Recognizing Conventional and Contemporary Medicine: An

Extensive Study to STEM Students Conducted

at ACLC College of Taytay

A Study Presented to the Faculty of

ACLC College of Taytay

In Partial Fulfillment

of the Requirements for the Subject of Practical Research 1

By:

Ariar, Aaron James O.

Clores, Cedric P.

Embarque Jr., Jiger E.

Estolas, Clouie

Guevarra, Joseph P.

Mejia, Juan Miguel R.

Monreal, Ella Jane G.

Tolentino, Mark Russel L.

Valdez Jr., Jaime R.

Introduction:

Throughout history, people have always found different ways to stay healthy. Nowadays, we

see a mix of old-fashioned and new-fangled methods working together to keep us in tip-top shape. It's

like having two superhero teams – one that's great at fixing sudden problems like injuries and

infections (that's modern medicine), and another that's more about keeping everything running

smoothly and stopping bad stuff from happening in the first place (that's traditional medicine). `

You know how sometimes all you need to do to keep healthy over time is to eat your veggies

and get some exercise, but other times all you need is a band-aid for a cut? These two forms of

medicine function somewhat in that way. When they work together, it's as though they have the best

of both worlds because they each have their strengths. Thus, contemporary and traditional medicine

work together to provide us with the best possible care, whether that means taking a prescription for a

fever or drinking herbal tea to unwind.

In recent years, modern medicine has made huge strides in treating patients, especially in

critical situations. Thanks to things like antibiotics and better surgical techniques, doctors have been

able to save a ton of lives and make people feel better. But sometimes, it seems like all they care

about is fixing symptoms and not really looking at the whole picture of someone's health.

It's important to remember that there are other ways of healing besides just popping pills or

getting surgery. Traditional methods, like herbal remedies or acupuncture, have been around for ages

and can be really effective too. Plus, they focus on preventing illness in the first place, which is super

important for staying healthy in the long run.

medicine. Finding the greatest strategies to maintain a person's health and happiness should truly

involve considering them as a complete.

On the other side, traditional medicine is all about embracing our cultural roots and the wisdom

passed down through generations. It looks at health in a more complete way, considering not just our

physical well-being, but also our mental and spiritual health. Things like using herbs, acupuncture,

and old-school treatments have been around forever and are still used today to keep us healthy and

treat sickness. Plus, traditional medicine reminds us that we're not separate from nature – we're part

of it. Thus, the key to having a better, healthier life is striking that balance and getting along with the

environment.

In the Philippines, there's this interesting mix of traditional and modern medicine in healthcare.

It's like having two different worlds that coexist, but not everyone sees them the same way. You see,

in rural areas, people rely a lot on traditional healing methods. It's not because they don't know about

modern medicine, but sometimes it's just easier to access and more affordable. Plus, there's a strong

cultural belief in the effectiveness of these traditional practices.

But when you go to the cities, it's a different story. People there are all about modern medicine.

They love the latest technologies and believe in the power of science to heal them. And practically, it's

also more convenient to just go to a hospital or clinic nearby.

Indeed, there is a healthcare disparity between people living in rural and urban areas. Though

they each have different reasons for holding the beliefs they do, neither is superior to the other.

In the course of history, individuals have consistently sought various methods to maintain their

well-being. Presently, there exists a blend of age-old and contemporary approaches collaborating to
ensure our optimal health. It's akin to having two superhero squads – one adept at addressing sudden

ailments like injuries and infections (modern medicine), and the other focused on maintaining overall

wellness and averting potential health issues (traditional medicine). Just as you might apply a band-

aid for a cut or prioritize consuming vegetables and exercising for long-term health, these two

medicinal realms complement each other's strengths. Whether it involves taking medication for a

fever or indulging in herbal teas for relaxation, both modern and traditional medicine play crucial roles

in enhancing our well-being. In recent times, significant advancements in modern medicine have

revolutionized patient care, particularly in critical scenarios. Thanks to breakthroughs such as

antibiotics and improved surgical procedures, healthcare professionals have saved countless lives

and improved patient outcomes. However, there's a perception at times that modern medicine

primarily addresses symptoms without considering the holistic aspect of an individual's health. It's

essential to recognize that healing encompasses more than just medication or surgical interventions.

