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The role of Thai traditional medicine in health promotion
Abstract
The Kingdom of Thailand has its own system of traditional medicine called "Thai traditional medicine" (TTM). It originated during the Sukhothai period (1238-1377) and developed in parallel with the country as a means of national health care until the early 20th century.(1) The spread of modern medicine from the Western world to the East then led to a decline in the practice of traditional medicine in Thailand. As a result, modern medicine eventually replaced TTM and became Thailand's mainstream health-care system while TTM was neglected for over 60 years until the revival of TTM began in the late 1970s. This paper will cover the principles of TTM and how they can be applied for health promotion, the movement to revive and integrate TTM into the national health system and the lessons learned. textbooks that were passed on and developed from generation to generation".(2) Meanwhile, the "Practice of the Arts of Healing Act B.E. 2542" defines Thai traditional medicine as "the practice of the art of healing that is based on Thai traditional knowledge or textbooks that have been passed on and developed from generation to generation, or based on the education from academic institutes that the Professional Committee approved".(3) In other words, TTM is regarded as comprising the traditional philosophies, bodies of knowledge and modes of practice to care for the health of Thai people that are congruent with Thai culture and way of life, and based on the principles of Buddhism. TTM uses various forms of practices to complement each other, i.e., medicine, pharmacy, massage, midwifery and maternal and child health care, Buddhist rites and
... In Thai culture, health often includes religion, traditional beliefs [20,21], cuisine, and TTM [21]. Therefore, the Thai lifestyle is based on TTM and should be included to systematically investigate the related health-based research, which has been focused on simple measures of consumption and access. ...
... TTMs have been used in Thailand for almost 800 years and this still continues today [20]. Recently, the Thai government introduced the development of TTMs into the National Strategic Plan (2018-2037) [23]. ...
... In Thailand's history, TTM was neglected for over 60 years [20] and is being revived after the introduction of the 4th National Economic and Social Development Plan (1977)(1978)(1979)(1980)(1981) [44]. Based on the precepts of Rogers, "the finished forms of TTM products" are considered as "the innovation" in this study. ...
Recently, the Thai government has been promoting the innovation of finished forms of traditional Thai medicine (TTM) products (e.g., tablets and capsules). According to the existing literature, most consumers are unaware of the finished forms of TTMs because of conflicting knowledge, information, and communication. Therefore, the consumers have poor perceptions about TTMs and their benefits. Purpose: This qualitative study explores the current perceptions about TTMs and the modes of promotion that are being utilized to develop a strategic communication plan for the finished forms of TTMs. Design/methodology/approach: Utilising thematic analysis, focus groups were conducted with thirty experienced consumers. Findings: Using KAP and DoI theory, the following three themes emerged in this study: (i) the current KAP of Thai consumers toward the finished forms of TTM; (ii) factors influencing the use of finished forms of TTM; and (iii) integrated marketing communication as a promotion strategy to rapidly disseminate knowledge. Research limitations/implications: Given Thailand’s large population, the findings of this study are substantially limited and cannot be generalized. Therefore, the findings herein may not reflect the experiences and opinions of the Thai consumers residing in other regions or the opinions of the entire country. Originality/value: This study utilises interdisciplinary methods and two-step theory application to explain the current knowledge and perceptions about the finished forms of TTM and develop proper communication and media strategies that can promote the finished forms of traditional Thai medicines, helping to widen their usage significantly.
... An infusion or decoction method is commonly used to extract bioactive compounds from the leaves. Phenolics are the most common phytochemical found in herbal teas and show health-promoting properties as they may be anti-microbacterial [8], anti-carcinogenic [9,10], and antioxidative [8]. Herbal teas are common remedies in folk medicine. ...
... Proponents of Thai traditional and folk medicines believe that the human body is composed of four essential elements, including fire, water, wind and earth [10]. These elements represent the body's heat (fire), liquids (water), gas and air (wind) and flesh and bones (earth). ...
... For example, cold winter weather could cause a deficit in the fire element, resulting in constipation and dyspepsia. Therefore, Thai traditional medicine bases its diagnoses on the balance of these four elements and prescribes herbs as treatments [10]. The prescription of herbal teas is one of the approaches that Thai traditional and folk medicine practitioners use to treat their patients. ...
Recipes for Thai traditional herbal teas have been formulated based on Thai traditional medicine, which tries to achieve a balance of the body’s elements (fire, water, wind and earth) in each season. This study aims to assess the benefits of Thai traditional herbal teas through evaluating their antioxidant properties and measuring the satisfaction levels of healthy volunteers. Antioxidant activity tests performed on 11 tea recipes and on green tea (positive control) included 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), a radical scavenging assay and a 2,2’-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline)-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assay. In addition, total phenolic contents were determined using a Folin-Ciocalteu assay. Tests of satisfaction were performed on volunteer subjects aged between 18 and 30 years old, using the criteria of color, flavor, taste and overall satisfaction. Among the 11 tea recipes tested, the summer recipe 1 containing Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa, Stevia rebaudiana (Bert.) Bertoni, Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. and Morus alba L. demonstrated the most promising antioxidant properties (p > 0.05) and a phenolic content (p > 0.05), which was comparable to green tea. Furthermore, it got the highest satisfaction scores in every assessed category. Therefore, this study shows that Thai traditional herbal teas, developed based on the concepts of Thai traditional medicine, could be a good choice for people looking for health-promoting beverages.
... The tard-chao-ruan of a person plays an important role with regard to one's characteristics and appearance as well as the weak point in one's health (Vichai and Anchalee). 10 According to TTM, the seasons, age, geography, time and behavior can affect one's health as well. Illness can be caused by supernatural powers (ancestor souls, evil spirits, and punishment from spirits for misbehavior), powers of nature (imbalance of tards, imbalance of hot and cold, imbalance of body equilibrium), powers of the universe (influence of sun, moon and stars) and Kimijati, which is the equivalent of microorganisms or parasites. ...
... Illness can be caused by supernatural powers (ancestor souls, evil spirits, and punishment from spirits for misbehavior), powers of nature (imbalance of tards, imbalance of hot and cold, imbalance of body equilibrium), powers of the universe (influence of sun, moon and stars) and Kimijati, which is the equivalent of microorganisms or parasites. 10 During the reign of King Narai the Great (1656-1688), the doctors that served the king united to compile a textbook of King Narai's medicines or Tamra Phra Osod Phra Narai, which was the first official textbook of Thai drug recipes. During the reign of King Rama V (1868-1910), the first medical textbook Tumra Paetsart Sonkrau and the first Thai national formulary called Tumra Paetsart Sonkhrau Chabub Luang as well as Tumra Vejasuksa, the first TTM textbook for medical students, were published. ...
