𝐁𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐨𝐰𝐚 𝐑𝐢𝐠𝐩𝐚 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐞

…𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑵𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑻𝒓𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑴𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝑯𝒐𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒐𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒓𝒐𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝑩𝒉𝒖𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒈𝒆

By Sonam Choki & Tshering Yangden

The National Traditional Medicine Hospital (NTMH) located at Kawajangsa in Thimphu, popularly known as the Indigenous Hospital, serves as a vital bridge between Bhutan’s rich traditional healing practices and modern healthcare. Rooted in “sowa rigpa,” the ancient science of healing, the hospital embodies a harmonious fusion of Bhutanese cultural heritage and the evolving needs of public health.

Traditional medicine’s efficacy extends to chronic illnesses like arthritis, respiratory issues, skin ailments, and some mental health conditions. Research highlights the unique advantage of multi-ingredient formulations, which often blend five to 35 different components to create holistic treatments.

The philosophy of sowa rigpa intertwines deeply with Buddhist principles, emphasizing holistic healing. Practitioners undergo rigorous training in techniques such as pulse diagnosis, and treatments often involve meticulously prepared remedies. These remedies incorporate natural ingredients sourced from Bhutan’s highlands and lowlands, including plants, stones, and metals.

“The medicines we prepare are a blend of materials like herbs, gold, silver, and even soil and stones,” said Drungtsho Singye Wangmo. “These diverse components are skillfully combined to create effective treatments,” she added.
Despite its benefits, Drungtsho Singye Wangmo acknowledges the importance of precision in diagnosis and treatment. She said, “Proper identification of patients is crucial. Incorrect prescriptions can impact outcomes. While traditional medicine has minimal effects on vital organs like the kidneys, liver, or lungs, careful preparation is essential.”

For many Bhutanese, the National Traditional Medicine Hospital represents a sanctuary of healing and hope. Tashi, a 71-year-old from Lhuntse, has relied on the hospital for decades.”Since the age of 19, I’ve been coming here for checkups. Traditional medicine has always worked well for me. When I had hand pain, they treated me with an injection, and today, for my headache, I came here again,” said Tashi

Another patient, Daza, shares her transformative experience battling jaundice. Initially referred to the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital (JDWNRH), her condition stagnated despite months of treatment. After three months, she was suggested to visit the Traditional Medicine Hospital, where her journey took a hopeful turn. “I was admitted for a week, received massages, and started their medication. Now, my body feels lighter, and my health has improved,” said Daza.

Similarly, Pema Euden, a 30-year-old sinusitis patient, had been receiving treatment for 10 years and experienced significant relief after years of suffering. She said, “I struggled with a blocked nose, shortness of breath which affected my speaking and sleeping. After three years of injections at the Traditional Medicine Hospital, I am much better.”

The hospital also offers treatments for more complex conditions. Ugyen Lhamo, whose husband suffered a stroke, turned to the hospital after exhausting options elsewhere. “Doctors told us there was no cure and sent us home. But at the Traditional Medicine Hospital, they treated him with acupuncture and massage. Now, he’s showing signs of recovery, with warmth returning to his feet and proper sleep,” said Ugyen Lhamo.

The roots of the National Traditional Medicine Hospital trace back to the reign of the nation’s second and third kings, when traditional medicine flourished under royal patronage. Drungtsho Singye Wangmo, MD in Eliminative Medicine, reflects on this legacy, “The Traditional Medicine Hospital has been around since the time of the second and third kings. Treatments during that time were rooted in traditional medicine, and later, the hospital came under the Ministry of Health.”

Established formally in 1967, the hospital has seen continuous development, preserving and expanding country’s unique medical traditions. Today, it serves as a hub for traditional healing, offering treatments crafted from 90 percent locally sourced materials, including medicinal herbs, minerals, and metals like gold, silver, and copper.

Efforts to integrate traditional and modern medicine have gained momentum. In 2015, the hospital initiated a collaborative group with JDWNRH, where specialists from both systems share insights and present case studies.
“This partnership helps us provide more comprehensive care, bridging the gap between our practices,” said Drungtsho Singye Wangmo.

This collaboration indicates a broader commitment to offering patients choices tailored to their needs and beliefs. As one patient, Sangay Dhendup, who sought relief for chronic back and stomach ache, said “After a week of treatment here, I feel significantly better. The option to choose traditional medicine has been life-changing.”

While modern medicine has its advantages, traditional medicine holds a unique place in Bhutanese society, blending physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The National Traditional Medicine Hospital plays a critical role in ensuring this heritage continues to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

To accommodate the growing demand for traditional healthcare, the hospital recently opened a new inpatient ward, allowing patients to receive care in a more structured environment. This move reflects the institution’s adaptability in meeting contemporary needs while staying rooted in its traditions.

The hospital’s impact is evident in countless stories of recovery and resilience. Nedup, a 50-year-old patient, describes how traditional medicine saved her life. She said, “I had severe itching that turned into wounds. Other treatments didn’t work, but here, they used different medicines, and now I’m healing.”

Such testimonials highlight the profound role traditional medicine plays in Bhutan’s healthcare landscape. For many, it’s not just about treatment, it’s about hope, resilience, and the preservation of an ancient way of life.
As the nation progresses, the coexistence of traditional and modern medicine offers a unique opportunity to enhance public health.

In a world where scientific advancements often overshadow tradition, Bhutan’s commitment to preserving sowa rigpa is a reminder of the wisdom embedded in centuries-old practices. The National Traditional Medicine Hospital continues to honor this legacy, ensuring that the science of healing remains a cornerstone of Bhutanese identity.