Nhik Kanhaleakhena, 22, a second-year student at Vanda Institute

In my opinion, most people in the countryside strongly believe in traditional Khmer medicine to treat illnesses. They feel that because it is made from natural ingredients, there are no negative side effects. Although Khmer medicine takes a longer time to cure, it is very effective. My family uses both Khmer and Western medicines, depending on the ailment.

Lim Nirath, 21, a third-year student at Royal University of Law and Economics

I’ve noticed that the practice of using Khmer medicine depends on where people live. Most people who use Khmer medicine live in the rural areas that lack exposure to Western practices. In contrast, city folk have access to modern medicine for treating diseases. Some Cambodians still find Khmer medicine to be more effective. For instance, my grandmother took Western medicine for a year to treather disease but switched to Khmer medicine afterwards. Within 3 months, results showed that she got better! All in all, I think that there is a bigger proportion of Cambodians in the city using Western medicine these days.

Seun Lakena, 21, a third-year student at Technical School for Medical Care

As Cambodians have deep respect for their ancestors, the influence of using Khmer medicine remains deep-rooted. Khmer medicine is cheap to produce and is affordable for many people. Nevertheless, more people tend to consult their doctor before deciding which type of medicine is more appropriate to eat.

Heng Boren, a recent graduate of Pannasastra University

Most people who like using Khmer medicines are not well educated and have low living standards. When they fall ill, they rarely go to the hospital because they cannot afford the fees. They prefer eating Khmer medicine instead. Although Khmer medicines can treat illnesses, they should go to hospital for a proper health check and heed the doctor’s advice.Khmer medicine does have some advantageous qualities over Westernmedicine. For example, when my mother needed surgery to treat her disease, she took Khmer medicines and it cured her completely. She did not need surgery after that!As Cambodians still have faith in Khmer medicine, I would suggest that the Ministry of Health conduct develop it further.

Hor Sakena, 19, a first-year student at Royal University of Law and Economics.

I’ve observed that in my village in Pursat province, my family and the community mostly prefer Khmer medicine. To them, it has multiple uses. For example, Khmer medicine has healing properties and enables us to sleep better.