Traditional And Modern Medicine: An Integrative Approach

Abstract

Traditional systems of medicine such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have persisted since time immemorial and still influence healthcare. TCM is attributed as one of the most evolved medical systems worldwide, incorporating practical healing techniques and proven methodologies that shaped modern medicine over the years. For instance, Artemisia annua, documented in the “Handbook of Prescriptions for Emergency” by Hong Ge as a treatment for malaria, was later proved to have the active peroxide group classified as sesquiterpene lactones, a unique novel compound in the then known antimalarial therapy. Thus, came into being the widely used Artemisinin-based therapy to treat malaria. The ancient Ayurvedic scriptures have been rooted in Vedic texts: Charak and Sushruta Samhita, delivering wholesome knowledge on human anatomy, pathology, and therapeutic interventions. Emphasizing the holistic balance between mind, body, and soul, they highlight a personalized approach to healthcare encompassing herbs, minerals, and complex formulations. There is evidence of Ayurvedic texts being translated to Greek, Arabic, and Persian back in the 5th century, which further underlines its role in enhancing medical understanding. Contrastingly, modern medicine is more focused on evidence-based treatments. It often employs a reductionist approach, emphasizing specific pathologies rather than holistic well-being using diagnostics and targeted interventions. Ayurveda, TCM, and modern medicine, despite their differences, share a common goal of improving health. Research into traditional medical systems opens a gateway to integrating their principles with modern medical advancements, promising better health outcomes.