Different Systems of Medical Treatment

Law > Medical Jurisprudence > Different Systems of Medical Treatment

India has a rich heritage of medical  wisdom derived from the Vedas that prevailed as Ayurveda. This was further enriched by the ancient Saints (Rishi’s) with Siddha system and Yoga practices. These were the principal medical practices of the country for centuries, forming part of Indian ethos and culture. Unani Tibb that was known from period of Hippocrates came to India during 8th Century A D. Subsequently, the Western medicine that is based on biomedical concepts, commonly known as Allopathy, came to India and also got assimilated into the Indian  medical practice.  Homeopathy, a system developed in Germany in 18th century quickly gained popularity and has got blended with the Indian traditional medical practices due to similarity in its holistic medical philosophy and principles.  Naturopathy, a drug less system of healthy living practices   of all civilizations got organized and also become part of the medical pluralism of the country. Thus, there evolved a unique medical paradigm with traditional practices along with the Bio medicine.  After Independence, the Government   started supporting all the medical systems for their growth, thereby offering the public a choice for their routine health care need.  Because of this as now there are public patronage and institutional support to widen the strength of these systems in curative, preventive, promotive aspects of health care. In this article, we shall study different systems of medical treatment used in India.

AYUSH Mantralaya:

AYUSH is the acronym of the medical systems that are being practiced in India such as Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. These systems are based on definite medical philosophies and represent a way of healthy living with established concepts on prevention of diseases and promotion of health. The basic approach of all these systems on health, disease and treatment are holistic.  Because of this, there is a resurgence of interest on   AYUSH systems.  A separate ministry was created for AYUSH in 2014.

Medical Systems Available in India:

Different systems of medical treatment available in India are as follows:

Ayurveda:

Ayurveda often referred as “the mother of all healing”, is an ancient Indian system of healing. It is 5000 to 10000 years old. It is a system of preventive, promotive and curative healthcare. Reference of this system can be seen in the Rigveda and the Atharva Veda. “Ayur” means life and “veda” means “knowledge”, thus “Ayurveda” means knowledge of life. Major books on this system are Charak Sanhita and Sushruta Sanhita. This system has holistic approach of treating the patient. The medicines are mainly plant based.

Diagnosis in Ayurveda takes in the form of general physical examination, involving examination of the pulse, tongue, eyes, vein sans faeces. Regulation of diet as a therapy plays an important role in Ayurvedic treatment.

“Charak Sanhita” is a massive compilation containing several chapters on therapeutic and internal medicine. It contains reference to more than six hundred types of medications of plant, animal, and mineral origin. This collection is believed to date back to 400 – 200 BC and is the oldest and most important authorative text on this system of medicine. There is no confirmation whether it was the work of one scholar called Charak or a compilation made by a group of scholars who were followers of Charak. This compilation is in Sanskrit and is in poetic style. Its translation in English was made by P. V. Sharma and has been published in four volumes.

 “Sushrut Sanhita” is an ancient scholarly work dedicated to surgery. In the whole world this is the oldest compilation on surgery. The book s written in the sixth century B.C. by an ancient Ayurvedic scholar “Sushruta”.

The book contains descriptions of surgical procedures which are relevant even today. Modern surgeons get marveled at the achievements of surgeons in ancient India. This book convers various fields like anatomy, toxicology, embryology, and therapeutics. It has chapters on dissection and operative procedures, which are explained with reference to dead animals and plants. This book contains detailed procedures relating to the reconstruction of a fractured nose and broken ear lobe. Hence many claims origin of Plastic Surgery can be traced to this book.  It explained 101 type of blunt and 21 types of sharp surgical instruments like scalpels, forceps, specula, etc.

Doctrine of Ayurveda:

Body is made up of Pancha Mahabhootas: Prithvi (earth), Jal (water), Agni (fire), Vayu (air) and Akash (ether). There are three doshas in the body: Tridosha: the Vata (ether + air), Pitta (fire) and Kapha (earth + water) and Trigunas: the Satva, Rajas and Tamas, which are the psychological properties

Any imbalance in above factors due to internal and external factors causes disease and restoring equilibrium through various techniques, procedures, regimes, diet and medicine constitute treatment. Over the years, Kshar Sutra and Panchakarma therapies of Ayurveda have become very popular among the public.