... Treatments prescribed for patients can be herbal medicine preparations, Thai traditional massage or "Nuad Thai", hot herbal compresses, or herbal steam baths. 10 For the convenience of readers to compare TCM and TTM, Table 1 summarizes some important characteristics of these two traditional medicines. ...
The work presented in this paper compares traditional Chinese medicine and traditional Thai medicine, expounding on origins, academic thinking, theoretical system, diagnostic method and modern development. Based on a secondary analysis of available literature, the paper concentrates on two crucial historical developments: (1) the response to, and consequences of, the impact of the Western medicine; and (2) the revival of traditional medicine in these two countries and its prospects. From a comparative perspective, the analysis has led to the conclusion that the rise and fall of traditional medicine is an issue closely related with social and political issues; and the development of traditional medicines requires national policy and financial support from governments, human resource development, the improvement of service quality, and the dissemination of traditional medicine knowledge to the public. In addition, this paper also suggests deepening exchanges and cooperation between China and Thailand, strengthening cooperation between traditional medicine and medical tourism.
... Medical textbooks, Tumra, were written and published. They are still accepted by the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the registration of traditional medicines [2]. After the missionaries introduced modern drugs to the Thai kingdom and Western physicians were started, herbal medicine acceptance declined because of its lack of scientific backup. ...
... precision is the ratio of items that match the user's taste among all items recommended to the user calculated by formula (2). ...
This work proposes a Thai herbs recommendation model to recommend appropriate Thai herbs to users. Herbs data was collected from available data sources including books, websites, and publication documents. All data were integrated, cleaned, and transformed before transfer to the herbs database. The rule-based was produced based on herbs properties for various symptoms. Then, the best Thai herbs were given based on the specific condition of the user. The overall model evaluation was compared with solutions from the National List of Essential Drugs A.D.1999 (List of herbal medicine products) given 0.77 precision, 1.00 recall, and 0.87 F-measure.
... The system is in harmony with Thai culture and associated with Buddhism. Various forms of practices, namely herbal medicine, massage, midwifery, maternal and child health care, Buddhist rites, and other rituals related to belief in supernatural power, are practiced in the system (Chokevivat and Chuthaputti, 2005). In the old days, the knowledge (both oral and textual) was transmitted through a process of apprenticeship. ...
... The concept of inflammation and mareng was similar to the Ayurvedic concept of cancer, which describes cancer as being of two types; inflammatory and non-inflammatory swelling (Balachandran and Govindarajan, 2005). Thus, this might be due to the influence of Traditional Indian medicine onto TTM (Chokevivat and Chuthaputti, 2005). It is also in agreement with the current knowledge that chronic inflammation is a risk factor in cancer development (Candido and Hagemann, 2013). ...
Cancer chemoprevention aims to prevent, delay, or reverse carcinogenesis. Thai Traditional Medicine (TTM) could be a source for cancer chemopreventive agents and – more broadly –could play a role in cancer prevention. Using an ethnopharmacology approach this thesis aims to understand the pharmacological basis of some of these botanical drugs and to discover new extracts which could be useful in cancer prevention. Interviews with 33 TTM practitioners revealed the five characteristics of cancer in TTM (mareng), which is described as an accumulation of waste, chronic inflammation, chronic illnesses (krasai), bad condition of body fluids (‘luead’ and ‘namlueang’), and imbalance of dhātu si. Further analysis of preventive methods led to the five strategies for preventing mareng. To link TTM actions to pharmacology, we proposed that three strategies, removal of waste, liver protection, and prevention from krasai, can be linked to the antioxidant system. After screening of fifty-two extracts, fifteen exhibited protective effect in a liver cancer cell line. Among them, ethanol extracts of Thunbergia laurifolia leaves (TLe) and Senegalia rugata leaves (SR1e) exhibited the most potent activities in the induction of NQO1 enzyme and glutathione. Upregulation of antioxidant genes and radical scavenging were among their protective mechanisms. While TLe induced NQO1 expression, SR1e upregulated the expression of Nrf2. Both extracts did not induce CYP1A1 expression nor reduce cell viability of primary rat hepatocytes which provided preliminary safety profile. Using HPLC-HRMS-SPE-ttNMR, we could identify some active constituents in the extracts. This is the first report analysing how cancer is perceived in TTM, what prevention strategies are used, linking this to pharmacological models, and on chemopreventive properties of TLe and SR1e and some of their constituents. The evidence supports the potential use of these medicinal plants in cancer prevention. Future work should be performed with more TTM practitioners and use in vivo models.
... Examples of TTM are medicinal plants, Thai massage, hot herbal compress and meditation. 18 Thai people believe that TTM is a holistic and natural approach to health care that is congruent with Thai culture. 19 They also believe that one cause of illness is the power of nature, such as an imbalance of the four body elements (earth, water, wind and fire); an imbalance of heat and cold; and an imbalance of the body's equilibrium. ...
... 19 They also believe that one cause of illness is the power of nature, such as an imbalance of the four body elements (earth, water, wind and fire); an imbalance of heat and cold; and an imbalance of the body's equilibrium. 18 Consequently, to eliminate illness, TTM will be one important choice in their minds. Therefore, this would explain why the nurse participants in this study and Thai breast cancer survivors in a previous study 13 perceived CAM as natural therapy. ...
Breast cancer survivors are more likely to seek complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for their health and well-being than other cancer patients. The purpose of the study was to describe how Thai nurses perceive the use of CAM in Thai breast cancer survivors. An ethno-nursing research method was used. Fifteen Thai nurses who had experience in taking care of Thai breast cancer survivors who used CAM from a tertiary care referral and resource centre in the lower northern part of Thailand were interviewed. Two major themes emerged from this study: Meaning of care practices in CAM was seen as: (i) an additional beneficial choice for health; and (ii) emotional and psychological healing. Nurses should be concerned about CAM use in Thai breast cancer survivors. Open communication about CAM helps ensure that safe and holistic care is provided. Further research to enhance integration of CAM into health care is needed.
