What is the difference between traditional and complementary medicine?

There are numerous similarities between traditional and alternative medicine, but there are also significant variances. While doctors have employed traditional medicine for millennia, complementary therapies are relatively young and in their early stages of development. They might not be covered by insurance and might not be suitable for all patients. It is equally critical to consult with your standard healthcare professional before commencing alternative therapy.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines traditional medicine as a set of theories, beliefs, and experiences utilized in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of illness. Complementary medicine is typically used in conjunction with mainstream medicine as an alternative therapy. Both names are frequently used interchangeably.

Traditional medicine differs according to location and country. Local culture, history, philosophy, and personal views all have a strong influence. It emphasizes a healthy diet and takes a holistic approach to sickness. Traditional medicine is the principal source of health treatment in some areas.

Herbs are used in a variety of ways in traditional medicine. For thousands of years, many herbal medicinal methods have been used. Ancient Hindu healers, for example, developed Ayurveda. It has been utilized in India for over 5000 years and has over a thousand formulations in its materia medica. The Indian government now acknowledges Ayurveda as a comprehensive health-care system and has safeguarded its traditional knowledge for public use.

There is no recognized diagnosis for several alternative therapies, such as Reiki and meditation. Their effectiveness is determined by the individual characteristics of each patient. This makes conducting double-blind or single-blind studies difficult or impossible. It is difficult, for example, to blind Reiki practitioners or patients using Reiki. In addition, creating placebos in complementary therapies is difficult. Massage, for example, may be determined by the practitioner's touch, massage technique, and amount of time spent with the patient.

In African health care, traditional medicine plays a significant role. Many people still seek basic health treatment from traditional healers. Traditional healers also aid in the restoration of social and emotional balance among communities. The introduction of Europeans, on the other hand, constituted a watershed moment in the history of indigenous African culture. The colonists imported their Western medical systems, which suffocated pre-existing African systems. The conquerors vilified indigenous knowledge systems and prevented them from developing and systematizing.

Traditional medicine, in conjunction to modern medical technology, continues to play an essential part in health care. Traditional health practitioners serve around 80% of the population. Both types of medicine are employed to give complete care to a person in a well-functioning health system. This balance enables patients to receive the most effective treatment for their specific needs.

While traditional medicine has evolved over time, many questions remain unanswered. Although there are no internationally accepted criteria or regulated techniques for evaluating it, it has a long history of use and usefulness. Despite these issues, traditional medicine is becoming more popular. There are additional herbal remedies, for example, that are utilized in various places throughout the world. More study in this area is needed to ensure the safety and efficacy of these medicines.