Rather than treating only symptoms, holistic medicine treats the whole person, inside and out. Also known as alternative medicine, it focuses on treating the causes of illness, disease and other afflictions. In addition, holistic medicine emphasizes prevention. Working with a holistic medicine practitioner will help you learn ways to prevent and treat afflictions yourself.
Naturopathy
Many holistic remedies include the use of natural treatments, including foods to combat specific conditions. Other strategies are replacing commercial products with organic or other natural products and getting vitamins and minerals from whole foods rather than supplements. For example, to combat rising cholesterol levels, eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and almonds or other nuts. Rather than treating dry skin with commercial moisturizers, employ alternative remedies such as using cooking oils on the skin, adding finely ground oatmeal to bath water and drinking more water. For additional vitamin C, eat more citrus foods rather than take a vitamin supplement.
Stress Management
During stressful situations, such as public speaking, being pulled over by the police, a fight with your boss, your brain releases catecholamines, the so-called "stress hormones." Epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine raise blood pressure and heart rate. Long-term stress caused by unemployment, relationship problems, self-esteem issues or depression can suppress the immune system, making us more susceptible to illness and decreasing the body's ability to fight viruses, diseases and other maladies. Holistic remedies for stress include yoga, reiki massage and tai chi exercises.
Alternative Medical Systems
In addition to diet, exercise, herbs and stress management, holistic medicine encompasses a variety of primarily Eastern medical practices such as acupuncture, acupressure, Chinese medicine and Indian ayurvedic practices. These systems also include natural treatments including the use of herbs and psychological aspects of healing. Chiropractics, hypnotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and osteopathy also fall under the realm of holistic medicine remedies.
Examples of ayurvedic remedies would include a honey-and-pepper mixture, followed by a half-clove of garlic, for colds; head stands to increase blood flow to the head to treat headaches; fresh pineapple after meals to help with chronic indigestion; and foot, calf, neck and shoulder massage to help with insomnia.
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