The World Health Organization (WHO) is set to launch a new digital repository for traditional medicine in 2025, aimed at integrating traditional healing practices into global healthcare systems. The WHO has recognized that, in many parts of the world, traditional medicine plays an essential role in delivering healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
The initiative will provide a platform for research, guidelines, and evidence supporting the safe and effective use of traditional medicine. Countries like China and India, where traditional healing practices have deep cultural roots, are leading the way in this effort, but WHO aims for a more harmonized approach that encourages collaboration between traditional and modern medicine. This is intended to ensure safety, effectiveness, and quality standards for these practices.
Experts believe that blending traditional and modern medicine could offer a more holistic approach to health care, improving patient outcomes and offering cost-effective alternatives in the treatment of chronic diseases, pain management, and mental health. However, experts stress the importance of rigorous scientific research and quality control, which will be a major focus of the new repository.