... Importantly, Thai ancestors had accumulated precious experience of health care in fighting against diseases before the Sukhothai period or before 1238 CE. As a result, the unique traditional medicine system, known as "Thai Traditional Medicine" (TTM), based on Thai medicinal plants, was developed [2,3]. Although medicinal plants form the foundation of the TTM, many of these plants have never been evaluated for their phytochemical composition and bioactivities, and for most of them, their therapeutic potential is yet to be discovered. ...
Background: Amesiodendron chinense (Merr.) Hu (family: Sapindaceae) is a Thai medicinal plant. The seed oil of this species has been used by folk healers and local people in southern Thailand for the treatment of wounds, skin disorders and common hair problems. This study aimed at the GC-MS-based determination of the chemical composition of the seed oil of this plant, and evaluation of its Nrf2/ARE induction activity in AREc32 cells (modified human breast cancer cell line MCF-7) using the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] and luciferase reporter gene assays. Results: GC-MS analysis identified 9-(E)-octadecenoic acid (84.82%) as the main component of this seed oil. TLC-based qualitative DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay revealed the DPPH radical-scavenging activity of the seed oil and its chromatographic fractions. A low-level DPPH-scavenging activity was observed in the quantitative assay, but no IC50 value could be determined even with the highest tested concentration (10 mg/mL). Neither the oil nor its chromatographic fractions showed any significant Nrf2/ARE induction in AREc32 cells. The seed oil was noncytotoxic against the AREc32 cells. Conclusions: A. chinense seed oil and its fractions had a low level of free-radical scavenging property but no significant Nrf2/ARE induction activity in AREc32 cells. However, as the oil did not show any cytotoxicity at test concentrations in the MTT assay, this oil might potentially be safe to use in cosmetic formulations or as a vehicle for the dermal delivery of drug molecules.
... In recent decades, the government promoted CAM, leading to the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine in the Ministry of Public Health. [19][20][21][22] Thereafter, the use of CAM in Thai population is likely to be different from that of the West. However, despite the rich cultural history of CAM usage in Thailand, there is a lack of comprehensive studies examining its utilization among patients with CNS-IIDD. ...
Background
Complementary and alternative medications (CAM) are common among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) for physical and psychological support. However, there is insufficient data regarding the application of CAM in the different cultures and beliefs of each community as well as patient's status.
Objective
To evaluate the prevalence and modalities of the use of CAM among patients with central nervous system idiopathic inflammatory demyelinating diseases (CNS-IIDD) in a tertiary care hospital
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted at Siriraj Hospital from June to December 2021 involving patients with MS, neuromyelitis optic spectrum disorders (NMOSD), myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD), idiopathic transverse myelitis (iTM), and optic neuritis (ON) to examine the prevalence and mode of CAM use and its correlation with patient characteristics.
Results
There were 107 patients. The diagnoses were MS (38), NMOSD (55), MOGAD (5), iTM (7), and ON (2). Most of the patients were female (89.7%), and 61.7% were diagnosed over 5 years. The mean Expanded Disability Status Scale was 2.63 (S.D., 2.38), and the median ambulation index was 0 (range 0–8.5). There were 68 patients (63.6%) with a history of CAM use for at least 3 months, while those with current use decreased to 62 (58.5%). Vitamins and minerals were the most commonly used, particularly vitamin D (97.1%) and calcium (47.7%). Both treatments were primarily prescribed (95.3%) rather than self-administered (24.3%). The main reasons for the use of CAM were to strengthen their health (48.6%) and relieve existing symptoms (28.0%).
Conclusions
The use of CAM is common among patients with Thai CNS-IIDD. Further exploration of patient perspectives and preferences regarding CAM usage may contribute to a more comprehensive management approach for patients with CNS-IIDD.
... According to traditional Thai medical theory, the healthy human body equally consists of four elements: earth, water, wind, and fire. However, illness can occur from the imbalance of the four elements [9]. These Piper crude drugs have hot and spicy tastes and exhibit digestive and carminative effects, nourish the elements, and counteract toxic fever. ...
The morphological and microscopy were combined with DNA-barcoding, together with rapid TLC for the characterization of Piper betle (PB), P. nigrum (PN), P. retrofractum (PR), P. sarmentosum (PS), and P. wallichii (PW), five medicinal Piper plants announced in the Thai Herbal Pharmacopoeia (THP). The authentic plants collected from various locations and voucher Piper products bought from commercial sites in Thailand were studied. The reproductive parts of authentic plants were subjected to ensure their morphological characters. Using sequencing analysis and genetic divergence for analyzing discriminatory performance, ITS2 was selected from eight candidate DNA markers to authenticate the origin of Piper crude drugs together with microscopic and TLC profiles for examining their characters, admixtures, adulterants, and substituents. PB and PR exhibited unique characters of the species, with no admixture, adulteration, and substitution. PN showed no variable characters of morphology and genetics. However, the microscopy could illustrate some commercial products of PN sold in Thailand have been adulterated with rice starch and roasted rice. In the herbal trade, PS has been sold in the form of mixed leaf, root, and stem more than the isolated part, but there is no variable character of the species. PW has shown more than one character of species explained by microscopic, chemical components, and genetic data. In conclusion, the conventional and molecular pharmacognostic data combined with chemical profile of authentic five Piper plants could be applied to indicate the plant origin and clarify the situations of admixture, adulteration, and substitution of the commercial Piper products launched in Thailand.
... This conventional massage method combines heat and herbs wrapped in cheesecloth [4]. The hot herbal compress is widely used in the spa industry in Thailand and overseas [5]. It is also used for therapeutic and rehabilitative purposes in most health care facilities in Thailand. ...
The hot air (HA) method is the most widely implemented drying method for plants (herbs, vegetables, and fruits). This method has a few drawbacks that include long drying time, limited heat transfer, and limited thermal conductivity. This study investigated the effects of HA and infra-red (IR) heating method on biologically active compounds from different herbs (Khaffir lime, Lemongrass, Prai, Tamarind, and Turmeric). The efficiency of the drying methods was evaluated by considering (a) moisture ratio (MR), (b) specific energy consumption (SEC, MJ/kg.H2O), (c) moisture diffusivity (Deff), and (d) activation energy (Ea, kJ/mol). The active compounds were extracted from HA and IR dried herbs using different solvents (hexane, water, and ethanol) through Solid-Liquid Extraction (SLE) and Soxhlet Solvent Extraction (SSE) methods. The moisture removal in the IR drying process increased 10–11% for the herb samples. Specific energy consumption (SEC) increase during the IR drying process is attributed to the rapid evaporation of water at shorter time intervals than HA. Activation energy (Ea) values decreased by 1.66, 1.48, 2.24, 3.13, and 2.07 fold times for IR dried prai, turmeric, lemongrass, tamarind, and kaffir lime, respectively. The higher yields of herbal extracts and the abundance of bioactive terpene derivatives in hexane extracts were obtained from HA herbs compared to IR samples. Therefore, it is concluded that the IR method and SSE process using hexane was suitable to dry and retain the bioactive active compounds within herbs. Further, the IR method over the HA method was considered based on energy consumption, processing time, yield, and active compounds.
