Traditional medicine

Traditional medicine encompasses a wide range of culturally specific techniques that may, however, have more general applicability than in their regions of origin. It is also quite plausible that certain practices are more effective in their places of origin, the reasons for which may relate to the pharmacogenetics of the indigenous population.

The World Health Organization is "Traditional medicine is an amorphous concept that comprises a range of long-standing and still evolving practices based on diverse beliefs and theories. Bodeker and Burford point out the dichotomous situation of particular forms of traditional medicine being practised in their countries of origin and also in countries to which they have been “imported”. They suggest that the term “traditional, complementary and alternative medicine” (TCAM) is a more appropriate term to describe such traditional therapies globally."

According to the National Library of Medicine, traditional medicine involves "Systems of medicine based on cultural beliefs and practices handed down from generation to generation. The concept includes mystical and magical rituals (spiritual therapies), phytotherapy, and other treatments which may not be explained by modern medicine).

Major systems of traditional medicine include:

• African traditional medicine
• Ayurveda
• Traditional Chinese medicine
• European traditional herbalism
• Native American healing