Nurses should not only focus on the symptoms or disease of a patient they first meet but be open to the entirety of the patient as a person. Interacting in a more holistic approach will open the nurse to the multiple needs of the patient beyond the disease and symptoms. It also opens the patient to other alternative medical ideas. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic and Integrative Healthcare Specialist Program
Nurses can offer patients a more holistic approach of care. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic and Integrative Healthcare Specialist Program
The article, “How Nurses Can Take A Holistic Approach to Patient Care” by Adrian Johansen looks deeper into how nurses can be more holistic in their approach with patients. She states,
“When assessing a patient’s needs for the first time, it’s important here to take the holistic approach. Every medical situation also has knock-on effects when it comes to mental, emotional, and even economic well-being. Utilizing the time of first contact well can also open nurses to information regarding the patient’s cultural needs. Taking notes here on more than simply the strict medical elements can ensure all personnel from first contact onward are fully apprised of the holistic requirements of the patient.”
Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic and Integrative Healthcare Specialist Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Holistic Nursing.
Ayurveda is an Eastern form of medicine and health practices. It has many complimentary uses with Western medicine. Many of its views and practices are being more and more employed in the West to help individuals with a variety of ailments. It is important to always have a healthcare professional properly guide on through Ayurveda to ensure one utilizes the proper treatments as not to contradict any primary medications. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic and Integrative Healthcare Specialist program
Ayurveda is an Eastern way of healing. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic and Integrative Healthcare Specialist Program
The article, “What Is Ayurveda and Does It Work?” from the Cleveland Clinic’s healthessentials looks at how Ayurveda works and how it may be better able to help you. The article takes an in-depth look at the history of Ayurveda and also its deeper meanings. In particular it looks at the Vata dosha, the Peta dosha and the Kapha dosha. It looks how these systems are seen as a foundation for medical treatment in India and the East. The article states,
“The word “Ayurveda” is derived from Sanskrit and means “science of life.” In Ayurveda, there’s an underlying belief that everything in life is connected. Because of this, general health and wellness rely on achieving balance and harmony. When a person is imbalanced or stressed, they’re likely to develop disease. Ayurveda focuses on implementing lifestyle interventions and natural treatments, therapies and remedies to provide balance among your physical body, mind, spirit and the world around you.”
“What Is Ayurveda and Does It Work?”. healthessentials. June 10th, 2022. Cleveland Clinic.
Ayurveda is a system of traditional medicine native to the Indian subcontinent. It is based on the premise that there is a relationship between the mind, body, and spirit, and that imbalances in any of these three can lead to illness. Ayurvedic practitioners use a variety of techniques to restore balance, including diet, exercise, meditation, and massage. . Ayurvedic medicine relies on a holistic approach to treatment, taking into account the person’s physical, mental, and emotional state. Herbal remedies, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications are often used in ayurvedic medicine.
Ayurveda is a traditional Hindu system of medicine which is based on the idea of balance in the body, mind, and spirit. According to Ayurveda, there are three main types of energy, or “doshas,” which are responsible for our physical and mental health: Vata (air), Pitta (fire), and Kapha (earth).
Vata is associated with movement, pitta with metabolism and digestion, and kapha with structure and lubrication. Imbalance in any of these doshas is thought to lead to disease.
The Vata dosha is the energy of movement and is responsible for all bodily functions that involve movement, including circulation, respiration, and elimination. It is light, dry, cold, and erratic in nature and is said to be the most difficult of the three doshas to balance.
The Peta dosha refers to the purification of the mind and body through asceticism. The peta dosha theory states that all of these elements must be in balance in order for a person to be healthy.
The Kapha dosha is characterized by qualities such as heavy, slow, and wet. Kapha types are typically heavy, solid, and slow-moving. They tend to have a calm, easy-going personality, and tend to be loyal and reliable friends. Kapha dosha is responsible for growth, lubrication, and stability in the body. It is associated with the elements of earth and water, and its qualities are heavy, cold, oily, smooth, and static. Imbalance in kapha dosha can lead to conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
While many of these philosophies are religious in nature, they also pertain to health as well. Those concerned only with the secular nature, look at the issues of balance found in these doshas and how they can reflect healthier living for those who may not be religious but looking for health benefits nonetheless.
