MEN-TSEE-KHANG
N e w s l e t t e r Vol. XV
December -2009
Overview Head Quarter, Dharamsala
48th Anniversary Day of Men-Tsee-Khang & College Seminar and Course Medical tour New branch clinics HIV awareness programme Happenings 2008& 2009 Obituary Men-Tsee-Khang Publications
Men-Tsee-Khang
Pg : 4 Pg : 5 Pg : 7 Pg : 8 Pg : 8 Pg : 9 Pg : 12 Pg : 16
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H HO OW W T TO O B BE EC CO OM ME E A A M ME EM MB BE ER R
If you would like to support the healing community of
Editor Kalsang Dechen
Men-Tsee-Khang, by becoming a member, please contact:
Assistant editor Mr. Tseten Dorjee
Sponsorship Secretary (NL) M EN-TSEE-KHANG Gangchen Kyishong Dharamsala - 176215 District Kangra, H.P. INDIA Tel: 0091-1892-223113/222618 Fax: 0091-1892-224116 E-mail: tmai@men-tsee-khang.org H O W T O H E L P A T M A I C H I L D H O W T O H E L P A T M A I C H I L D
Our children are our future. To involve children in the community of TMAI, housing, child care and other resources are provided to staff and their families.
This is the official Newsletter of Men-Tsee-Khang
(Tibetan
Mailing co-ordinator Mrs. Dolma Tsering
Medical & Astrological Institute of H.H. the Dalai Lama). Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala—176215, INDIA.
Tel: 0091-1892-223113/223222 307068/307069
It is published and
distributed free of cost. However, we request donations to cover
Fax: 0091-1892-224116
expenses. To make donations, please
contact
Mailing
Co-ordinator, Men-Tsee-Khang,
E-mail:
Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala tmai@men-tsee-khang.org tmai@vsnl.com www.men-tsee-khang.org
- 176215. INDIA. Editor
To ensure that the children of staff receive adequate medicine, food, clothing and school supplies, we seek individuals willing to sponsor a child for $20.00 (US) per month. We also welcome donations of clothes, books, toys and supplies. In exchange for your kindness, you may begin a direct correspondence
C A U T I O N
with the child you sponsor and start a friendship to last a lifetime. 1. Counterfeited Rinchen Rilbu (Precious Pills) are being To s po ns or a c hi ld , co ntac t: Sponsorship Secretary (NL) M
EN
-T
SEE
-KHANG
sold by some unscrupulous people. In the public interest, we are sticking hologram of our logo on our packaging to distinguish our Rinchen Rilbu from the pretenders. If viewed in adequate light, our 3-D hologram depicts our
M E N
-
T S E E
-
registered logo with the word ‘Men-Tsee-Khang’ K H A N G
E X P O R T S
inscribed in Tibetan & English. So, look for the shiny and silvery sticker on our Rinchen Rilbu.
Men-Tsee-Khang export has a wide range of products available for wholesale and retail purchase. Publications
2. The increased production of medicine is still far
in English and Tibetan, almanacs, posters, cards and
short of our requirements for our nearly 40 clinics.
herbal health products are currently available and can
Barring the Over-the-counter medicines, namely: Men-
be shipped domestically and internationally. Funds
Chik, Men-Nee and Men-Soom, we do not have the
received from product sales support the educational and
capacity to sell our medicines to Private Tibetan doctors.
medical services of Men-Tsee-Khang.
Some doctors dispense privately manufactured medicines during their personal tours and misrepresent
For product information and rates contact: MEN - T SEE - K HA NG EXPORT S Head Office: 13 Jaipur Estate Nizamuddin East New Delhi-13, INDIA E-mail: mtkexports@vsnl.net Phone: 0091-11-26214897 / 26436823 Fax: 0091-11-26211738
Men-Tsee-Khang
that
they
obtained
their
medicines
from
Men-Tsee-Khang. We are not responsible for such acts. 3. Some private doctors have travelled abroad and to Bodhgaya (India) falsely claiming that they represent Men-Tsee-Khang. The public must be cautious about the recurrences of such acts.
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EDITORIAL
W
e welcome all the readers and supporters of MTK. We also take this opportunity on behalf of the Institute to apologize to our readers, supporters and well-wishers for not being able to bring out the newsletter since March 2007 due to unavoidable
circumstances. In each and every organization there is a phase in which shortcomings over-ride the administration, even in times of progress and advancement that are inevitable.
Time flies and moves without turning back, and we are unable to stop it. It is like a shooting star that keeps its pace ahead, and here we are remembering the past 48 years as if it was yesteryear. It also has been 50 years in exile since Tibet was invaded by China. Tibetan people fled to India in 1959. Had it not been for the generous help of the Government of India and its people, the Tibetan culture and identity would be at greater risk of decline. Exile is a distance away from home, but we thank the people and government of India for making us feel at home all these years and in helping us preserve, promote and revive our traditional cultures.
If we glance back and peek into the hardships and challenges faced by the physicians, astrologers and staff members before us since the MTK’s inception in 1961, then we will be able to appreciate the incredible contributions and sacrifice they have made. It is because of the blessings and insight of His Holiness, as well as the MTK members’ determination and faith in preserving the Tibetan traditional culture under precarious conditions, that we are enjoying the fruit of their labor. Hence, we should remember the struggle and sacrifice that they have gone through, at the beginning with limited resources and meager means.
Henceforth, we assure all that there will be regular flow of news from MTK. Your advice, suggestions and constructive criticisms are always welcome and they will help us improve and progress in our endeavor.
Finally, would like to thank the Director, Deputy Director and Registrar, ex-advisor of the Astrology Department and all the head of Departments for their cooperation. Also would like to thank Tenzin Jigme for his effort in compiling together the news material, which was a helpful resource and Nina, US (journalist for National Geographic) for spending her time to go through the contents giving advice and suggestions where ever necessary.