... TTM is considered a holistic medical system focusing on maintaining the balance of the body, especially of the four fundamental elements (dhātu si) which are dhātu din (earth), dhātu nam (water), dhātu lom (wind), and dhātu fai (fire). When a person loses this balance, he/she will become ill (Chokevivat and Chuthaputti, 2005). Maintaining the balance of the elements is the main strategy for preventing illnesses. ...
Ethnopharmacological relevance:
Thai traditional medicine (TTM) has been used widely in cancer management in Thailand. Although several Thai medicinal plants were screened for pharmacological activities related to cancer treatment, such evidence still suffers from the lack of linking with TTM knowledge.
Aim of the study:
To document knowledge and species used in cancer prevention in TTM and to preliminary investigate pharmacological activities related to the documented knowledge of twenty-six herbal drugs used in cancer/mareng prevention.
Methods:
Fieldwork gathering data on TTM concept and herbal medicines used in cancer prevention was performed with TTM practitioners across Thailand. Later, water and ethanol extracts from twenty-six herbal drugs mentioned as being used in cancer prevention were screened for their protective effect against tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced cell death in HepG2 cells. Then active extracts were investigated for their effects on NQO1 activity, glutathione level, and safety in normal rat hepatocytes.
Results:
The fieldwork helped in the development of TTM cancer prevention strategy and possible experimental models to test the pharmacological activities of selected medicinal plants. Fifteen plant extracts showed significant protective effect by restoring the cell viability to 40-59.3%, which were comparable or better than the positive control EGCG. Among them, ethanol extracts from S. rugata and T. laurifolia showed the most promising chemopreventive properties by significantly increased NQO1 activity, restored GSH level from oxidative damage, as well as showed non-toxic effect in normal rat hepatocytes.
Conclusion:
TTM knowledge in cancer prevention was documented and used in the planning of pharmacological experiment to study herbal medicines, especially in cancer, inflammation, and other chronic diseases. The proposed strategy should be applied to in vivo and clinical studies in order to further confirm the validity of such a strategy. Other traditional medical systems that use integrated approaches could also apply our strategy to develop evidence that supports a more rational uses in traditional medicine.
... Nature-based products should be sensitive to the current health-seeking behavior of individuals and households. 5 Products should be efficacious, safe, affordable, available, accessible, and acceptable to the target population at hand. The main stakeholders of nature-based products development could broadly be categorized as researchers from either academic or non-academic institutions, government agencies, industry and other private organizations, and the community, especially indigenous peoples. ...
Background. Many of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in the Philippines are controllable with nature-based products, either as agents of intervention, or prevention, as nutritional supplements, or for the control of side-effects of medications. The different R&D programs on nature-based products in the Philippines are usually conducted in isolation, or through silos. These often lead to products that are shortsighted, duplicate products, or products with minimal innovation, not readily applicable to population and environmental sustainability.
Objective. The study aimed to draft an internationally benchmarked and integrated blueprint for a population health and environmental health-led nature-based product development and conservation for the Philippines.
Methods. The methodology consisted of review of literature; regional educational visits; and a series of consultative meetings with stakeholders.
Results. The study resulted in a stakeholder-validated blueprint which assigns the Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC) to lead the way for Filipinos to produce more nature-based products that are of international quality and attuned with local health needs. The blueprint has identified “9 Optimizations” in the realization of this aspiration, including an expanded role for PITAHC, a national database, an ethical researchers list, and to produce at least five commercial products and 20 intellectual property rights within 5 years with an estimated total investment of approximately PhP 816 M.
... The TTM is heavily influenced by Buddhism. According to this religious belief, the human body is composed of four elements: earth, water, wind and fire, and an imbalance in one of these elements will lead to illness (Chokevivat and Chuthaputti, 2005). TTM consists of four different aspects: medical practice (diagnosis and treatment), pharmacy practice (the production and the use of herbal medicines), traditional midwifery and traditional Thai massage (Akarasereenont et al., 2015). ...
In recent years, interest in studies of traditional medicine in Asian and African countries has gradually increased due to its potential to complement modern medicine. In this review, we provide an overview of Thai traditional medicine (TTM) current development, and ongoing research activities of TTM related to metabolomics. This review will also focus on three important elements of systems biology analysis of TTM including analytical techniques, statistical approaches and bioinformatics tools for handling and analyzing untargeted metabolomics data. The main objective of this data analysis is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the system wide effects that TTM has on individuals. Furthermore, potential applications of metabolomics and systems medicine in TTM will also be discussed.
... Die Traditionelle Thailändische Medizin (TTM) und damit auch die Lehre von der traditionell richtigen Ernährung beruhen auf der Lehre von den vier Kernelementen (thaat). (Die Traditionelle Chinesische Medizin und die Ayurveda-Medizin unterscheiden hingegen fünf Elemente [1,2].) Im Folgenden soll dargestellt werden, wie sich aus der Lehre von den vier Kernelementen die gesundheitlichen Wirkungen der thailändischen Ernährung ableiten. ...
... Traditional healers, including spiritual, herbal, and massage healers and traditional midwives, are distributed all over Thailand operating from their homes, religious institutions and health care facilities [9]. According to Thai traditional medicine, explanatory models for human illness may include supernatural powers, imbalance in the four elements of the body such as imbalance of heat and cold, positive and negative influences from the universe [10]. Thailand introduced universal health coverage from 2002. ...
Background
The purpose of our study was to determine the prevalence of traditional, complementary and alternative medicine (TCAM) use in patients with chronic diseases in lower Mekong countries.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in a health care setting using a random sample of 4799 adult patients (Mean age: 52.3 years, SD = 22.7) with chronic diseases in Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand. The measure included the International Questionnaire to measure usage of complementary and alternative medicine (I-CAM).