Ayurveda believes that positive health is the basis for attaining four cherished goals of life (chaturvidh purushartha) viz., Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha. All these four goals cannot be achieved without sound positive health. Positive health is defined as

• Dosha Dhatu samya (well balanced metabolism)
• Prasanna Atma, Indriya, Manah (happy state of the soul, senses and the mind).

Senses here mean the five organs of perception Gyanendriya viz., smell, taste, sight, touch, and hearing coupled with the organs of action – Karmendriya viz., mouth, hands, foot and organs of excretion and reproduction.

Homeopathy:

The systematic foundation of Homeopathic techniques was made by German physician Dr, Samuel Hahnemann. The word homeopathy is derived from two greek words, ‘homois’ means similar and ‘pathos’ means sufferings. Homeopathy is based on following three principles:

• The Law of Similars: Main principle is Similia Similibus Curantur meaning likes are cure by likes or likes be treated by likes.
• The Law of Minimum Dosage: In Homeopathy patient is given minimum dose so that toxic effect of dose can be eliminated. The dose is to stimulate internal immune system.
• The Law of Single Remedy: Homeopathy will try to treat patient by using single remedy, which is the most similar to the symptoms shown by the patient.

Homeopathy adopts holistic approach towards the patient. Hence Homeopathy may give two different medicines to two different patients suffering from the same problem. Homeopathy uses animal, plant, mineral and synthetic substances in the preparation of medicines.

Similia similibus curantur’ is a phrase coined by Dr Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of homoeopathy. Its meaning is likes are cure by likes or likes be treated by likes. Nearly 180 years ago, he did an experiment with a drug decoction made from the bark of the cinchona tree, known for its curative properties in the treatment of malaria. He drank the decoction, though he was healthy, and developed the symptoms of malaria. This made him believe that a drug which possesses the property of curing an ailment can create symptoms of the disease n a healthy person who takes the drug in large doses. So he proposed that those substances which can cause certain symptoms in a normal person can cure a sick person suffering from the same symptoms f administered in a proper form. For example if arsenic is consumed by a healthy person he gets symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea. Now, if a person suffering from vomiting or diarrhoea is treated with diluted for of arsenic gets cured from those symptoms.

Hypothesis: One can select therapies on the basis of how closely symptoms produced by a remedy match the symptoms of the patient’s disease.  This system is based on the belief that one’s body has the power to heal itself. 

Hahnemann developed his treatments for sick patients by matching the symptoms produced by a drug to symptoms in sick patients. Homeopathic Dosages are given in very small amount to avoid side effects. Hence due to potentially nonexistent material dosages, there is a priori skepticism in the scientific community about its efficacy.

The Law of Similars:

This law is the first principle of Homeopathy. This law is the principle of Similia Similibus Curentur i.e. let likes be treated by likes. Law of Similars teaches that every homoeopathic remedy experimentally observed to have certain properties of producing a set of symptoms on healthy human beings and when these symptoms. matches with a natural disease, it act as therapeutic agent and help the body to correct the disorder.

As per this concept, the symptoms produced by the substance during the drug proving are the signature of that drug. Therefore, in strict sense, this signature of the drug is the one and only one that qualify into the principle of Similia Similbus Curentur. This is the most important concept in Homoeopathy.

Quinine (derived from Cinchona bark) given in daily doses to a healthy person can cause symptoms similar to malaria fever. Indeed, the Cinchona Officinalis, a homoeopathy medicine prepared from cinchona bark, is curative in many patients with similar symptoms.

The Law of Minimum Dosage:

The similar remedy selected for a sick person should be prescribed in minimum dose, so that when administered, there is no toxic effect on the body. It just acts as a triggering or catalytic agent to stimulate and strengthen the existing defence mechanism of the body. It does not need to be repeated frequently. The method of drug dynamization or potentization achieved, not only the reduction of drug quantity in each dose of homoeopathic medicine, but also the dynamic power gets increased progressively. This aspect of homoeopathy and the method discovered by Hahnemann 200 years before is to be only evaluated by new researches and studies which are now underway in nanoscience.

