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| Alternative and Complementary Medicine: Ancient Medicine, Contemporary Fusions
by Howard Tiano The terms alternative medicine and complementary medicine are often wrongly utilized as synonyms. Actually, the expression alternative medicine pertains to medicine systems like herbal medicine or homeopathy , that are used in place of conventional medicine, while complementary medicine refersto those therapies like massage that are practiced in conjunction with conventional, or allopathic medicine. Both end up assumining the same purpose in diverse western countries, who are starting to recognize that these medicinal therapies are a crucial component of healing. That is why in popular jargon, alternative medicine has come to be known as complementary medicine. Interestingly, a significant feature of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is that it focuses on the individual as a whole. The treatment is based not only on the patient's physical symptoms, but also on the individual's lifestyle, surroundings, nutrition, mental and emotional health; occasionally even their spiritual well-being. Thus alternative medicine is known as holistic medicine. Most therapists concur that acupuncture, osteopathy, chiropractic, Ayurveda, homeopathy and herbal medicine as the most essential varieties of alternative and complementary medicine. With the exception of homeopathy, virtually all of the alternative and complementary medicine systems evolved in ancient eras in nations like Egypt, Tibet, Persia and the Far East. Some countries, notably India and China, are applying their expertise in alternative and complementary medicine to popularize what has come to be known as medical tourism. A significant number of westerners are traveling to these Asian Countries to look for holistic cures. In the West too, a substantial amount of women are applying aromatherapy and massage, while men are given to alternative and complementary medicine to feel better from sports injuries or back discomfort. The other medical matters for which followers are turning to CAM are chronic ailments like arthritis, cystitis, asthma or chronic fatigue. Even the World Health Organization (WHO) has acknowledged the value of holistic therapies. Amidst the conditions that WHO believes can be cured with these approaches are asthma, eczema, digestive disorders and headaches. This flourishing acceptance of alternative and complementary medicine is a healthy sign for the planet, because the Fusions that have been so created are helping to take on many incurable diseases. In the ultimate analysis, we should not overlook that alternative and complementary medicine systems originated thousands of years ago, and have been successful in treating millions of people through the ages. Copyright © 2005 Howard Tiano, has studied optimum health techniques for three decades, and came to alternative medicine through a family health crises. Alternative-Medicine-Resources.com was created to inform visitors of available treatments beyond standard medical solutions, and cut through the politics and hype! Know your options, and optimize your health! http://www.alternative-medicine-resource.com |
