Articles to come by next week

 Thank you Meyithy for your kind words

I shall soon be writing a number of articles on should the public trust the doctor, the scientist and the teacher most? Why we should not? I shall explain this in detail 

Also I shall give a highly technical glimpse what are the emergency procedures an emergency doctor would do to an unconscious patient in a hospital Though meant for doctors, an ordinary reader can also appreciate the difficulties and treatment protocol facing a doctor in a medical emergency 

I shall also follow up with another article on  traditional wisdom vs modern medicine, how do scientists use nutrition to increase our longevity, new  mystery and discoveries on the origin of life, before I go to other subjects in astronomy, botany, zoology, about the evidence of a soul among many other mysteries 

Give me time as they require literature search and lots and lots of reading on my part before I can make them simple for ordinary readers 

Thank you for reading 

Jb lim

Modern Medicine: Healing or Dependency?

I received this article below in pink from one of my former patients written by Dr Ananya Sarkar

By Dr. Ananya Sarkar

“May everyone stay healthy and happy, that is my wish today.”

This is not a joke. Please read on, and if you find it meaningful, do share it with others.

The Fever That Started It All

You had a mild fever for two or three days. Without medication, your body would likely have recovered on its own. But, out of concern, you visited a doctor.

Right at the outset, the doctor ordered a series of tests.
The results showed no clear cause for the fever. But something else appeared, slightly elevated cholesterol and blood sugar. Common findings, even in healthy people.

Though your fever resolved, you were no longer considered “well.”

The doctor told you:

“Your cholesterol is high. Your sugar is slightly elevated. That means you’re pre-diabetic. You need to start medications.”

Dietary restrictions followed. While you may not have followed them strictly, you took the prescribed drugs faithfully.

The Cascade Begins

Three months later, new tests were ordered. Cholesterol had dropped, but now your blood pressure was slightly elevated. Another drug was added.
You were now on three medicines.

With these developments, anxiety grew.

“What next?” you wondered.

Your sleep began to suffer. The doctor prescribed sleeping pills, now your pill count was four.

Soon after, you experienced acidity and heartburn.
The doctor said:

“Take a gas tablet before meals.”

Now you're on five medicines.

The Emergency Room Visit

Six months passed. One day, chest pain drove you to the ER.

The doctor reassured you:

“Good thing you came in time. It could’ve been serious.”

Further tests were ordered, costly ones.
Eventually, the doctor added two heart medications and referred you to an endocrinologist. You were now on seven medicines.

The endocrinologist found mildly elevated thyroid levels and added:

• One more diabetes medicine

• A thyroid pill

You now had nine prescriptions to manage.

Becoming a Lifetime Patient

Gradually, you started to identify as a chronically ill person:

• Heart patient

• Diabetic

• Insomniac

• Gastric troubles

• Thyroid issues

• Kidney worries...

No one told you to build willpower, regain self-confidence, or adopt a healing lifestyle.
Instead, you were made to feel sick, weak, and dependent.

A New Complication: The Kidneys

Another six months later, you developed urinary symptoms.

More tests. Diagnosis: possible kidney involvement.
The doctor told you:

“Creatinine is slightly elevated. Keep taking your medications.”

Two more drugs were added.

You're now on eleven medicines.
Your medicine count exceeds your food intake.
And the side effects? They're quietly driving you closer to the grave.

Here is my critical reflection on Ananya Sarkar’s article in blue: 

A Reflection on Overdiagnosis, Pharmaceutical Influence, and the Path Back to Patient Empowerment

Ultra-Modern Medical Science: A Cautionary Tale

What If…

What if the doctor had said this at the beginning?

“Just rest. Drink plenty of water. Eat fruits and vegetables. Go for walks. No need for medicine.”

But then… how would pharmaceutical companies profit?
And how would doctors sustain their practice?

Who Sets the Standards?

Let’s look more closely at how patients are classified as "sick":

• 1979: Diabetes was diagnosed at blood sugar levels of 200 mg/dL. Only 3.5% of people were considered diabetic.

• 1997: Under pressure from insulin companies, the cutoff was reduced to 126 mg/dL. This jumped diabetic classification to 8% overnight.

• 2003: ADA introduced 100 mg/dL as the threshold for “pre-diabetes”—suddenly, 27% of the population became “patients.”

• Now: Post-meal blood sugar of 140 mg/dL is considered diabetic. Nearly 50% of the global population is now labelled diabetic—many without symptoms.

Some Indian pharma groups propose lowering HbA1c to 5.5%.
In contrast, some experts argue that even 11% HbA1c shouldn’t be labeled as diabetes.

A Darker Reality

In 2012, a major pharmaceutical company was fined $3 billion by the US Supreme Court.

Reason? Between 2007–2012, they withheld data showing that one of their diabetes drugs increased heart attack risk by 43%.

They made $300 billion during that period.

This is today’s ultra-modern medical system.
Think… Start thinking.

