Systems of Medicine | Types of Medicine Systems

Systems of Medicine

        We have considered modern system of medicine above. We have also seen when other systems are useful. Now let us acquire some knowledge about different systems of medicine.

1. Modern system of medicine (Allopathy):

        This system is universally accepted. Since it is based on logic and is transparent it is considered scientific all over the world. It is used widely. As and when new researches are done, technology developed, the system absorbs the changes.

        It is, therefore, progressive. It accepts proper knowledge from other systems also and digests it.

        In spite of all these, other systems are in use because of reasons stated earlier.

2. Ayurveda:

        This is the oldest system of medicine. Due to paucity of scientific research it has become stale. Various plants supplied by nature can be put to wonderful uses.

        This system is desirable for those who are not in a hungry, taking into considered long term advantages and the fact that there is no effective remedy in other systems.

        Even though Ayurveda is a suitable system for our country, its use is limited.

The main reasons are as under:

a. The caliber of medical practitioners of this system is so uneven that it is difficult to know who is a genuine specialist.

b. Articles in periodicals are often half truths or exaggerated claims.

c. Ayurveda practitioner imposes a variety of restrictions. In to-day's circumstances perhaps they are not necessary.

d. There is no control over quality of Ayurvedic medicines prepared by various pharmacies.

        In reality, the system can become more acceptable to people by proper changes based on modern researches.

3. Homeopathy:

        Based on the principle "Poison cuts poison" this system is 200 years old. Medicines are prescribed based on symptoms of the patient. The quantity of medicines is very small. Its great plus point is absence of side effects.

        Ordinally it is not understood how the medicine works. But it brings about results, therefore people use it. There are several intractable diseases which can be successfully treated by homeopathy.

4. Naturopathy:

        It is based on the principle that natural therapy is more beneficial and less harmful than artificial therapy. The treatment is performed by the use of natural substances as earth, water, raw grains, fomentation etc. There are many establishments using this system of treatment, yet it has failed to attract common man.

5. Unani:

        This is also an old system of medicine. It is more prevalent in Uttar Pradesh. In other States Hakims use it at some places. It also uses vegetable products extensively. In some diseases Yakuti of Unani system brings about good results.