New Delhi, March 14 (IANS) Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine struggling to get due recognition oweing to its inadequate scientific validation, has now found a new patron in Apollo Hospitals. The chain will carry out research to establish ayurveda as potent system of medicine worldwide.

'The Indian system of medicine has faced many roadblocks due to lack of enough research. We are set to carry out scientific study on ayurveda and other systems of medicine,' Prathap C. Reddy, chairman of the Apollo Hospital chain, told IANS.

He said many countries like the US have claimed that several Indian medicines have heavy metals beyond the permissible limit. Many also claim that these treatments are not backed by scientific validation.

'Here, we are taking it up. We will conduct research in our hospitals across India and come up with a database. After that we will offer willing patients these treatments,' Reddy added.

He said Apollo has already tied up with a leading ayurveda house in Kerala.

'Once we provide the scientific validation, we will set up a chain of ayurveda centres to provide treatment for patients,' Reddy said.