Natural Medicine

Our bodies have powers and self-healing abilities that, until a few years ago, most of us were not even aware of. Without diminishing the importance of conventional medicine, more and more people are coming to understand that natural medicine, based on the body’s own ability to heal itself, offers many benefits and can help with a range of physical and emotional conditions. In fact, natural medicine can offer answers in cases where conventional medicine has no full solution, which is one of the reasons hospitals and health funds have chosen to open complementary medicine units and make room for its benefits.

What Natural Medicine Is and Its Guiding Principles

First, as its name suggests, natural medicine uses only natural substances, such as herbal remedies, Bach flower remedies and nutritional supplements made from natural ingredients. Second, natural medicine is holistic by nature, meaning it treats the person as a whole and tries to address the root of the problem rather than just the symptom, which can help prevent the problem from recurring.

It is worth noting that natural medicine encompasses a wide range of different treatment methods, each based on somewhat different principles and approaches. What they share is a holistic view of body and mind as one system, and the belief that the body has a built-in ability to return to balance when given the right conditions to do so.

The Diagnostic Process in Natural Medicine

Like Western medicine, natural medicine relies on a preliminary diagnosis, but this diagnosis does not rely on external tools such as instruments, which in some cases can cause discomfort. Instead, the practitioner relies on observation, listening, in-depth questioning and touch, all while staying attentive to the patient and to their reactions throughout.

This kind of process makes it possible to build a broad picture of the state of the body and mind, rather than focusing only on the single complaint the patient arrives with. This allows for a personal treatment plan that takes into account the patient’s lifestyle, habits and overall health background.

Main Methods in Natural and Complementary Medicine

Under the umbrella of natural and complementary medicine, many methods are practiced, each contributing in its own way. In acupuncture, thin needles are inserted at specific points on the body to encourage the healthy flow of energy and blood. Alongside acupuncture, practitioners commonly use Tuina massage, cupping, Shiatsu and herbal medicine, with each method chosen according to the patient’s specific needs.

• Acupuncture to stimulate the flow of energy and blood in the body.
• Medical massage (Tuina) to release tension and improve mobility.
• Cupping to improve blood flow and ease pain.
• Chinese herbal medicine to support the body’s function and internal balance.

Who Is Natural Medicine Suitable For?

Natural medicine is suitable for everyone, and it can help address a wide range of physical and emotional conditions.

• Diabetes and hormonal imbalance.
• Digestive and nervous system issues.
• Skin problems and elevated blood fat levels.
• Stress, anxiety and anger.
• Fertility issues and other health conditions.

Beyond treating existing conditions, natural medicine also includes treatments aimed at strengthening the body and mind and preventing future illness, so it can serve as a tool for maintaining good health over time as well.

How to Choose a Complementary Medicine Practitioner

As with Western medicine, choosing a natural medicine practitioner carefully matters a great deal, and it is important to make sure they have the appropriate knowledge, experience and certification to provide the treatment. An informed choice of a practitioner who specializes in natural medicine will let you enjoy all the benefits it has to offer, with a sense of confidence and trust in the process.

Book a Treatment

Shai Davids, of Machat Ruach, has been guiding patients through Chinese and complementary medicine for more than twenty years, at his clinics in Ramat Gan and Jerusalem. If you would like to learn more about natural medicine and see how it can help you personally, you are welcome to get in touch and schedule a diagnostic appointment. Click here to book a treatment.