How does holistic medicine differ from conventional, functional, and naturopathic medicine?
Imagine grappling with persistent fatigue or chronic pain despite trying various treatments. You start hearing about holistic, naturopathic, functional, and conventional medicine. What do these terms mean, and how can they improve your health? Let’s break down these concepts for you. Knowing the differences can help you decide what type of health and wellness approach fits your wants and needs.
Defining Holistic Medicine
The Academy of Integrative Health & Medicine (AIHM) is the current embodiment of the American Holistic Medical Association (AHMA), which was founded in the late 70s. Their charter is to “more holistically unify the diverse voices of traditional, complementary and integrative healthcare using the latest evidence-based care models of conventional allopathic medicine, traditional healing practices, and complementary integrative health to explore, evaluate and integrate toward the goal of prioritizing Whole Health.”
Core Principles Holistic medicine focuses on treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. It goes beyond just alleviating symptoms to promoting overall wellness. Imagine a Venn diagram where physical health, mind health, nutritional health, and social well-being overlap perfectly—holistic medicine resides at this intersection. Holistic medicine is a term under the larger umbrella of holistic health, where holistic health is the guiding philosophy. Holistic medicine, on the other hand, is the practical application of holistic and integrative health principles in a clinical setting.
Approaches and Techniques Holistic practitioners employ diverse methods like psychedelic-assisted therapy, meditation, and dietary changes to address conditions. For instance, James found relief from migraines through non-medical interventions like these. Massage therapy, yoga, and herbal remedies are also common, aiming to restore balance and prevent illness naturally.
Practitioners Professionals embracing holistic principles include MDs, DOs, and certified holistic health practitioners. They integrate both conventional treatments and alternative therapies, offering a comprehensive approach to healthcare.
Understanding Naturopathic Medicine
The Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical College (AANMC) defines naturopathy as a field of alternative medicine that centers the body’s self-healing capabilities and uses changes in diet, lifestyle, and various holistic treatments tailored to a patient’s individual wellness requirements.
Core Principles Naturopathic medicine emphasizes natural healing and the body’s innate ability to recover. It seeks to treat the root causes of illness rather than just symptoms. Key principles include “First, do no harm,” “The healing power of nature,” and “Identify and treat the cause.”
Approaches and Techniques Naturopathic doctors (NDs) use therapies such as herbal medicine, nutrition, hydrotherapy, and physical medicine. For example, someone with eczema might see improvement with dietary changes and herbal supplements recommended by an ND. Personalized treatment plans often include lifestyle adjustments and natural remedies.
Practitioners NDs undergo rigorous training, including naturopathic medical school and clinical internships. They differ from conventional doctors by focusing on natural and preventive methods. AANMC notes that “the use of the term “naturopathy” is not regulated in some jurisdictions, and people with little to no formal training can use it. If someone calls themself a “naturopath”, or “traditional naturopath” this does not mean that they are a licensed naturopathic doctor or have undergone the accredited training NDs study.“
Exploring Functional Medicine
The Institute of Functional Medicine (IFM) describes the role of functional medicine as taking a comprehensive approach to prevention, health, and well-being; treats root causes of disease; and restores
healthy function through a personalized patient experience — all while being a vital partner
to conventional medicine.
Core Principles Functional medicine adopts a systems biology approach, targeting the root causes of disease. It’s highly personalized and patient-centered, aiming to understand complex interactions in the body’s systems that contribute to health issues.
Approaches and Techniques Functional medicine utilizes advanced diagnostics and comprehensive lab tests to assess health comprehensively. Treatment plans often involve dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, and supplements tailored to individual needs. For instance, someone with unexplained weight gain and fatigue might find answers through functional medicine’s detailed assessments. A functional physician may spend 2 – 3 hours with a patient during their initial exam.
