The context in which Kampo was developed and is currently practiced in Japan is different from the context in which herbal and traditional forms of medicine are being used in other countries. There is no “Oriental Medical Doctor” degree in Japan. Acupuncturists are licensed by the state, but they are not allowed to prescribe or sell herbs. Only licensed physicians can legally practice Kampo, and only pharmacies licensed by the government are permitted to sell them. However, herbal products sold as :OTC“ (over the counter) products, usually at 1/2 prescription strength, are also sold in traditional herb stores.

There are no professional degrees in Kampo medicine. Almost all pharmaceutical schools in Japan teach courses in Kampo. Far fewer medical schools include it as a part of the required curriculum. But almost every Japanese medical school and university hospital has a Department of Kampo, in which patients are treated with both conventional and Kampo medicine. Elective rotations in this department are very popular among medical students. In addition, numerous courses are offered by Kampo medical and pharmaceutical associations. Kampo extract manufacturers also offer lectures and training courses for physicians and pharmacists. Public an private Oriental Medicine Research Centers, some of which are part of medical schools, pharmacy schools and universities, sponsor training courses. Basic science and clinical research is being intensively carried out in many Centers around Japan. The results of these research efforts are widely publicized through journals, books and conferences. Thus, although there is currently no formal minimum standard of training, physicians in Japan are able to develop a high level of skill.

References:

Kampo Today: News of Japanese Herbal Medicine
http://www.tsumura.co.jp/english/kthp/today.htm

Matsumoto K, Birch S. Hara Diagnosis: Reflections on the Sea. Brookline: Paradigm Publications, 1989.

Rister R. Japanese Herbal Medicine. New York: Avery Publishing Group, 1999.

Shibata Y, Wu J. Kampo Treatment for Climacteric Disorders. Brookline: Paradigm Publications, 1997.

Terasawa K. Kampo Japanese-Oriental Medicine: Insights from Clinical Cases. Tokyo Japan: KK Standard McIntyre, 1993.

Content last modified on Sep 19, 2003