SATV, Kathmandu, May. 19 - Bhutan’s traditional medicine system has taken a significant step toward becoming more practical and research-driven with the publication of a new medicinal textbook tailored to the country’s healthcare needs.

The Faculty of Traditional Medicine launched Zintig, a condensed textbook on Sorig, the traditional Bhutanese science of healing, during the 3rd National Sorig Conference, which concluded on 16 May.

The publication is expected to strengthen the preservation, teaching, and clinical application of Bhutanese traditional medicine by aligning ancient healing knowledge with the realities of modern healthcare practice in the country.

Traditional medicine remains an important part of Bhutan’s public healthcare system. Known locally as Sowa Rigpa or Sorig, the system combines herbal medicine, dietary therapy, physical treatments, and spiritual healing practices rooted in centuries-old Buddhist medical traditions.

Bhutan formally integrated traditional medicine into its national healthcare system in 1967 with the establishment of the Indigenous Hospital in Thimphu, now known as the National Traditional Medicine Hospital. Today, traditional medicine services are available across the country through hospitals and traditional medicine units connected to the public health system.

The Faculty of Traditional Medicine plays a central role in training practitioners known as Drungtshos and Menpas, who provide traditional healthcare services alongside modern medical professionals.