The Law of Single Remedy

Only one homeopathic medicine should be prescribed at a time and directs to choose and administer such a single remedy, which is most similar to the symptoms of the sick person. In homeopathy, the drug proving to ascertaining the curative property of a drug is done with a single remedy derived from a single source – primarily plant, mineral or chemical. This rule helps to avoid confusing and potentially complex remedy interactions.

Homeopathic remedies are used by the public for viral diseases, different forms of allergic conditions, skin disorders, behavioral problems and several chronic long term diseases.Its strength also lies in its effectiveness on certain clinical conditions for which there is less treatment in other medical systems. This medicine is used as a standalone treatment for various women and children diseases, hormonal disorders, pain and palliative care, infertility  and so on. Similarly it is used as an adjunct/ adjuvant in Cancer, COPD, Diabetes and its complications. In preventive care, Homeopathic medicines are used on a unique concept of Genus epidemicus.The strength of Homeopathy in promotive health is its constitutional and anti-miasmaticapproach.

Acupuncture:

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a complete system of healing that dates back to 200 B.C. in written form. Acupuncture is TCM. Acupuncture is a form of treatment that involves inserting very thin needles through a person’s skin at specific points on the body, to various depths. There is no scientific proof that the meridians or acupuncture points exist, and it is hard to prove that they either do or do not, but numerous studies suggest that acupuncture works for some conditions.

Acupuncture points are seen as places where nerves, muscles, and connective tissue can be stimulated. The stimulation increases blood flow, while at the same time triggering the activity of the body’s natural painkillers. It is useful in low back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, knee pain, headache and migraine

Doctrine of Acupuncture

Traditional Chinese medicine explains that health is the result of a harmonious balance of the complementary extremes of “yin” and “yang” of the life force known as “qi,” pronounced “chi.” Illness is said to be the consequence of an imbalance of the forces. It is believed that there are 14 meridians in the human body, through which bioenergy or bioelectricity flows. It is assumed that one end of each meridian lies in hand, leg, or face and the other end in the organ to it is connected. By puncturing balance is obtained. Some studies have concluded that acupuncture offers similar benefits to a patient as a placebo, but others have indicated that there are some real benefits.

Acupressure:

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a complete system of healing that dates back to 200 B.C. in written form. Acupuncture is TCM. Acupressure is a form of treatment that involves applying pressure at specific points on the body, to various depths. There is no scientific proof that the meridians or acupressure points exist, and it is hard to prove that they either do or do not, but numerous studies suggest that acupressure works for some conditions.

Acupressure points are seen as places where nerves, muscles, and connective tissue can be stimulated. The stimulation increases blood flow, while at the same time triggering the activity of the body’s natural painkillers.

The doctrine of acupressure and acupressure is the same. The difference is that in acupuncture needles are used while in acupressure fingers are used to press certain points on the patient’s body by pressing the point gently but firm. It is useful in insomnia, headache, menstrual cramps, motion sickness, muscle tension and pain, nausea or vomiting, stress management

Hypnosis or Mesmerism:

Hypnosis is a trance-like mental state in which people experience increased attention, concentration, and suggestibility. While hypnosis is often described as a sleep-like state, it is better expressed as a state of focused attention, heightened suggestibility, and vivid fantasies.

18th century with Franz Mesmer, a German physician who used hypnosis in the treatment of patients in Vienna and Paris. English physician James Braid studied the phenomenon and coined the terms hypnotism and hypnosis, after the Greek god of sleep, Hypnos. There are many misconception about hypnosis. Before hypnosis session, a consent of client must be taken.

Reiki

Reiki is spiritual life force energy that is directed by higher consciousness. The wisdom of higher consciousness guides energy in support of life and spiritual evolution.  It is potentially inclusive of all philosophical and religious systems of belief. Mikao Usui, a Japanese scholar, is considered as the founder of this system of healing. Lama Tséwang Rikdzen developed it further.

Benefits of Reiki include: decreases Pain, reduces stress & promotes relaxation, assists the body in eliminating toxins, balances energy flow throughout the body, brings comfort and peace to those who are terminally ill, promotes health & well-being, enhances and accelerates the normal healing processes of the body. It is useful in treatment of backache, arthritis, headaches, migraines, mental tension.

Aromatherapy:

Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that uses natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being. Sometimes it’s called essential oil therapy. Aromatherapy uses aromatic essential oils medicinally to improve the health of the body, mind, and spirit. Essential oils have been used for nearly 6,000 years, with the aim of improving a person’s health or mood. It enhances both physical and emotional health.

Before doing aromatherapy allergy test must be done. After noting patient’s history, the therapist prepares a mixture of essential oils which are best suited to the patient’s condition. Therapy is administered by vapourizers or inhalation. It is useful in treatment of high and low blood pressure, burns, insomnia, muscular pain, and skin ailment.

Bach Flower Therapy:

Edward Bach, a medical doctor and homeopath, created these remedies in the early 1900s. Homeopathy is the belief that the body can cure itself. It uses small amounts of natural substances like plants and minerals to treat the body or mind. The idea behind Bach flower remedies is similar to homeopathy. But they use fewer materials and don’t work directly on physical symptoms, but instead on the emotions.

According to the emotional issue or issues at the root of patient’s problem a remedy of one flower or mix several together is selected. The extraction of these flowers is extremely diluted and administered orally to the patient. It is useful in treatment of mental illness, tension, feeling of panic

Yoga:

Derived from the Sanskrit word ‘yuj’ which means ‘to unite or integrate’, yoga is a 5,000-year-old Indian body of knowledge. Yoga is all about harmonizing the body with the mind and breath through the means of various breathing exercises, yoga poses (asanas), mudras (hand positions) and meditation (dhyana).

There are eight limbs of yoga namely, Yam, Niyam, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dhara, Dhyana, Samadhi. Maharishi Patanjali who is regarded as the Father of Yoga, compiled in his book called “Patanjali Yog Sutra”. Most of the Asnas work on the principle of stretching a body. June, 21 every year is celebrated as the International Yoga day

Yoga is an Art and Science of healthy living. It is a spiritual discipline based on an extremely subtle science, which focuses on bringing harmony between mind and body. The holistic approach of Yoga is well established and it brings harmony in all walks of life and thus, known for disease prevention, promotion of health and management of many lifestyle –related disorders. Today, Yoga is popular across the globe, not just because of its efficacy in the management of some diseases, but also of its strength in providing relief to the practitioner, from mental and emotional distress and providing a feeling of well-being. Hence, now-a-days Yoga is being practiced as part of healthy life style across the globe.

Naturopathy:

According to the manifesto of British Naturopathic Association, “Naturopathy is a system of treatment which recognizes the existence of the vital curative force within the body.” It therefore, advocates aiding human system to remove the cause of disease i.e. toxins by expelling the unwanted and unused matters from human body for curing diseases. Dr. Vincent Priessnitz who lived in 19^th century is widely regarded as the Father of Naturopathy.

Naturopathy is an art and science of healthy living and a drug less system, It has its own concept of health and disease and also principle of treatment. In today’s age, Naturopathy is Recognized and well accepted as an independent System of medicine. Naturopathy advocates aiding human system to remove the cause of disease i.e. toxins by expelling the unwanted and unused matters from human body for curing diseases. Nature is the greatest healer. The human body itself has the healing power to prevent itself from disease and regain health if unhealthy.

In Naturopathy, it is not the disease but the entire body of the patient which is caused and is renewed. Naturopathy cures patients suffering from chronic ailments in comparatively less time than any other form of medicine. Naturopathy treats all the aspects like physical, mental, social and spiritual at the same time. Naturopathy treats the body as a whole. According to Naturopathy, “Food is only the Medicine”, no external medications are used.

Some important treatments of naturopathy are: Mud pack, Mud Bath, Spinal Bath, Spinal Spray Bath, Steam Bath, Sauna Bath, Sun Bath, Wet Sheet Pack, Chest Pack, Abdomen Pack, Magnet Therapy, Acupuncture, Acupressure, Reflexology, Physiotherapy Treatments – Exercise Therapy and Electro Therapy. Naturopathic doctors treat their patients holistically i.e. taking into consideration their individual biochemistry, bio mechanics and emotional predispositions.

Doctrine of Naturopathy

The human body is endowed with sufficient defence mechanisms to cure itself and dugs are totally unnecessary, and often harmful. Identify and remove obstacles to recovery, allow for natural healing. Rather than stopping symptoms, underlying physical or mental issues must be resolved by treating the body, mind, and spirit. Treatment plans should not have harmful side effects or control symptoms negatively. Treat all aspects of a person’s health effectively. Direct treatment towards a whole person than to specific part of body. Teach self-care to help and empower people against ill health. It is good to remove toxic substances from a lifestyle to prevent problems from arising.