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News ANNIVERSARY DAY Men-Tsee-Khang (MTK) celebrated its 48th founding anniversary on 23 March 2009. The chief guest on the occasion was Mr. Sonam Choephel Shosur, the officiating secretary of the Dept. of Health, CTA. The celebration of the founding anniversary commenced with the
traditional ceremony. The director of the institute, Dr. Dawa, presented the introduction, annual report and background history of MTK. Dr. Dawa said, “If we take a glimpse back at the 48 years, it’s sewn with the reminiscence of the determination, effort and diligence of Dr. Yeshi Dhonden (former physician to His Holiness) and the late Mr. Dukhorwa Lodoe Gyatso, astrologer.” At the initial stage MTK started with just a doctor and an astrologer. They took responsibility for imparting the unique Tibetan traditional knowledge of healing and astrology to eight students in the beginning. Undaunted by the difficulties under precarious conditions, they moved on in making future Tibetan doctors and astrologers.
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December 2009 The establishment and success of the institute was possible with the blessings, visionary insight and guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to preserve Tibetan culture in exile. Gradually, with the arrival of His Holiness, three personal physicians and doctors from Tibet, the organization developed into a full fledged institution. The cooperation
and determination of all the physicians, astrologers, and administrative staff has contributed to the success and development of the institute into an established and self-sufficient organization in Tibetan society. The main objective and vision of His Holiness and the institute is to preserve, promote and revive the ancient and unique Tibetan traditional system of healing and astrological science in order to benefit countless suffering beings in this universe. In order to do that, the institute is doing research on specialization in various fields in relevance to modern science. Since 1961 to 2008, the institute has successfully completed 14 batches of medical doctors and seven batches of astrologers. At present, there are 20 and 29 medical students in 15th
and 16th batches respectively, as well as six students in the eighth batch of astrology. This means that a total of 55 students are pursuing their higher studies in medicine and astrology at MTK College. The institute provides free medicine to senior citizens, the poor, destitute, employees of CTA (Central Tibetan Administration) and to new arrivals from Tibet. It also provides concession to students, nuns and monks. The chief guest, Mr. Sonam Choephel Shosur, presided over the launch of MTK Director, Dr. Dawa’s new book titled A Clear Mirror of Tibetan Medicinal Plants (Bok-kyisorig smen-ri selwey melong). Mr. Shosur distributed honorary prizes to staff members who served the institute for 20 years. He also awarded promotional certificates to Menrampa Chungwa, Menrampa Dringwa doctors and Tsirampa Dringwa astrologers and distributed prizes to I, II and III position holders of XIV batch of medical and VII batch of astrology students. The function concluded with a thank you speech by Mr. Tsering Phuntsok, the registrar of MTK.
COLLEGE FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY The Tibetan Medical and Astrological College celebrated its 48th anniversary on 2 June 2009. The Medical College was established in 1961 under the guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Dr. Namgyal Tsering, the deputy director of MTK was the chief guest of the function. The other dignitaries present were Dr. Thokmey, representative of the Central Council of Tibetan Medicine, Registrar, Mr. Tsering Phuntsok of MTK, Head of departments and students.
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December 2009 Dr. Tenpa Choephel, principal of the Tibetan Medical and Astrological College, presented the annual report and brief background of the college. The deputy director of MTK addressed the gathering and distributed prizes to the winners of the Tibetan essay and Gangri Langtso magazine (English and Tibetan) competitions. He also offered a thank you scarf to all the editorial members.
CLINICAL RESEARCH DEPARTMENT The Research Department set up in 1980, originally comprised of all its research fields. In 1994, the Research & Development Department was renamed as the Clinical Research Department. The specialized departments were created in order to carry on the work more efficiently and successfully. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has emphasized the importance of joint research between modern and traditional Tibetan medicine on numerous occasions. The clinical research department has taken initial steps and has successfully conducted clinical research with scientific methods on disorders like hypertension (blood pressure), arthritis, Diabetes, cancer and chronic Hepatitis-B. An extensive research on Toxicology on the use of purified mercury was undertaken in collaboration with Natural medicine Research Center, Hadassah, Israel; Delek Hospital, Dharamsala, India; and the Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool, UK. The result of the collaboration was remarkable. The facts were thereafter published in popular international journal Human & Experimental Toxicology,(2006)
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News 25: 405-412: “Mercury in traditional Tibetan medicine panacea or problem, Dr. Sarah Sallon; and Men-Tsee-Khang journal sMan-rTsis journal Vol. IV, issue 1, August 2007.
HIV/AIDS, cancer, asthma, Diabetes and gastric ulcer.
SEMINAR AND COURSE VARANASI
Besides that, in order to sustain health, the first volume of the Dietary Book has been published in Tibetan and English. The department has been able to benefit and educate the common masses through the use of different media platforms like radio and local newspapers in educating about the health and diseases in our communities. The department has records of many patients that have been treated and benefited by Tibetan medicine from the various branch clinics.
Ongoing projects 1. A six month clinical trial of traditional Tibetan medicines for the treatment of newly diagnosed mild to moderate essential hypertension at Dekyling branch clinic. 2. Evaluation and safety of Tsothel (detoxified mercury) in traditional Tibetan medicine in collaboration with the Louis L Borick, Natural Medicine Research Center, Hadassah Hospital, Israel. (Urinary and serum mercury level test) 3. Statistical analysis of clinical trial of Tibetan medicine for the treatment of Hepatitis B in Bylakuppe, 2009. 4. Compilation of the results is under process for the analysis of Hypertension survey conducted in various regions of the Tibetan community in the year 2007.
Upcoming projects The department is working on the proposal and questionnaire to conduct research in the year 2010 and 2011 on the following diseases:
Dr. Pema Dorjee, advisor (Sorig Literary Department, Clinical Research Department and Materia Medica Department), attended a two day seminar, starting 22 July 2009 on “Workshop on Interdisciplinary medical system”. It was organized by the Central University of Tibetan Studies (CUTS), Varanasi. Dr. Kapila Vatsyayanji, the chief guest, inaugurated the seminar through the traditional way of lighting butter lamps. Then the ceremony started with the recitation of the mangalacharan prayers in Sanskrit by the students of the university. Dr. Kapila’s opening speech welcomed all the participants of the seminar and spoke on the diverse aspects of Traditional medicine of India, Tibet and China. Dr. Pascal Veedal and Dr. Vaneesa from France gave a talk on ear acupuncture and Tai Chi Chuan. Many Indian Ayurvedic scholars from Kerala, Delhi and Benaras attended the seminar. They spoke on different topics related to the principles of curatives and diagnoses in the Ayurvedic tradition and modern medicine. On 23 July, Dr. Pema Dorjee presented a talk on curative measures in Tibetan medicine, as well as an in-depth discussion on Tibetan medicine. He gave consultation to the participants, and in the evening he addressed the medical students of the Central University of Tibetan Studies on the history, as well as the future vision of Tibetan medicine.
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News THIMPU, BHUTAN Dr. Dawa, the director of MTK, and Dr. Pema Dorjee, advisor (Sorig Literary Department, Clinical Research Department and Materia Medica Department) attended a five day seminar of the VII International Congress on Traditional Asian Medicine (IASTAM) from 7-11 September 2009 at Thimpu, Bhutan. The Honorable Chief Guest of the seminar was His Excellency Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk, Minister of Economic Affairs and Chairman of the University Council, Royal University of Bhutan. Dr. Gado Tshering, secretary of the Ministry of Health, Mr. Volker Scheid, president of IASTAM, welcomed all the participants. The honorable chief guest gave the inaugural address. This is the first ever seminar on traditional medicine in the history of Bhutan, and the government extended its full support for the arrangement of the conference. Participants from 30 different countries - including India, Nepal, China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, etc attended the seminar. There were approximately 240 scientists, lawyers, environmentalists, doctors, and medical students from Bhutan. The participants were divided into four groups and they had two or three sessions a day. The seminar also included roundtable panel discussions with all participants. During the second session on 7 September, the topic of the panel discussion was “Cultivating the Wilds’. Dr. Dawa presented the perspectives from the tradition of Tibetan medicine on nature, identification and potencies on organic materia medica, as well as their protection and increased production.
Men-Tsee-Khang
December 2009 During the first session on 10 September, the panel discussion was “Diagnoses, Treatment and the Practitioner’s Experience”. Dr. Pema Dorjee spoke about diagnoses and treatments in traditional Tibetan medicine. The panel committee requested to exchange views among the doctors, and so on 9 September the doctors met to share views, experiences and research studies carried out on some of the most common raw materials according to the Tibetan medical system. Dr. Dawa met doctors from Tibet (Tso ngon, Yunan, Shigatse, Lhasa) and discussed in length to strengthen, preserve and promote ancient Tibetan traditions within the medical system. He also emphasized the need for cooperation among them to revive and preserve the medical system through exchange of education and resources. The doctors from Tibet and MTK will develop new relations to promote education, resources, herbal medicines and publishing text books. On 12 September, Dr. Dawa
visited a hospital, pharmaceutical company and the Nangpa medicine school in Bhutan, meeting the head of the departments. In the seminar,
85 percent of the attending delegates discussed Tibetan medicine specifically and showed interest in the topic presented.
AUSTRIA Astrologer, Mrs. Tsering Chozom toured Austria from 26 March to 12 July 2009. On 30 March, she gave an introductory lecture on Tibetan astrology at Vienna to 30 interested people. The next day she travelled to Huttenburg, Carinthia province. There she gave introductory course on Tibetan astrology for three classes from 17 April-21 June, 2009 at the “International Center for Higher Tibetan Studies”. There were total of 20 students who joined the classes. She lectured 10 sessions for 15.30 hours and two students participated in the examination. The students were from Germany and Austria. Dr. Tsultrim Kalsang (MMD) visited Huttenburg, Carinthia province to give preliminary course
on traditional Tibetan medicine at the International Center for Higher Tibetan Studies, Austria from 1-30 March 2009. He lectured on the
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December 2009 topics - fundamental of Tibetan medicine, the three humors (Nyespa gSum), there poisons (Dug gSum), the theory of cosmologyphysical elements and on thirty different types of topics within Tibetan medicine, including dietary regiment, lifestyle or behavior management. He taught four consecutive classes, lectured 12 sessions for 18 hours and all the students appeared in the examination.
MEDICAL TOUR RUSSIA Dr. Dawa, the director of the institute, visited Moscow from 13-22 June 2009, invited by Dr. Svetlana of Tibetan Healing Centre, Moscow. He gave a talk on basic fundamentals of Tibetan medicine explaining the cause of diseases and its cure related to the five elements, the body and mind. While there, he met with local officials, college professors and staff from the Healing Center. On 15 June he visited six different clinics in Moscow. The director of the Tibetan Healing Center mentioned that many people benefited from Tibetan medicine. He said it was becoming popular and there was a growing interest in the traditional way of healing among the people in Russia. The Healing Center and MTK are looking into new perspectives in order to share, help and serve the health of the people of Russia. The director of MTK gave an introduction of Tibetan medicine to around 40 doctors, who thereafter were inspired to learn more. As the Tibetan Healing Centre was established 20 years ago, Dr. Dawa applauded the faculty and staff for their determination in bringing the center to its present position. He also said that he appreciated all the
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News assistance and cooperation received from the Tibet Clinic, Moscow. Dr. Tenzin Woser (Kolkata branch clinic) visited Moscow on the invitation from the Tibetan Healing Center, for four months from August 2008. He gave consultation to local patients. The normal diet of the people consists mainly of meat, alcohol, raw vegetables and oily foods and hence most of the problems related were stomach disorders, hypertension, breast cancer, liver and gynecological problems.
NEPAL Dr. Tsewang Tamdin visited Nepal for the treatment of Kyabje Trulshik Rinpoche from 20 February-5March 2009. He visited the Jampaling branch clinic and an old age home and gave consultation to 45 patients. He also gave a public talk on dietary habits to the local Tibetans in Nepal and gave consultations to 480 patients. The local Tibetans requested the need of his visit in the future. He also visited Chatrepati and Chabahil branch clinics and consulted 103 and 176 patients respectively. Dr. Tenzin Lhadon visited Thupten Choeling Monastery in Nepal to give consultation and treatment to Kyabje Trulhshik Rinpoche from 12 May-5 June 2009. Besides that, she also visited the branch clinic at Chabahil and gave medical consultation to 139 patients, as well as dietary advice to them.
GUJARAT Dr. Pema Dorjee visited Rajkot, Jamnagar and Ahmedabad from 27 May-14 June 2009 to hold medical
camp. During the camp he gave consultation to serious cancer and heart patients. He gave an interview to the local press, Akila. The visit was given wide publicity due to the press release of the event in local newspapers. He also gave medical consultation to media persons in Salchok School at Rajkot. Dr. Pema Dorjee, along with Dr. Penpa and Dr. Samdup from Jamnagar branch clinic gave medical consultation to 469 patients in Rajkot. They discussed the concept of the Tibetan medicine, and its practice with the panel of local doctors, professionals and authorities. The Ramcho Dassji Maharaja Mandir organized the medical camp at Jamnagar from 5-7 June 2009. The doctors gave medical consultation to 277 patients. On 8-9 June, Dr. Pema Dorjee gave a speech on Tibetan medicine to the department heads and faculty members of the P.G Department, Laboratory Department and Ph.D. scholars at Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar. On 11 June he visited the branch medical clinic and gave consultation to the patients.
TABO Dr. Tsewang Tamdin, advisor (College, Pharmacy and Herbal Product Research Department) visited Tabo from 20-29 July 2009. He gave medical consultation to 175 patients in Spiti and 76 patients in Tabo monastery. Dr. Tamdin visited Gu, 20 km away from Tabo on 22 July to give consultation to a serious patient, Mr. Tsering Palden and also gave consultation to 52 patients. On 27 July, he visited the Manali branch clinic and gave consultations to around 290 patients.
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News BRAZIL Dr. Namgyal Tsering, the deputy director vistied Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay from 7-21 March 2009 with the kind co-ordination of Mr. Tsewang Phuntsok, Liaison officer, Office of Tibet, Latin America. In Brazil the doctor discussed the future exchange program between MTK and the University of Sau Paulo. He spoke on the topic “Pharmacology in Tibetan medicine” at the university to the graduate and PG students. In Uruguay he gave public talks and lecture on “Dietary Life Style” according to traditional Tibetan medicine and gave consultation to the patients. In Argentina, he was invited to a cardiology hospital where he gave a talk on “Introduction on Tibetan medicine” to the doctors and nurses. Discussion and question answer session was also held. He visited the Kagyu center there, gave a public talk on Dietary Life Style and consultation to the patients.
December 2009 speech on the background history of MTK. He expressed deep gratitude to the sponsor, the supporters and local people for their tireless effort in realizing the vision of setting up a clinic in order to help patients who are in need of a holistic approach.
ANDHRA PRADESH Mr. Tsering Dorjee, head of Branch Department, visited Hyderabad to inaugurate a new branch clinic of MTK. On 3 May 2009 the clinic was opened and the chief guest of the inaugural function was Ven. Dharmakeerti. Dr. Dorji Rapten, CMO of Bangalore branch clinic, was also present at the inauguration and consulted to the patients. The same day, Mr. Purshotam Roa, former Member of Parliament and State Minister visited the new branch clinic.
HIMACHAL PRADESH
OPENING OF NEW BRANCH CLINICS GUJARAT Mr. Tsering Dorjee, head of the Branch Department visited Jamnagar, to inaugurate the new branch clinic of MTK. The clinic was inaugurated on 17 July 2008 and was sponsored by Mr. Deepak Bhai. The branch clinic sponsor and his supporters (Mr. Dilip Mumtora Bhai, Mr. Tusher Bhai, Mr. Nelesh Bhai, Mr. Haresh Pujara Bhai, Mr. Sailash Bhai, Mr. Bhasker Bhai) invited Mr. Shri Yogeshwara Guru Maharaja as the chief guest of honor, whose presence on the opening function brought a sense of inspiration and joy. Mr. Tsering Dorjee gave a
Men-Tsee-Khang
For the past couple of years, Ven. Geshe Sonam Wangdu of Tabo monastery and the local residents
have been requesting MTK to set up a branch clinic in Tabo for the benefit of the people living there. The request was realized on 3 July 2009. The chief guest of the inaugural ceremony Ven. Geshe la, said, “Traditional Tibetan system of healing is one of the unique practices and treatment of this generation and the people here strongly believe in the efficacy of the Tibetan medicine.” Mr. Tsering Drojee, head of branch department attended the function with other important dignitaries.
HIV AWARENESS PROGRAMME Mrs.Kalsang Lhamo, under secretary, Health Department, CTA, Dharamsala and Dr. Pema Dorjee, MTK toured Bhandara, Orissa and Mainpat Tibetan settlements from 511 August 2009, organized by the Department of Health on HIV awareness. Mrs. Kalsang Lhamo spoke on a wide range of topics related to the subject fr om nature, conditions, symptoms a n d preventive measures. D r . Pema D or j e e br iefed on a w i d e range of subjects dealing with contagious diseases and its preventive measures from the viewpoint of the Tibetan medical
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December 2009 system. He also briefed on hypertension, ulcer, Hepatitis B and alcohol-related diseases and its measures. He consulted 481 patients in Bhandara, Mainpat and Orissa. The doctors of the respective branch clinics accompanied him during the tour.
