We call it alternative medicine.
But some, like naturopathic doctor, Dr. Jim Sharps, call it, “Original Medicine.”
Now, that’s also within the name of Dr. Sharps school, and I’m not exactly going to come from or go in the same direction, explanation wise as him. But it will be similar
https://iiomonline.org/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=web_search&utm_content=GMB_infocard
(Great YouTube topics, click the video banner https://youtube.com/@iiomonline?si=8hNIF_fPlQMoJkwl )
We call it “Alternative Medicine,” “Holistic Medicine,” “Natural Medicine,” “Integrative Medicine,” “Functional Medicine,” “Ayurvedic Medicine.”
Now in truth. All of these have a slight difference in ways.
I’m calling them all “Alternative Medicine” because they are all different from what we know as mainstream, conventional, modern medicine.
Here is John Hopkins’ definition, which is also applicable
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/types-of-complementary-and-alternative-medicine
Here is another source of explanation or description of “Alternative Medicine” and more, by Everglades University
https://www.evergladesuniversity.edu/blog/what-is-alternative-medicine-types-benefits-how-it-works/
But I want to say that this is actually “Conventional Medicine”.
As a matter of fact.
What we know as “Alternative Medicine”. Was pretty much all we had for 1000’s of years. At least most of the techniques in “Alternative Medicine”, not all, but most. Have been around for a long time.
What is known as “Conventional medicine” today or “Modern Medicine” should be called “Alternative” or “Acute Medicine.” For conventional medicine, as we know it, has not been around as long
Now, it’s all medicine and should continue to be used to help people.
Unfortunately, insurance, policies, and old research can get in the way of some greatly needed care.
That being what is known as “Preventive Care.”
What’s happening now. Is what we know as alternative medicine, the one being looked at as a secondary form of medicine, is being recognized as a great asset to lasting health.
It can also be a great help in union with modern medicine (As long as whatever is being used is not contraindicated to one another. Only health practitioners with knowledge in both areas will know this).
Now, is it all medicine?
Yes, and it should be used appropriately for the health and well-being of humanity.
When some principles of alternative medicine are applied to everyday life. A person is less likely to get sick.
If a person does get sick. There body is usually healthy enough to withstand it.
Even if a person has to use acute, conventional, or what we know as modern medicine. They have a better chance of recovering and healing.
In most cases, alternative medicine deals with food, sometimes herbs, and lifestyle. Other modalities and means may be used, similar to conventional medicine. But food and lifestyle are the core or at the foundation of alternative medicine.
When you work with an alternative medicine practitioner. The questionnaire or investigation into your life. Is usually a bit deeper than conventional medicine.
Kim Larson, a Certified Integrative Nutritionist, gives a good explanation in one of her latest articles (She also has a great Facebook and YouTube page. In addition, she has a great natural soap line. Choose your soap like you choose your food, by ingredients)
https://larsonnutrition.com/what-functional-nutrition-says-about-food-as-medicine/#comment-909
Dr. Michael Kartfelt, a naturopathic doctor, speaks in the same light. Concerning the steps he takes when working with cancer patients
https://go.conqueringcancer.com/recurrence-tkc
https://www.thekarlfeldtcenter.com
Here is another post that can shed some light on alternative medicine or functional medicine (At the end of the article. Look for other blog post titles that may be similar under it)
https://ironbywood.com/2026/03/16/functional-medicine/
I hope this article will give you some insight or information into health treatments and lifestyle. That can help you live a healthy and vibrant life.
