In conclusion, Indigenous medicine is more frequently linked with the emphasis on ceremonies, consultation with diviners, and a comprehensive understanding of the roots of issues. This is in contrast to the more clinical and scientifically based methods that are frequently used in Western holistic care.
More in line with the tenets of holistic Western medicine is the statement made by Thomas Edison, "The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest his patients in caring... in diet, and in the cause and prevention of disease."
It's important to remember that the phrase "holistic" can mean multiple things in Western medicine. Today, in the context of Western medicine, the phrase frequently denotes a more all-encompassing and patient-centered approach that considers mental, emotional, and social elements of health in addition to the physical ones.
The statement, "Doctor and hospital are needed for treating broken bones and injured body parts; but, when it comes to treating the whole human being, this is not enough," is more in line with the tenets of holistic Western medicine.
The statement, "Being a part of a community can have a positive effect on mental health and emotional wellbeing," is more in line with the ideas of Western holistic medicine.
Although indigenous medicine is not specifically mentioned in the quotation, its emphasis on the impact of community on mental health is more in keeping with the patient-centered and holistic ideas that are frequently associated with Western medicine. On the other hand, indigenous medicine might incorporate spiritual and cultural components outside of the social and scientific framework that this quote emphasizes.
The focus of holistic healing is on treating the patient as a whole, not just the symptoms of a disease or a particular body area. This approach acknowledges that a person's physical, mental, emotional, and even spiritual well-being are all influenced by a variety of interconnected elements.
It's crucial to remember that opinions can differ while discussing the benefits and drawbacks of Western medicine. Despite the fact that Western medicine has achieved great strides in treating a wide range of diseases and ailments, some contend that it occasionally puts treating symptoms ahead of addressing underlying causes. Concerns are also voiced regarding possible negative effects and an over dependency on prescription drugs.
