I’ve had my fair share of experiences with traditional medicine, with results ranging from mediocre to surprisingly effective. From massages to acupuncture, my interest was piqued as I toured this expansive facility. The hospital is more than just a single building; it’s a network of specialized centers, including a downtown treatment hub. The hospital’s grounds are vast, much more spacious compared to the compact city center, providing a more relaxed environment. I was thrilled to accept their invitation to film some of the unique treatments they offer.
Traditional Vietnamese medicine, with its roots stretching
back over 2,000 years, is deeply influenced by Chinese practices but has
evolved its own distinct identity, integrating indigenous knowledge and local
herbs. The practice revolves around balancing the five elements—wood, fire,
earth, metal, and water—alongside the principles of yin and yang, aiming to
harmonize the body’s internal environment with the external world.
One of the fascinating features of the hospital is its pool, which is used for both therapeutic exercises and swim lessons for children. It’s refreshing to see such facilities that blend traditional and modern healthcare approaches. The hospital’s focus on rehabilitative treatments was evident in the neurological rehabilitation unit, where I met Dr. Linh, a specialist in the field. He explained that the hospital serves 20 to 30 patients daily in this department alone, showcasing the high demand and importance of their services.
Vietnam’s diverse flora provides a wealth of medicinal
plants, many unique to the region. The hospital even teaches patients how to
grow and use these medicinal herbs at home, integrating gardening as part of
stroke rehabilitation therapy—a wonderful way to blend physical recovery with
traditional practices.
The highlight of my visit was the hospital’s traditional
medicine kitchen, an industrial-scale facility dedicated to preparing herbal
remedies. Here, herbs are dried and processed using massive heaters before
being transformed into various medicinal concoctions. Herbal medicine is the
cornerstone of Vietnamese traditional medicine, with a history dating back over
two millennia. The hospital’s pharmacy boasts an extensive collection of herbal
remedies, many grown right on site. Patients receive personalized prescriptions
tailored to their specific health conditions, formulated by experienced
herbalists who continue to build on centuries of knowledge.
Another unique experience was the Dragonfire Moxibustion therapy. This traditional practice involves burning moxa, or dried mugwort, near the skin to enhance blood circulation and boost the immune system. I was invited to try it myself for some lower back pain that has plagued me for years. The sensation was surprisingly soothing—an unusual mix of warmth and coolness, much like the feeling of using an icy-hot patch. It’s fascinating how this ancient technique, adapted over time to suit local conditions, continues to provide relief in the modern age.
The hospital also offers hyperbaric oxygen therapy, where patients breathe pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber to promote healing. I was amazed to find such advanced medical technology integrated into a traditional medicine hospital. This combination of ancient wisdom and modern science exemplifies the hospital’s holistic approach to healthcare.
In addition to traditional therapies like acupuncture and
acupressure, which are used to treat a variety of ailments from chronic pain to
digestive issues, the hospital’s facilities are designed with patient comfort
in mind. From air-conditioned rest areas to comprehensive rehabilitation
centers, the hospital’s commitment to patient well-being is evident in every
detail.
Visiting the Da Nang Traditional Medicine Hospital was a truly eye-opening experience. The dedication to combining traditional practices with modern healthcare solutions is impressive, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with all of you. The hospital rarely grants filming permissions, so being able to document and present these unique therapies was a privilege. As the field of health tourism continues to grow, I hope more people will explore the benefits of traditional Vietnamese medicine.
