Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is a rapidly growing component of Western medicine. Some holistic treatments can be at least partially covered by insurance, and previously ignored treatments are now offered in major hospitals, hospices and wellness centers. However, holistic medicine has some major issues that must be resolved in the near future if it's going to continue being offered by medical care providers.
Combination Dangers
The most serious issue facing holistic medicine is that complementary medicines can compromise health when combined with traditional treatments. For instance, Chinese herbs, some which are powerful nervous system depressants and stimulants, can trigger side effects from other pharmaceuticals. Time magazine reported in January 2008 that St. John's wort, a popular herbal antidepressant, can also inhibit the effectiveness of heart medications such as warfarin. So if you take herbal supplements, tell your medical provider.
Lack of Research
Many holistic remedies have a future in Western medicine, but not until double blind clinical studies can back up their claims. This is a Catch-22 for many researchers who would like to test alternative treatments but can't attract the funding to do the research. Reputable medical journals also avoid certain subjects, such as the evidence for distance healing or prayer, despite intriguing data sets. Always work with board-certified holistic practitioners if concerned about the research issues in a particular treatment.
The Placebo Effect
The placebo effect may be responsible for many purported alternative treatments. However, the placebo effect can also be an asset for healing approaches, such as by providing empathetic care to children or encouraging self-empowerment in mental health issues. A 2002 article published in the Journal of Holistic Nurse Practitioner noted that holistic approaches have renewed interest in the placebo effect and its potential healing uses. Still, unless peer-reviewed research proves otherwise, many holistic "cures" may be a confluence of psychosomatic effects.
Rising Costs of Health Care
Due to the rising costs of health care, tremendous competition within the medical establishment limits the availability of holistic medicine approaches. Some CAM treatments are now covered by insurance, but only a minority. Hospice and end-of-life medical facilities, on the other hand, are successfully integrating holistic treatments into care packages. Much of the medical research about CAM in general is occurring with cancer patients, Alzheimer's sufferers and other terminal diseases. This is a hopeful sign that holistic medicine's philosophy of preventative care, self-empowerment and empathy will find a credible role in Western medicine.
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