An "Indigenous Dispensary" was opened on 28 June 1968 at Dechencholing, Thimphu, staffed by doctors trained in Tibet.
In parallel, smaller traditional medical centers have been opened across the country, and were available in all districts of Bhutan by the end of 2001.
[2] The institute dispenses traditional medicines produced in its laboratories from minerals, animal parts, precious metals, gems and plants.
The unit also conducts research to authenticate species, measure effectiveness, control quality and standardize the production processes.
[5] The institute museum showcases ingredients that include herbs, minerals, precious metals, gems and animal parts that have healing abilities.