Results
The 1 year prevalence of consulting TCAM providers was 26.0 %; 27.0 % in Cambodia, 26.3 % in Thailand, 23.9 % in Vietnam. The most commonly consulted TCAM providers were the herbalist (17.3 %), massage therapist (6.0 %), and acupuncturist (5.5 %). For all different types of TCAM providers more than 80 % of participants perceived the consultation as very or somewhat helpful. The own use of herbal medicine was 41.0 %, own use of vitamins 26.5 % and the own use of other supplements 9.7 % in the past 12 months. The most common self-help practices in the past 12 months included praying for your own health (30.1 %), meditation (13.9 %) and relaxation techniques (9.9 %). In multivariate logistic regression analyses, older age, rural residence and having two or more chronic conditions was associated with the use a TCAM provider; being female, urban residence, residing in Vietnam and having two or more chronic conditions was associated with the use of TCAM products; and being female, older age, rural residence, higher formal education, and residing in Cambodia was associated with the use of TCAM self-help practices.
Conclusions
TCAM use is common among chronic disease patients in lower Mekong countries and is associated with several sociodemographic and disease specific factors.
... In Australia hospital, Thai herbs are offered to patients in order to treat many symptoms as an alternative or supplemental to modern medicine. The report by [2] states that Thai people has paid more than several ten billion baht per year for modern medicine, which treat only when symptoms appear; while Thai herb can also be used to promote holistic health. ...
Multi-Agent Thai Herb Recommendation system (MA_THR) recommends Thai herb treatments based on a personal patient profile. Thai herb information is collected from available heterogeneous data sources, such as outside databases and websites. The collected information is integrated into a main Thai herb ontology, which is used as a knowledge base of the system. In order to integrate each component into one solution, multi-agent architecture is designed and implemented. The overall system evaluation justified by three human experts gives 89 % precision and 94 % recall.
... However, these measures showed a limited or a transient effect on health care spending. Therefore, it is necessary to seek a safe, economical and efficient alternative service in health care system [7]. Thailand has its own system of traditional medicine called "Thai Traditional Medicine" (TTM). ...
The purpose of this study was to gain a greater understanding of the physicians’ experiences in the conditions facilitating physicians to integrate Thai traditional medicine (TTM) into their current practice. A qualitative grounded theory method was deemed to be the best way to explore the ways of knowing and thinking about the interested issues from physicians’ perspective. Primary data were collected by conducting semi-structured and open-ended interviews, observations, interview with patients and staff, and hospital chart, record and document review. A systematic analysis was undertaken using grounded theory methods to explain the conditions facilitating physicians to integrate TTM in their practice. A purposive sample of 12 participants was obtained from physicians working in seven hospitals under the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) with successful or unsuccessful integration of TTM into their practice at their hospitals. Four participants were directors of community hospitals with 30 - 120 beds. Five of them were general practitioners in community and general hospitals with 30 - 258 beds. The other three physicians were specialists in orthopedic, anesthesia and internal medicine in hospitals with 120 - 341 beds. The findings showed that the conditions facilitating physicians to integrate TTM in health care systems were 1) the MOPH policy, 2) physicians’ perceptions on limitations, side effects, and high cost of modern medicine and 3) their knowledge, attitude, understanding, and trust in TTM. The study identified these 3 conditions as a prerequisite for successfully integrating TTM into physicians’ practice. © 2015 Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University. All rights reserved.
... Even though these ill health conditions could be managed by the health facilities, there were no drugs and other medical supplies, a common cry to many rural areas in developing countries [16,22,68]. Thus, CUMPs and THPs become the only options for people living in rural areas [18,[69][70][71][72]. This creativity of humankind on managing health problems by using herbal plants found within his environment in this study is likely to be appearing in other rural wards/villages worldwide where medical drugs and other supplies are inadequate or not available [71][72]. ...
... In addition, hot herbal compress is also commonly found in spa industry in Thailand and abroad as a part of the spa and massage services [3]. It is suggested that the composite effects of herbal compress derived from (1) heat conduction to increase regional blood flow to the affected areas, (2) antiinflammatory effects of herbal ingredients, and (3) relaxation effects of aromatic volatile oil [4]. ...
Objective. To determine the clinical effects of Thai herbal compress. Methods. International and Thai databases were searched from inception through September 2014. Comparative clinical studies investigating herbal compress for any indications were included. Outcomes of interest included level of pain, difficulties in performing activities, and time from delivery to milk secretion. Mean changes of the outcomes from baseline were compared between herbal compress and comparators by calculating mean difference. Results. A total of 13 studies which involved 778 patients were selected from 369 articles identified. The overall effects of Thai herbal compress on reducing osteoarthritis (OA) and muscle pain were not different from those of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, knee exercise, and hot compress. However, the reduction of OA pain in the herbal compress group tended to be higher than that of any comparators (weighted mean difference 0.419; 95% CI −0.004, 0.842) with moderate heterogeneity (í µí°¼ 2 = 58.3%, í µí± = 0.048). When compared with usual care, herbal compress provided significantly less time from delivery to milk secretion in postpartum mothers (mean difference −394.425 minutes; 95% CI −620.084, −168.766). Conclusion. Thai herbal compress may be considered as an alternative for osteoarthritis and muscle pain and could also be used as a treatment of choice to induce lactation.
... 14 It is widely practiced in South Asia, especially in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. 10 In Thailand, traditional medicine is similar to Ayurveda in Nepal. 15 In Nepal, most of the people depend on traditional medicine. In this country, there are more than 60 traditions concerning the treatment of illness and about 85% of the populations have depended upon traditional medicine for their primary health care. ...
