HONG KONG

The origins of traditional medicine in Asia, Africa and the Americas can be traced back thousands of years. A successful history of traditional disease prevention and treatment has been viewed with skepticism by contemporary scientists. But such views seem to be changing.

The World Health Organization is meeting in Hong Kong as preparations continue to update a global strategy for traditional medicine first outlined in 2001.

One fifth of the worlds population is believed to rely on traditional healthcare. According to WHO figures, 119 countries have developed regulatory frameworks for traditional medicine - or TM.

Dr. Zhang Qi is coordinator of the Geneva-based agency's traditional and complementary medicine unit.

This shows we should recognize the existence and harness the potential of TM [traditional medicine] to contribute to healthcare. We also [need to] ensure the safety, quality and effectiveness of TM for the public," he said.

See the rest here:

WHO Pursuing Update on Global Strategy for Traditional Medicine