Each culture has its own range of remedies, although some elements are
common to all. One notable success to cross the cultural divide is an essen-
tial oil obtained from the Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) native to Australia.
The oil is claimed to be anti-fungal, and antibiotic, and is used topically. It
has become a popular and effective remedy in Europe.
Traditional healers may be called shamans. They practise a method of
healing that is supplemented by rituals and explanatory systems appropriate
to their particular culture and environment. The healing often includes
meditation, prayer, chanting and traditional music (e.g. Celtic drumming),
together with the administration of herbal, and occasionally orthodox,
remedies.
Evidence
Scientific evidence is available only for the many uses of acupuncture, some
herbal medicines and some of the manual therapies. Further research is
urgently needed to ascertain the efficacy and safety of several other practices
and medicinal plants.
The limited scientific evidence about the safety of traditional medicine
and its efficacy, as well as other considerations, make it important for
governments to:^2
- formulate national policy and regulation for the proper use of
traditional medicine/CAM and its integration into national healthcare
systems in line with the provisions of the WHO strategies on
traditional medicines - establish regulatory mechanisms to control the safety and quality of
products and of traditional medicine/CAM practice - create awareness about safe and effective traditional medicine/CAM
therapies among the public and consumers - cultivate and conserve medicinal plants to ensure their sustainable
use.
Safety
The globalisation of traditional medicine has important implications for both
the quality control of medicaments and the training and competence of prac-
titioners.^31 Furthermore, when traditional healthcare procedures are incorpo-
rated into complementary and alternative medicine in industrialised countries
there is an increased need for vigilance. The WHO has issued a number of
documents relevant to the safety of traditional healthcare (available at
http://tinyurl.com/pgog8f)..)
Introduction to traditional medicine | 11