Migrating medicine

This section looks at the exchange of medical ideas between East and West over the centuries. Exhibits show how the Greek medical tradition was developed and preserved in the Islamic world; how immunisation against smallpox was brought to the West and, following Jenner's development of using cowpox, returned to the East as a safer method of inoculation; and how European missionaries and traders introduced Western medical theories to the Far East and returned home with knowledge of the ancient healing practices of Asia.

This interchange of ideas has contributed greatly to medical science in both hemispheres. It is hoped that this positive dialogue will continue, breaking down global and cultural barriers in order to improve the wellbeing of humanity around the world.