Traditional practices like herbal remedies and acupuncture, with their centuries-old heritage, can also

offer remarkable efficacy. Moreover, they emphasize preventive measures, crucial for long-term

health maintenance. In the context of the Philippines, the interplay between traditional and modern

medicine takes on added significance, especially within educational institutions like ACLC College of

Taytay. Here, the absence of a proper clinic with a dedicated nurse exacerbates the gap in healthcare

accessibility and knowledge. This gap extends to students, particularly those in STEM disciplines,

who may lack essential understanding of medicines and healthcare. Consequently, within this

educational setting, the interaction between traditional and modern medicine mirrors broader societal

attitudes and challenges surrounding healthcare access and education.

We have come up with the title recognizing conventional and contemporary medicine to give

emphasis to the potential of traditional and modern medicine. By their own and potential combined,

we noticed the world, especially this generation full of technology. We aim to spread this knowledge

passed down by past generations for a variety of smart health choices in different categories,

including authenticity, effectiveness, life classes, and availability. This study aims to review the

literature on the relationship between traditional medicines and modern medicine and to explore the

possible concepts and methodologies from natural products and traditional medicines to further

develop drug discovery.

Our study is important since it will benefit not only our contemporary society but also our future.

With this study, we will be able to assist our people in realizing the significance of this. This research

includes information on both traditional and modern medicine, which may aid in the development of

better medications in the future that may be able to treat even the most severe cancers. As the

generation slowly advances, some effective methods are quickly fading out. Instead of moving on

from the past, why don’t we use their effective methods to improve our latest medication? There is

poverty and a lot of deaths that could have been treatable by herbal medications, which are way

cheaper. Seeing its potential in natural healing, it can potentially help doctors and scientists develop a

cure for non-curable diseases at this time.

There is a lot of research about medicines, either foreign or local, but most of it just highlights

one topic, whether it is traditional or about modern medicine or practices. In publishing this research,

we can fulfill the need for information in the category of traditional and modern medicines, highlighting

their potential on their own and their potential complementing each other in the medical field.
Statement of the Problem:

Although traditional medicine plays a significant and sometimes underappreciated role in

healthcare, it is also likely to have a similar effect to modern medicine, which has made significant

strides in the treatment of infectious diseases and emergency situations. The two medications have a

lot of potential for use in healthcare. We hope to find answers to the following queries with this

research:

1. What are the proven traditional medicines? Are they really effective?

2. How do people use traditional medicines as their alternative for expensive modern medicines?

3. How do individuals and communities make health decisions regarding treatment options,

considering both traditional and modern medicine?

Objectives:

Modern medicine has done much in the fields of infectious diseases and emergencies to aid cure

(Singh, 2010) and traditional medicine has a long history of use in health maintenance and in disease

prevention and treatment, particularly for disease (Liu, 2021). This research aims to comprehensively

examine the role, efficacy, and utilization patterns of both traditional and modern medicine in

healthcare contexts, aiming to provide a balanced understanding of their respective contributions and

potentials. This research aims to investigate the proven effectiveness of traditional medicines

alongside modern medications, their utilization as alternatives or complements in healthcare

practices, levels of awareness and acceptance among communities and students regarding both

traditional and modern medical approaches in the Philippines, perceived effectiveness and trust levels

in each modality, instances of integration or substitution between traditional and modern medicine,

factors influencing health decision-making, and the evolution of attitudes towards traditional and

modern medicine within healthcare systems.

Traditional medicine, rooted in ancient practices and cultural beliefs, offers a holistic

approach to health, considering physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It emphasizes

preventive measures and lifestyle modifications, utilizing natural remedies like herbs and

acupuncture, often with time-tested efficacy. However, challenges such as lack of standardization,

limited scientific validation, and the risk of adverse reactions exist, alongside cultural barriers and

stigma within modern healthcare systems.

Modern medicine, based on scientific advancements and technological innovations, provides

specialized care through rigorous evidence-based practices and advanced medical technologies. It

excels in acute care capabilities, accessibility, and availability, particularly in urban areas. Yet, it is

criticized for over-reliance on pharmaceuticals, high costs, and a focus on symptom management

rather than addressing root causes. Invasive procedures and fragmented care also pose risks to

patients.

In terms of healthcare access, rural communities often rely on traditional healing methods due

to accessibility and affordability issues, coupled with strong cultural beliefs. Conversely, urban centers

lean towards modern medical facilities and technologies, benefiting from convenient access to

comprehensive healthcare services.

