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GLOBAL CENTRE FOR TRADITIONAL MEDICINE: GUJARAT

Apr 21, 2022

GLOBAL CENTRE FOR TRADITIONAL MEDICINE: GUJARAT

Why in News?

Recently, the groundbreaking ceremony was performed for the first-of-its-kind World Health Organization (WHO) Global Centre for Traditional Medicine (GCTM) in Jamnagar, Gujarat.

About

It is a unique attempt to foster long-lasting partnerships, boost exports and nurture a sustainable ecosystem.

Purpose for establishing GCTM

  • Integrating with Technological Advancements
  • Set Policies and Standards
  • Support Efforts to Implement WHO Strategy

Traditional Medicine

  • According to the WHO, traditional medicine is the total sum of the “knowledge, skills and practises indigenous and different cultures have used over time to maintain health and prevent, diagnose and treat physical and mental illness”.
  • Its reach encompasses ancient practices such as acupuncture, ayurvedic medicine and herbal mixtures as well as modern medicines.
  • In India, it is often defined as including practices and therapies — such as yoga, Ayurveda, Siddha.
  • These therapies and practices have been part of Indian tradition historically as well as others — such as homoeopathy — that became part of Indian tradition over the years.

Advance Knowledge of Traditional Medicine

  • National health systems and strategies do not yet fully integrate traditional medicine workers, accredited courses and health facilities.
  • There is a need to conserve biodiversity and sustainability as about 40% of approved pharmaceutical products today derive from natural substances.
  • The WHO has referred to modernisation of the ways traditional medicine is being studied.
  • Artificial intelligence is now used to map evidence and trends in traditional medicine.
  • Functional magnetic resonance imaging is used to study brain activity and the relaxation response that is part of some traditional medicine therapies such as meditation and yoga, which are increasingly drawn on for mental health and well-being in stressful times.
  • Traditional medicine is also being extensively updated by mobile phone apps, online classes, and other technologies.
  • The GCTM will serve as a hub for other countries, and build standards on traditional medicine practices and products. 

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