The twentieth century saw tremendous strides in what Western medicine accomplished. Medical science made exceptional progress in controlling infectious disease and developing surgical interventions to repair damage done to the “mechanics” of the body.

It was, in fact, this success that allowed patients and practitioners to begin looking more deeply into the treatment of chronic problems, ongoing and sometimes milder illnesses that were better addressed by new and ancient therapies and improved habits of living.

Concern about chronic illness in combination with increased travel by Americans to other countries and the later flux of immigrants from non-western cultures escalated exposure to health philosophies and practices unlike our own.

Current Terms
One of the definitions of alternative medicine is “anything not taught as part of the standard curriculum in medical school.” Now, as research increases, many medical schools are beginning to teach nutrition, Oriental medicine, and survey courses on alternatives.

Holistic. One concept that is growing in recognition is that of Holism. It refers to the view of health as an ongoing process requiring a continuing response to ever-changing conditions. It is “holistic” in that it includes the emotions, thoughts, spirit and environment in addition to the simple physical state of the body.

Conventional. Standard Western medicine as practiced by those trained in our culture at colleges and universities. It has a bias toward the use of pharmaceuticals.

Preventive. The most effective way to be healthy is to prevent illness from occurring. Self-care behaviors include attitudinal change, cleanliness, diet, relaxation, and exercise.

Complementary. This inclusive model of care combines conventional treatment with non-conventional. An example is practicing yoga to reduce high blood pressure while at the same time taking medication.

Integrative. Combining conventional with non-conventional, but suggesting that the physician is knowledgeable about both interventions and therefore can monitor the patient more effectively. In the blood pressure example mentioned above, the doctor could reduce the amount of medication needed when tests indicate that yoga is benefitting the patient.

Traditional. Folk, ancient, or ethnic systems of health care include therapies such as shamanism or hands-off healing of energy bodies not practiced conventionally.

Alternative. Any modality that is non-conventional is an alternative. Although rare in our culture, there are some people who have more confidence in health care that is not pharmaceutical.

For a more detailed explanation and brief definitions of over 180 therapies, see The Healing Arts Handbook, for purchase in the Store.