Herbal medicine has a rich and diverse history, with various countries embracing their unique traditions and approaches to harnessing the healing properties of plants. In this article, we explore the fascinating world of herbal medicine across different nations, from Western herbal remedies to traditional Eastern practices.
Western Herbal Medicine
Western herbal medicine, like its Eastern counterpart, relies on plant-based remedies. Germany, in particular, is a powerhouse in the production of plant-based medicines. The country specializes in single natural plant extracts and simple formulations of three to four plant-based ingredients. Notably, Germany leads the European Union in herbal medicine usage, accounting for approximately 70% of the European herbal market. Herbal medicine is not only legal but also integrated into the German healthcare system.
A survey revealed that a staggering 85% of Germans believe in the effectiveness and low toxicity of herbal medicine. The German government strongly supports traditional medicine, allocating millions of euros annually for natural therapy research. Moreover, Germany has established the Chinese Traditional Medicine Research Institute, fostering over ten international academic exchanges.
The first government-approved Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) hospital in Western Europe is situated in Germany, attracting attention due to its remarkable treatment outcomes and long waiting lists extending up to a year and a half.
In the United States, herbal medicine is also gaining prominence. The U.S. Pharmacopeia is reportedly working on herbal medicine standards. With a growing demand for TCM, the National Institutes of Health introduced the “Chinese Medicine Lecture Series” in 1997. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has organized the “National Conference on Chinese Herbal Medicine.”
Stanford University established the “American Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Science,” featuring a team of medical elites dedicated to researching and developing Chinese herbal medicine. In addition, the University of California has created a Chinese herbal garden, cultivating over 190 common Chinese herbs.
While the U.S. does produce some herbs, much of the processing and sales occur overseas. For instance, American ginseng is sold in China, generating around $5 million annually.
Indian Herbal Medicine
India has a rich tradition of herbal medicine, with its history intertwined with Ayurveda. However, Indian herbal medicines have yet to achieve the global competitiveness seen in Chinese herbal medicine.
Japanese and Korean Herbal Medicine
Both Japanese and Korean herbal medicine have their roots in China. Japan boasts over 200 traditional herbal medicine manufacturers, with the largest, Tsujiri, accounting for 70% of the nation’s total herbal medicine production.
Japan imports 70% of its medicinal herbs from China, along with 10% from North and South Korea. China primarily exports three-quarters of its herbal medicine products to Japan.
In the process of developing Chinese herbal medicine, Japan concentrated on 210 formulas from the “Shang Han Lun” and “Jin Gui Yao Lue.” The successful integration of ancient Chinese formulas with modern processing techniques has yielded significant results.
South Korea, one of Asia’s four major traditional medicine markets, boasts annual sales exceeding $1 billion. In 1969, the South Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare approved 11 classical prescriptions from traditional medical texts, exempting them from clinical trials. These prescriptions include classics like “Ibmu,” “Gyeongyakjeonseo,” “Suseboyeon,” and “Bencao Gangmu.”
Herbal Medicine in Southeast Asia and Hong Kong
In Southeast Asia and Hong Kong, herbal medicine predominates in the form of traditional Chinese medicine formulations. These are prepared using traditional methods, with products closely resembling those manufactured domestically. Commonly, these medicines are topical oils, such as Tiger Balm, Zheng Hong Hua Oil, and Baoxin’an Oil.
In conclusion, herbal medicine spans the globe, with each nation adding its unique perspective and traditions to this ancient practice. The global exchange of knowledge and experience enriches the field, benefiting individuals worldwide. Whether it’s Germany’s rigorous standards, the United States’ growing interest, India’s ancient Ayurveda, or Japan and Korea’s unique approach, herbal medicine continues to be a cornerstone of healthcare around the world.
