Traditional Healing Systems and Modern Healthcare Integration: A Comparative Study of Indigenous Medical Practices in Southeast Asia

Abstract

The integration of traditional healing systems with modern healthcare represents a critical intersection of cultural preservation and medical advancement in Southeast Asia. This comparative study examines indigenous medical practices across Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, analyzing their therapeutic efficacy, socio-cultural significance, and potential for integration with contemporary biomedical approaches. Through systematic analysis of ethnobotanical resources, healing methodologies, and regulatory frameworks, this research demonstrates that traditional medicine systems continue to serve approximately 80% of Southeast Asian populations as primary healthcare providers. The study identifies successful integration models, particularly Thailand's collaborative approach and Vietnam's dual-system framework, while highlighting persistent challenges including standardization, quality control, and evidence-based validation. Findings indicate that strategic integration can enhance healthcare accessibility, reduce costs, and preserve invaluable indigenous knowledge systems. This research contributes to the growing discourse on complementary and integrative medicine by providing empirical evidence for policy development and healthcare planning in resource-diverse settings.