Depending on the therapies used, traditional medicine can be broadly categorized as medication or non-medication. The former involves the use of herbal medicines, animal parts and minerals, while the latter involves various therapies, primarily without the use of medication. These include acupuncture and related techniques, chiropractic, osteopathy, manual therapies, qigong, tai ji, yoga, naturopathy, thermal therapy, and other physical, mental, spiritual and mind-body therapies.

She said that there are many possibilities for innovation using traditional medicines and therapies. She cited the examples of Artemisia annua, for the management of malaria, and the use of ginkgo leaves in European products instead of the fruits, which are traditionally used in China. Innovations could also involve new dosage forms or new indications for traditionally used medication.