Sparing Space for Weed: On Traditional Medicine and Patient-Physician Relationship

Aim This study aimed to determine an appropriate approach in the patient–doctor relationship to methods of traditional medicine whose potential benefits and harms have not been investigated adequately. Materials and Methods The general tendency toward traditional medical methods in Turkey and the world, herbal treatments’ possible consequential interactions with clinical treatments, and the average patient’s attitude toward traditional medicine were investigated and discussed to arrive at reasonable conclusions. Results There has been increasingly widespread use of traditional medical methods in Turkey and the world. Given the fact that the people, mass media, and private sector lean toward using these methods, it does not seem to be an easily irreversible trend. Physicians’ relevant knowledge and awareness, however, appear to be inadequate. Discussion and Conclusion This trend may affect public health negatively. Because it poses a multifaceted problem, a circumspect strategy of solution is needed. Solution of such structural problems may require prolonged efforts; however, a constructive physician attitude can help ameliorate the situation as a practical solution