CAM and Health

CAM: It's not Magic, It's Medicine

Friday, September 23, 2011 by E. Feigenbaum, Ph.D.
Like the LOHAS movement itself, integrative medicine is also on the rise despite recent economic trends and challenges.  As Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) becomes more mainstream, skeptics of integrative medicine have also become increasingly vocal.  Thousands of years and countless studies support the efficacy of treatment options within fields like Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), though often critics of holistic medicine focus their attention on newer, less researched, and less regulated fields that remain on the fringe of holistic medicine.Botanical Medicine  

In response, many CAM users may speak with an unyielding defense, enthusiasm, and "belief" in alternative medicine.  However, bundling the "fringes" of holistic alternative medicine along with more credible CAM options may actually confuse new patients about what is appropriate for their conditions.  Moreover, adamant "belief" of users may misrepresent the science and rigorous training of licensed CAM providers.  

Whether seeking to manage a chronic condition or support to maintain healthy lifestyles, there are a number of CAM alternatives that effectively meet patients' needs.  For companies seeking access to credentialed CAM providers, CAM PPO of America, Inc. offers access to a national network of CAM practitioners.  Because of the emphasis on healthy living through lifestyle management, including non-invasive and non-pharmaceutical alternatives, investing in integrative medicine options offers an innovative addition to an overall CAM PPO of America, Inc.green business strategy.  

Comments for CAM: It's not Magic, It's Medicine

Saturday, October 1, 2011 by Deb:
I think we need new language. What falls under CAM is typically very ancient science. For example, Ayurveda, the science of life, studied what creates well being 5,000 years ago. The vedics observed and paid attention. The effect of the seasons, what we now call "lifestyle" and healing substances were found in nature. They uncovered, discovered, and recorded the difference in people's lifes of one plant and how that differred when combined with other plants. TCM evolved from Ayurveda. Even homeopathy has a couple hundred years of study. Most importantly, all these ancient sciences understand it's not just ONE thing that influences well-being - it's a combinatin of all factors in our lives. Allopathic is "new medicine." As such, it as far less "study" than anything labeled CAM. Consider reports that surface about the impact of drugs after 20 years of use. After thousands of years of use, there aren't surprise results from these ancient sciences. Allopathic focuses on disease management. The ancient sciences focus on well-being, vitality, and health. What conversation do you want to be having with your HEALTHcare provider?

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