India is far behind when it comes to promoting traditional medicines, especially when compared to countries like China, said Pulok Kumar Mukherjee, Director of Natural Product Studies at Jadavpur University, Kolkata. He said this while delivering the Third GCIM Alumni Endowment Oration at the Sri Ramachandra University on Monday. Dr Pulok Kumar Mukherjee, was felicitated for his contribution to the field of traditional medicine.
Speaking about ‘Perspectives of Globalising Traditional Medicine’, Dr Mukherjee said, “India is far behind when compared to countries like China when it comes to promoting traditional medicine. Ayurveda is the best form of traditional medicine around the world in terms of effectiveness and proof. What is lacking is proper documentation of the studies and a systematic approach to it.”
He also outlined the need for embracing the concept of ‘food as medicine’. “Researchers in China say that Chinese food habits help in the prevention of Alzheimers,” he said. He went on to speak about how the Chinese government was nationalist in its policies but was still focused on preserving most of their cultural heritage - extending to language, art, culture and most importantly medicine. Lauding the government for its efforts, Dr Mukherjee added, “The government has taken several efforts in bringing traditional medicine to the fore since 2002 and our country has made giant strides in the field. However, there is still room for improvement.”