Ethnomedicine focuses on the study of traditional medical practices and health beliefs as they are understood and practiced within specific cultural and indigenous communities. It examines how societies perceive illness, healing, and well-being, and how traditional remedies, rituals, and therapeutic approaches are integrated into daily life. This session at the Traditional Medicine World Congress 2026 will provide a comprehensive overview of ethnomedicine and its significance in preserving cultural heritage and improving global healthcare.
The session will explore indigenous knowledge systems, traditional diagnostic methods, and the use of medicinal plants and natural resources in community-based healing. Emphasis will be placed on documentation, ethical considerations, and the protection of indigenous intellectual property. Participants will also discuss the role of ethnomedicine in drug discovery, public health, and integrative healthcare models. This session aims to promote respect for cultural diversity while encouraging scientific research and sustainable utilization of traditional medical knowledge.