Holistic and Conventional Remedies
Holistic and complimentary medicine are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to two different approaches to healthcare. Holistic medicine is a comprehensive approach that looks at the whole person, rather than just the symptoms of an illness. This approach takes into account the mind, body, and spirit of the individual, and seeks to treat the underlying cause of illness, rather than just the symptoms. Complimentary medicine, on the other hand, focuses on treatments that complement conventional medical care. These complementary treatments may include acupuncture, massage therapy, or meditation. Both holistic and complimentary medicine share a common goal: to promote healing and wellbeing.
Trained Integrative and Holistic Specialists in healthcare such as holistic nurses can navigate the boundaries between Ayurveda and Western medicine and help individuals find the proper balance between the two systems. It is important to never begin a holistic campaign for health, or partake in alternative practices without consulting one’s primary healthcare provider. Holistic Nurses can help identify the most useful remedies without risking counter effecting the conventional medications one may be on.
In many cases, holistic remedies, and ideas found in Ayurveda can help individuals find a cure or help one find better healthy but they are best used as preventative and long term life style changes to be used in conjunction with one’s healthcare.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ayurveda is a holistic approach to health that emphasizes prevention and natural treatment. Ayurvedic practitioners use dietary recommendations, lifestyle changes, and herbal remedies to treat imbalances in the body. While there is some scientific evidence to support the efficacy of Ayurveda, more research is needed. If you are interested in trying an Ayurvedic approach to health, talk to a qualified practitioner.
Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic and Integrative Healthcare Specialist Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Holistic Nursing. Nurses must first complete the core courses before applying for the four year certification.
Additional Resources
“Ayurveda: A historical perspective and principles of the traditional healthcare system in India”. Lakshmi-chandra Mishra; Betsy B Singh; Simon Dagenais Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine; Mar 2001; 7, 2; ProQuest Nursing & Allied Health Source pg. 36. Access here
“What is Ayurveda?”. John Hopkins Medicine. Access here
“What Is Ayurveda?”. Kelli Miller. March 20th, 2021. WebMD. Access here
“A Beginners Guide to Holistic Health & Why It’s Important”. Amanl Kalti. September 12th, 2022. Healthinsiders. Access here
Essential oils have meet many health needs for individuals. Through scent and application, they can enter into the blood stream and help with a variety of issues one may be dealing with. From stress to nausea, to anything in between, essential oils can be excellent complimentary health tools for an individual. Please also review AIHCP’s Integrative and Holistic Healthcare Specialist Program
Essential oils can have many health benefits. Please also review AIHCP’s Integrative and Holistic Healthcare Specialist Program
The article, “7 Potential Health Benefits of Essential Oils” by Lauren Bedosky looks at some benefits of essential oils. She states,
“Essential oils are bottled plant extracts. They’re made by steaming or pressing plants to trap the compounds responsible for their fragrance, according to John Hopkins Medicine. More importantly, their unique aromas have been employed in healing practices for thousands of years and may have healing properties.”
Whenever utilizing complimentary and alternative health modules, it is important to consult a primary physician or other trained healthcare professional. It is important to ensure the proper methods are being applied and are not in competition with other medications.
Please also review AIHCP’s Integrative and Holistic Healthcare Specialist Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to healthcare professionals seeking a four year certification in Holistic Health and Holistic Nursing.
Essential oils play a large role in alternative and medicine. They can help heal and also prevent a variety of health issues. It is however important to always remember to consult with your primary physician before utilizing any health product. Holistic and Integrative Healthcare Specialists can also help guide one down the safe and most beneficial path. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic and Integrative Healthcare Specialist Program
There are numerous essential oils with health benefits. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic and Integrative Healthcare Specialist Program
The article, “What Are Essential Oils? A Complete Guide on Aromatherapy and Its Potential Health Benefits” by Lauren Bedosky looks at what essential oils are and their benefits. She states,
“Essential oils are everywhere. These potent, fragrant plant extracts have made their way into lotions, household cleaners, massage treatments, and even integrative complementary therapy to help manage cancer symptoms. Their purported benefits are also wide ranging, from improving sleep and decreasing anxiety, to lowering pain and easing headaches, to taming a queasy stomach and fostering deeper relaxation.”
Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic and Integrative Healthcare Specialist Program and see if it meets your academic needs. Nurses and other qualified professionals can earn a four year certification by completing the required online and independent study courses
Adaptogens are great and natural herbs and supplements to help one manage stress and anxiety. They are natural but still need to be utilized under care of a specialist due to the fact certain levels can be counter productive or mix poorly with other medications. Integrative Holistic Specialists can help one find the best herbal supplement for an individual when dealing with stress.
Adaptogens help individuals with stress. Please also review AIHCP’s Integrative and Holistic Health Specialist Program
The article, “What Are Adaptogens and Are They Healthy?” from Cleveland Clinic’s Healthessentials takes a closer look at a variety of adaptogens. The article states,
“Adaptogens can affect how much cortisol is released in your body when you’re stressed. Less cortisol can mean less of a physical stress reaction. As stress is connected to your nervous, endocrine and immune systems, it can cause physiological changes like an increased heart rate. Again, adaptogens can help how your body responds physically to stress.”
Please also review AIHCP’s Integrative and Holistic Specialist Program, as well as AIHCP’s Stress Management Program. The programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as a Holistic Nurse or Stress Management Consultant.
Integrative medicine and natural medicine looks to treat the whole person. It is based on alternative strategies to help cure and heal and individual. Such practices are best used in conjunction with Western medicine and under the supervision of a trained professional. Many Eastern herbs sometimes can be counter productive if used with others, or even with Western medications. It is important to contact any primary physician if undertaking any new herbal regiment.
Holistic treatments treat the entire person. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic and Integrative Healthcare Specialist Program
The article, “What Is a Naturopathic Doctor?” by Monisha Bhanote looks closer at alternative types of care. She states,
“Many of the states that allow licensed naturopathic doctors to practice medicine also allow these doctors to prescribe medications — with limitations. Under most state regulations, NDs aren’t allowed to prescribe controlled substances, or substances that are highly controlled by government regulations due to their potential for misuse. However, in New Hampshire, New Mexico, and Washington, an exception is made for certain controlled medications depending on the specific ingredients”
To learn more about these type of doctors and read the entire article, then please click here
Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic and Integrative Care Specialist Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified healthcare providers seeking a certification in Holistic Care.
Holistic medicine looks to heal the entirety of the mind body and soul. It is preventative in nature but overtime, if properly utilized, can help with numerous maladies. It is important for mental health also. When looking for herbs and other practices to ease stress, anxiety or depression, it is very important to seek the guidance of medical professionals. Many herbs if not used properly can hurt a person. Overdosing, mixing with other herbs or other Western medications, or misusing them can cause health issues. Since this can occur, it is critical to seek professional guidance. Healthcare professionals who have specialties in Holistic Integrative backgrounds are a great place to start.
There are many holistic and natural ways to deal with mental health. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic Integrative Specialist Program
The article, “A Thorough Guide To Holistic Treatment For Mental Health” by Evalina Brown looks at some important factors in looking at holistic herbs in regards to mental health. She states,
“Holistic treatment facilities see mental illness as a combination of biological, physiological, as well as spiritual issues. This all-inclusive therapy strategy encourages patients to take responsibility for their own health and well-being.”
Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic Integrative Specialist Program and see if it meets your academic and professional needs. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Holistic Integrative Nursing
Eastern techniques and herbal remedies can play big dividends with health but they need to be properly utilized and understood. This requires a healthcare professional who knows how to implement Eastern remedies in unison with Western medications. It can be dangerous to randomly create one’s own health plan without consulting a professional. This is because many medications may not mix or match with certain herbal remedies. Holistic Integrative Professionals can play a key role in helping individuals properly utilize medication.