P H A R M A C Y DEPARTMENT
News travels to India and Nepal every year for medicinal research field trip. A team of four members headed by Dr. Tsering Norbu, head of Materia Medica Department, Dr. Tsetan Mingur, Dr. Thinley Chophel, Dr. Zompa and Dr.Ven. Lobsang Soepa (Pharmaceutical Department) went to Zumsum in Mustang, Nepal on 721 August 2009. They discussed the medicinal resources in the Shapru area with Dr. Dekyi, chief medical officer, Chabahil branch and Mr. Tsewang Norbu, familiar with local medicinal plants. They were informed that the area was restricted
They gave consultation to 100 patients. March 1-12 Dr. Tsering Norbu, head of Materia Medica Department visited Moscow and gave consultation to 72 patients. He spoke on “Introduction and efficacy of Tibetan medicine” to the massage therapist gathered during the talk. March 24-28 The Central Council of Tibetan medicine (CCTM) and Men-Tsee-Khang (MTK) organized a joint “National Conference cum workshop on Tibetan medicine”.
The Pharmacy Department as a specialized unit is one of the important departments of MTK, in manufacturing herbal medicine. Over the years, the department has strived to succeed and achieve the goal of standardizing its manufacturing unit. At the initial stage, the manufacturing process (cleaning, drying, processing, etc) was done with manual labor but gradually, with the advancement of technology, things improved. Food gradable units are used for the packaging of medicine. The department follows the GMP (good manufacturing practices) standard in order to move with changing times. With the introduction of the new packaging system, a wide range of products in the form 9TH BATCH - PROMOTIONAL COURSE OF MENRAMPA CHUNGWA 2008 of pills and granules can be manufactured and to improve Doctors from MTK, India, Nepal, due to political turmoil and the shelf life of the medicine. Bhutan registered under CCTM environmental protection. participated in the workshop.
MATERIA MEDICA DEPARTMENT
The Materia Medica Department as a specialized unit was started in 1994 as an expansion of the Research & Development Department founded in 1980. The staff of the department
Men-Tsee-Khang
HAPPENINGS 2008 February 18-22 Dr. Dawa Dolma, former head of Clinical Research Department and team toured to Jamnagar, Rajkot and Ahmedabad.
April 1 Dr. Lobsang Yeshi, former doctor-in-charge of Meerut branch clinic attended to the participants of peace march organized by the Tibetan NGO’s from Dharamsala to Delhi. He used external therapy, gave pulse diagnoses and medicine to the
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News participants. MTK provided free distribution of medicine to the peace marchers.
December 2009 Advisor, Mr. Lobsang Norbu, Astrological Department, MTK visited Varanasi as an invigilator during the astrology examination.
April 4 The Central Council of August 4-27 Dr. Jigme Gendun Tibetan Medicine (CCTM) (Pharmaceutical Department), Dr. recognized Tibetan Medical and Khenrab Gyatso and Dr. Wangdu, Astrology College, Men-Tsee(Lecturer of Tibetan Medical and Khang, as one of the most prestigious Menpa Kachupa colleges in exile. The CCTM rewarded a certificate of recognition to the college, thereby inaugurating it as an official Menpa Kachupa degree college. The certificate was presented to Dr. Tsewang Tamdin, principal of Tibetan Medical and Astrological College, by Mr. Topgyal, additional secretary, Dept. of Health, CTA. The CCTM authorized Tibetan Medical and MEDICAL STUDENTS FIELD TRIP Astrological College Astrology College) staff members to conduct examination and award and 15th batch of medical students Menrampa Chungwa degree to all visited Manali, Marhi, Latso and doctors for a period of three years. Rohtang for practical knowledge of identification, uses, remedies and nature of medicinal plants in the April 6-30 Dr. Tenzin Lhadon, areas. There were total of 69 lecturer of Tibetan Medical & members. Astrological College, accompanied His Holiness during his visit to the September 5-6 Dr. Pema Dorjee, USA. Besides, she also gave former head of Sorig Literary consultation to the patients. Research Department visited Associacao Palas Athena and April 26-28 Dr. Yeshi Dorji, CMO, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Mcleod Ganj branch clinic, Brazil to attend the “1st International Dharamsala and team visited Symposium on Traditional Medicine Amritsar and Punjab to conduct & Contemplative Practices”. He Tibetan medical camp. They gave presented a talk on, “Brief overview consultation to 49 patients. of Tibetan medicine” and “Prevention and Treatment of May 5-July 12 On the invitation of the Central University of Tibetan Studies, Sarnath, Astrologer and
Men-Tsee-Khang
chronic disease in medicine”.
Tibetan
October 24-26 The 30th General meeting of Ayurveda Society was held in Osaka, Japan. Dr. Thokmey Paljor (Translation Department) attended the conference from MTK and spoke on “Management of Sterility in Tibetan medicine”. October 28November 17 Dr. Dawa, director, MTK visited the International Center for Higher Tibetan Studies, Huttenburg, Austria for the opening ceremony. He gave a talk on “How to release and overcome Stress/Tension in Tibetan medicine”. Dr. Tore Persson, (Dept. of An a es t h eosi ol ogy, Pain and intensive care K 2, Kavolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden) joined on 6 November and met Dr. Dawa to discuss on scientific projects and cooperation in future. November 4-December 2 The 5th and 6th batch of Menrampa Chungwa (doctors) attended the promotional preparatory course of Menrampa Dringwa and appeared in the examination. December 2 Mr. Kunga Dhondup astrologer visited CUTS, Varanasi for a month long translation program. He and Tensang, astrologer from Sherabling monastery translated Tibetan astronomy into English and modern astronomy into Tibetan. December 5-26 The 3rd batch of Tsirampa Chungwa (astrologers)
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December 2009 attended the Tsirampa Dringwa promotional preparatory course and completed the examination. December 16-January 1 The 9th batch of Menpa Kachupa doctors attended the promotional preparatory course of Menrampa Chungwa degree and completed the examination.
HAPPENINGS 2009 January 1-February 17 Dr. Pema Dorjee, advisor (Sorig Literary Department, Clinical Research Department and Materia Medica Department) visited north east India and gave public address explaining the importance and significance on “Mother and Child Healthcare”. He also addressed the importance of public awareness and prevention of HIV/AIDS. January 6-19 Dr. Namgyal Tsering, deputy director accompanied His Holiness to Varanasi during the teachings. Besides, he provided health consultation to the patients.
