• Thai government encourages doctors to prescribe herbal medicines as an alternative treatment option.
• Doctors express concerns regarding the lack of scientific evidence, potential delays in treatment, and the cost of some herbal remedies.
• The government aims to address concerns by increasing production and providing prescription guidelines for herbal medicines.

Thailand's Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin is promoting the use of herbal medicines as an alternative to Western pharmaceuticals, particularly in state-run hospitals. This initiative is intended to reduce the nation's dependence on imported drugs, lower treatment costs, and enhance public confidence in traditional remedies. However, the policy has faced resistance from doctors who cite concerns about the lack of scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of many herbal treatments, potential delays in patients seeking effective care, and the higher cost of some herbal medicines due to limited supply.

• What: The Thai government, led by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, is encouraging doctors to prescribe herbal medicines as an alternative to Western pharmaceuticals. This initiative is presented as a suggestion rather than a mandate.
• Who: Key players include Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, Somruek Chungsaman (director-general of the Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine Department), doctors in state-run hospitals, and the National Health Security Office (NHSO).
• When: The initiative was reported on May 5, 2025. The NHSO allocates funds annually to support herbal medicine promotion.
• Where: The focus is on Thailand, specifically state-run hospitals and the national healthcare system.

The Thai government's push for herbal medicine prescription highlights a tension between promoting traditional remedies and addressing concerns about scientific validation and potential impacts on patient care. The government's rationale centers on reducing import dependence and treatment costs, while doctors worry about the efficacy and potential risks associated with unproven treatments. The initiative's success hinges on effectively addressing these concerns through research, education, and transparent communication.

"This is not an enforced policy -- it is just a suggestion for physicians,"

certain herbal remedies are actually more expensive than Western medicines, due to their limited supply in the market.

The Thai government's initiative to promote herbal medicine prescription is a complex issue with potential benefits and risks. While the government aims to reduce costs and promote traditional medicine, addressing the concerns of healthcare professionals regarding efficacy and patient safety is crucial. The planned survey to gather feedback from doctors represents a positive step towards refining the strategy and ensuring its responsible implementation. The future success depends on the government's ability to bridge the gap between traditional practices and evidence-based medicine.