A Comparative Study of Korean Oriental Medicine & Indian Traditional Medicine

한국한의학과 인도전통의학의 비교연구

Objective: Ayurveda is a complementary and alternative medical (CAM) system that has been practiced primarily in the Indian sub·continent for 5,000 years. As need for CAM increases, interest in Ayurveda is drawing more attention in Western countries. But in Korea, understanding of Ayurveda is superficial due to a lack of information and research. In this article, we investigated not only the philosophical features of Indian Traditional Medicine, but its relationship with Korean Oriental Medicine. Methods: From April to August 2004, we sought mutual cooperation through observation at research institutes (Central Council for Research in Ayurveda and Siddha, National Institute of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Science, Pharmacopoeial Laboratory for Indian Medicine) and performed on-the-spot surveys & discussions. Results & Conclusions: We conclude that the philosophies of Indian Traditional Medicine could extend those of Korean Oriental Medicine. Adopting some promising Indian Traditional Medicine techniques such as PanchaKarma and KsharaSutra treatments which have been shown to have efficacy and safety could contribute to the development of Korean Oriental Medicine's internal & external medical treatment. Further studies of Indian Traditional Medicine are needed.