News May 23-31 Dr. Tenzin Deche, CMO Nizamuddin branch clinic and team attended the 50 years in exile occasion at new Delhi. They gave medical consultation, lectures on health and displayed exhibition on Tibetan medicine. July 8-31 Dr. Dawa, the director accompanied His Holiness during his teachings in Wisconsin, USA and gave consultation to 62 patients. August 8-22 Astrologers Sonam Palmo, Kunga Dhondup, Tenzin Jinpa and Tsewang Dorjee attended a workshop on astrology “Calculus without limits” organized by CUTS, Varanasi, Dept. of Astrology. November 3 -December 5 The 5th batch astrologers attended one month in-depth preparatory study for the Tsirampa Chungwa promotional course and completed the examination as well. November 3-December 5 The 10th batch Kachupa doctors and non MTK doctors (Chagpori Institute, Darjeeling; Central Institute of
Buddhist Studies, Ladakh; ex MTK) appeared for the Menrampa Chungwa promotional preparatory course and completed the examination. There were 24 doctors who participated in the course.
WORKSHOPS 2008 April 14-21 A course on Tibetan medicine was organized at MTK for seven days and 34 participants attended the course. The group was from Minnesota University, USA. May 26-June 2 A course was organized on Tibetan medicine at MTK, Dharamsala to the group from Minnesota University, USA for six days. There were 18 participants who joined the course. June 16-July 11 MTK provided 26 days special practical training for three doctors : Dr. Yeshi Dorjee, Dr. Jamyang Lodoe and Dr. Yeshi Gyeltshen of the government hospital, Bhutan in Dharamsala. The training was on compounding of medicine incorporation with
February 6-9 Thirteen astrologers visited Central University of Tibetan Studies (CUTS) Varanasi to attend a “Workshop on Modern Astronomy”. April 2-8 The senior astrologers gave an in-depth course to the 7th batch astrology students after completing their internship. April 3-7 The senior doctors gave an intensive workshop to the 14th batch of medical students after completing their internship. May 23-31 Mr. Kunga Dhondup, astrologer, attended the 50 years in Exile occasion at New Delhi to display an exhibition on Tibetan astrology.
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MINNESOTA, USA GROUP
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Obituary
December 2009
identification of medicinal substances and the preparation of calcinated powder medicine.
WORKSHOPS 2009 May 24-30 A seven days course was organized by MTK on Tibetan medicine to the group from Minnesota University, USA and 18 participants joined the course.
OBITUARY Dr. Lhawang : Dr. Lhawang passed away on 17 September 2008, after a prolong illness. He was 76. The loss of such an eminent and outstanding physician is a great misfortune, to Men-Tsee-Khang and the community as a whole. Dr. Lhawang was born in 1932 in Lhasa, Tibet. He was one of the eight students enrolled in the first batch of medical course in 1961. While as a student, he had to work, gathering medicinal plants and making medicines. He completed his final course in medicine in 1967. From 1971 to 1993,
he served as the residential doctor in various Tibetan settlements in India Kalimpong, Mundgod, Bylakuppe, Kollegal including Nepal. Since 1994, he had been serving as the Head of the Herbal Product Research Department, in Dharamsala. He served since its inception, in the service of MTK in various fields as a doctor, a researcher and an advisor. The challenges and sacrifices that he contributed will ever be remembered and cherished. Mr. Dunchu Sonam : Men-TseeKhang deeply regrets the passing away of Mr. Dunchu Sonam Dorjee, astrologer on 10 April 2008, after succumbing to chronic illness. He was 38. He worked as an astrologer in the astrology department and lecturer in Tibetan Medical and Astrology College, Dharamsala from January, 1999.
institute as a cook in Kolkata (199497), a peon (1997-99) and in the medicine store section in (1999) Dharamsala. He retired on 1 July 2005. Mr. Tsewang Dhondup : On 25 July 2008, Mr. Tsewang Dhondup passed away after a prolong illness. He was 49. He joined MTK on 1 May 2003 and worked as a driver in Bangalore branch clinic. He was transferred to Kollegal branch clinic in 2006 and from 10 May 2008 to the branch clinic in Bylakuppe and served in the same post.
Mr. Choethar : Mr. Choethar passed away at the age of 68 on 1 June 2008, in Nepal. He joined MTK on 1 June 1994. He served in the
MTK sympathizes with all the family members and relatives of the deceased and will remember their contributions to the institute.
From left to right : Mr. Kunchok Tenzin Mr. Dorjee Wangyal Mrs. Tsering Choezom
3RD BATCH - PROMOTIONAL COURSE OF TSIRAMPA DRINGWA 2008
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December 2009
Donations
MTK appreciates all the donors and well wishers for their generous donations Scholarship Tibet Freunde Poor & needy people Tove Larssen Donation for brochure Wilfried Pffefer Donation for School Bus Fund Medical France Tibet Student exchange programme Tran Thi Kim-Dieu Tran Thi Kim-Dieu Ladakh Jangdang Medical Camp Fund Daniel Monconduit, Echange Himalaya
Switzerland
41,371.00
Norway
47,955.00
Germany
62,852.00
France
33,536.00
France
101,845.00 100,009.00
France
126,182.00
NEW PACKAGING MACHINE OF PHARMACY DEPARTMENT Description :
automatic form fill and sealing machine
Product :
tablet
Quantity :
10-30 nos
Packing :
laminated pouches
Filling system :
electronic tablet counting system
Speed :
10-15 pouches per minute
Power :
2.5 Kw, single phase
Motor :
crompton geave / G.E.
Gear box :
crown
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Photo gallery
December 2009
INAUGURATION OF MILD THERAPY CENTER ON 29 DECEMBER 2009
The mild therapy center was set up in order to benefit patients using external therapy by Men-Tsee-Khang. Dr. Tsultrim Kalsang and Dr. Namdol Lhamo supervise and provide medicinal baths, steam baths and massage therapy.
