In 2025, Thailand's Ministry of Public Health continues integrating Traditional Thai Medicine (TTM) into the national healthcare system. Under the "Thai Medicine for All" program, 15 additional natural-origin medicines are set to be added to the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) by 2027. This will give millions of patients access to safe, effective, and affordable alternative treatments.
Current Status: Over 100 Approved Medicines
As of 2025, 103 traditional Thai medicines are included in the NLEM, approved by the Department of Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTNAM). These include:
- Phytopharmaceuticals based on turmeric, ginger, guava, chili, ginseng, and mulberry;
- Complex formulas for arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, and gastrointestinal disorders;
- Massage oils and ointments with anti-inflammatory effects;
- Immune-boosting and recovery supplements.
All medicines have undergone clinical trials and are standardized for composition and dosage.
Government Support & Accessibility
Traditional medicines are available free or at low cost through three main programs:
- Universal Coverage Scheme — for all citizens;
- Social Security Scheme — for employees;
- Civil Servant Medical Benefit Scheme.
Patients can access medicines at over 10,000 public clinics and traditional medicine centers nationwide.
Goals of the Initiative
According to Health Minister Pradit Sinthanavirango, the expansion aims to:
- Reduce healthcare costs by replacing expensive synthetic drugs;
- Improve treatment access in remote areas with doctor shortages;
- Support local producers and farmers growing medicinal plants;
- Preserve Thailand’s cultural heritage.
How Are New Medicines Developed?
DTNAM collaborates with Faculty of Medicine Siriraj, Traditional Medicine Institute, and WHO to:
- Conduct scientific research based on ancient Thai medical texts;
- Run clinical trials in hospitals (e.g., Ratchasuda, Prasat Neurological Institute);
- Standardize production under GMP and WHO guidelines;
- Train doctors in integrating TTM into modern practice.
For example, a turmeric- and ginger-based formula has proven effective for osteoarthritis and is now part of treatment protocols.
Key Plants & Their Uses
Major ingredients in new medicines include:
- Turmeric (Khamin) — anti-inflammatory, for arthritis;
- Ginger (Khing) — for nausea, digestive health;
- Guava leaves (Tammarind Pa) — blood sugar control in diabetes;
- Mulberry (Ma Muang) — antioxidant, vascular health;
- Ginseng (Man Sam) — adaptogen, energy boost;
- Chili (Prik) — joint pain relief (capsaicin).
Outlook to 2027
Expected:
- Inclusion of 15 new medicines in NLEM (including for insomnia and chronic fatigue);
- Launch of a digital prescription platform for traditional medicines;
- Expansion of international recognition — submissions to WHO and ASEAN for TTM;
- Growth of medical tourism based on traditional therapies.
"Traditional medicine isn’t an alternative — it’s a complement," said DTNAM Director Somchai Nitipanit. "We’re not going back — we’re building a future where nature and science work together."
Living in or relocating to Thailand? My Thai Home helps you adapt to a country where traditional medicine is part of everyday healthcare. Natural remedies available in every clinic aren’t exotic — they’re real.
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