Whole Medical Systems

1 Definition

Whole Medical Systems are built upon complete systems of theory and practice. Often, these systems have evolved apart from and earlier than the conventional medical approach of the United States. Examples of whole medical systems that have developed in Western cultures include homeopathic medicine, a whole medical system that originated in Europe. Homeopathy seeks to stimulate the body's ability to heal itself by giving very small doses of highly diluted substances, which in larger doses would produce illness or symptoms (an approach called "like cures like"), and naturopathic medicine, a whole medical system that originated in Europe. Naturopathy aims to support the body's ability to heal itself through the use of dietary and lifestyle changes together with CAM therapies such as herbs, massage, and joint manipulation. Examples of systems that have developed in non-Western cultures include traditional Chinese medicine, a whole medical system that originated in China. It is...