Traditional medicine

“Traditional medicine” is not a molecule, receptor, nor a specific therapeutic target. Instead, it refers to systems of healthcare practices and knowledge—codified or non-codified—rooted in diverse historical and cultural contexts. These include herbal medicines, acupuncture, manual therapies, and various indigenous health approaches. Such systems are distinct from, and predate, modern biomedicine, often focusing on holistic, personalized care and the use of natural products. Within traditional medicine, many specific molecular targets (such as enzymes, receptors, or ion channels) may be addressed through various herbal components or treatment methods. However, “traditional medicine” itself is not a defined molecular entity, receptor, or druggable target and thus cannot be classified as such for pharmacological purposes[9][3][6].

Other names

Traditional medicineTraditional medical systemsTMTCM (when referring to Traditional Chinese Medicine)Indigenous medicineComplementary and alternative medicine (sometimes used interchangeably, though not strictly synonymous)