Traditional healing methods: global change in health

In many parts of the world, traditional healing methods experience a renaissance and are increasingly integrated into modern basic Health care. This development is not only an expression of growing consciousness for alternative healing methods, but also an answer to the challenges that many countries in the field of health care are facing. The combination of conventional medical knowledge and traditional naturopathic practices often creates synergies, which in particular benefit from disadvantaged population groups.

India: Siddha medicine and Ayurveda as part of the national strategy

India is an outstanding example of the integration of traditional healing methods. Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani medicine are officially recognized here and are funded by the Ministry of Ayush (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy). Siddha medicine, which is based on natural remedies, is particularly used to improve health care in rural regions. Many people who have no access to modern medical facilities benefit from this traditional healing art that combines vegetable, mineral and spiritual healing methods.

China: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as an integral part of health care

China is another example of the successful integration of traditional healing methods. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is not only widespread here, but is also practiced in state hospitals. Acupuncture, herbal therapy and Qi Gong are fixed components of the national health strategy. The Chinese government is increasingly investing in research in order to scientifically underpin the effectiveness of these methods and expand their application internationally.

Africa: Traditional medicine as a bridge to conventional medicine

In many African countries, traditional medicine plays a central role, especially in rural areas in which modern medical care is often difficult to access. Countries such as Ghana, Nigeria and South Africa have taken measures to integrate traditional healers into the official health system. For example, traditional herbalists in Ghana are included in the training of medical staff in order to create synergies between modern medicine and indigenous healing art.

Latin America: indigenous healing art and modern medicine in dialogue

In Latin America, too, there are many initiatives for integrating traditional healing methods into the official health system. In Bolivia and Peru, indigenous naturopathic practices such as the use of medicinal plants and spiritual rituals in state health centers are promoted. In Mexico, the government is increasingly committed to recognizing traditional healing methods of indigenous communities and supports projects that combine modern medicine with traditional healing methods.

Why is this hardly the case in western states?

While traditional healing methods are an integral part of the health system in many countries, they remain largely marginal in the so -called western countries. There are several reasons. A central factor is the deeply rooted scientific-rational way of thinking, which has prevailed since the Enlightenment. Medical procedures must be based on evidence -based studies in order to be recognized as effective. Since traditional healing methods are often based on experience and traditional practices, it is difficult for them to find acceptance in this system. In addition, there is the strong economic interdependency of the health systems with the pharmaceutical industry, which has an interest in promoting patentable and standardized medication, while many traditional remedies are difficult to commercialize. Cultural factors also play a role: while in Asian, African and Latin American societies there is deep rooting in spiritual and nature -connected healing, focus was increasingly laid out in western countries in technological progress and modern medicine. This development has led to traditional healing methods are often dismissed as unscientific or esoteric. Nevertheless, that also grows in western countries Interest in alternative healing methodswhat shows, for example, in the increasing popularity of naturopathy, Ayurveda or TCM.

Advantages of integrating traditional healing methods

The integration of traditional healing methods in the basic health supply offers numerous advantages:

• Expansion of the health offer: Many people have no access to modern medicine or are skeptical about them. Traditional healing methods offer an alternative and often culturally familiar opportunity to treat diseases.
• sustainability and resource conservation: The use of local medicinal plants and traditional techniques reduces the dependence on expensive, imported medication and contributes to sustainable use of natural resources.
• Holistic treatment approach: Traditional medicine often looks at people as a whole and takes into account emotional and spiritual aspects of healing in addition to physical and spiritual aspects.
• Cultural identity and social acceptance: Indigenous healing methods are deeply rooted in cultures and strengthen the trust of the population into the health system.
• Scientific research and innovation: The increasing cooperation between traditional medicine and modern Science gives new knowledge that enable innovative and effective therapy approaches.