DHARMASALA, INDIA, April 12, 2001: The Tibetan Medical and Astrological Institute maintains its quiet, industrial facade giving little idea of the riches within here in the foothills of the Himalayas. The Dalai Lama founded TMAI as part of his effort to keep Tibetan cultural traditions alive in Indian exile. Through its network of 37 branch clinics throughout India, TMAI provides free or low-cost medical care to more than half a million Indians each year. Tibetan medicine is often compared to Ayurveda, since both classify individuals within three categories, or humors, and use herbal medicine and diet in its treatment. Tibetan medicine also relies on astrology, including the signs of the Chinese zodiac to understand movement of fluids in the body. “It may be the chemical that cures the disease, but it’s the power of compassion that helps the patient heal,” states one practitioner.
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