Lesson 1.2. What Is Integrative Medicine? Flashcards
What is the definition of integrative medicine?
Integrative (or, as it is known in the UK, integrated) medicine is defined as a healing-oriented (as opposed to disease-oriented) approach that integrates elements of both CAM and conventional medicine, emphasizes the relationship between patient and physician, and promotes an understanding of the body’s own healing systems. It encompasses many of the holistic practices discussed above, and works in tandem with the most effective components of allopathic medicine.
Name the components of integrative medicine.
The study of integrative medicine includes the examination of mind-body medicine, nutritional medicine, physical activity, and the role of spirituality in medicine. The history, philosophy, and scientific bases of allopathic medicine are an integral part of integrative medicine; however, it also explores the therapeutic modalities associated with natural health, including botanical or plant-based medicine, body work, homeopathic medicine, energy work, and ancient healing systems such as Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine.
What does integrative medicine recognize?
Integrative medicine acknowledges the importance of scientific evidence and randomized, controlled-trial studies, but also respects the evidence gathered from thousands of years of traditional healing practices.