Within educational institution and facilities, some lack of proper clinics and healthcare

personnel, students, particularly in STEM fields, may have limited knowledge and understanding of

medicines and healthcare. This educational gap highlights the importance of integrating both

traditional and modern medical knowledge into curricula to provide a holistic understanding of

healthcare practices. The interplay between traditional and modern medicine within societal attitudes
and healthcare infrastructure significantly impacts healthcare access, treatment choices, and overall

health outcomes within educational settings and broader communities.

Significance of the Study:

The result of this research will benefit the following:

Students. This study is significant for students as it offers insights into how traditional and modern

medicine can complement each other. By understanding these interactions, students can learn about

a wider range of treatment options, potentially leading to more informed health decisions.

Teachers. Examining the views of educators regarding conventional and contemporary medicine

provides insightful information about how these professionals view and might include various medical

procedures into their instruction. Educators who are more sensitive to cultural differences will be

better equipped to support pupils from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, by emphasizing how crucial

it is to combine traditional and modern medical knowledge in order to give full healthcare solutions,

such study might improve healthcare education. All things considered, this research could improve

instructional strategies and promote a more inclusive approach to healthcare education.

Researchers. It provides an opportunity for us ACLC STEM students to engage in academic

research, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and scientific inquiry. It offers insights into the

perception and understanding of both conventional and contemporary medicine to us researchers,

which could be reflective of broader societal attitudes and trends. It may help STEM students in

making informed decisions about future career paths in healthcare, whether in conventional medicine,

alternative medicine, or related fields. The research could contribute to the existing body of

knowledge on medical education, and the integration of conventional and contemporary medicine.
Future Researchers. The researchers will have a sufficient understanding of this topic and will be

able to learn more about the possible benefits of both traditional and modern treatments. In the future,

they may create a medication to treat illnesses including cancer, HIV, Alzheimer's disease, and others

for which there is currently no treatment.

Scope and Limitations:

This research study focuses on factors of traditional and modern medicine, highlighting their

differences, benefits and potential applications for those who are able to read our research paper.

Different herbal plants as alternatives for modern medicine, medicines made by combining traditional

and modern medicine and medicines that can be manufactured in the future seeing it’s potential to

treat or cure diseases that are still unraveled. This research will also be covering students’ responses

and present knowledge about past generation’s practices in medical and healing field.

This research will not extend to the advance part of medical field such as, developing

medicines, experiments and to advocate for approval of still not legal medications. This research will

also not cross into the complex boundary of professionals of their own field of expertise.

Definition of Terms:

Acupuncture - The technique of inserting thin needles through the skin at specific points on the body

to control pain and other symptoms . It's commonly used to address chronic pain, stress, anxiety, and

digestive disorders.

Ailments - Is "maladies." Maladies encompass a broad range of health issues or diseases affecting

the body, mind, or emotions.

medical practices, treatments, and information.

Coexistence/coexist - In healthcare refers to the collaborative integration of contemporary and

traditional medical practices to offer comprehensive care.

Contemporary - in the context of healthcare, refers to current or modern practices, methodologies,

and approaches that are prevalent and relevant in the present time.

Conventional - alternative or complementary therapies which may lack scientific validation or

acceptance in mainstream medical communities.

Indulging - Typically refers to giving in to a desire or pleasure, often to excess or in a self-gratifying

manner. In the context of health, indulging may involve overconsumption of unhealthy foods,

neglecting exercise, or engaging in behaviors that can be detrimental to one's well-being.

Pharmaceuticals - are medicinal drugs or compounds designed and produced for therapeutic

purposes.

Revolutionized - Refers to a significant and transformative change or innovation that fundamentally

alters a particular field or aspect of society. healthcare, --revolutionized refers to advancements,

discoveries, or developments that have profoundly transformed medical practices, treatments, or

technologies, leading to improved patient care, outcomes, and overall well-being.

Standardization - In healthcare standardization involves developing and implementing standardized

practices, procedures, and protocols across healthcare settings to promote efficiency, safety, and

quality of care.
 CHAPTER 2: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Introduction:

Many individuals of the new generation overlook or partially forget where it all originated since

everything in this world evolves for survival through the use of human intelligence and technologies.

In addition, they candidly don't even care about it nowadays, especially in the medical field. While

many young people disregard traditional medicine in favor of contemporary care, other nations have

such a rich history with traditional medicine that they continue to support it now due to its

acknowledged promise.

