Alternative medicine is a term that is used to describe a range of medical practices that are not considered to be part of conventional medicine. This type of medicine is often used as an alternative to traditional medical treatments, and it is based on the belief that the body has the ability to heal itself. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of alternative medicine.
Definitions
Alternative medicine is defined as a range of medical therapies that are not part of conventional medicine. These therapies are often used as an alternative to traditional medical treatments, and they are based on the belief that the body has the ability to heal itself. Some examples of alternative medicine include acupuncture, herbal medicine, homeopathy, and naturopathy.
Origin
Alternative medicine has been around for thousands of years, and it has its origins in ancient cultures such as China, India, and Egypt. These cultures believed in the power of natural remedies and the ability of the body to heal itself. Over time, these practices spread to other parts of the world and evolved into the alternative medicine practices that we know today.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of alternative medicine can vary depending on the dictionary that you consult. In the Oxford English Dictionary, it is defined as “any of a range of medical therapies that are not regarded as orthodox by the medical profession.” In the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, it is defined as “any of various systems of healing or treating disease (such as chiropractic, homeopathy, or faith healing) that are not included in the traditional medical curricula taught in the United States and Britain.”
Associations
Alternative medicine is often associated with natural remedies, holistic health, and complementary therapies. It is also associated with a more patient-centered approach to healthcare, where the focus is on treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms of a disease.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for alternative medicine include complementary medicine, integrative medicine, and natural medicine.
Antonyms
The antonyms of alternative medicine include conventional medicine, mainstream medicine, and Western medicine.
The same root words
The same root words for alternative medicine include alternative therapy, alternative treatment, and alternative healthcare.
Example Sentences
- Many people turn to alternative medicine when conventional treatments fail to provide relief.
- Acupuncture is a popular form of alternative medicine that has been used for thousands of years.
- Naturopathy is a type of alternative medicine that focuses on natural remedies and the body’s ability to heal itself.
- Some people believe that alternative medicine is more effective than conventional medicine for certain conditions.
- Integrative medicine combines conventional medicine with alternative medicine to provide a more holistic approach to healthcare.