HOLISTIC

Views the body as an interconnected system of Qi (vital energy) flowing through 12 primary meridians. Health is the balance of Yin and Yang forces. Disease arises from blockages or imbalances in Qi flow. The Five Element Theory (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) connects organs, emotions, seasons, and tastes into an integrated diagnostic framework.

India's ancient "Science of Life" classifies individuals by their dominant dosha (constitutional type): Vata (air/space), Pitta (fire/water), and Kapha (earth/water). Agni (digestive fire) is central to health. Treatment is deeply individualized based on prakriti (birth constitution) and vikriti (current imbalance). Emphasis on prevention through daily routines (dinacharya) and seasonal adaptation (ritucharya).

Uses whole plants and plant extracts to support the body's innate healing capacity. Differs from pharmaceutical medicine by using the "synergy" of whole-plant chemistry rather than isolated compounds. Emphasizes the concept of "tissue states" (hot/cold, dry/damp, tense/relaxed) to match herbs to individual presentations. Many modern pharmaceuticals originated from herbal traditions.

A system of medicine emphasizing the body's inherent ability to heal itself (vis medicatrix naturae). Naturopathic doctors use modern diagnostics combined with natural therapeutics. Six guiding principles: First do no harm, the healing power of nature, identify and treat causes, doctor as teacher, treat the whole person, and prevention. Licensed NDs complete 4-year doctoral programs.

Based on the premise that the human body generates and responds to electromagnetic and subtle energy fields. Disruptions in these energy patterns precede and contribute to physical disease. Practices aim to detect and correct energetic imbalances to restore health. Includes both ancient systems (chakras, meridians) and modern approaches (biofield therapy, frequency medicine).