Tibetan medicine: theory and practice

Tibetan medicine must be carefully studied to unearth valuable medical insights. This complex system, which utilizes oral instruction, can have various applications to Western medicine once language barriers are overcome and a standard medical terminology is devised. Fundamental to this medical system is a three-part division oriented toward function. Diagnosis involves examination of urine, tongue and pulse together with questioning patients to determine their constitutional types. According to these types therapy is prescribed with strong emphasis on nutrition, behavior and herbal medicines. We must be cautious, critical and reserved concerning Tibetan medicine's application in the West. However, this system's valuable medical insights must be preserved and deserves further study in depth.