The Art and Science of Traditional Medicine Part 1: TCM Today — A Case for Integration

Abstract

In this first installment of a three part series, "The Art and Science of Traditional Medicine," we present a series of articles making a case for the integration of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) into modern medical practice. From the new WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy to the application of systems biology in studying TCM, we aim to highlight the potential for creating an integrated, network-based health care system. The next two issues will cover herbal genomics and highlight the importance of quality control, standardization, regulation, and safety for traditional therapies. An overview of indigenous medicines in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, India, and the Americas will also be provided. This special supplement brought to you by the Science /AAAS Custom Publishing Office.