subject: The Advantages Of Holistic Medicine [print this page] People live in a day when doctors, hospitals and insurance companies are very busy with the millions of patients who walk in and out of their doors and use their services. People visit their doctors, emergency rooms and urgent care facilities for just about every ailment known to mankind. Prescriptions are costly and quite honestly, it's not good for their bodies to take too many medications. Many people are over medicated and never even question their health professionals.
While it's truly a benefit to have all of this care available, it's also wise to remember that it can be costly and very inconvenient. Also, the body may just need a simple home remedy or rest. Back in the days of one's grandparents, and even parents, there were natural remedies that were used to help cure many illnesses. They only consulted with the doctor when absolutely necessary.
The dictionary describes holistic medicine as: "An approach to medical care that emphasizes the study of all aspects of a person's health, including psychological, social, and economic influences on health status." In other words, holistic care is the care of the entire body to bring healing, not just treating symptoms. The mainstream medical profession doesn't buy into this philosophy, however, and wants to treat symptoms. This results in many medications and ultimately surgery in most cases.
Another important aspect to remember is the side effects of prescription drugs. For example, the following over-the-counter and prescription drugs are used to treat hemorrhoids: Anesthetics, Corticosteroids, and Antiseptics, Petrolatum, Vasoconstrictors, Astringents and Protectants. The side effects for these types of drugs can include: drowsiness, lack of energy, Increase in blood pressure, heart disease, permanent skin atrophy, allergic reactions nausea, stomach upset, damage to the intestines and digestive system, liver damage and a weakened immune system. That is just for treating a simple problem like hemorrhoids!
There are ways to treat the body that will bring healing from the inside out. In other words, many illnesses can be treated without the use of any creams, medications, prescriptions or surgery. By making simple changes in lifestyles, such as changing one's diet, exercising and eliminating some things that may be harmful and aggravating symptoms, one can see amazing results.
The wonderful advantage to holistic medicine is that the entire body begins to benefit from the healing that takes place. Healing will take place on many levels once the body begins to mend through lifestyles changes - emotionally, mentally, and physically. Oftentimes, because of one's culture, there are learned behaviors and habits that are not healthy. When things improve, however, the body quickly responds and begins making the necessary repairs.
With the ideals of holistic medicine, people can find a new way to live that will benefit them in many ways. When families change their habits, everyone looks and feels better. Holistic medicine is not just for health freaks; everyone can enjoy improved health with this way of life.
