alternative medicine
- Noun:
- A system of healing that does not use conventional drugs or surgery: "Alternative medicine" refers to medical practices that are used instead of standard medical treatments. It often involves natural or holistic approaches.
- The practice of medicine without the use of conventional drugs: This definition emphasizes the non-pharmaceutical aspect, highlighting therapies like herbalism, acupuncture, or mind-body techniques.
- Noun:
- She decided to try alternative medicine for her chronic pain.
- The clinic specializes in various forms of alternative medicine, such as acupuncture and herbal remedies.
"to turn to alternative medicine": to choose to use alternative medicine as a primary or supplementary treatment.
- After conventional treatments failed, many patients turn to alternative medicine.
"a practitioner of alternative medicine": a professional who provides these types of therapies.
- He visited a practitioner of alternative medicine for a consultation.
Complementary medicine (n): Therapies used together with conventional medicine. (Note: Often paired as "complementary and alternative medicine" or CAM).
- Many hospitals now offer complementary medicine alongside standard care.
Holistic medicine (n): An approach to healthcare that considers the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.
- Holistic medicine often overlaps with principles of alternative medicine.
- Non-conventional medicine: Medical practices outside the mainstream.
- Integrative medicine: A combination of conventional and complementary/alternative therapies.
Seek alternative treatments: To look for medical care outside standard practices.
- They sought alternative treatments to improve their overall wellness.
Explore alternative options: To investigate non-standard choices in healthcare.
- It's wise to explore all alternative options with your doctor.
Herbal medicine: The use of plants for medicinal purposes.
- Herbal medicine is a common branch of alternative medicine.
Mind-body therapy: Practices like meditation or biofeedback that focus on the connections between the mind and physical health.
- Mind-body therapy is a key component of many alternative medicine systems.
- the practice of medicine without the use of drugs; may involve herbal medicines or self-awareness or biofeedback or acupuncture