Natural Products and Medicinal Plants Research

Traditional and Alternative Medicine

Traditional medicine is an amorphous concept that comprises a range of long-standing and still evolving practices based on diverse beliefs and theories. Bodeker and Burford point out the dichotomous situation of particular forms of traditional medicine being practised in their countries of origin and also in countries to which they have been “imported” Traditional medicine it is defined as the medical treatment based on the use of drugs and surgery to treat symptoms (signs of illness) Alternative medicine covers a broad range of treatments and is also referred to as complimentary alternative medicine (CAM).  Practitioners emphasize education, prevention of disease, and holistic treatment. Some of the most well-known alternative treatments include acupuncture, aromatherapy, chiropractic, herbal medicine, homeopathy, massage, meditation, therapeutic touch, and yoga Traditional medicine treats the body part or symptom of the disease, which earns it criticism for neglecting the big picture of total body care.