Alternative medicine has been gaining in both popularity and acceptance in recent years. Many cities now have a plethora of shops where a person interested in buying alternative medicines can go to find whatever they are seeking, in addition to being able to take advantage of many alternative medicine services at local practitioners’ offices.
Alternative medicine is simply a way of referencing a type of treatment that is not officially recognized by the medical establishment as a relief or cure. There are literally thousands of practices that fall under this category, and most people would be surprised to find some of the items that either are or were once considered to be against the grain, or categorized as “alternative” medicine.
Not too far back in medical history, doctors did not wash their hands while helping a woman through child labor. The result was thousands of contracted infections and death due to bacterial transfer.
Doctors who advocated the practice of hand-washing or warned of unseen microbes were shunned and mocked by their professional peers, and only in the last century has sterilization been a common and then regulated medical practice. It is hard to believe that something we take so much for granted was once considered alternative medicine, but it was so.
In the 21st century, alternative medicine is not as frowned upon by the medical profession as it once was. Treatments such as acupuncture, homeopathy, herbal medicine, and nutrition are common, and many other forms of alternative medicine are gaining acceptance.
Even watching weekly magazine shows like Dateline on NBC, observers can see radical alternative medicine practitioners assisting patients with terminal illnesses to the wonderment of experts. Many are well credible professions in the medical field with years of experience in this now dominating health field.
Part of the reason for the increase in acceptance of alternative medicine is the recognition of the powers of the mind over the body. There is increasing evidence that a patient’s attitude can sometimes shape the physical response, and this in part helps to illustrate why alternative medicine is more well received than it used to be. A patient who believes he or she is doing better, often will.
When you are looking for someone in the alternative medicine examine their knowledge, compassion and ability to communicate. Connection is everything when you’re looking to up level you game in health and life! Moving from one practitioner to another can only slow your momentum to overcome your health challenges.
I consider myself to be apart of the alternative medicine realm and part of what I consider to be called holistic medicine. A western doctor, or an MD will see his medical duties as focusing mainly on the various body parts while searching for a particular disease state. Though I had an education in both the Western, alternative ( holistic medicine), I have gained so much experience and insight into the world of alternative holistic medicine.
Holistic medicine or someone of this particular profession sees his/her duties as an educator or a facilitator. We often feel as though the body can heal itself and it doesn’t need any outside influences such as medication or surgery to improve one’s health or any illnesses or diseases.
One are the main reasons why it’s essential to get into alternative medicine or holistic health is that patients are now have a tendency to be more actively involved in their health and wellness.
Patients are more educated about that lifestyle changes, improving their mental outlook and overall well being. They’re able to take serious actions to meditate at least twice a day and change their life around especially when they’re faced with life-threatening diseases. However, lifestyle changes should take place before someone is faced with a terminal illness such as cancer.
Taking a holistic approach to your life means examining the big differences between holistic health and western medicine. Holistic or holism is looking at the mind, body, and spirit as one. This is referred to as the whole person approach to alternative or holistic medicine.
In holistic medicine a health professional would look at your autoimmune or other chronic conditions as a whole person rather than looking at the various symptoms in each body system related to your health.
Western medicine focuses on a single problem or single part of a human body without looking at the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual embodiment that includes an array of symptoms that particular person may present with. In our modern world of medicine a psychiatrist focuses on the emotional and mental aspect a patient. A rabbi, pastor or minister would hone in on the spiritual problems related to one’s health.
However, because of this disjointed approach to health many of your symptoms are left unresolved between the mind, body and spirit. When it comes to your health, it should be your choice as to what direction or medical approach you’re willing to use to overcome your health conditions.
Having knowledge today about the various medical options available can give you the right tools and arsenal to take back your health. Understanding the connection between the mind, body and spirit can enlighten, guide and provide insight into maintaining better health.
Camille McClellan, MD, DNM, MBS
Naturopathic practitioner
McClellan Natural Health, Wellness & Nutrition
Free Naturopathic/Homeopathic Consults Available
I found it interesting when you talked about alternative medicine and how it’s gaining popularity. In my opinion, we need to be open about different medical options. If I were to deal with a medical issue, I’d like to learn about all my options and which one comes with natural ingredients. I appreciate your information on health care and its holistic approach.