Practitioners Practitioners of functional medicine come from diverse medical backgrounds but receive additional training in its principles. They collaborate with other healthcare providers to offer integrative care focused on holistic well-being. IFM was founded in 1991 and offers a comprehensive certification; members who have achieved this certification will be denoted with the IFMCP credential.
Understanding Conventional Medicine
Core Principles Conventional medicine, sometimes referred to as allopathic medicine, is based on scientific evidence and focuses on treating symptoms with medications, surgeries, and other medical procedures. It emphasizes diagnosing and treating diseases using established protocols and standardized practices. This is the most common type of medicine practiced in the United States.
Approaches and Techniques Conventional medicine relies on pharmaceuticals, surgeries, and interventions like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy to manage and treat diseases. It emphasizes evidence-based treatments supported by clinical trials and research studies.
Practitioners Conventional medicine is primarily practiced by medical doctors (MDs) and doctors of osteopathic medicine (DOs) who undergo rigorous medical training in accredited medical schools. They specialize in diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medications, performing surgeries, and managing acute and chronic medical conditions.
Comparing and Contrasting the Approaches
Philosophical Differences
- Holistic Medicine: Integrates body, mind, and spirit with a blend of conventional and alternative therapies.
- Naturopathic Medicine: Emphasizes natural treatments and the body’s healing capacity.
- Functional Medicine: Focuses on systems biology, identifying root causes through advanced diagnostics.
- Conventional Medicine: Uses evidence-based treatments, medications, and surgeries to manage and treat diseases.
Treatment Approaches
While all emphasize personalized and preventive care, they differ in methodologies. Using depression as an example.
- Naturopathic medicine would suggest aromatherapy, supplements, exercise, and dietary changes
- Holistic medicine may start with an SSRI along with lifestyle changes. If the SSRI is not effective, they may consider psychedelic-assisted therapy
- Functional medicine would run detailed diagnostics and then create a unique multi-modal approach
- Conventional medicine would follow the current clinical guidelines and prescribe an antidepressant
Practitioner Roles Always check what your local licensing body requires regarding certification and licensure. There can be vast differences from state to state, country to country, and unfortunately, those lines have become blurred in today’s digital world.
Practical Applications and Considerations
Choosing the Right Approach Consider your health goals and preferences. Naturopathic medicine suits those seeking natural remedies, functional medicine delves into root causes, holistic medicine blends traditional and alternative therapies, while conventional medicine relies on established medical treatments.
Integrating with Conventional Medicine Discuss alternative treatments with your primary care provider for comprehensive care. Combining approaches can enhance treatment effectiveness, such as managing chronic conditions with a mix of conventional and alternative therapies.
Success Stories and Case Studies Take Mike, a 40-year-old battling chronic fatigue and digestive issues. Conventional treatments failed, but functional medicine’s tailored approach uncovered food sensitivities and hormonal imbalances. Customized dietary changes and supplements restored his energy and digestive health.
Conclusion Understanding holistic, naturopathic, functional, and conventional medicine empowers informed healthcare decisions. Each approach offers unique benefits tailored to your needs. Whether managing chronic conditions or enhancing overall well-being, these alternatives to conventional medicine provide valuable options.
Resources Explore further with these resources:
- Books: “The Disease Delusion” by Dr. Jeffrey Bland (Functional Medicine), “The Complete Guide to Holistic Medicine” by Dr. Andrew Weil (Holistic Medicine), “The Textbook of Natural Medicine” by Dr. Joseph E. Pizzorno (Naturopathic Medicine).
- Professional Organizations Websites: Functional Medicine (ifm.org), Naturopathic Medicine (aanmc.org), Academy of Integrative Health & Medicine (AIHM.org).
Use these resources to delve deeper and find qualified practitioners aligned with your health journey.
About Grannus
Here at Grannus, we are focused on holistic health. We believe in utilizing evidence-based treatments while understanding that sometimes those don’t always work for a particular situation, and therefore, an alternative treatment or therapy is needed.
