Holistic medicine is based on the principle that Nature created the human body in perfect balance and that sickness is the result of interference with the equilibrium due to inappropriate nourishment. Nature's food supply furnishes the elements that would restore the balanced co-ordination of the various bodily functions. The herbs and herbal products in relation to health and treatment of diseases must meet the requirements as a Resistance Builder, Repair Agent and a Recovery Product to build sturdy minds and bodies in esoteric Yin-Yang proportions. The essence of a plant is in its totality. The healing harmony of the Whole is not the same as that of the sum of its parts. An herb is a seed plant devoid of woody tissue which dies completely after flowering or is a plant valued for medicinal properties or for its sweet smell or taste.
Lin Yutang stated :
" What is good for the body is medicine and at the same time, food. "
I am very impressed with WHO's definition of Holistic Health ( Physical, Mental and Spiritual ).
" Health is a state of COMPLETE physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the ABSENCE of disease or infirmity. "