Defining Whole Medical Systems
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, whole medical systems involve complete systems of theory and practice that have evolved independently from, or parallel to, conventional (Western) medicine. Many of these are vibrant traditional systems of medicine practiced by cultures throughout the world. Examples of major Eastern whole medical systems include traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda - one of India's traditional systems of medicine. Whole medical systems of the West include homeopathy and naturopathy. Other systems have also been developed by Native American, African, Middle Eastern, Tibetan, and Central and South American cultures.
While whole medical systems differ in their philosophical approaches to the prevention and treatment of disease, though most share a common element: the belief that the body has inherent power to heal through engagement of mind, body, and spirit. Approaches to whole medical systems encompass philosophical models for optimization of health, individualized treatment programs, and use of specific therapies.