NEW PRINCIPAL OF COLLEGE
2008 COLLEGE ANNIVERSARY
Dr. Tenpa Choephel succeeded the former principal (Dr. Tsewang Tamdin) as the new principal of the college. He joined the office from 1 October 2008. We welcome and greet the new principal and appreciate the former principal for his dedication in the administration of the college.
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December 2009
Photo gallery HONORARY PRIZES FOR 20 YEARS SERVICE
2008
Left to Right - Front row: Dr. Penpa Tsering, Dr. Tenzin Tsephel, Dr. Dorjee Rapten, Dr. Tenzin Deche, Dr. Tenzin Kyipa, Dr. Pema Yangchen Back row: Dr. Yeshi Dorjee, Mr. Tsering Dorjee, Mr. Gonpo, Dr. Tenzin Norbu, Dr. Kyizom, Dr. Tashi Wangdu
2009
Left to Right - Front row: Mr. Kunchok Tenzin, Dr. Dawa, Dr. Tenzin Lhadon, Dr. Tenpa Chophel, Dr. Jamyang Tashi Back row : Mr. Lhawang Tsering, Mrs.Tsering Diki , Mrs. Phurbu Dolma , Mr. Dachung, Mr. Paljor, Dr. Thokmey Paljor, Mr. Tenpa Chojor, Mr. Dorjee Wangyal
10TH BATCH PROMOTIONAL COURSE OF MENRAMPA CHUNGWA AND 5TH BATCH TSIRAMPA CHUNGWA 2009
Back row : Dr. Ngawang Soepa, Dr. Tsultrim Kalsang, Dr. Lobsang Soepa, Dr. Jampa Tsering, Dr. Sherap, Dr. Yeshi Gelek, Dr. Jampa Yonten, Dr. Tenzin Jinpa, Mr. Tenzin Nyendak (Astrologer), Dr. Tenzin Phelgey, Dr. Padma Gurmet, Dr. Dorjee Wangdu, Dr. Shedup, Dr. Ngawang Thinley, Dr. Thinley Yangjor, Dr. Tenzin Gelek, Dr. Passang Tsering Front row : Dr. Rinzin Lhamo, Dr. Tsewang Dolma, Dr. Sonam Diki, Dr. Karma Choedon, Mrs. Sonam Palmo (Astrologer), Dr. Sonam Wangmo, Dr. Ngawang Jinpa, Dr. Randhir Singh
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Men-Tsee-Khang Publications A Handbook of Tibetan Medicinal Plants Dr. Tsering Dorjee Dekhang Version : English The book is the latest up-todate version on Tibetan medicinal plants. It is comprehensive, useful reference for professionals and amateurs. The book contains botanical, English, Tibetan, Hindi and family names of plants. It presents a clear explanation of medicinal and other uses of plants. The data on flowering and fruiting seasons of the plants are also mentioned in the book.
Vaidurya sNgon-po Desi Sangye Gyatso Version : Tibetan This is one of the most popular commentaries of all times with profound knowledge on Tibetan system of medicine. It is written on the basis of the Secret Quintessential Instructions on the Eight Branches of the Ambrosia Essence Tantra. It gives a detailed explanation and is considered a primary text for study. It is formerly reproduced from a set of Chakpori blocks, revised in accordance with other blocks like Dege (sde-ge) and published into this present edition.
The Secret Quintessential Instructions on the Eight Branches of the Ambrosia Essence Tantra Yuthok Yonten Gonpo Version : Tibetan This revised edition of the book is the basic root text for Tibetan medical practitioners and portrays the complete intrinsic nature of Tibetan medicine. The
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December 2009
book has four parts: the Basic Tantra, the Explanatory Tantra, the Oral Instruction Tantra and the Subsequent Tantra. It outlines the nature of health, disease, diagnoses and treatments through medicine and therapy based on Tibetan medical principles.
Integration of Materia Medica of Tibetan Medicin, Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Chinese Medicine Dr. Tsultrim Kelsang Version : Tibetan This compilation of research and analysis on various traditional materia medica is the first of its kind. The book illustrates a brief historical account of each system. It shows parts used, its tastes, post digestive taste, nature and its uses from the point of view of Tibetan medical text, Ayurvedic materia medica, Unani, Siddha and Chinese medicine. It also brings a creation of new interrelationships between various ethnic indigenous medical sciences to help alleviate and benefit human suffering.
A Clear Mirror of Tibetan Medicinal Plants (Vol : II) Dr. Dawa Version : Tibetan The book is a botanical painting that illustrates 152 medicinal plants. It shows the synonym for correct identification, classification, characteristics of materia medica based on Tibetan medical text. It also explains the period of collection, method of processing, the range of habitat and altitude of plants grown all over, including Tibet, the Himalayan belts, Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal and India.
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December 2009
Men-Tsee-Khang Publications
All Illuminating Lamp Sewang Thinley Version : Tibetan All Illuminating Lamp “Jung-tsis Tshig-drel Tsug-lag Kun-sel Dronmey” is a reference book on Tibetan elemental astrology. It can also be called, a dictionary on elemental astrology, as it shows the meaning of around 490 terms that are used. It is the first of its kind, and can be used easily by people from all knowledge backgrounds. It is a useful book for beginners, students and practitioners to find meanings of elemental astrology terms alphabetically.
Shal Gong Shal Thrang Dewo Mar Tenzin Phuntsok Version : Tibetan The book has two parts with total 2,294 Tibetan materia medical. It is comprised of different types of materia medica, detailed explanations of medical substances, classifications, natures, potencies and identifications. It is a valuable book for students, practitioners and researchers of Tibetan medicine. It is one of the most accessible, detailed and clearly written descriptions of traditional Tibetan medicine in Tibetan medical history.
Basic Tantra and Explanatory Tantra from the Secret Quintessential Instruction on Eight Branches of the Ambrosia Essence Transalation Department Version : English
The basic tantra and the explanatory tantra translated into English by Men-Tsee-Khang from Gyud-Shi (the four tantras of Tibetan medicine) is the first of its kind. The basic tantra presents an overview of Tibetan medicine. It outlines the basic principles of health and diseases, methods of diagnosis and treatment approaches. The explanatory tantra begins with the formation of the human body, description of the anatomical structure, physiological characteristics and final disintegration of the human body. This book will be useful to all interested English-speaking medical practitioners, scientist and researchers.