Magnet Therapy:

It is an ancient form of treatment and can be used in acute as well as chronic illness without any side effects. It decreases blood pressure and cholesterol level and can be used in treatment of muscle pain, joint pain, headaches, back pain, insomnia. This treatment should not be used with patient who are pregnant or fitted with pace maker and insulin pump.

It is used in form of magnetic belts, bracelets, necklace. Scientific studies on human subjects have failed to show the efficacy of using magnets to treat pain or joint and muscle stiffness. 

Doctrine of Magnet Therapy

Dr. William Gilbert of England propounded that the earth itself is a magnet and it exerts magnetic field on individual. Magnetic field therapy uses different kinds of magnets on the body to help boost your overall health and to help treat certain conditions. The doctrine behind therapy is ”Human body naturally has magnetic and electric fields. All the molecules in the human body have a small amount of magnetic energy in them. The illness is nothing but imbalance in magnetic fields of the human body. By keeping magnets near body, this imbalance in magnetic field in the body can be removed”.

Emchi (Sowa-Rig-pa):

It is the traditional medicine of many parts of the Himalayan region used mainly by the Tribal and bhot people. Sowa-Rig-pa (BodhKyi) means ‘science of healing’ and the practitioners of this medicine are known as Amchi. It provide a holistic approach to health care on the basis of harmony and understanding of human being and universe i.e. the environment. In India, this system of medicine has been popularly practiced in Ladakh and Paddar-Pangay regions of Jammu and Kashmir, Lahul-spiti, Pangi, Dhramshala and Kinnar region of Himachal Pradesh, Uttrakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Darjeeling-Kalingpong (West Bengal).

According to the Amchi system, proper alignment of the three Dosha, seven body Tissue (seven Dhatus) and three excretory products (Malas) in the state of equilibrium constitutes a healthy body. Any disequilibrium in any of these energies leads to disease or ill-health.

The diagnostic techniques in Sowa-Rigpa include visual observation, touch and interrogation. For treatment of health problems, the system makes use of herbs, minerals, animal products, spring and mineral water, moxibustion mysticism and spiritual power. The medicines are used usually in the form of decoctions, powders, pills and syrups etc. Mantra and tantra components are also very important of Sowa-rig-pa.

Unani Tibb:

Unani-tibb or Unani Medicine is a form of traditional medicine practiced in Middle- East and South-Asian countries. It refers to a tradition of Graeco-Arabic medicine, which is based on the teachings of Greek physician Hippocrates and Roman physician Galen and developed into an elaborate medical system in middle age era by Arabian and Persian physicians, such as Rhazes (al-Razi), Avicenna (Ibn-e-Sina), Al-Zahrawi, and Ibn Nafis.

It originated in Greece almost 2500 years back, which is herbo- animo- mineral in origin (Approximately 90% herbal, 4-5% animal and 5-6 % mineral). It is not only the original science of medicine but also a rich store house of principles and philosophies of medicine which can be of immense value to the medicine in particular and science in general. It is a comprehensive medical system, which meticulously deals with the various states of health and disease. It provides promotive, preventive, curative and rehabilitative healthcare. 

Unani system of medicine is a comprehensive medical system, which provides preventive, promotive, curative and rehabilitative health care. The system is holistic in nature and takes into account the whole personality of an individual rather than taking a reductionist approach towards disease. The fundamentals, diagnosis and treatment modalities of the system are based on scientific principles.

The thrust areas of Unani medicine include; skin diseases, liver disorders, non-communicable diseases including life style diseases, metabolic & geriatric diseases and menstrual / gynaecological disorders etc.

Doctrine of Unani-Tibb Therapy

The basic framework of this system is based on the Hippocratic theory of four Humours, according to which any disturbance in the equilibrium of humours causes disease and therefore the treatment aims at restoring the humoral equilibrium.