Shrestha N., Mongkolchati A., Rattanapan C. and Wongsawass S. Assessment of patient satisfaction at a traditional medicine hospital in Nepal. J Pub. Health Dev. 2012; 10(3): 17-29 This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted regarding patient satisfaction with outpatient department (OPD) services at Naradevi Ayurveda hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal. A structured questionnaire was administered to 296 patients attending the OPD during February, 2012. The respondents were aged 18 years and above. Chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression were performed to analyze the associations between inde-pendent and dependent variables. The results show that most of the respondents (74.7%) had low level of satisfaction, and 25.3% of them had a high level of satisfaction. Other selected variables such as distance from home to hospital, long waiting time, adequate length of service hours of the OPD and actual expectations were significantly associated with patient satisfaction (p<0.05). After adjusting the potential factors, it was found that patients who had a low monthly income were more likely to have high satisfaction with the OPD services (OR=2.65, 95%CI=1.38-5.11). Patients who had to wait only a short time (OR=2.19, 95%CI=1.16-4.16) or who reported adequate service time (OR=2.53, 95%CI=1.35-4.75) were more likely to have a high level of satisfaction with OPD services. In conclusion, low income, waiting time and service hours of OPD were the main predictors of satisfaction with OPD services. Hence, providing the health insurance scheme, increasing access to services at all levels of health institution, providing quick services, and increasing the length of OPD service hours can help to increase the level of patient satisfaction with the traditional health care system. Further qualitative and follow-up studies to further improve the quality of care are also recommended.
... Traditional Thai medicine (TTM) is a system of traditional medicine of the Kingdom of Thailand originated during the Sukhothai period (1238-1377) and was formally accepted as a primary health care resource in the late 19th century. 9 Thai household ancient remedies have been noted in the National List of Essential Medicines, List of Herbal Medicinal Products D, 2006. Fifty ancient remedies and 21 herbal products were approved by the Ministry of Public Health for their effectiveness in treating ailments and are described in the National List of Essential Medicines, List of Herbal Medicinal Products A.D. 2011. 10 However, scientific evidence of the biological effects of Thai household ancient remedies is limited. ...
Aim:
Household ancient remedies reported here are described in the National List of Essential Medicines and have traditionally been used in Thailand to treat infection-related ailments. However, the safety and effectiveness of these remedies have been poorly evaluated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial properties of these remedies against seven gram-positive and gram-negative multidrug-resistant bacteria species. Phytochemical constituents and cytotoxicity of these remedies were also determined.
Methods:
Seven remedies, consisting of Um-Ma-Luk-Ka-Wa-Tee, Chan-Ta-Lee-La, Kheaw-Hom, Learng-Pid-Sa-Mud, Pra-Sa-Chan-Dang, Dhart-Ban-Chob, and Tree-Hom, were prepared by a licensed traditional medical doctor using a mixture of medicinal plants. Antibacterial activity of ethanol extracts of the remedies was determined by using a broth microdilution method. Qualitative phytochemical screening analysis was carried out to identify the presence of major components. Cytotoxicity activities of the extracts against Vero cells were assessed by green fluorescent protein-based assay.
Results:
With the exception of Dhart-Ban-Chob extract, significant minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of <16 to 32 μg/mL were observed for the remedy extracts depending on the bacterial strains. The Um-Ma-Luk-Ka-Wa-Tee extract was noncytotoxic against Vero cells and possessed the highest activity, with MICs of <16 to 31 μg/mL against all methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates.
Conclusions:
Remarkable antibacterial activities against multidrug-resistant pathogens, as well as low toxicity on Vero cells, of Um-Ma-Luk-Ka-Wa-Tee support the use of this remedy in traditional medicine. Further investigation on other biological activities related to traditional applications, appropriate biomarkers, and treatment mechanisms of the household remedy are required.
... Yet there is still no single rehabilitation intervention that has unequivocally demonstrated improved recovery for stroke patients [12]. In stroke recovery some complementary therapies such as herbal therapies have been effective in reducing depression [13] and pain relief [14] whilst other modalities such as massage and combined modalities of aromatherapy and acupressure have resulted in a reduction in shoulder pain [15]. There remains considerable variability in the complementary alternative medicine (CAM) evidence base. ...
... This finding is consistent with a cross-sectional study by Sumngern et al. (2011), which reported that Thai elderly people used herbs both as food and as medicine. This might reflect the eating style of Thai people, that Thais usually consume various types of medicinal herbs as food because in each area of Thailand there are local Thai foods that consist of several kinds of spices, vegetable, and fruits (Chokevivat & Chuthaputti, 2005). ...
The purpose of this study was to explore how Thai breast cancer survivors perform care practices in complementary and alternative medicine to promote their health and well-being. Research was conducted using an ethnonursing method. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 17 Thai breast cancer survivors in Thailand. The transcribed interviews were analyzed using the ethnonursing analysis method. The findings showed Thai breast cancer survivors started their care practices in complementary and alternative medicine immediately following a diagnosis of breast cancer. They sought out and gathered alternative medicine information from several sources, such as the people around them, media resources, books, magazines, or newspapers. After gathering information, Thai breast cancer survivors would try out various types of complementary medicines rather than use only one type because of information from other people and their own evaluation. The findings of this study indicate the need for a conversation about complementary medicine use between healthcare providers and Thai breast cancer survivors as an on-going process throughout the cancer trajectory to ensure that safe and holistic care is provided.
In Aotearoa New Zealand, where biculturalism has emerged as a viable organising national ideology, the role of landscape is highly contested. The Indigenous Māori of Aotearoa New Zealand contend that their relationship with the land shapes how the cultural, spiritual, emotional, physical and social well-being of people and communities are expressed. Combining a dominant culture of New Zealanders of European descent with a highly urbanised society has resulted in the deterioration of the environment. With environmental pressures, a loss of the minority Māori cultural values concerning landscape has been noticed. However, there has been a growing demand towards a better understanding of culture and place-specific contexts affecting the health and well-being of populations in different environments.
While current ecological, social, and health models are still dominated by a Westernised approach that prioritises a medicalisation of health, many other cultures, such as Māori culture, embrace a more holistic approach to resource management, health and illness of our natural and built environments. This holistic approach tends to focus on the interconnectedness with landscape through mind, body and spirit, which is strongly evident in Indigenous cultures worldwide. The longstanding connection with land through forests, wetlands, rivers, coastal areas and mountains provides the Indigenous cultures with a sense of identity, belonging and well-being. This is cultivated by all individuals engaging in keeping the human-nature relationship in balance as part of their daily life and wellness, experiencing the natural environment like home and forming their knowledge and worldviews.
Research has shown that Indigenous people suffer significant health inequalities compared to dominant colonising cultures. Evidence indicates that these inequalities can be addressed by gaining a deeper understanding of the social and cultural determinants of health, applying Indigenous views of health and developing better definitions of the term well-being. This thesis draws on research exploring the relationship between Indigenous culture, the landscape and the connection with health and well-being. Using a case-study approach, it investigates the importance of the natural environment through the past, the present and the future; to better understand the importance of landscape and the therapeutic values imparted through different constructs pertaining to Māori models of health and well-being.
