Chapter 1: What Is Alternative Medicine? - Introduction to the Second Edition

The major components of modern alternative medicine detailed in Chapter 1, which now includes new therapies such as aromatherapy and ozone therapy, are based on holistic concepts of health that have been an integral aspect of the belief systems and healing practices of many cultures throughout history. Respect for and understanding of the unity of mind and body, for example, have been basic precepts of the healing systems of Ayurvedic medicine, Chinese medicine, homeopathy, naturopathy, and chiropractic. In alternative medicine, health is defined as more than the absence of disease–it is the result of all our bodily systems being harmoniously in balance with each other and with the environment. In this state of equilibrium, our defense mechanisms and our immune system can efficiently respond to most of the hazards that life presents, whether these are pathogenic (disease-causing) organisms, toxic substances, or environmental or emotional stress factors.