Globalisation of South Asian Medicines: Knowledge, Power, Structure and Sustainability. (January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sujatha, V.
• Other Names: Sujatha V. guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Society and culture in South Asia. Volume 6:Number 1(2020:Jan.)
• Page Start: 7
• Page End: 30
• Publication Date: 2020-01
• Subjects: Global flows -- Asian medicines -- globalisation of ayurveda -- South Asian medicine -- cosmopolitanisms; Sociology -- South Asia -- Periodicals; Ethnology -- South Asia -- Periodicals; South Asia -- Social life and customs -- Periodicals; South Asia -- Social conditions -- Periodicals; 301.095405
• DOI: 10.1177/2393861719883063
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2393-8617

Abstract

Abstract: The discourses on globalisation focus their attention on the flow of capital and technology from the global North. Historical, anthropological and sociological studies, however, point to crucial flows of medical knowledge, health practices, medicinal plants, other genetic resources and the first-hand knowledge of their applications into the global North from other regions rich in biodiversity. These flows do not just continue to happen but have been significant in shaping the postmodern condition. This collection is an attempt to draw attention to the less visible flows by presenting the epistemic, political, social and ecological dimensions of the globalisation of South Asian medicines and the ramifications of this process abroad and at home. The introduction outlines a framework to understand the convergences and divergences in the medical systems and health practices in the South Asian region. Although contemporary trajectories of traditional medicines in South Asian nations are many and varied, they face similar issues and share common anxieties. The challenge will be in evolving effective solutions at many levels and there are several possibilities for mutual learning among the South Asian nations.