Holistic medicine is an alternative approach that takes into account a person as a whole, rather than the individual disease that may be affecting the person. It often implements therapies and persuades patients to change their lifestyles as a means of treating their condition.

Spirituality

Holistic medicine is heavily based in spirituality. It uses the mind as a medium for improving one's physical health, integrating the idea that good emotional health will in turn lead to good physical health.

Practitioners

A physician who studies and uses holistic medicine is known as a holistic practitioner. They will often develop what is known as a course of treatment, an outline of lifestyle alterations the patient may wish to make to establish better overall health.

Alternative Medicine

A separate definition, often found concerning alternative medicines, makes the claim that diseases and impairments are caused almost exclusively by prolonged physical and emotional stress.

Benefits

Holistic medicine does not typically involve surgery or drugs, besides the occasional herbal remedies. It also promotes an overall healthy and happy lifestyle that many people find appealing.

Groups

The first major group formed in relation to holistic medicine was the Association for Holistic Health, founded in 1976. Today, one of the most prominent holistic organizations is the American Holistic Medical Association, which was formed in 1989.

Source:

AHMA

BioMed