Cambodian traditional medicine is a unique form of naturopathy that utilizes the powers inherent in roots, leaves, barks and herbs to stimulate the body’s natural ability to heal itself. The Khmer people first formulated many of their cures during the Angkor period and modern practitioners are called “Kru Khmers” (“Kru” being a transliteration of the Sanskrit, “guru” meaning “teacher”).

The National Centre of Traditional Medicine has undertaken a project to codify and preserve this fascinating culture. They have collated Pali texts – the liturgical language of Buddhism – from pagodas all over the country, anything that contains healing knowledge, and translated them into modern Khmer. The centre also has an open invite to Kru Khmers from around the land to come and share their knowledge.