Traditional medicine, based on “knowledge, skills and practices based on indigenous beliefs and experiences of different cultures,” is gaining popularity in countries such as the United States, Australia, France, and Canada. Practices such as acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and the consumption of traditional medicines are becoming more regular in these countries. For example, Ayurveda, a healthy lifestyle system that has been used in India for over 5,000 years, focuses on a holistic view of the body and mind according to the leading Cigna Health Benefits portal.

The word Ayurveda is derived from “ayu” meaning life, and “veda” meaning knowledge, emphasizing the importance of living in harmony with nature. The National Institutes of Health, the world‘s most important medical research center, emphasizes that Ayurveda aims to care for the physical, mental, and spiritual health of individuals.

In terms of mental health, ashwagandha, the best-researched Ayurvedic herb in the United States, is used as an adaptogen, helping to improve the body’s response to stress, anxiety, and fatigue. Studies have shown that ashwagandha root can lead to increased energy, mental clarity, and better sleep, ultimately supporting mental health.

While traditional medicine can have positive effects, it is important to note that it can also bring side effects and should be consumed under the supervision of a professional. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has highlighted the importance of properly incorporating traditional medicine into global health care to close healthcare access gaps for millions of people around the world. However, the WHO also insists that scientific methods and processes must be followed to ensure the safety and effectiveness of traditional medicine.

It is important to understand that while traditional medicine has its benefits, it is not always synonymous with safety or effectiveness. Therefore, the incorporation of traditional medicine must be done in a way that aligns with scientific methods and processes to ensure the safety and efficacy of such practices.