José Ruguê

Biography and Expertise of José Ruguê

Dr. José Ruguê represents a rare confluence of rigorous scientific training and profound traditional wisdom. His life’s work is dedicated to demonstrating that these two streams of knowledge are not mutually exclusive but can be powerfully synergistic. Trained as a specialist in intensive care medicine, he has spent decades at the front lines of acute medical emergencies. Simultaneously, his consecration as an Acharya in the Suddha Dharma Mandalam tradition since 1974 reflects a lifelong immersion in the philosophical and practical depths of Vedic wisdom, particularly Ayurveda and Yoga.

This dual expertise makes Dr. Ruguê a quintessential embodiment of the 3rd WCTCIM’s motto, “Knowledge Diversity.” His career directly addresses the congress’s Thematic Axis on “TCIM Education and Training,” as he has built robust educational platforms to train new generations of practitioners in Ayurveda. Beyond teaching, his work aligns with the axis of “Integration of TCIM into Health Systems,” creating practical models for clinical application. His contributions are thus vital for translating the principles of the Gujarat Declaration into tangible actions that promote well-being societies.

Furthermore, his research into Brazilian medicinal plants, viewed through the lens of Ayurvedic and other traditional systems, connects his work to “Planetary Health.” By exploring local biodiversity for therapeutic potential, José Ruguê champions a sustainable, evidence-based approach to healthcare that honors both cultural heritage and ecological balance. His career is a testament to the power of integrating diverse knowledge systems to address complex global health challenges.

Professional Career and Leadership

Dr. José Ruguê‘s professional trajectory is a compelling narrative of progression from a highly specialized Western medical discipline to a global leader in the promotion and education of Ayurveda. His career began with a strong foundation in conventional medicine, providing him with the credibility and understanding necessary to build bridges between different healthcare paradigms. This journey was not a departure from science but an expansion of it, seeking a more holistic and comprehensive vision of health.

Over four decades, he has transitioned from clinical practice to establishing and leading institutions that have become benchmarks for Ayurvedic education and practice in Brazil and internationally. This path demonstrates his remarkable capacity for vision, leadership, and execution.

• 1985 – Present: A board-certified Specialist in Intensive Care, a qualification granted by the Association of Intensive Medicine of Brazil (AMIB), which has informed his understanding of acute care and human physiology.
• 1974 – Present: Serves as an Acharya (Teacher) of Suddha Dharma Mandalam International, a role that involves teaching Vedic wisdom and Yoga across numerous countries in Europe and the Americas, following the traditional Parampara master-disciple lineage.
• Leadership Roles: He currently serves as President of multiple influential organizations, including the Sri Vájera Foundation, the Kalayasa Ayurvedic Clinic, and the esteemed Escola Yoga Brahma Vidyalaya, which has a significant international student body.
• Global Advocacy: As President of the World Movement of Ayurveda, based in Milan, Italy, José Ruguê plays a pivotal role in global strategy and collaboration within the Ayurvedic community.

Academic and Traditional Foundations

The educational background of Dr. José Ruguê is exceptionally unique, combining the highest standards of formal academic medicine with a deep, lifelong commitment to traditional Vedic discipleship. This blend of structured university education and immersive lineage-based learning provides him with a multifaceted perspective on health that is both scientifically grounded and philosophically profound. His qualifications reflect a journey to master both the mechanistic and the vitalistic approaches to human well-being.

This dual foundation has been instrumental in his ability to translate ancient concepts into a language and framework that is accessible and credible to a modern, global audience. Consequently, his academic path serves as an inspiring model for integrative health education.

• Master in Public Health: This advanced degree equips him with the skills to understand health at a population level and design large-scale educational and clinical interventions.
• Specialist in Intensive Care (1985): He earned this title from the Association of Intensive Medicine of Brazil (AMIB), demonstrating expertise in critical care medicine and complex physiological management.
• Medical Doctor (1981): Dr. Ruguê graduated from the prestigious Federal University of Uberlandia in Brazil, establishing his foundation in allopathic medicine.
• Consecration in the Vedic Tradition (1974): His journey into traditional knowledge began early with his consecration by Suddha Dharma Mandalam, recognized as the oldest School of Vedic Wisdom and Yoga in India. This training under the Parampara system is a cornerstone of his identity as an Acharya.

