Dhamma Medicine Nutrition Approach: An Alternative Food System for Well-being and Sustainability in Production and Consumption

Abstract

This research article aims to: 1) study the concept and process of Dhamma Medicine Nutrition as an alternative food system that promotes holistic well-being and sustainable production and consumption; 2) study the use of Dhamma Medicine Nutrition in the health care of health camp participants; and 3) analyze the learning process, self-care, and health behavior change of patients in a way that leads to sustainable well-being. The research employed a qualitative research method using document analysis combined with in-depth interviews. The researcher selected 29 key informants using purposive sampling, divided into three groups: 1) Dhamma Medicine Volunteers in four regions of Thailand and Australia; 2) academics in Dhamma Medicine and nutrition; and 3) patients using the Dhamma Medicine approach. The collected data were then subjected to content analysis to answer the research objectives. The research findings revealed that: 1) The concept of Dhamma Medicine Nutrition is the balanced consumption of local plant-based foods and the cultivation of a cheerful mind, leading to sustainable well-being. This is achieved through the promotion and development of pesticide-free farming practices through four principles: (1) self-reliance, (2) renunciation of desires, (3) simple living, and (4) sacrifice for the common good. Furthermore, it provides opportunities for the public to continuously learn. 2) The use of Dhamma Medicine Nutrition in health care includes: (1) adjusting food and behavior to be medicine, (2) demonstrable results, (3) achieving sustainable well-being, (4) balancing body and mind, and (5) aligning with the nine-pill concept. 3) The Dhamma Medicine Nutrition approach has the potential to sustainably restore the health of patients with chronic diseases. Furthermore, it significantly promotes self-reliance and reduces dependence on the mainstream healthcare system, leading to the goals of reducing hunger (SDGs 2) and reducing household expenditures (SDGs 1) as outlined by the United Nations.