Foreign Study:

There's a growing recognition of the importance of understanding traditional Chinese medicine

(TCM) in modern scientific terms. TCM blends scientific principles with humanistic values, but in

today's advancing medical field, ethical considerations often take a back seat. TCM uniquely

combines imagery and conceptual thinking, serving as a cultural rejuvenation catalyst, a path to

rediscovering one's true essence, and promoting harmony between humans and nature. In the post-

modern era, emphasizing "people-oriented" medical values can bridge the gap between science and

humanities, holistic and reductionist approaches, as well as evidence-based and narrative medicine,

fostering integration and innovation in healthcare. (Wang, Y. (2019).

The relevance of the research article lies in its discussion of traditional Chinese medicine

(TCM) and the need to understand it from a modern scientific perspective. It sets the stage for

understanding the importance of integrating traditional and modern medical practices, which is further

explored in our study. The article introduces key concepts such as TCM's combination of scientific

and humanistic aspects, imagery-based thinking, and the integration of science and humanities in

medicine. As our study complements the research article by providing a broader context of the
coexistence of traditional and modern medicine, using a relatable analogy of "superhero teams" to

illustrate their respective roles. It also highlights the advancements in modern medicine while

acknowledging the value of traditional methods in preventive care. Moreover, it extends the

discussion to the specific context of healthcare accessibility and knowledge gaps within ACLC

College of Taytay, emphasizing the importance of understanding and bridging the divide between

traditional and modern medicine in educational settings.

For example, cataract — leading cause of global blindness, results from a clouded lens

impacting daily life. Age-related cataract (ARC), the most common form, stems from various factors

over time, with diverse pathogenesis. While surgery is the primary treatment, it's limited to early

stages and postoperative care, leaving drug treatments in exploration. Traditional Chinese Medicine

(TCM) offers low toxicity and significant progress in ARC treatment and prevention. This review

outlines ARC's pathogenesis in both traditional and modern medicine, detailing TCM's historical use,

formulas, and active components. Using databases like PubMed and Google Scholar, TCM's efficacy

in multi-target treatment is evident, particularly in inhibiting abnormal glucose metabolism and

oxidative damage. TCM, focusing on liver, kidney, and spleen syndromes, offers personalized

treatment, addressing yin-yang imbalances, thus showcasing its advantage in ARC prevention and

treatment.( Liu, X.-M., Shi, H., & Li, W. (2024)).

As the research article and our study set the stage for understanding the broader context of

healthcare and medical practices, particularly the coexistence of traditional and modern medicine.

They highlight the importance of considering various approaches to health and healing,

acknowledging both their strengths and limitations. The article specifically focuses on cataract

treatment, illustrating how traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers an alternative approach with

potential benefits. Our study provides a general overview of the relationship between traditional and

modern medicine, emphasizing their complementary nature. It also brings attention to the specific

healthcare challenges faced within the educational setting of ACLC College of Taytay, such as the

lack of proper medical facilities and knowledge among students. Together, these sections lay the
groundwork for understanding the significance of exploring alternative medical treatments like TCM

within the broader context of healthcare practices and education. They highlight the importance of

considering multiple perspectives and approaches to address healthcare needs effectively.

This indigenous knowledge was incorporated into STEM-based teaching and learning as a

significant component of science education in Indonesia, according to Sumarni Woro's research,

"Indigenous Knowledge of Indonesian Traditional Medicines in Science Teaching and Learning Using

a Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics (STEM) Approach (2022)." Additionally, a scientific

correlation between this indigenous knowledge and its incorporation into STEM-based schooling was

assessed. Information on Indonesian traditional medicines was gathered through field visits with

producers and sellers of traditional medicines. A method of semi-structured interviews was employed.

Along with literature reviews on the components and advantages of traditional medicines, field

observations were carried out to witness the preparation process. We looked into twenty types of

common therapeutic plants used as herbs. In the data analysis, the STEM approach was applied in a

descriptive manner. Investigating the connection between STEM and indigenous knowledge of

Indonesian traditional remedies, a comparative investigation was carried out.

It is stated here that data on Indonesian traditional medicine is being gathered in order to

expand knowledge for contemporary medicine; this is comparable to our research, which also uses

surveys to gather data. Here, data is also being gathered in several nations, like Indonesia.

Information on Indonesian traditional medicines was gathered through field trips with makers and

merchants of traditional medicines. Furthermore, the investigations were conducted to see how the

process of creating traditional medicines would be incorporated into contemporary medicine by

employing this expertise to further traditional medicine's understanding.

