Alternative Medicine

Alternative Medicine covers the ways, means and methods of healing which are t part of evidence based scientific medicine or treatment. It is based on social, historical, religious, cultural life-styles and traditions of a community thus vary from country to country.

Acupunture in China and Ayurveda and Yoga has been in use since ancient time in Indian sub-continent where later on during Muslim rule Unani and in last century Homeopathy was introduced. In 1978 WHO encouraged developing countries to incorporate local alternative medicines to ensure health for all. In Bangladesh, alternative medicines like Homeopathy, Unani, Ayurveda and Acupuncture are the systems of alternative medicine which are duly approved by the Government.

In Bangladesh, village and tribal peoples are seen to turn to spiritual healers, snake charmers, clergies etc. who use charms, herbs and many other peculiar ways, even some form of tortures to treat physical and mental disorders. Peoples also seen to visit or arrange donations to shrines for curing their own or near and dear ones' illnesses. Relatively low cost, easy accessibility, alleged side effects and overall lack of education are the factors for which they suppose to choose such a way. [Md. Jahangiar Alam]