From holistic treatments and herbal remedies to education, Professor Sombat Traisrisilp’s work continues to inspire and guide future generations of practitioners.
In an era where modern medicine is everywhere in our daily lives, the wisdom of ancient Thai healing offers a bridge between tradition and contemporary understanding. Through centuries-old practices, local herbal remedies and holistic approaches, Thai medicine embodies a philosophy that nurtures both body and mind, a philosophy explored and shared to inspire wider appreciation.
One figure who dedicated his life to this mission was Sombat Traisrisilp or Professor Sombat, the founder of Panya Thai Traditional Medicine Clinic. Under his guidance, the clinic became more than a centre for authentic Thai massage; it is a hub of research, education and preservation of traditional knowledge.
Last year, the world lost Sombat Traisrisilp, yet his legacy endures through the continued work of Panya Thai and the countless individuals inspired by his dedication. Koktail pays a heartfelt visit to his story in his memory, celebrating a life devoted to bridging ancient wisdom with modern understanding.
How Professor Sombat Found His Calling in Thai Medicine
Professor Sombat earned a scholarship to study biology at the Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University. He went on to complete a second degree with a master’s scholarship in biostatistics at the Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, before returning to Chiang Mai to take up a teaching position in his original department.
Yet stability alone did not provide the answer he sought. His salary was not enough to support his family and after 10 years of teaching, he made the difficult decision to resign. He explored a variety of occupations, eventually finding success as an insurance agent.
Then in 1999, a sudden health crisis changed everything. Professor Sombat woke one day to find his right arm numb and immobile. Doctors diagnosed a herniated cervical disc pressing on a nerve, advising surgery as the only solution. But he chose a different path.
After consulting a junior doctor, he underwent physiotherapy. As his condition improved, he had a moment of clarity, which prompted him to set the stage for a pivotal turning point in his life.
Professor Sombat enrolled in Thai traditional medicine studies with the Chiang Mai Provincial Public Health Office, specialising in medicine and pharmacy. Once he obtained his professional licence, he went on to establish a Thai traditional medicine clinic, Panya Thai Traditional Medicine Clinic.
Empowering Health Through Thai Traditional Medicine at Panya Thai Clinic
The hallmark of Panya Thai Clinic lies in its integration of applied Thai traditional medicine techniques. Treatment at the clinic features massage, herbal compress and steam therapy. It also includes education and the use of locally sourced herbal remedies.
The clinic combines traditional medicine with tailored herbal prescriptions, offering a holistic approach: massage followed by herbal remedies to aid detoxification, alongside guidance on diet, hydration and proper rest.
As part of his research, Professor Sombat developed “Five Roots Medicine”, or Ya Benja Lok Wichian. This traditional herbal remedy used to help reduce fever combines the roots of five plants: khanta, ching-chi, tai yai mom, Chumphon fig and yanang. It has been officially recognised as a standard household medicine in traditional Thai practice, highlighting its long-standing use and ongoing relevance
From this work he also helped create Thailand’s first spray-dried herbal extract, which was certified by the Food and Drug Administration, reinforcing the practical and scientific value of traditional Thai remedies.
Passing on Wisdom: the Panya Thai Development School
Professor Sombat also established the Panya Thai Development School, an educational institution devoted to preserving and sharing the knowledge of traditional Thai medicine. Through courses in general medicine, pharmacy, midwifery and massage, he aimed to train practitioners and to ensure that the wisdom of these ancient practices could be passed on and understood by future generations.
The lessons include programmes such as the Thai Traditional Medicine Assistant course covering subjects like Lanna folk medicine, tok sen massage (wooden hammer therapy), and yam khang (herbal foot stamping). These courses are designed to pass on practical skills alongside the deeper knowledge of regional healing traditions.
Professor Sombat left behind a legacy that continues to touch countless lives through the patients healed at Panya Thai Clinic, the students inspired at Panya Thai Development School, and the enduring wisdom of traditional Thai medicine that he worked to preserve. Professor Sombat’s vision was about sharing knowledge, nurturing well-being and bridging the gap between ancient practices and modern understanding.
His dedication, compassion and belief in the power of holistic healing continue to inspire all who follow in his footsteps.
