Many scholars believe Chinese traditional medicine dates back to the Han Dynasty, more than 2000 years ago. The earliest written record is the Huangdi Neijing or “Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic.” This manuscript highlights the importance of “finding balance” in the human body. This is done through well-known methods including acupuncture, cupping, and herbal treatments.
Proper nutrition is also key. Western medicine is also very old, dating back to Ancient Greece. Like CTM(Chinese Traditional Medicine), it focuses on balance. The difference though lies in the method. Unlike CTM, traditional medicine focuses more on anatomy and physical science. So, which one is the best? Which one should you use? One answer could be “it depends.” A better one is “a combination of both.” Let us look at the reasons why.
To Each Their Own
There are many types of complementary or alternative medicine. Recently, more accepted ones include hypnosis, meditation, and the use of CBD oils and ointments. These and others are effective in treating a wide range of physical and psychological issues including muscle pains, insomnia, and even smoking addiction. Thus, the question is when to use them. A few tips to consider are:
- Do what is most comfortable for you. If it makes you feel better to visit a regular doctor then do so.
- Ask around. Some of your friends or relatives might have used an alternative medicine treatment with great results. These people care about you so they are likely to give you solid advice.
- Do your research. There are plenty of reputable educational and government sources online. A few clicks here and there will help you find answers to all your concerns.
- Be open to experimenting. If a regular treatment prescribed by your doctor has not worked, why not try something else? Unlike prescription drugs, most complementary medicine treatments have zero side effects.
Prevention is the Best Medicine
“Health is wealth.” “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” “What you eat is what you are.” There are dozens of health idioms out there. Even though they might sound like cliches, they are based on common sense. As a result, there is a lot of truth in them.
Instead of choosing between alternative medicine and conventional medicine, why not take the necessary precautions to ensure your health? Instead of eating junk food every day, why not do it only once or twice a week? Rather than always taking the elevator at work, why not go up or down the stairs every once in a while? By being proactive with our health, we can avoid visiting the doctor altogether. Sure, accidents happen and some illnesses are completely unavoidable. Yet, most health problems are the result of bad habits; habits we can change. We could try going to sleep a bit earlier and cutting down on our carbohydrates. We could spend a few minutes a day practicing mental health routines like meditation and self-reflection. There are many simple steps we can take that will greatly improve our overall health.
Use Common Sense
The principle of Occam’s Razor says that the simplest explanation is usually the right one. This is very true, especially when it comes to your health. Use common sense in the choices you make. Severe muscle spasms are sometimes healed through acupuncture, cupping, and proper posture. Other more conventional options include visiting a chiropractor and taking a few pills. Some people quit smoking through hypnosis and meditation. Others need a nicotine patch or prescription nicotine gum.
When suffering a physical or psychological issue, use your head and think carefully. If you can experiment with alternative and conventional medicine then do so. Either or both might do the trick. Remember, though, that no matter what kind of treatment you use, a broken leg will never heal without a cast.
