Global Summit on Traditional Medicine: Bridging Ancient and Modern Practices

The World Health Organization (WHO) is hosting its first summit on traditional medicine, emphasizing the need for scientific evidence to support the effectiveness and safety of natural-based treatments. The summit aims to mobilize political commitment and evidence-based action towards traditional medicine, which is widely used by millions of people worldwide. While traditional medicine can help bridge healthcare access gaps, it must be used appropriately and based on the latest scientific evidence. The summit takes place alongside a meeting of G20 health ministers in India and follows the opening of a WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine last year. The use of traditional medicine faces criticism for lacking scientific value and contributing to the illegal trade of endangered animals.