Holistic vs. Conventional Medicine: Understanding the Differences

Most healthcare providers in the United States practice that which is called orthodox medicine. Holistic, or alternative medicine, embraces a philosophy that encompasses an entirely different approach to the well-being of the individual.

Identification

• The Free Dictionary defines allopathic (orthodox) medicine as "a system of medical therapy in which a disease or an abnormal condition is treated by creating an environment that is antagonistic to the disease or condition."

Orthodox Approach

• According to Holistic Health Topics.com, orthodox medicine is concerned with the breaking down of ailments and medical problems to their smallest possible aspects. It is a practice that seeks to repair, as opposed to promoting long-term health.

Holistic Philosophy

• Alternative healthcare providers approach medicine with an emphasis on treating the entire person, which includes the individual's body, mind and the interaction of all her bodily systems. Alternative medicine focuses on disease prevention.

Medicines and Therapies

• Holistic-health practitioners use herbs, vitamins and nutrition as medicine while employing therapies, such as chiropractic, acupuncture and homeopathy. Orthodox healthcare providers often prescribe drugs or chemotherapy.

Complementary Approaches

• While there is resistance within the ranks of orthodox medical practitioners, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that European nations implement strategies for the assimilation of holistic therapies into mainstream medical practices.