Background of Thailand Traditional Medicine and Herbal
products
The Kingdom of Thailand has its own system of traditional
medicine called “Thai traditional medicine” (TTM). Originated
during the Sukhothai period (1238-1377), it developed in parallel
with the country as a means of national health care until the early
20th century (Chokevivat, 2003). The spread of modern medicine
from the Western world to the East then led to a decline in the
practice of traditional medicine in Thailand. As a result, modern
medicine eventually replaced TTM and became Thailand’s
mainstream health-care system (Subcharoen, 2003). The revival
of TTM began in the late 1970s (Anchalee, 2005) when
Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health via its 4th Health
Development Plan (1977-1981) promoted the use of medicinal
plants in primary health care. The policy has continued until today
as stated in the 5th– 10th National Health Development Plan (2007-
2011).