A structured process of translation and integration of traditional Asian herbal formulas in the European context: Experiences from 40 years

Preparations from Asian medicine traditions will increasingly reach Europe. Experiences with Padma 28, a product from the Tibetan medicine system, show aspects relevant to the process of transfer into a modern Western context.

• Selection of a formula based on criteria such as reports of efficacy, sustainable availability of raw materials (endangered species), no toxicological concerns.

• Definition of the formulation: Botanical and qualitative definition of ingredients, a validated manufacturing process and analytical procedures according to GMP are prerequisites for a registration and scientific research.

• Determination of the indication: The traditional therapeutic use of the formula has to be thoroughly understood and described in modern medical terms so that it fits into a modern regulatory context. E.g. Padma 28 is described in the Tibetan context as „cooling and circulation enhancing“, suitable for „hot diseases“ and „yellow discharge from the lungs“. In the European context it was introduced mainly as an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory product and for circulatory disorders including atherosclerosis.

• Scientific research may verify the conclusion of the previous steps and confirm safety and efficacy. Synergistic, antagonistic and additive interactions between the different ingredients of multi-compound formulas have to be considered. They thus have to be researched as whole mixtures.

Experiences from 40 years show that complex herbal medicinal products from medicine systems such as Tibetan Medicine can be integrated into a Western context. Through its long-term use, Padma 28 has been established in Switzerland as a household remedy. The Tibetan preparation has thus become a part of the European herbal tradition.