SEMANTICS (aka KATHY's DICTIONARY)

One of the ways in which misunderstandings can occur and clarity can be lost is in the use of certain words. Some of the words I use are not always defined or used by others in the same way. For those who know me well, I have these little quirky ways of looking at things, or defining things, in a style not always understood by the majority. Those of you familiar with Gallagher - my favorite comedian - will understand the way I view the world! :-)

Allopathic — Western, or modern medicine, and it's healthcare system. Mosby’s medical dictionary definition is: "system of medical therapy in which a disease or abnormal condition is treated by creating an environment that is antagonistic to the disease or condition (ie: antibiotic for infection)." Using an antibiotic can bypass or override the immune system in lieu of strengthening the immune system to increase its function and effectiveness in taking care of the infection. It is antagonistic not only toward the bacteria or microorganism, but also toward the body in some ways (side effects in organs and organ systems). In my opinion, it is not geared toward working with the body and its own "checks and balances", but overriding or suppressing some aspect of imbalance.

Alternative — Switching to Webster's dictionary: "the choice between possibilities, one of the possibilites to be chosen, allowing a choice." Taken literally, that feels appropriate to me, yet the word has taken on many negative connotations in healthcare circles—whether allopathic or non-allopathic. In the context of the way that I have heard this word used, I have a strong dislike for it now. When I have heard it spoken by allopathic professionals, it many times carried a derogatory inflection in the voice that made me very uneasy. The same thing has occured when I have heard it spoken by non-allopathic practioners, as if allopathic medicine is the enemy. The animosity carried many times in the use of this word leaves me disgusted.

Complementary — I like this word. It's definition (Webster's) is: "something that completes or makes up the whole." I see complementary medicine as that which offers an opportunity to meld and blend with the majority of our healthcare options—allopathic—in a complementing fashion, not discounting the validity of either allopathic or non-allopathic. It is an harmonious blending that uses knowledge and tools from both modalities to complement the person's needs; not in competition with or antagonistic to each other, but working synergistically. The allopathic practioner may prescribe an antibiotic. As a complementary practioner, I would offer the choice of using probiotics and immune stimulating herbs along with the drug (and whatever else presents itself as appropriate to that individual). Bottom line, I see it as a term used to describe that which not only works in complementing allopathic medicine, but most importantly in complementing each individual's needs.

Traditional — Sometimes used to refer to allopathic modern medicine. Webster's says: "a time-honored practice or set of such practices—a set of customs and usages transmitted from one generation to another and viewed as a coherent body of precendents influencing the present: heritage." Well, to me this means something that is much older than modern scientific-based medicine. Considering the mixed-heritage I am blessed with—a large part coming from an ancient culture such as the Turtle Island People (Native Americans)—I hold that traditional means going back hundreds or thousands of years. The same is true with Traditional Chinese Medicine. Modern scientific practices are actually not that old! :-) Okay, so I'm picky!

Wholistic — Sometimes spelled Holistic - Mosby's again: "of or pertaining to the whole; considering all factors, as holistic medicine." The implied intent (as I understand it) of those who call themselves wholistic practioners is to assist a person with imbalances by taking into consideration the emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of that individual—mind, body and soul. To look at this in modern terms, it may be like a General Practioner M.D., Psychologist and Spiritual Advisor all rolled into one. Dis-ease, or imbalance, is not viewed as simply a physical phenomenon. It can also include environmental factors—any and all things which may negatively affect health.

This information is provided for educational purposes and to promote discussion only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat or claim cure for any disease or imbalance in the body.

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