The system also believes that Medicatrix Naturae (Tabiat Mudabbira-i Badan) is the supreme power, which controls all the physiological functions of the body, provides resistance against diseases and helps in healing naturally. Temperament (Mizaj) of a patient is given great importance both in diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Unani system of medicine described four mode of treatment viz., Ilaj-bil-Tadbir (Regimenal Therapy), Ilaj-bil-Ghidha (Dietotherapy), Ilaj-bilDawa (Pharmacotherapy) and Ilaj-bil-Yad (Surgery).

Siddha Therapy:

It is 5000 year old system of medicines. It is based on the similar principles of Ayurveda. The word “siddha” means “achievement” and practitioner of this system of treatment were called “Siddhars”. This system is said to be developed by many Siddhars. Agatsya was the first Siddhar. It is mostly practiced in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu. April 14 is celebrated as World Siddha Day.

The Siddha system of medicine is mainly practised in the Southern part of India. It is one of the earliest traditional medicine systems in the world which treats not only the body but also the mind and the soul. The word Siddha has its origin in the Tamil word Siddhi which means “an object to be attained” or “perfection” or “heavenly bliss”. India being the birth place of many traditional philosophies also gave birth to Siddha. The roots of this system are intertwined with the culture of ancient Tamil civilization.

“Siddhargal” or Siddhars were the premier scholars of this system in ancient times. Siddhars, mainly hailing from Tamil Nadu laid the foundation for Siddha system of medicine. Hence, it is called Siddha medicine. Siddhars were spiritual masters who possessed the ashta (eight) siddhis or unique powers. Agastyar or Agasthya, is believed to be the founding father of Siddha Medicine. Eighteen Siddhars are considered to be pillars of Siddha Medicine. Siddha medicine is claimed to revitalize and rejuvenate dysfunctional organs that cause the disease. Kayakarpam, a special combination of medicine and life style, Varmam therapy, Vaasi (Pranayamam) and Muppu the universal Salt are the specialities of Siddha system of medicine. Thus this system connects both spiritual and physical and treats the person as a whole i.e. it concentrates the physical, psychological, social and spiritual well being of an individual.

This system treats the individual as a microcosm of the universe. It believes that the human body is made up of five tatvas or elements namely: earth, water, air, fire, and space. It considers food as basic building block of human body, which gets processed into humors, tissues and waste matter. The equilibrium of humors contribute to the health of a person and its imbalance or disturbance leads to disease. It puts emphasis on the body, mind, and spirit and work for harmony of the human body. It is particularly effective in allergy, skin problems, arthritis, and general debility.

The Siddha system of Medicine emphasizes on the patient, environment, age, sex, race, habits, mental frame work, habitat, diet, appetite, physical condition, physiological constitution of the diseases for its treatment which is individualistic in nature Diagnosis of diseases are done through examination of pulse, urine, stool, eyes, skin, study of voice, colour of body, tongue and status of the digestion of individual patients.

System has unique treasure for the conversion of metals and minerals as drugs and many infective diseases are treated with the medicines containing specially processed mercury, silver, arsenic, lead and sulphur without any side effects.

The strength of the Siddha system lies in providing very effective therapy in the case of Psoriasis, Rheumatic disorders, Chronic liver disorders, Benign prostate hypertrophy, bleeding piles, peptic ulcer including various kinds of Dermatological disorders of non psoriatic nature.

Doctrine of Siddha Therapy

According to the Siddha system, the individual is a microcosm of the universe. The human body consists of the five primordial elements-earth,  water, fire, air and space, the three humours-vatha, pitta and kapha and seven physical constituents. Food is the basic building material of  the human body and gets processed into humours, tissues and wastes. The equilibrium of humours is considered as health and its disturbance or  imbalance leads to a diseased state.

Treatment is aimed at restoring balance to the mind-body system. Diet and lifestyle play a major role not only in maintaining health but also in curing diseases. This concept of the Siddha medicine is termed as pathiam and apathiam, which is essentially a list of do’s and don’ts.

Allopathy:

The system of medical practice which treats disease by the use of remedies which produce effects different from those produced by the disease under treatment. The term “allopathy” was coined in 1842 by C.F.S. Hahnemann to designate the usual practice of medicine (allopathy) as opposed to homeopathy, the system of therapy that he founded based on the concept that disease can be treated with drugs (in minute doses) thought capable of producing the same symptoms in healthy people as the disease itself.

