMS ₹3-8 lakhs per annum ₹6-12 lakhs per annum ₹15-25 lakhs per annum
BHMS ₹2.5-7 lakhs per annum ₹5-10 lakhs per annum ₹12-20 lakhs per annum

While BAMS and BHMS offer lucrative careers, your earnings largely depend on your specialisation, experience, and the region where you practise.

Which is Better: BAMS vs BHMS?

So, which is better, BAMS or BHMS? The answer largely depends on your personal interests and career goals.

  • Choose BAMS if you are passionate about Ayurveda and natural healing. You’ll work with herbal medicines and holistic treatments that are becoming increasingly popular worldwide, especially in wellness tourism.
  • Choose BHMS if you prefer a globally accepted medical system that uses natural remedies with minimal side effects. BHMS offers more opportunities for international practice and has a broader global reach.

While the entry-level salary for BAMS and BHMS is quite similar, BAMS practitioners may have an advantage in Ayurvedic resorts, wellness centres, and spas. However, BHMS graduates may find it easier to work abroad due to the widespread acceptance of homoeopathy.

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FAQ on BAMS vs BHMS

What’s the core difference between BAMS and BHMS?

BAMS focuses on Ayurvedic medicine, which uses herbs and natural therapies, while BHMS is rooted in homoeopathy, which works on the principle of "like cures like."

Which is better, BAMS or BHMS, in terms of salary?

BAMS or BHMS salaries at the entry-level are similar, but due to the growing popularity of Ayurveda, BAMS practitioners may earn more with experience.

Which is better for global opportunities, BAMS or BHMS?

BHMS has better global recognition than BAMS, which is still gaining momentum outside India.

Can I open my clinic after BAMS or BHMS?

Both BAMS and BHMS graduates can start their practice after completing their degrees and obtaining the necessary licences.

Is BAMS more difficult than BHMS?

Both courses are equally challenging, covering vast areas of medicine. The difficulty lies more in your interest and passion for the subject.

Which course has a better future scope, BAMS or BHMS?

Both fields have promising future scopes, but BAMS is gaining popularity due to the increasing global interest in Ayurveda and wellness tourism. BHMS, on the other hand, has better international recognition in developed countries.

What are the job prospects for BAMS and BHMS in government sectors?

BAMS graduates can work in Ayurvedic hospitals, government dispensaries, and public health sectors. BHMS graduates can work as homoeopathic medical officers in government homoeopathic hospitals and dispensaries.

 Which course has better research opportunities, BAMS or BHMS?

BAMS has a growing research field in Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals and traditional medicines, while BHMS has limited research opportunities compared to conventional medicine but is growing in alternative therapy studies.

Can BAMS or BHMS graduates work abroad?

BHMS graduates have better opportunities to work abroad, especially in countries like the UK, Australia, and Germany, where homoeopathy is widely accepted. BAMS graduates have more limited opportunities abroad, but Ayurveda is gaining popularity in the wellness tourism sectors.

How much practical exposure do you get in BAMS compared to BHMS?

Both courses offer practical training, but BAMS provides more clinical exposure related to Panchakarma, Ayurvedic surgeries, and treatments. BHMS is more theory-based but includes clinical practice in homoeopathy.

Do BAMS or BHMS doctors have prescribing rights?

In India, BAMS doctors can legally prescribe Ayurvedic and sometimes even allopathic medicines. BHMS doctors can prescribe homoeopathic medication but are not licensed to prescribe allopathic drugs.

Can you pursue a postgraduate degree after BAMS or BHMS?

After BAMS, you can pursue an MD in Ayurveda or MSc/PhD in related fields. After BHMS, you can pursue an MD in Homeopathy or further specialise in alternative medicine.

 What’s the average fee structure for BAMS and BHMS courses?

The average fee for BAMS in private colleges ranges between ₹1 and 3 lakhs per year. Depending on the institution, BHMS fees are slightly lower, ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹ 2 lakhs per year.

Can I switch to allopathic medicine after completing BAMS or BHMS?

Switching directly from BAMS or BHMS to allopathic medicine is not possible. You must pursue an MBBS or other allopathic qualification to practise modern medicine.

Which has a more extensive scope in rural areas, BAMS or BHMS?

BAMS has a more extensive scope in rural areas due to the widespread acceptance of Ayurveda in traditional and village healthcare settings. BHMS is also accepted but more prevalent in urban and semi-urban regions.

Can I work in Ayurvedic or Homeopathic pharmaceutical companies after BAMS or BHMS?

Both BAMS and BHMS graduates can work in the pharmaceutical sector, focusing on research, development, and production of Ayurvedic or homoeopathic medicines.

 Which is easier to set up: an Ayurvedic or Homeopathic clinic?

Both are relatively easy to set up, but an Ayurvedic clinic may require a broader range of equipment and herbs, while a Homeopathic clinic might require fewer resources, as homoeopathy focuses on small doses and dilutions.

 Is it mandatory to complete an internship after BAMS or BHMS?

Yes, both BAMS and BHMS courses include a mandatory 1-year internship, which is critical for obtaining a valid licence to practise.

What’s the difference in treatment duration between Ayurveda and Homeopathy?

Ayurvedic treatments generally show results faster due to the use of herbs and physical therapies like Panchakarma. Homeopathic remedies may take longer as they focus on stimulating the body’s own healing mechanism.

Which is better for lifestyle-related diseases, BAMS or BHMS?

Both systems can be effective. Ayurveda (BAMS) is powerful in treating lifestyle diseases through diet, detox therapies, and herbal remedies. Homeopathy (BHMS) treats based on individual symptoms and is preferred for chronic conditions.

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