Research, Publications, and Scholarly Contributions

Dr. José Ruguê is not only a teacher and clinician but also a dedicated researcher and author committed to expanding the body of knowledge in traditional medicine. His scholarly work focuses on building bridges between different cultural pharmacopeias and making timeless wisdom accessible through clear, modern publications. This commitment to research and dissemination is crucial for the evidence-based advancement of TCIM, as called for by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Gujarat Declaration.

His research into ethnopharmacology is particularly noteworthy. By studying Brazilian medicinal plants and drawing parallels with their uses in Chinese, Indian, and indigenous traditions, he contributes to a global understanding of botanical medicine. This work is supported by his affiliations with leading academic institutions in India. Consequently, his research strengthens the South-South collaboration that is a hallmark of the 3rd WCTCIM.

Key Contributions:

• Associate Researcher: He collaborates with several universities in India, including Patanjali Yog College, Mahatma Gandhi College (Datta Megue University), and Tilak University, fostering international research partnerships.
• Author and Editor: José Ruguê has authored and co-authored several influential books on Yoga, including “Yoga, the Fullness of Consciousness” and the two-volume “Suddha Raja Yoga Basic Course.” He has also played a crucial role as an editor and prologue author for the Portuguese translations of seminal texts like the Bhagavad Gita, bringing foundational knowledge to a wider audience.

Global Recognition and Influence

While formal awards are just one measure of impact, the recognition Dr. José Ruguê commands within the global Ayurvedic community is a powerful testament to his lifelong dedication and expertise. He is widely considered the foremost Brazilian physician, professor, and authority on Ayurvedic medical practice and Panchakarma. This acknowledgment comes not from a single institution but from a consensus among peers, universities, and practitioners across continents.

This level of respect highlights his role as a key opinion leader and a trusted source of authentic knowledge. His influence extends far beyond Brazil, shaping the practice and education of Ayurveda in Europe and the Americas. Therefore, his standing in the field underscores his importance as a speaker at the 3rd WCTCIM, where he represents a voice of authority and integrity.

This recognition is built upon decades of consistent work in clinical care, teaching through the Parampara system, and building institutions that uphold the highest standards of traditional practice. The success and international reach of the Escola Yoga Brahma Vidyalaya, for instance, serve as a living legacy and a concrete manifestation of his profound influence. The trust placed in him by institutions in both Brazil and India further solidifies his position as a crucial link in the global network of traditional medicine.

Institutional Leadership and Educational Development

Dr. José Ruguê‘s impact is seen in his leadership roles in organizations dedicated to health, education, and perennial wisdom. As president and coordinator, he actively shapes the strategy, curriculum, and outreach of these institutions. This work creates sustainable structures for the growth of Ayurveda and Yoga, ensuring ancient knowledge is transmitted with authenticity and academic rigor.

His leadership helps build the infrastructure to integrate TCIM into broader healthcare and educational systems. He has established postgraduate courses, clinical facilities, and international foundations, showing a comprehensive approach to developing the field.

• President, Escola Yoga Brahma Vidyalaya: He leads a significant institution for Vedic studies in the Americas, with students across Brazil, Europe, and the Americas.
• President, Sri Vájera Foundation: Through this foundation, he supports disseminating perennial wisdom and oversees charitable activities in health and education.
• President, World Movement of Ayurveda: Based in Milan, he leads a global organization promoting and standardizing Ayurvedic practice internationally.
• Postgraduate Course Coordinator: José Ruguê coordinates the Postgraduate Course in Ayurveda at the Centro Universitario Ítalo Brasileiro, formalizing its education within a university setting.
• Faculty Member, International Academy of Ayurveda: His position at this institution in Pune, India, reinforces his academic ties and collaborative efforts with the homeland of Ayurveda.

Connect with Dr. Ruguê’s Work

To further explore the teachings, clinical work, and educational programs led by Dr. José Ruguê, you can visit the official websites of the institutions he presides over. These platforms offer a wealth of information on courses, publications, and the broader vision of integrating traditional wisdom with modern life.

Escola Yoga Brahma Vidyalaya: Explore the Courses and Philosophy

Sri Vájera Foundation: Learn About the Foundation’s Mission