Allopathy is also known as Biomedicine or Western Medicine. Treatment is done by medication, surgery, radiation, or and other therapies and procedures. The criticism to the system is that allopathic medicines like pills and injection do not cure disease, they merely mask the symptoms of disease.

Doctrine of Allopathy

It believes that germs, bacteria, and viruses that causes disease are destroyed when drugs and chemical agents are administered in the patient. Modern diagnostic methods like X-rays, sonography, ECG, instruments and techniques like use of radioisotopes are used. Millions of dollars are spent annually on research and development of allopathic drugs. Main drugs used include, antipyretics, antibiotics, antifungal, antibacterial, antihistamine, antifertility, narcotics, sulpha drugs, etc. Allopathy has had the most evidence-based scientific research, data collection, and drug testing. It’s also the most regulated by a neutral party like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the Indian Medical Association.

Conclusion:

The system of medicines which are considered to be Indian in origin or the systems of medicine, which have come to India from outside and got assimilated in to Indian culture are known as Indian Systems of Medicine. India has the unique distinction of having six recognized systems of medicine in this category. They are-Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Yoga, Naturopathy and Homoeopathy. Though Homoeopathy came to India in 18^th Century, it completely assimilated in to the Indian culture and got enriched like any other traditional system hence it is considered as part of Indian Systems of Medicine. Apart from these systems there are large number of healers in the folklore stream who have not been organized under any category.

In many places, the Indian Systems of Medicine continues to be widely used due to their accessibility, and sometimes, because they offer the only kind of medicine within the physical and financial reach of the patient. The Indian medicine system is also embedded in the beliefs of a wide section of the public and continues to be an integral and important part of their lives and for some, it is also a way of life.

Physicians and Their Skills:

A physician is a general term for a doctor who has earned a professional medical degree from institution recognized by Medical Council of India and who is registered with appropriate Medical Council. He should have following skills

1. Patient care. Physicians have to provide compassionate, appropriate, and effective care to promote health and treat health problems in their patients. 
2. Medical knowledge. Physicians must be experts in established and new biomedical, clinical, and cognate sciences and how to apply this knowledge to patient care.
3. Practice-based learning and improvement. Physicians must always investigate and evaluate their own care and look for ways to improve.
4. Interpersonal and communication skills. Physicians must be able to communicate effectively with patients, their families, and other health professionals.
5. Professionalism. A commitment to professionalism includes carrying out professional responsibilities, sticking to ethical principles, and being sensitive to a diverse patient population.
6. Systems-based practice. Physicians must be aware of and responsive to the larger context and system of health care. They must also be able to find and use resources to provide the best care possible.

Responsibilities of a Physician:

Physicians work to maintain, promote, and restore health by studying, diagnosing, and treating injuries and diseases. Physicians diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses. Other responsibilities include: 

• Giving advice on diet, hygiene, and preventative care
• Examining patients
• Prescribing medications
• Ordering, giving, and interpreting diagnostic tests 
• Taking and keeping medical histories

Electroencephalogram EEG:

An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test that detects electrical activity in human brain using small, metal discs (electrodes) attached to his scalp. The brain cells communicate via electrical impulses and are active all the time, even when asleep. This activity shows up as wavy lines on an EEG recording. An EEG is one of the main diagnostic tests for epilepsy. An EEG can also play a role in diagnosing other brain disorders.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a medical test that detects heart problems by measuring the electrical activity generated by the heart as it contracts. Each beat of the heart is triggered by an electrical impulse generated from special cells in upper right chamber of heart. An electrocardiogram is a painless, non-invasive way to help diagnose many common heart problems in people of all ages. It is used to determine or detect:

• Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
• If blocked or narrowed arteries in your heart (coronary artery disease) are causing chest pain or a heart attack
• Whether you have had a previous heart attack
• How well certain heart disease treatments, such as a pacemaker, are working

Radiology:

Radiology is a medical speciality that uses imaging to diagnose diseases seen within the body. It includes X-ray, Computed Tomography (CT), Nuclear medicine including positron emission tomography (PET), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Ultrasonography:

Ultrasonography uses sound waves to generate an image for assessment and diagnosis of various medical conditions. It can be used to diagnose a variety of medical conditions in the body, and is often associated with imaging during pregnancy.

For More Topics in Medical Jurisprudence Click Here