Traditional Myanmar medicine (TMM), which has been practiced for millennia, is commonly

utilized as an alternative treatment for tumor and cancer. One particular herbal medicine, known as

Mansay, was selected for study due to its traditional use as an anti-tumor remedy. Phytochemical

screening of Mansay revealed the presence of various secondary metabolites. The research involved
assessing its pharmacological activity, including free radical scavenging using DPPH assays,

evaluating antimicrobial properties through disc diffusion, and determining toxicity using a brine

shrimp lethality test. (Nwe, M. L., Khaing, S. Y., & Khin, A. (2020).

We can make a significant contribution to the field of medicine and assist in identifying possible

alternative or complementary medicines for cancer patients by carrying out a relevant study

contrasting traditional Myanmar medicine, such as Mansay, with conventional and modern cancer

treatments. This may enable patients and healthcare professionals to choose treatments with more

knowledge. It might also emphasize how crucial it is to take traditional medicine into account while

providing cancer care, particularly in areas where it is both extensively used and deeply ingrained in

local culture. It might result in the creation of brand-new treatments or the improvement of ones that

already exist, which would ultimately help cancer patients all across the world.

For centuries across countries, people have turned to traditional healers, home remedies and

ancient medicinal knowledge to address their health and well-being needs. According to the WHO

Global Report on Traditional and Complementary Medicine (2019), various systems of traditional

medicine being used around the world include acupuncture, herbal medicines, indigenous traditional

medicine, homeopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, naturopathy, chiropractic, osteopathy, ayurvedic

and Unani medicine. And one hundred and seventy WHO Member States have reported on the use

of traditional medicine by their populations. Traditional medicine is sometimes seen as pre-scientific,

its practices and treatments to be replaced by modern, better, more efficient science-based medicine.

What is less known, however, is its contribution to modern science and medicine, and a long history

of traditional products and practices being translated into effective treatments for health conditions.

To begin with, a lot of modern medications have their origins in traditional treatments. Willow

bark was originally used to make aspirin, which is an example of how traditional knowledge has been

translated into effective modern treatments. Second, modern medicine has recognized the value of

traditional techniques like acupuncture in the treatment of pain and other illnesses. Additionally,
research into herbal medicine and other traditional medicines is still being conducted, which aids in

the understanding of illness mechanisms and the development of novel treatments.

The previous WHO research illustrates the continuous applicability of traditional medicine in

conjunction with modern medical methods by highlighting its use and recognition across the globe.

Therefore, understanding and combining evidence-based modern medicine with traditional

therapeutic methods can lead to comprehensive healthcare.

Foreign Literature:

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC, accounting for 90% of primary liver cancer) was the

sixth most common cancer in the world and the third leading cause of cancer death in 2020. The

number of new HCC patients in China accounted for nearly half of that in the world. HCC was of

occult and complex onset, with poor prognosis. Clinically, at least 15% of patients with HCC had

strong side effects of interventional therapy (IT) and have poor sensitivity to chemotherapy and

targeted therapy. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), as a multi-target adjuvant therapy, had been

shown to play an active anti-tumor role in many previous studies. This review systematically

summarized the role of TCM combined with clinically commonly used drugs for the treatment of HCC

(including mitomycin C, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, 5-fluorouracil, sorafenib, etc.) in the past

basic research, and summarized the efficacy of TCM combined with surgery, IT and conventional

therapy (CT) in clinical research. It was found that TCM, as an adjuvant treatment, played many roles

in the treatment of HCC, including enhancing the tumor inhibition, reducing toxic and side effects,

improving chemosensitivity and prolonging survival time of patients. This review summarized the

advantages of integrated traditional Chinese and modern medicine in the treatment of HCC and

provides a theoretical basis for clinical research. (Sung, H., Ferlay, J., Siegel, R. L., Laversanne, M.,

Soerjomataram, I., Jemal, A., & Bray, F. (2021, February 4).

hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the subject of both studies. In order to enhance outcomes for

patients with HCC, they both draw attention to the possible advantages of integrating traditional

Chinese medicine (TCM) with mainstream medical treatments such surgery, chemotherapy, and

targeted therapy. Furthermore, they emphasize the value of investigations and clinical trials into the

synergistic benefits of combining various treatment methods for increased efficacy and less adverse

reactions.

Drawing from the works of Stephen E. Straus, Ramanan Laxminarayan, and Haile T. Debas.