Holistic medicine is about balance. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic Integrative Specialist Program
The article, “Ayurveda: The Science Of Life” from “VITEBRITE” looks at the positives of Ayurveda and how to properly utilize it with one’s health. The article states,
“Ayurveda may be one of the oldest holistic health systems in the world but it’s still widely practised today in many cultures. In India, for instance – where it’s been practised for 5,000 years or so – ayurveda still provides health care to 65% of people in rural areas (says the World Health Organization). This means there are millions of people who rely on ayurveda as their main – and often only – source of healthcare. ”
Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic Integrative Specialist Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified healthcare professionals seeking a four year certification as a Holistic Nurse.
Herbs are important to over all in health. In Asia, older herbs are consistently used to help aid, and in Europe, they have found their way into mainline medicine. Many herbs are prescribed before synthetic drugs. This change recognizes the value of herbal medicine when used in concert with Western medicine.
Just because an herb is natural does not mean it is safe though and this is why it is imperative to have professional guidance in use of herbs for daily life and issues. Some herbs can be toxic if used in excess or long duration and some herbs can also have bad counter reactions with synthetic drugs. A Holistic Integrative Specialist trained in healthcare is the best person to guide you through the multitude of herbs.
While there are many acute diseases such as cancer that individuals have and lead them to alternative treatments, many look to herbs for basic cures for everyday issues. Herbs when used properly can help alleviate issues without the negative side effects. However, this is usually best for mild cases. When more severe issues arise, doctors and physicians or mental health experts usually turn to synthetic drugs.
Eastern Medicine looks for overall healthy balance. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic Integrative Specialist Program
Herbs also prove to be excellent for overall health. They can help the body over time be stronger and more resistant to certain conditions as well as treat the entirety of the body. Instead of treating one symptom, herbs can look for the cause and help the overall body from a holistic view.
A holistic view that looks at the overall function does not need to be at odds with Western medicine but can be interwoven with each other. Both are equally important in what they bring to the table. Western Medication utilizes a variety of synthetic drugs and procedures that sometimes can be evasive and produce side effects but in many extreme cases, these more severe responses are key, but this does not mean, less evasive and more holistic practices can be utilized.
Chinese medicine sees health as balance. Yin and Yang when mismatched or imbalanced causes illness. Balancing the inner body’s energy and functions is key. This can be accomplished via herbs, or other alternative practices, including acupuncture or massage. In addition, Ayurvedic medicine of India looks not just to eliminate symptoms but to restore balance to the body and treat the entirety of mind body and spirit. This philosophy is indeed correct. Balance of body systems and finding root causes of issues is critical for long term health.
With these things in mind, this blog will look at a few herbs that can help with basic issues. Again, these herbs are best used for mild conditions and always under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Self treating and utilizing herbs without direction can be dangerous and lead to side effects if on other medications. It can also cause issues if uses too much or too little over a certain period of time. Some herbs require strict adherence to when to take it and how long to take it , as well as if to take it with food or not. Hence it is important to remember that when utilizing herbs, one listen and follow directions to achieve maximum results and safety.
Various herbs with time held success are sometimes under valued by Western medicine. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic Integrative Specialist Certification
Anxiety is one of the most common mental issues. Anxiety is due to stress but is an over reaction to stress. It can exist also when the stressor is no longer present and cause worry and fear when no issues exist. Most Western doctors may prescribe a variety anti depressants such as Luvox, Prozac or Zoloft. Others may prescribe benzodiazepines. Overprescription of these drugs for mild anxiety is unfortunate when herbs that are more holistic and mild on the body exist.
Kava is the natural anxiety reliever. Kava reduces anxiety, improves functioning and has no addictive properties. Most take 100 to 250 mg three times daily to deal with anxiety, however long term use of Kava can is not good for the body. Kava should not be combined with any benzodiazepines. This natural remedy derived from the Pepper Trees of Fiji and South Pacific Islands should be the first choice for mild anxiety before any hard synthetic medications.
Hypericum or St John’s Wort is another effective herb against anxiety and as well as depression. Again, when utilized for mild episodes, this herb can prove to be beneficial but should only be applied under professional supervision. This herb possesses at its very substance extracts that can enhance three neurotransmitters in the brain, namely serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. It also lowers cortisol. The herb takes 4 to 6 weeks to start to take effect and any lowering of doses on synthetic drugs should be withdrawn only at the supervision of a healthcare professional as one looks to replace synthetic with herbal treatment.
