Holistic medicine, in short, means taking into account all aspects of health — the body, mind and emotions, to ensure optimal health and balance. We can only be healthy when every aspect of our life is balanced. Diseases, whether of the body or the mind, are often caused by imbalance.
The idea is quite simple. Everything in our body works together as one, so when one organ is not working well, the rest is affected. Therefore, holistic medicine considers not only the symptoms but also the cause. For example, a migraine patient might be treated with medication, but the doctor will also analyse what caused it in the first place. It could be poor diet, lack of sleep, stress, or other personal problems. Once that root cause is determined, proper treatment can be planned.
The most important thing for good health is love and understanding. If you do not love or understand your body, it's hard to be healthy. Holistic medicine is based on the belief that everyone is capable of healing, and treatment should focus on the root cause, not the symptom.
There are many kinds of treatment in holistic medicine, such as dietary change, exercise, keeping a positive mind, improving relationships with those around you, acupuncture, energy medicine, Ayurvedic, chiropractic, massage, and many more, while also considering the right modern medicine options.
A holistic doctor can be an ordinary doctor, traditional medicine doctor, acupuncturist, or another type of doctor (but not a witch doctor, although perhaps? I am not quite sure!) Choosing the right doctor is very important, so make sure you do your research to find which doctor you would like to be treated by. Also, make sure the doctor is qualified. This will exclude witch doctors because you do not know how to certify them. Usually, you can determine whether the chemistry between you is right after a consultation.
The right doctor is one you feel comfortable with, and one who listens to you and respects your decision. Take your time when talking to your doctor — don't jump to a conclusion after just a few minutes. Allow time for your doctor to explain his approach, and allow yourself to explain yours.
Before seeing a doctor, make a list of questions that you want to ask, and some answers to what you think the doctor might ask you, such as your exercise habits, your sleeping patterns, your mood, and other factors. Most holistic doctors would ask these questions to determine the best treatment.
Acupuncture is a popular option in holistic treatment. It has been practised for thousands of years in China, and is believed to help restore balance and promote energy. The acupuncture points have also been adapted for acupressure, which is a good option for those who do not like needles.
Acupressure is a popular method in China, but Japan has been practising this science for a long time, too. The idea is that our body has an energy flow called Qi, and that there are 12 points that control the flow. If any point is obstructed, other parts of the body can be affected.
Acupressure uses fingertips, palms, elbows, feet, or other tools to press on the points. It might also involve stretching or massaging. Usually, it takes about an hour, and many sessions are required in order to see results.
The aim of acupressure is to bring back balance so that energy can flow nicely without any obstruction. It helps balance the yin and the yang. Acupressure is believed to help treat both physical and mental health problems.
Not every doctor believes in acupressure, but scientifically speaking, pressing can reduce muscle tension, promote blood flow, and stimulate endorphins which reduce pain.
There are thousands of energy points in our body, but the three main ones are the area between the thumb and the index finger, between the big toe and the second toe, and the area between the ankle and the calf.
Further study is needed when it comes to the reliability of acupressure, but it has been found that acupressure can help with nausea after operations, pain associated with chemotherapy, motion sickness and morning sickness.
Some research even says that acupressure can help reduce diseases that come with cancer, such as stress and fatigue. It is also reported to help reduce back pain, headache, inflammation and anxiety. However, it's better to get more information before you make a decision.
Acupressure is generally safe, but if you have health problems, it is important to tell your doctor. Deep pressure might not be good in some cases, such as for those who have tumours or joint problems.
Another holistic approach is Ayurvedic medicine, which Indian people have been practicing for over 5,000 years to help treat illnesses and prevent health problems without using medicine. It includes massages, meditation, yoga, and a healthy diet which incorporates herbs.
Ayurvedic medicine considers the entire body as one, so the treatment does not focus on the problem point only. It's essentially a lifestyle change that promotes better overall health.
Ayurvedic medicine believes that our body is made of five elements in three forms (wind, fire and earth), and a healthy body needs to have the right balance of those. Wind is the breathing, the beating of the heart and the feelings. Fire is the digestive system, metabolism, thoughts, and negative emotions. Earth is the structure of the body and thought-related emotions, such as forgiveness, love and greed.
According to Ayurvedic medicine, when we are sick, it's because the five elements are not in balance. Herbs, meditation, and exercise can help restore the balance. These things can help reduce stress, strengthen the body and improve the person's performance.
Food, including herbs, is the heart of Ayurvedic medicine. Even modern researchers are interested in Ayurvedic herbs and are now studying them.
Ayurvedic medicine is not dangerous, but herbs can have side effects just like medicine. Before you take herbs, make sure your doctor is fine with it. In fact, before you decide on any treatment approach, it's better to consult your doctor to ensure safety.
Dr Nithi Mahanonda is a consultant cardiologist and interventionist at Perfect Heart Institute, Piyavate Hospital. Visit his website at www.drnithi.com.