This study delivered information on health practices and well-being constructs through interviews and focus groups with pāhake (older adults), kaumātua (elders) and rongoā (traditional healers) practitioners, exploring the relationship between people and the natural environment. The findings supported that Māori conceptions of health and well-being are deeply associated with land as the basis of Māori identity. The research emphasised how the health of Māori might be improved by including a stronger connection to values pertaining to whakapapa (genealogy), mātauranga (knowledge), tikanga (customs), whakaora (healing), hinengaro (mind), wairua (spirit), tinana (body), tāngata (people), whenua (land), rākau (plants), whānau (family) that acknowledge the land as more than just physical or symbolic spaces for healing. Cultural and therapeutic environments should be seen as an essential element of our living fabric rather than a feature that seamlessly develops with time.
This research concluded that landscape is a foundational therapeutic aspect of well-being, expressing the forces that positively and negatively impact this relationship. Combining Indigenous knowledge with Western science and technology can make knowledge systems work for both Indigenous and Western people. A proposed framework is introduced about re-discovering Indigenous knowledge and its continued relevance to the way we live our lives. Through understanding Māori cultural and therapeutic values, key concepts can be integrated into and produce meaningful therapeutic environments. All three concepts, Indigenous culture, health and well-being, and landscape, must be interconnected and balanced to reduce Māori health inequalities and benefit the lands and all people of Aotearoa New Zealand.
This Chapter will discuss the impact on the provision and integration of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) into the patient’s medical pathway and in turn, the prevalence of usage, not only for treatment but also prevention. Similarities and differences of these issues between Western and Asian perspectives will be presented. The authors will provide an overview of regulatory organisations which influence this provision, as well as advertising within the cultures which will have impact on belief of efficacy, which in turn will increase the placebo effect (thereby increasing efficacy). Due to a lack of evidence for CAM advertising in Asian cultures, further research is needed.
This study applied an ethnopharmacological approach with three parts: anthropological inquiry into Thai Traditional Medicine; collection and botanical identification of plant medicines used to treat age-related cognitive decline; and chemical testing of the plant material to corroborate Thai traditional medical theory. This chapter provides a foundation for the project, which aimed to identify plants used in Thai Traditional Medicine with therapeutic action against the symptoms of cognitive impairment in the elderly. The history and record of Thai Traditional Medicine, an explanation of the etiology of cognitive decline, and documentation of the prevalence and conventional treatment of dementia in Thailand are discussed. Finally, the biocultural history of Thailand, specifically Chiang Mai and the former Lanna Kingdom, is presented.
The present study examines plants received from ethnobotanically guided interviews with northern Thai traditional healers. Using modern in vitro biological assays, 11 plant species from the pharmacopeia of northern Thailand were screened for their antioxidant activity and total phenolic content. Elderly dementia is commonly characterized by the degeneration of brain tissue. Anti-oxidants can help to protect the brain from this degeneration. Results from these tests demonstrated these plant extract’s potential to treat age related cognitive decline. The healers will be provided with these results to use in their medical practice and to assist them in the treatment of cognitive decline in their communities. This chapter describes the methodology and in vitro testing of Thai medicinal plants used for cognitive decline.
The close relationship between Buddhism and medicine that has become so visible thanks to the contemporary 'mindfulness revolution' is not necessarily unique to the twenty-first century. The ubiquitous contemporary emphasis on the health benefits of Buddhist and Buddhist-inspired practice is in many ways the latest chapter in a symbiotic relationship between Buddhism and medicine that is both centuries-long and of global scope. This article represents the first steps toward writing a book that explores the global history of Buddhism and medicine 'from Sarnath to Silicone Valley'. It identifies patterns in the transmission and reception of texts and ideas, networks of circulation, and intersections with local and regional histories that shaped the history of Buddhist ideas and practices concerning physical health and healing. © Equinox Publishing Ltd. 2015, Office 415, The Workstation, 15 Paternoster Row, Sheffield, S1 2BX.
In this chapter, I focus on the relationship between Thai Massage and health tourism in Thailand and examine how the Thai government promotes Thai Massage as a health tourism resource. In recent years, attention to health tourism has been increasing, especially in Asian countries, where tourists often enjoy a variety of traditional medical practices or therapies. Such ‘healing arts’ as Tai Chi, Zen meditation, and Yoga are popular. Thai Massage has also joined the group of traditional medicines, and attracts many tourists as a ‘spiritual’ practice based on Buddhist philosophy. The main destination for such Asian health tourism is the spa; traditional healing arts are often mentioned in health promotion programs. The ‘modern spa’ is a health resort that is different from modern medical facilities. The inclusion of traditional healing arts is an important component of the ‘modern spa’. This article discusses the historical process and socio-cultural context of how Thai Massage has come to be a core activity of health tourism in Thailand.
Introduction
The present work aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity, phytochemical constituents, and cytotoxic effect of plant based remedies which are traditionally used for the treatment of infections. Methodology: Antibacterial activity of the ethanol extracts of plant based preparations described in Thai Pharmaceutical Textbook namely: Tri-Khan-Tha-Wart, Tri-Ke-Son-Phet, Tri-Phit-Tha-Chak, Tri-Ka-Tuk, Tri-Pha-La, Tri-Kan-La-Phit, Tri-Chin-Tha-La-Ma-Ka, Tri-San, Tri-Sa-Mo, and Tri-Ke-Son-Mat were evaluated on 20 isolates of Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. Qualitative phytochemical analysis and cytotoxic effect on on Vero cells of the extracts were additionally performed.
