Bhutan is also called the land of medicinal plants and is rich in biodiversity resources. It is home to several endangered species of flora and fauna with over 7000 species of plants, 165 species of mammals and 700 species of birds. To date, more than 600 medicinal plants have been identified in Bhutan and about 300 of these are commonly used for preparing medicines.

The healthcare system in Bhutan is unique whereby people are provided free healthcare service of both modern and traditional systems. The Bhutanese Traditional Medicine system which is deeply rooted in the Bhutanese culture and Buddhism is called gso-ba rig-pa. gso-ba rig-pa literally means knowledge of healing. This medicine system is based on belief, faith, culture, tradition and Buddhist philosophy. It provides a comprehensive way of understanding the Universe, man, and his sicknesses and it is gaining popularity due to its unique philosophy and holistic, rounded and profound approach in the treatment of human suffering and diseases. It not only considers in treating the disease and its causes but also considers the interdependency of man and nature and has spiritual component included in the treatment.

As per the gso-ba rig-pa philosophy, “Marigpa” or ignorance is the root cause of all the suffering, both physical and mental. “Marigpa” provokes three poisons: “Dud-chag” (desire, greed, jealousy), “Zshe-dang” (hatred, anger, arrogance) and “Ti-mog” (ignorance, delusion). These three poisons stimulate the three secretions of the body: “rLung” (wind) from “Dud-chag", “Thri-pa” (bile) from “Zshe-dang”, “Bad-Ken” (phlegm) from “Ti-mog”. Imbalances of these three secretions lead to ill health and disease.

gso-ba rig-pa was introduced in the 17th century and formalized in 1967 under the Royal Command. Drungtsho Pema Dorji and Drungtsho Sherub Jorden started the system of gso-ba rig-pa by opening one Indigenous Dispensary at Dechenchholing in Thimphu. The traditional medicine service was also formally recognized in 1968 as a part of the integrated healthcare delivery system. This integration of modern and traditional medical system not only provides a choice to the people but also promotes better results in public health in a harmonious manner.

The mission of traditional medicines is to provide an alternative choice of treatment to the people while also preserving and promoting the unique system of medicine that is based on rich culture and tradition. It is available in all 20 Dzongkhags and is housed under the same roof of District Hospitals and Basic Health Units promoting mutual consultation, treatment and cross-referral of patients. Today, the medicines required for the traditional healthcare services are produced within the country from natural resources with the use of modern science and technology. The raw materials required for the production of traditional medicines are collected from Lingshi, Bumthang and Gasa in the northern part and Trongsa, Zhemgang and Gelephu in the central and southern areas of the country.

The National Traditional Medicine Hospital (NTMH) located in Thimphu is an apex hospital for gso-ba rig-pa and provides tertiary care services and acts as the referral centre. Different therapies such as cauterization with gold and silver needles, bloodletting, moxabustion, herbal bath, steam bath and application, nasal irrigation, massage with medicated oils etc. are provided at NTMH.

Menjong Sorig Pharmaceuticals (MSP) under the Department of Medical Services is responsible for the research and production of traditional medicines. About 265 different types of raw materials are used to produce the traditional formulations.

The National Institute of Traditional Medicine (NITM) under the Royal University of Bhutan is responsible for development of human resources required for the delivery of traditional medical services. The Institute provides Bachelor's Degree and Diploma level courses in Traditional Medicine and other allied short courses.