What are the Main Differences Between Conventional and Complementary Therapies?

Different complementary therapies have very different philosophies and practices, but most do share a common view of health and healing. Complementary therapies emphasise 'wellness'. They believe that wellness comes from a balance between the body, the mind and the environment. Illness happens when there is an 'imbalance' between these factors.

Conventional ('allopathic') medicine tries to treat the specific part of the body which is 'faulty'. In contrast, complementary therapies concentrate on the whole person - the holistic approach - looking at the person, their lifestyle, nutrition and relationships. Each person is treated as a unique individual and treatment is tailored to suit the person.

Conventional treatment tends to encourage the patient to remain relatively passive and to accept their diagnosis and treatment. Holistic complementary therapies encourage you to actively participate in your treatment. The holistic approach of complementary therapies means that you usually need to make some lifestyle changes; this may be the reason for their continuing success with those who have tried them.

Both conventional and complementary medicine emphasise the quality of the relationship between the practioner and patient/client. A good and honest relationship is essential for a successful outcome.

How do Complementary Therapies Work?

We all know that the body heals itself, that cuts and wounds heal and the body cells routinely replace themselves. Complementary therapists believe that this self healing is the basis of all healing. Complementary therapy aims to help the individual to get well and stay healthy. The basic idea is that people 'heal themselves' with the help of a trained and qualified practioner. For example, manipulation of soft tissue and joints during dynamic massage helps the body mobilize its inner healing resources to help repair itself.

What is Aromatherapy?

Plant extracts have been used for health and well-being for many centuries. In aromatherapy, the essential oils are inhaled, used as a compress, bath soak or massaged into the skin. The oils work either by entering the body via olfactory process and act on the limbic and parasympathetic nervous system, or topically due to their individual properties (e.g. analgesic, anti-inflammatory, rubefacient), when applied to areas being treated.

Each essential oil is made up of chemical components which have individual therapeutic properties. Some of these chemicals can have adverse effects if used in very large quantities, or used inappropriately. This is why professional aromatherapists have to understand the chemical as well as botanical components of all oils used. It is also why it is advisable to consult a highly qualified practioner who will take a full medical history during your first consultation, will carry out patch tests if it is felt necessary, before continuing with aromatherapy massage and review this during following treatments. The practioner should also be a member of a professional organization such as the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists.