Bhutan’s traditional medicine system has taken a significant step toward becoming more practical and research-driven. The Faculty of Traditional Medicine published its own medicinal textbook on the country’s age-old diagnosis and treatment practices. It was launched as part of the 3rd National Sorig Conference, which concluded today.
The launch of Zintig, a condensed book on Sorig or the science of healing, represents a significant step in preserving and strengthening Bhutanese traditional healing practices.
To this day, practitioners and students at the faculty studied and referred to Kongtrul Zintig, a Tibetan medicinal text.
“Although the new text is also based on Kongtrul, it aligns traditional knowledge with the country’s present-day needs. Medicines, acupuncture, combustion, and the symptoms of diseases vary in Bhutan. So, the new book is more suitable for local training and treatment,” said Drungtsho Tendrel Wangdi, Associate Professor, Faculty of Traditional Medicine.
The impact of the book, which contains more than 100 medicines and diagnoses, is immediate and direct. The faculty’s fourth-year students will study it.
“Previously, students had to study medicines unavailable in Bhutanese hospitals, limiting their learning to theory alone. The new textbook focuses only on medicines currently used in the country. This allows students to directly apply what they learn during practical training,” said Drungtsho Tendrel Wangdi, Associate Professor, Faculty of Traditional Medicine.
More than 10 traditional medicine experts spent over two years discussing, drafting, and refining the publication. It cost around Nu 300,000 to publish the book.
“Sowa Rigpa is rooted in ancient teachings, but continued research and review remain essential. We must study texts carefully, assess the strengths and weaknesses of medicines, and examine whether revisions are needed to keep the system effective and credible,” said Sangay Wangdi, Dean, Faculty of Traditional Medicine.
Experts say, as Bhutan continues to modernise its healthcare system, initiatives such as the current publication are critical. It reflects the country’s effort to preserve its traditional healing wisdom while adapting it to present-day healthcare needs through research, innovation, and evidence-based practice.
Singye Dema
Edited by Sonam Wangdi
