Holistic Medicine versus Traditional Medicine

Holistic Medicine versus Traditional Medicine

The main difference between holistic medicine and Western or traditional medicine is the approach. Simply defined, holistic health focuses on the body as a whole, rather than individual parts and symptoms, recognizing the importance of body, mind, spirituality, and emotions, as opposed to traditional medicine, which focuses on symptoms and cures.Emphasis is placed on individual symptoms and pain management. Diagnosis in western medicine is made through general classifications (textbook cases), rather than recognizing patients as individuals. Chemicals and surgery are the primary methods of treatment in this form of medicine, leading to unpleasant side effects (often worse than the original symptoms). Some side effects often prove fatal. Traditional medicine is best used to treat infectious diseases, trauma, and acute conditions.

Holistic medicine recognizes the individual, focusing on causes and patterns, using natural, organic, and ecological treatments directed towards healing, rather than masking symptoms. This form of medicine views each unit of the body as a whole, with every area affecting the other. When one area is deficient, the whole is deficient. Prevention and correction is then implemented alongside patient pro-activity. Changes in lifestyle, eating habits, and wellness practices are determined by the individual patient’s needs. Holistic medicine is best for chronic disorders (often the cause of stress and lifestyle), toxemia, immune problems, body system imbalances, and glandular deficiencies.