Holistic? Naturopathic? Allopathic? Confused? Part 2

There are several terms used to refer to the type of medicine practiced in the Western world. The terms "traditional" or "allopathic" or "conventional" basically refer to this type of medicine. This approach to health is relatively new in human history when compared to the Chinese healing arts of 5000 years ago.

Traditional Medicine is scientific-based medicine. You must have data, you must have proof, and you must be able to show your proof in a laboratory setting.

Traditional Medicine believes something physical is present to cause disease, like a virus or a bacterium, and you must be treated for that disease by a prescription drug or, if necessary, surgery in order to get better.

As more and more people search for alternatives to prescription drugs and surgery, Holistic Medicine and its natural remedies will continue to offer safe and effective treatments.

Traditional Medicine will always be the major player in emergency care and acute, life-threatening illnesses. Ultimately it is up to each individual to decide which treatment option is best for his or her needs.

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), a branch of the National Institutes of Health, has gathered compelling evidence of how well Holistic Health techniques work in treating disease and promoting health and well-being. You can keep up-to-date with the latest research at the NCCAM website: http://nccam.nih.gov/.

For further details on the many healing arts and therapies listed in Part 1 of this article, you can visit the Holistic Intent website to learn more. Sign up for the free new newsletter for weekly tips on holistic health care and the latest research into the natural healing therapies.