Please note changes in the phone numbers:
local : 01892 307068 / 307069 / 223113 Fax : 01892 224116
international : 0091 1892 307068 / 307069 / 223113
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Donations
December 2009
Donations received from April to September 2009 MTK would like to thank all of our members, well-wisher, and friends for their continuing support throughout the year. MTK thanks the following donors for their generous contributions. Staff Children scholarship Initiative Oberland Fesselet Vaterie Carta Tonella Ivonne Mariotti Nesurini Medical France Tibet Deutsche Tibethile e.v C/O Mrs.Wager Verena Jung Yvonne Mariott i Inter Educare e.v Tibet Charity Association Medical France Tibet Elvy Ingegard Dr. Stefano Coaccioli Donnoui D’Ordre Susan B. Tatnall Deutsche Tibethilee.v C/O Mrs. Wager Carta Tonella Yvonne Mariotti Gabriele Strehlan & Frank Ebert Daniela Weber Initiative Oberland Sisko VienonenYlistorma Tibet Charity
Germany France Switzerland Switzerland France Germany Austria Switzerland Germany Denmark France Sweden Italy Switzerland USA Germany Switzerland Switzerland Germany Switzerland Germany Finland Denmark
22,865.00 7,440.00 4,340.00 5,115.00 218,163.00 73,609.00 12,400.00 4,950.00 137,158.00 102,428.26 225,618.00 5,788.80 43,497.50 10,800.00 11,250.00 108,570.00 4,445.00 4,950.00 17,748.25 10,575.00 27,622.50 20,925.00 82,282.56
Hospital cum college & pharmaceutical fund Tibet Bureau, Geneva Claire Stuckey, Minneapolis Marry Etta & James Litsheim, MN Art & Carol Doten, MN Debra Kuaffman Roger & Pamela Jackson Kathleen Pfaffinger & David Jones Xu-Kuan Shung & Wen Zei Li Lin Yang-Ying Lee Chia-Yuan Chang Chen-Chin Roger & Pamela Jackson Stds. Of University, Minnesota
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Swiss USA USA USA USA USA USA Taiwan Taiwan Taiwan Taiwan USA USA
6,776.00 2,769.00 4,615.00 4,615.00 9,230.00 6,461.00 4,615.00 10,000.00 2,000.00 3,000.00 1,000.00 3,162.00 32,305.00
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December 2009
Mail Consultation
Mail Consultation The Men-Tsee-Khang does not hold mail-consultation as priority since it is important for the patient to be consulted personally by Tibetan physician based on its unique method of diagnosis (pulse, urine and interrogation). But owing to the growing demand and persistent request by many patients who do not have any access to Tibetan physician or can not afford to travel all the way to Dharamsala and its clinics based in various parts of India and Nepal, we have designed this special mail-consultation facility. It is, however, important to note certain criteria for the patient to facilitate conclusive diagnosis and optimum treatment: 1. It is always better if the patient has personally consulted Tibetan physician once before he/she entertains the facility of mail-consultation. 2. A copy of the Tibetan physician’s prescription (if consulted personally), and its feedback is necessary. 3. Patient’s name, age, sex, contact details and comprehensive case history with present signs and symptoms should be furnished. Our senior doctors will personally review each case and medicines will be send to you through Registered Parcel. You may choose to have the medicine send by International (DHL) or domestic courier with an additional fee. Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery and bear with us for any delay due to postal system/ customs, which are beyond our control. Please notify us if you do not receive medicine within 3 weeks. Incase of urgency, please fax or email us with the requirements. Mail Consultation Secretary (NL) Men-Tsee-Khang, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala - 176215 Khara Danda Road Himachal Pradesh/India Tel: 0091-1892-223113/307068/69 Fax: 0091-1892-224116 E-mail: tmai@vsnl.com
Prices: Foreign India Initial consultation 100 rs. 50 rs. Reconsultation 50 rs. 25 rs. Courier service fees depend on weight of medicine. Make cheque/money order payable to: Men-Tsee-Khang (TMAI) State Bank of India, Dharamsala (Code#0634) A/C No. 10551097556 swift : SBININBB277 IFSC : SBIN0000634
contd. pg.18 Chen-Men-Hua, Chou Chieh, Chen Yun Chang, Yun Ying, Chou-Mei, Huang Yu-Yin Family, Tan Dan-Wei Family, Chang Hui Zh Family, Chen Da Yuan Family, Tean Zhong Nan Nan Family & Deng Ruei Jen. Taiwan 40,050.00 Min-Zhang Gui Chen Xui Hui & Su-Kuan Shung Taiwan 31,500.00
Donation Janet Yelowchan Virupaksh Medicine Buddha Clinic Students of Army University Dr. Kalsang Wangyal (Ex.MTK) Tibet Charity Jim Johnson
Men-Tsee-Khang
USA India USA USA USA Denmark USA
1,790.00 5,001.00 1,045.00 1,000.00 14,137.54 5,000.00 1,828.00
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UPCOMING EVENTS 2010 March10-July 17
Dr. Namdol Lhamo visits International Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Huttenberg, Carinthia, Austria to conduct course on traditional Tibetan medicine. IInd National Conference on Tibetan medicine organized jointly by the Central Council of Tibetan Medicine and Men-Tsee-Khang. Tibetan medical camp at Hoshiarpur, Punjab Men-Tsee-Khang, 49th founding anniversary day A Course on Tibetan medicine to be conducted to the groups from University of Minnesota, USA.
March 15-17
March 21 March 23 May 24-30
To:
BOOK POST
ď … If undelivered please return to: MEN-TSEE-KHANG (Tibetan Medical & Astro. Institute of H.H. the Dalai Lama)
Gangchen Kyishong Dharamsala – 176215 District Kangra H.P. INDIA
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