First, Do No Harm

Primum Non Nocere

By Amita Nathwani, MA

As an Ayurvedic medicine practitioner, I have the honor of seeing patients from every corner of our diverse society—political affiliations, socio-economic backgrounds, racial identities, and religious beliefs. What binds us together, despite our differences, is a shared desire to confront the root causes of our mental and physical health challenges through food, botanicals, and integrative approaches that foster true healing.

So let me tell you a story. A few years ago, a new patient walked into my office, and wasted no time in revealing that he belonged to an elite group opposed to multi-racial societies. His decision to seek my help was not due to any change of heart, but because he had exhausted every other option and came highly recommended.

“Will that be a problem?” he asked, as he unbuttoned his jacket, unveiling tattoos that told a story of division. As someone of East Indian descent, I was taken aback by his willingness to see me, but I steeled myself and responded firmly:

“Unless you plan to harm me, no. That will not affect my care for you.”

My willingness to help him had nothing to do with my need for more patients or extra paperwork. It was not a matter of being the bigger person or ignoring the glaring elephant in the room. It was about an oath I took—the timeless pledge that begins with “First, do no harm.”

In the 5th century BC, an epic Indian saga, the Ramayana, tells the story of Prince Ram, exiled to the forest for 14 years alongside his wife and brother. This narrative explores the profound struggles of integrity amid adversity. At one pivotal moment, Ram’s brother is wounded in battle while trying to rescue Ram’s wife from the demon Ravana. A Vaidya (Ayurvedic doctor) nearby rushes to help, but when it’s revealed that he carries the seal of the enemy kingdom, skepticism looms.

“I took an oath,” the Vaidya explains. “When I am with a patient, he is only a patient. My duty is to help him. If I harm him, I have done wrong. If I possess the skills to help and choose inaction, I inflict harm by withholding my abilities. In both scenarios, I betray my path as a healer.”

This tale reminds us that healing is not confined to those labeled as “healers.” It transcends the walls of consultation rooms and permeates our everyday interactions. Healing is the duty of anyone who believes life’s essence lies in our connection to others. It can manifest as physical touch or kind words, as advice from a mentor, compassion from a colleague, or even a simple smile at a stranger. Each interaction—whether in person or through social media—shapes our world.

As we approach this shift in politics, let us heed the timeless wisdom of kindness. I could inundate you with quotes about love and compassion, but I’ll instead draw from a powerful voice advocating for humanity:

“Be careful not to dehumanize those you disagree with. In our self-righteousness, we can become the very things we criticize in others… and not even know it.” — Eugene Cho

As we cast our votes and shape our collective future, let’s remember that our words and actions hold the power to heal or harm. Choose wisely, act with compassion, and commit to a path of understanding. In a world divided, let’s strive to be kind.