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Holistic Medicine Vs Modern Medicine

In the Western world, the concept of alternative medicine has begun gaining increased attention amongst many consumers. Alternative medicine, also called holistic medicine, is still widely misunderstood; however, many consumers who have used holistic medicine and holistic practitioners to deal with problems in their own lives, whether medical or mental, have experienced amazing results and have begun spreading the world about this ancient branch of medical practices. Alternative medicine has many of its roots in Asian cultures. As such, modern medicine is often referred to as Western medicine to distinguish between its concepts and theories as opposed to the concepts and theories of holistic medicine. Many consumers do not understand some of the key differences between these two medicinal approaches and therefore cannot make an informed decision about which approach they want to pursue to deal with their own ailments.

Spirituality and Science

The most common way that these two types of medicine are distinguished from one another is in the concept of spirituality versus science. Many doctors who practice Western medicine dismiss holistic medicine practices because they are usually explained by magic or by spiritual explanations. Yoga, for example, is a holistic medicine practice that is sometimes explained as a communication with the gods or with spirits. However, regardless of the explanation, the method itself has been proven to have incredible results. Many ancient medicinal practices that were once explained by magic or by spirituality have actually been proven to be rooted in science. Just because the Western medicinal methods explain themselves using scientific terminology doesn't mean that holistic medicine cannot also be explained this way. Individuals who use holistic medicine simply explain their medicine in the traditional way.

The Theory of Diseases

The key difference between holistic practitioners and western doctors is that doctors of modern medicine treat patients based on the basic Theory of Diseases. This theory essentially implies that if a person is experiencing a physical problem, he or she has somehow contracted some type of disease that must be treated individually. Holistic medicine, on the other hand, does not jump to the conclusion of disease. The holistic approach strives to evaluate the patient's life as a whole and identify areas where imbalance may have occurred. The holistic approach depends largely on achieving balance in human life, and many holistic practitioners use methods such as meditation, massage, or aromatherapy to reintroduce balance into the patient's life.

Medicating or Mentoring

Western medicine often comes under harsh criticism from holistic practitioners because of its tendency to use medication rather than mentoring as a form of treatment. The body is extremely resilient and is capable of taking care of itself in many circumstances. Nevertheless, many western physicians prescribe medication to deal with all manner of physical ailments. By prescribing medication, the physician is eliminating a symptom which holistic practitioners believe is an important signal being delivered by the body. Giving medicine to patients in order to eliminate symptoms is like ripping up a letter from a trusted friend without trying to understand the contents.

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