Providing for people's inescapable demands for both bodily and emotional recovery is the aim of

medicine. Throughout millennia, the field has changed by incorporating elements of many indigenous

peoples' religious and social structures, by taking advantage of natural resources found in their

surroundings, and, more recently, by using the scientific method to the development and validation of

therapeutic and preventive methods. People can today expect and perhaps feel entitled to longer and

higher-quality lives than at any other time in human history thanks to advancements in public health

and medical practices.

The paragraph highlights the historical evolution of medicine, the development of therapeutic

approaches using the scientific method, advancements in public health, and the objective of

addressing people's healing needs. These aspects are relevant to the study "Recognizing

Conventional and Contemporary Medicine" as it explores the historical roots, therapeutic approaches,

public health impact, and the fulfillment of healing needs in both conventional and contemporary

medicine.

There's a resurgence of interest in traditional and complementary medicine, not only in

developing nations but also in developed ones. The limitations of modern medicine, which often

merely alleviate symptoms without curing, are highlighted. Patients may temporarily feel relief from

medications, but symptoms return once the drug wears off, creating a dependency. Mordeniz

suggests that integrating traditional and complementary medicine, backed by scientific evidence,
could revolutionize medical philosophy and treatment, favoring personalized and holistic approaches.

Complementary interventions are employed alongside conventional treatments, while alternative

interventions replace them altogether. (Mordeniz, C. (2019b).

Cengiz Mordeniz claims that the motivation behind this research is their aim to discover more

about the possibilities of conventional and alternative medicine, as well as their experience in treating

and creating medications for conditions like cancer, heart disease, stroke, and other conditions for

which there is currently no cure. Additionally, people who now cannot afford prescription drugs but

have enough resources in case they become necessary are also the target audience for this

research. Most currently prescribed drugs are sourced from traditional medical sources. As an

illustration, aspirin was developed as a quinine-based analgesic, yet cocaine has long been advised

in modern medicine.

According to Haidan Yuan, Qianqian Ma, Li Ye, and Guangchun Piao — traditional medicines

(TMs) are very important and use natural materials. Natural products are used in many medical

practices, including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, Kampo, traditional Korean

medicine (TKM), and unani. These practices have been practiced for hundreds or even thousands of

years worldwide and have developed into well-organized, controlled medical systems. Even though

they may have certain flaws in their different forms, they are nevertheless an invaluable source of

human knowledge. In the meantime, it seems that the creation of novel medications that exclusively

depend on contemporary technology is coming to an end. In creating novel medications.

The foreign study that was conducted by Haidan Yuan, et al. shows the evolution of medicine

from traditional to modern practices. It was clearly explained by thorough analysis and study that the

traditional medicines from different countries have both good and bad effects in the human body as

they contain side effects. While modern medicines evolved and needed high quality efforts and

studies for the new medicines to be approved. The relevance of this study to the research conducted

by the STEM Students in ACLC is the concept of traditional and modern medicine. As the study would

help the researchers have data and information about the research they are conducting. It centers the
variable needed for STEM Students’ research and gives relevant information and data to answer the

possible research questions.

As stated in the journal by Chang-xiao Liu titled "Overview on development of ASEAN

traditional and herbal medicines" the indigenous people of Indonesia and Malaysia discovered how to

employ herbs in the intricate natural surroundings of those nations to cure wounds and illnesses. This

knowledge resulted in the creation of "local medicine," which is still practiced today. The traditional

medical theories of China, Malaysia, India, and other countries have a significant influence on

Singapore's traditional medicine. Provincial responsibility systems and restricted hierarchical referral

systems are the primary methods used in the Philippines for medical treatment. The Philippine Health

Plan, which is administered by the government, offers most people limited medical insurance

benefits. In the Philippines, traditional medicine mostly focuses on herbal medicine, massage, and

bone setting. Moxibustion and acupuncture are well accepted by the local populace and authorities.

However, there are still many restrictions on the TCM theory and development in the local area (Qin

et al., 2021).

ASEAN countries like Indonesia and Malaysia have developed local medicine using herbs for

treating diseases and wounds. Singapore's traditional medicine is influenced by China, Malaysia, and

India. In the Philippines, traditional medicine focuses on bone setting, massage, and herbal medicine,

with acupuncture and moxibustion accepted but facing restrictions. Looking around the world, we can

see that various Asian countries have similar medical practices. If we go back in time to our

ancestors' experiments with various herbals, techniques, and plants, we can discover that our modern

technologies and practices came about as a result of their independent experimentation. By focusing

more on it, we could create a more equitable world where everyone has access to medication,

regardless of their financial situation or health condition, and we could potentially cure more illnesses

and individuals.
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