Why Complementary?

com-ple-men-ta-ry
date: 1829
The adjective form of the word “complement” to enhance, or augment something to form a satisfactory or balanced whole
(spelling often confused with “com-pli-men-ta-ry”, meaning free)

health
date: before 12th century
the general condition of the body and mind, especially freedom from physical disease or pain

Over the centuries every culture has developed its own system of treating illness - for example, surgery and pharmacology form the basis of modern “conventional” western medicine, which tends to focus on treating specific illnesses and their symptoms.

Complementary medicine provides another dimension to what we think of as conventional medicine by taking a broader view encompassing diet, lifestyle and temperament, amongst others. No one system of medicine has the whole answer to every medical problem, but different systems can complement each other.

The capacity of the body to heal itself is often underestimated. Complementary medicine aims to encourage this, but is not about short-term health. It is also a form of preventative medicine. By helping the body to reach a natural balance in all health areas, problems may be detected and treated at an earlier stage making it less susceptible to illness and disease.