“Holistic medicine” is a phrase you have probably heard more often in recent times. Although many doctors have practiced holistic medicine for years, the concept has slowly become prominent in mainstream society. So, what exactly is holistic medicine? And how is it different from the traditional type of medicine most people are familiar with?
Here is a brief overview of holistic medicine so you better understand the practice and decide if you want to implement aspects of it into your life!
What is Holistic Medicine?
Holistic medicine is an approach to medical problems and healthcare that focuses on the whole person. Proponents of this medicinal practice believe that optimal health and wellness are determined by all facets of our being—body, mind, spirit, and emotion—and how these elements work together to create balance.
Some types of holistic treatments are:
- Aromatherapy
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic care
- Naturopathy
- Massage therapy
- Yoga
What are the principles of holistic medicine?
When holistic doctors treat their patients, they consider not just the physical symptoms you’re experiencing but your overall health and life as a whole. The focus is on treating physical ailments and identifying and implementing practices in your everyday life that will prevent illness. Holistic practitioners believe that the body operates as a whole. In other words, if something is wrong, it results from your entire balance being thrown, not a problem with one part of the body.
In holistic theory, the body possesses innate healing abilities. The doctor’s job is to identify and treat the internal or external force impeding those abilities and, most importantly, prevent anything from hindering them in the first place.
How do holistic doctors treat medical issues differently than traditional doctors?
The primary difference distinguishing holistic from traditional medical doctors is that the holistic approach aims to treat the underlying condition, not just to alleviate symptoms. Some treatments holistic doctors use overlap with traditional Western medicine, such as prescription medications and surgeries. But they also complement traditional treatments with alternative therapies and remedies, both ones that are clinically proven and ones that are simply evidence-based. Holistic treatments often involve educating the patient about lifestyle changes that should be implemented to promote healing, such as increased exercise, dietary changes, and mental health counseling.
If you’re interested in learning more about holistic healthcare and experiencing the benefits of alternative remedies for yourself, get in touch with Dande-Lion Herb Shop in Glen Burnie, MD! We offer a wide selection of herbal products, vitamins, supplements, and more, as well as guidance from our experts in choosing the right ones for your healthcare needs and goals.
To learn more about our alternative medicines and natural health services, call us at (410)768-8144 today!