The provision of hanbang herbal medicine in the Korean community in Australia: entrepreneurial or caring for fellow Koreans?

Abstract

This study explores the underlying factors that sustain the practice of herbal medicine in a non-English speaking background (Korean) community in Australia. Qualitative study was undertaken of 8 herbal doctors' practice of herbal medicine, their understanding of Korean immigrants' life and work involvement, and the use of herbal medicine, using semi-structured interview schedules. The demand for herbal medicine is linked to Korean immigrants' involvement in manual work or long working hours irrespective of their qualifications. Hanbang tonic medicine is a way to maintain their health - that is, a capacity to work. Although hanbang doctors claim that hanbang medicine differs from biomedicine, they share more similarities than differences under the current economic environment. The increasing interest in complementary therapies has ramifications on people's health and health care industry. Government and professional regulations on complementary therapies could be developed in close consultation with relevant stakeholders. Health care practice in the migrant community is an area to be approached with caution.