The modern medicine vs. traditional medicine debate has been going on for centuries, but we are finally getting some answers. The modern medical system is based on scientific evidence and research that modern doctors undergo to become licensed practitioners. Traditional medicine is the term used to describe a treatment that predates modern Western medicines, such as acupuncture treatments that use needles to address ailments.
Despite the distinctions between the two, a lot of people still confuse modern medicine with traditional medicine. Some people also argue that one is better than the other.
It can be hard to know which approach is better. Modern medicine has been around for a long time, and some people have only ever experienced modern medicine. Many people are also skeptical of traditional medications because they aren’t as well studied or regulated as modern medicine.
Modern Medicine
Modern medicine uses evidence-based research to make decisions about which treatments work best and how they should be used. It also includes modern techniques and pharmaceutical drugs.
Modern medicine is the standard for treating people in Westernized countries, but modern medicine isn’t always available to everyone around the world. The advantages of modern medicine include the following:
- Modern medicine is easy to access in most areas — This is because modern medicine is usually available at hospitals and doctor’s offices, while traditional treatments are not always accessible.
- Modern medicine has more research behind it — Modern techniques have been tested thoroughly before they were implemented in Westernized countries. This means that modern treatments typically don’t cause as many risks or side effects as traditional medical practices.
- Modern medicine can treat specific current problems — Modern medical treatments can cure physical injuries and help with psychological issues such as depression or anxiety.
- Modern medicine is always available — When people need current medical treatment, modern medicine is available and accessible. People can go to hospitals or other healthcare institutions, and modern medicine will be provided.
- Modern medicine is more accepted and mainstream — People understand modern medicine better compared to traditional medicine. Therefore, people have accepted modern medicine more compared to traditional medicine. A lot of people trust modern medicine more compared to traditional medicine.
Traditional Medicine
Traditional medicines are based on the knowledge of ancient cultures, which may not have had access to scientific methods for testing their medical theories or practices. However, traditional medicine helped many people who suffered from terrible diseases for centuries, especially when modern medicine was not introduced yet.
Traditional medicine is based on spirituality, which is different from modern medicine that requires scientific methods to test their medical theories. Traditional treatments are based on the idea of religious rituals and spiritual practices. The advantages of traditional medicine are the following:
- Traditional medicine is cheaper — Traditional medicine is more affordable than modern medicine because the materials used are mostly natural and can be found in your backyard. They also do not require expensive laboratory equipment. Preparations generally include grinding, heating, and cooking.
- Traditional medicine has been around for a long time — Traditional medicines have been around for centuries, and modern medicine is only a hundred years old. So, traditional medicine has had time to perfect its skills because it was tested on thousands of people over many decades. On the other hand, modern medicine must undergo clinical trials to prove that its treatments are safe and effective.
- Traditional medicines do not have as many side effects as modern medicine — Side effects associated with modern drugs are so common that they often receive coverage in the media. However, traditional treatments do not usually have extreme side effects because they are made from natural ingredients. Therefore, traditional medicines are considered safer than modern medicines.
Which is Better?
Even though modern medicine has to undergo clinical trials, modern medicine still has more evidence that it is safe and effective than traditional medicines. However, traditional medicines are still helpful and have been used for hundreds of years. They are made from natural ingredients, so they do not cause as many side effects or drug interactions compared to modern medicines.
It is up to people to decide which treatment is right for them. Each type of medicine has its own benefits and disadvantages, so people should take the time to learn about modern medicines and traditional medicines before deciding which one they would like to use.
People are responsible for making their choices which means that people have to learn about modern medicine and traditional medicine. People need to consider the pros and cons of each one so that they can make an informed decision.
