Page 86 - Traditional Medicine Systems of BIMSTEC Member States – 2023 Report

Traditional Medicine Systems of

Nepal

Traditional medicine and especially Ayurveda in Nepal is not just a system of
medicine but mostly a way of life. It is an alternative medicine from the perspective of

the government. However, from the view of majority of people it is the mainstream
medicine system which serves for preventive, promotive and curative health in different

walks of life. Many people still use it as first choice of medicine. For some, it is the last
resort. And for others, it provides a strong alternative approach for range of medical

problems.
Although Ayurveda is the most popular traditional system of medicine in Nepal,

there are various other traditional systems of medicine such as Yoga & Naturopathy,
Amchi, Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Unani and Homeopathy. These

systems are guided and recognised by various national legislatures, policies and acts.
Mainstream system of health in Nepal is the conventional western system of allopathic

medicine. However, it is estimated that more than eighty percent of Nepalese population
use Ayurveda along with other alternative medicine in various ways.

Ayurveda has deep rooted tradition, strong cultural support & centuries old
history. It exists in various ways such as rituals, spiritual practices, self-healing practices

and special practices of various ethnic groups and castes. Nepal is rich in both traditional
medical knowledge and natural resources such as plants, minerals and animal resources.

It is widely accepted that investment in traditional medical system in Nepal can contribute
to promotion of both health and economic status of Nepalese citizens. So, different

levels of government of Nepal are trying to integrate it as Essential health care services.
Not just in every district but in various local levels there are institutions of traditional
Nepal
medicine (Ayurveda). However, the government has not been able to establish such
institution in all of its local level yet.

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