Western vs Eastern Medicine“Healing is a question of time, but sometimes also a question of opportunity. Therefore medical practice must not depend primarily on plausible theories but on experience combined with reason” Hippocrates Spirituality is not limited to any religious denomination nor is it limited to the pursuit of knowledge. It is, however, the foundations of Eastern and Western medicine in their approach to health and well-being. Medicine and religion can be found linked together in some early civilizations. Diets were believed to cause ailments and sometimes hinder treatment. Illness was seen as the work of a supernatural force bestowed upon transgressors as punishment. To avoid the burden of caring for the disabled, they were often killed. The use of herbs and spells were used as treatment. The History of Western Medicine Western medicine began after World War II in the nineteenth century. Its roots developed in ancient Greece and Egypt. The Greek physician Hippocrates, known as the “father of medicine,” believed that the key to good health was moderation. His affirmation of medical ethics is the basis of the Hippocratic Oath taken by doctors today. Cruz II Some of the contributors to the development of medicine as we know it today include Aristotle, Plato, Servetus, Harvey, and Pastuer. The History of Oriental Medicine Oriental medicine is rooted in traditional culture dating back over 3,000 years. The doctors were divided into four departments: Dietetics (food and drink hygiene); Diseases (internal medicine); Sores (external medicine); and veterinarian. The medicinal materials used consisted of herbs, minerals and animals. Ancient texts show evidence of acupuncture with stone needles; and references to disease... half of the document... me. The limitations and disadvantages of Western drugs are high costs, limited access and side effects that do not address all factors. The problem is masked by quick fixes with laboratory-made medicines that could cause further harm. Advances in chemistry, genetics, and laboratory technology demonstrate that Western medicine is most effective in trauma care and emergency medicine. Eastern medicine is all natural and has no dangerous side effects. The healing process takes longer, but the overall results can often be longer lasting. The cost of treatment is substantially less, but most are not yet recognized as healthcare by insurance companies, so they are not covered. Eastern medicine does not replace conventional healthcare but, thanks to the composition of the scientific knowledge of Western medicine and the holistic approach of Eastern medicine, we could actually maximize our healing potential.