Alternative medicine gaining global recognition: governor

LAHORE:“Alternative medicine is an effective treatment. This treatment method heals the human body without causing any harm. It not only eliminates root cause of diseases but also provides physical, spiritual and mental wellbeing. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential”.

These views were expressed by medical experts at a seminar, “The role of diet, lifestyle, alternative medicine and financial wellness in treating mental and physical Illnesses. The seminar was jointly organised by Mir Khalil-ur-Rahman Memorial Society (Jang Group of Newspapers), Alternative Medicine Task Force, Wellness Institute of Pakistan and Project Bull. The event was presided over by Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider.

Speaking at the seminar, the experts emphasised the need for working on prevention to reduce disease burden on the healthcare system.

Governor Punjab Saleem Haider said alternative medicines - herbal, homeopathy, acupuncture and Ayurveda - are rapidly gaining global recognition. “Unani, Ayurvedic and homeopathic medicines are widely used across Pakistan to treat ailing people”, he told the audience. Given the increasing global demand for natural and herbal medicines, Pakistan has great opportunity to position itself as a major global centre for alternative medicines, he noted.

Khawaja Salman Rafique, Minister for Specialised Healthcare and Medical Education, spoke about increasing disease burden. He said adopting a healthy lifestyle is necessary for a healthier life. “There is a need to focus on prevention to reduce the burden on healthcare system”, he stressed. He mentioned the “historic steps” taken by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to improve public health in the province.

Rushda Lodhi, Parliamentary Secretary for Health, opined alternative medicine is an effective treatment method. She emphasised adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential. She said children unhealthy eating habits necessitated nutrition-related programmes and policies introduced by CM Maryam Nawaz.

Dr Izhar Khan, CEO of Alternative Medicine Task Force, proposed establishment of an Alternative Medicine Task Force.

Dr Saira Afzal pointed out too much focus is being given to politics instead of preventive healthcare system.

Dr Muneeba Iftikhar explained homeopathic medicines are extracted from plants, animals and minerals and are considered safe with minimal adverse reactions.

Raees Ansari said Pakistan has an excellent opportunity to position itself as a global hub of alternative medicines. Dr Murtaza Khan explained homeopathy is an ancient medical practice, and after registration in Pakistan, it is providing treatments to the patients.

Dr Ahmed Saleemi emphasised importance of alternative methods and diet in combating diabetes.

Dr Ashraf Chaudhry informed the audience homeopathy is a 200-year-old alternative medical practice that strengthens the body’s natural healing ability.

Makhdoom Ali, CEO of Project Bull, highlighted the growing industry of wellness tourism which includes medical retreats, herbal health centres and spa tourism. According to Global Wellness Institute, global wellness economy is valued at $4.9 trillion with wellness tourism contributing over $800 billion.

Dr Arif Siddiqui argued 70 percent of the diseases originate in the mind. He said alternative medicines should be recognised as an essential part of Pakistan’s healthcare system. Seminar host Wasif Nagi talked about biodiversity and traditional medical practices in Pakistan. He said Unani, Ayurvedic and homeopathic medicines are widely used across the country. “Traditional medical practices have immense potential for growth”, he remarked.

Guest speakers included Hammad Masood (COO, Project Bull), psychologist Farhat Abbas Shah, Lt Gen (r) Nazir Hussain, Tariq Tanveer,, Usman Chughtai, Shafiq Chattha (CEO, The Maintenance) and Rana Zubair (Yoga expert). —Report by Eisha Asif