Results
The extract of Tri-Chin-Tha-La-Ma-Ka possessed the highest and most significant antibacterial activity with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of <16 μg/mL against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a biofilm-producing Staphylococcus epidermidis, acne lesion isolated coagulase-positive and coagulase-negative staphylococci isolates. Our preliminary phytochemical test revealed that triterpenoids and phenolics were common components found in all tested preparations. Most of the tested remedies had IC50 > 50 μg/mL on Vero cells, whereas Tri-Chin-Tha-La-Ma-Ka, Tri-Ka-Tuk, and Tri-Kan-La-Phit had IC50 value of 0.9, 48.8, and 28.9 μg/mL, respectively.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that Tri-Chin-Tha-La-Ma-Ka could be further studied as a promising antibacterial agent. Investigations on other biological activities related to its traditional applications, appropriate biomarkers, and treatment mechanisms of the preparation are required
Acacia concinna (Wild.) D.C. is an important medicinal plant in Thailand and throughout Asian countries. Its dried pods are traditionally utilized as herbal medicine to treat many health symptoms e.g. laxative, cough, antidandruff and skin diseases. This investigation was performed in order to demonstrate the antimicrobial potential of different A. concinna extracts against the fungal causative agents of ringworm and opportunistic infections of immunocompromised populations. Phytochemical study showed that the crude extract of A. concinna pod consisted of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponin and tannin but none of antraquinone and cyanotic glycosides. The extracts e.g. ethanolic Soxhlet extract and chloroform extract from Soxhlet extractor, and lyophilized extract and macerated ethanolic extract were tested using diffusion method against 35 isolates of dermatophytes and each 20 isolates of Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans and Penicillium marneffei. The inhibitory effects were observed by considering their average inhibitory zone diameter (IZD) compared to that of ketoconazole's. From the averaged IZDs of all fungal isolates, the antifungal effectiveness of lyophilized, chloroform, ethanolic (Soxhlet) and ethanolic (macerated) extract was at 18.38, 18.34, 16.67 and 14.06 mm, respectively.
To determine quantitatively if a unique rehabilitation program using traditional Thai massage, herbal treatments and physical therapies could improve activities of daily living, mood and sleep patterns, and pain intensity of stroke patients over time.
This was a prospective cohort study, conducted over a three-month period. Patients were recruited from a 42-bed rehabilitation centre in Northern Thailand, which admits mainly stroke, head injury and spinal patients for rehabilitation.
There were 62 patients enrolled in the study, with 55% being male. The average age of patients was 59 years and 63% were married. The average time since the initial stroke was 15 months. At baseline, the average Barthel Index score was 50.7, and the average emotion, pain and sleep scores were 2.6, 3.1, and 3.2, respectively. After adjusting for age, gender and time since initial stroke in the longitudinal model, the Barthel Index significantly improved by 6.1 points after one month (P<0.01) and by 14.2 points after three months (P<0.01); emotion significantly improved by 0.7 points after one month (P<0.01) and by 0.9 points after three months (P<0.01); pain significantly improved by 0.5 points after one month (P<0.01) and by 0.5 points after three months (P<0.01); sleep significantly improved by 0.5 points after one month (P<0.01) and by 0.6 points after three months (P<0.01).
This unique stroke rehabilitation program has produced significant improvements in activities of daily living, mood, pain and sleep patterns of stroke patients. These findings warrant the need for further research to compare patients undergoing this program of rehabilitation with patients undergoing more conventional rehabilitation programs.
Senna alata leaf powder was used to obtain five extracts which contain anthraquinone compounds in different forms i.e. anthraquinone aglycone extract, anthraquinone glycoside extract, anthraquinone aglycones from glycosidic fraction, crude ethanol extract, and anthraquinone aglycone from crude ethanol extract. All extracts were tested against clinical strain of dermatophytes: Trichophyton rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccosum, and Microsporum gypseum by diffusion and broth dilution techniques to find out the active form for antifungal activity. Thin layer chromatography was developed to demonstrate the fingerprints of chemical constituents of each extract. This investigation pointed out the best in vitro antifungal activity of anthraquinone aglycones from glycosidic fraction qualitatively and quantitatively, compared to other extracts. INTRODUCTION: Senna alata (Linn.) Roxb. or Chum-het-thet, former Cassia alata Linn., family Fabaceae (Leguminosae), is generally known as ringworm tree, Christmas candle, candlestick or candle bush. Its ethnomedicinal values have been demonstrated for centuries in worldwide records, or from collected research-based data 1) . The remarkable biological effectiveness of S. alata was documented for the variety of medical properties from non-infectious relief i.e. constipation, anemia, antidote, dyspepsia, laxative effect, purgative and eventually inhibition of the proliferation of leukaemia cells 2-7) and the treatment of several infections caused by bacteria, protozoa, fungi and virus 8-18) . The major active pharmacological compounds from S. alata have been elucidated as anthraquinone glycosides, which are responsible for laxative properties 5) , evidences showed that rhein, emodin and chrysophanol possessed antimicrobial activities 8,14) . Because of the scientific approval of its versatile efficacies and throughout traditional usages, this plant is therefore not only accepted in primary health care programmes which have been urged by the World Health Organization, but included in Thai National List of Essential Drugs as herbal medicines according to Drug Act B.E. 2510. Products from S. alata are classified as herbal medicines developed for constipation 3) whereas many researches are addressed to other properties of this plant. This study was undertaken to determine the active form of anthraquinones and prove for the antifungal activity, especially against dermatophytes, of different extracts containing different forms of anthraquinones of S. alata leaves. The fingerprints of those extracts are compiled by thin layer chromatography. The outcomes will scientifically support the ancient traditional use in many regions of which folklores are partially based on belief as well as evidences and, therefore, richness in diversity of native agricultures will consequently be preserved.
The present cross-sectional, qualitative study examined attitudes toward and motives for acupuncture use and disuse among people with HIV/AIDS (PHA) in Northern Thailand.
Over a seven-day period, interviews were conducted in Thai by two research assistants and two PHA volunteers on 20 patients.
The social support, psychological well-being, clinical symptoms, and analgesic avoidance were the primary motives for use among acupuncture users. Among non-acupuncture users, better health status, instrument aversion, lower effectiveness, high perceived risk of deleterious interactions with antiretroviral therapy, inferiority to conventional medicine, and lack of time and knowledge were the main reasons for disuse. Nineteen out of twenty patients expressed positive or neutral attitudes toward acupuncture. Further study is recommended to explore long-term benefits and ramifications of acupuncture as a substitute for pharmacological pain interventions.
Though acupuncture is not a panacea that is recommended for everyone, health care provide.rs should educate patients about acupuncture's prophylactic benefits, offer services at more convenient times, and be aware of the potential barriers of acupuncture use.
Current situation of Thai traditional medicine Thai Traditional Medicine: The Wisdom of Self-reliance (Bangkok: H
- S Archanuparp
Archanuparp S. “Current situation of Thai traditional medicine”, In: Wibulpolprasert S. and Chuengsatiensup K. (eds.) Thai Traditional Medicine: The Wisdom of Self-reliance (Bangkok: H.N. Stationary and Printing, 1987), pp. 13-55.