Anxiety creates a tense state. It causes the adrenal glands to produce adrenaline and cortisol which in turns increases blood pressure, heart rate and muscle tension. These reactions are necessary during fight or flight but can cause long term issues. Activating a calmer state, or the para sympathetic nervous system is key. Hence, many look to sedative to find a more relaxed state. The herb Valerian plays a key role in helping people find that natural relaxed states without the synthetic side effects. Valerian Can help one sleep, reduce anxiety and nightmares and reduce the need of sleeping pills. Chamomile also like Valerian can help one find relaxation and sleep and is commonly used as a tea.
Chronic stress kills and those seeking a better life style against stress look to a variety of ways to negate its negative effects. Meditation and other stress management strategies are important but also herbs can play a key role in helping manage stress and strengthening the body. Adaptogens are types of herbs that can help the body fight chronic stress and maintain overall health that stress eventually deteriorates. As an Adaptogens, herbs must meet three requirements. First, they must be harmless over long term use. Second, they must increase resistance to stress and third, it increases mental and physical performance. It helps balance give overall holistic health.
Fitting this description is Ginseng. Ginseng has a long time reputation for anti aging. Ginseng is also key in improving oxygen and blood sugar metabolism and immune function. Ginseng also helps lower cholesterol and can help prevent heart attacks. It helps stimulate the adrenal gland and cortisol functions that are burned out due to stress. Ginseng hence is not good for those suffering from anxiety. Asian Ginseng is the strongest of the Ginsengs are recommended for older individuals, while American Ginseng is meant for younger individuals who are over worked or burned out. American Ginseng is considered “cooler” on the body.
Aging is an issue for everyone. Organs and physical functions cease to work as well as we get older but herbs can play a key role. Ginseng as shown plays a role in helping one age, but also in Chinese medicine, Ginkgo. Ginkgo is derived from some of the oldest trees on earth remaining unchanged in China for thousands of years. Ginkgo helps blood flow to the brain and has many properties that help the restore functions to the nervous system. Studies have shown it help minimize effects of Alzheimer Disease. Ginkgo hence is great for the mind and memory.
Herbs are can play a key role in one’s long term health if used properly. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic Nursing Program
A holistic view on life with herbs and other alternative practices is becoming more mainstream everyday. Double blind studies have been done with all the herbs discussed above with promising conclusions. The history of these herbs have never been doubted but when tested via empirical scientific methods, they still prove the test of time. They, as in Europe, should be utilized more in the United States. Western medicine should not feel threatened by alternative health views or application of other herbs or strategies. They can only complement Western medicine and help for a better fullness of life for all.
If you would like to learn more about holistic medicine or would like to earn a Holistic Integrative Specialist Certification, then please review the program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as Holistic Integrative Specialist. Most who enter are nurses or healthcare professionals who look to harmonize Eastern and Western ideals in medicine and help others make wise choices in utilizing the benefits of Holistic Medicine.
It is extremely important to find trained healthcare professionals in this field to help guide individuals who are seeking cures or better ways of life through herbs or other alternative therapies. Guidance is key to protect the patient and give them the proper and professional guidance in understanding how these herbs work in unison with Western methods.
Losing weight is difficult. It takes determination and effort. Diet and exercise are fundamental but herbs can help but one needs to understand the reality of herbs. Holistic care encompasses overall health. It is preventative in nature and accepts a life style change. Utilizing herbs though can be dangerous without professional guidance for weight loss.
Weight Loss and Herbs can work if used properly and under guidance. Please also review AIHCPs’ Holistic Integrative Specialist Program
The article, “Is It Safe To Use Herbal Weight Loss Supplements?” from the Cleveland Clinic reviews the use of some herbs for weight loss. The article states,
“While many products out there suggest that they can help you lose weight fast, they can also come with a slew of health concerns. If you need help with starting your weight loss journey, talk to your provider. They can steer you in the right direction and help you find a program that is safe and effective.”
Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic Integrative Specialist Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Holistic Nursing or Holistic Care.