May everyone stay healthy and happy, that is my wish today.

Modern Medicine or Medical Maze?

A Wake-Up Call Wrapped in Emotion

Dr. Sarkar’s article is compelling. It grips us with a personal narrative, one that mirrors the real anxieties of modern patients. With each paragraph, it questions the intentions behind medical practices, suggesting that the system converts healthy people into lifelong patients.

While its emotional and rhetorical strength is undeniable, such a piece deserves careful unpacking, both for its truths and its oversimplifications.

Where the Article Rings True

Indeed, overdiagnosis is a growing issue. Modern thresholds often define mild deviations as pathologies. “Pre-diseases” now lead to lifelong medication, even when asymptomatic.

Polypharmacy:

Polypharmacy is term we use when patients are given multiple medications, and this is widespread, especially among the elderly. As drugs cause side effects, more drugs are prescribed to manage them. A feedback loop is born: a cascade of prescriptions.

Moreover, it’s no secret that pharmaceutical companies have shaped medical guidelines.

• The drop in diabetic thresholds in the late 1990s and early 2000s widened markets.

• The case of rosiglitazone (Avandia), leading to a $3 billion fine for hiding cardiovascular risks, is a factual event.

Such examples rightly challenge blind faith in the system.

Where the Article Misses the Mark

Yet, the article's tone also misleads.

It suggests all doctors operate under pharmaceutical influence. It claims thresholds are dictated by profit alone. These claims ignore the rigorous peer-reviewed processes, research data, and evolving evidence behind most guidelines.

Doctors, by and large, are committed professionals working under immense pressure. They rely on scientific consensus, not pharma dictates.

Perhaps most dangerously, the article suggests an HbA1c of 11% should be acceptable. This is medically false and hazardous.
Such levels indicate uncontrolled diabetes, associated with blindness, neuropathy, and renal failure.

The True Takeaway: Empowerment Over Dependency

Despite its flaws, the essay delivers a critical reminder:

Health must not be reduced to numbers, pills, and panic.

True healing lies in:

• Self-care and lifestyle choices

• Psychological well-being

• Preventive health rather than just curative

Patients must be empowered, not labeled. Doctors should listen and explain, not merely prescribe.

A Balanced Future for Medicine

Medicine is not the enemy. It has eradicated diseases, saved lives, and extended lifespans.

But it must constantly self-correct, and patients must be active partners in their care. Questioning, learning, and healthy skepticism are virtues., not threats.

Let’s not romanticize natural healing to the extent of ignoring real danger. But neither should we allow the system to over-medicalize life itself.

My conclusion is: Wisdom with Compassion

Let us not discard the flame of science because of the shadows it casts. Let us advocate for a medicine of balance, ethics, and humanity, where the goal is not just to extend life but to enhance its quality.

Health is not the absence of disease, but the presence of balance, in body, mind, and spirit.

With enduring respect,

Lim Ju Boo

In the Quietness of My Soul: Reflections on a Journey Through Life and Compassion

“In the Quiet of My Heart: A Journey Through Compassion and Remembrance”

“When the Soul Remembers: Reflections on a Life of Silent Mercy”

“The Peace of Giving: Echoes from a Life Lived with Love”

“In the Shadows of the Forgotten: A Witness to Human Suffering and Strength”

“The Wealth of the Heart: A Life’s Reflection on Love, Loss, and Mercy”

How many of us pause to look back on the long road we’ve travelled ,  from the innocence of childhood through the discipline of school, into the halls of higher learning, then into the labour of working life, and for some of us, finally into the quietude of retirement?

I often do.

In moments of solitude, I find myself reflecting on the journey that has shaped my life, the joys, the regrets, the countless faces I encountered along the way. I carry with me a quiet sorrow for the many times I failed to help those in need, not because I did not want to, but because I simply could not. I had no means, no support, no way to reach out as fully as I wished I could. Those memories still tug at my heart.

Yet, there are moments I treasure ,  not to glorify myself, but to remind others of how even small acts of compassion can bring profound peace to the soul. I do not often revisit them, but perhaps sharing just one may inspire someone to do the same.

It was in the early 1960s. I was a student in India. The poverty was immense, and I still remember the children in tattered and unwashed clothes roaming the streets on cold winter nights, begging for warmth and a morsel of food. One evening, a few came to me, their hands outstretched. I had little to offer, just a few Rupees from my limited allowance as a student. Their plight touched my heart.  But I gave what I could.

That night, I went back to my hostel filled with peace, yet mindful as I lay in the warmth of my hostel bed, my mind was not with me, it was with them. I thought of those children out there in  the bitter cold of winter's night, and wondered whether they were able to buy some food with whatever few rupees I gave so that at least for that night they were not hungry. But strangely, my heart was at peace and my inner soul felt so warm. I felt a joy that money cannot buy, the still, small voice within me was content. I knew I had done the right thing with my inner conscience.  Had I turned them away, it would have troubled me all night. I would not have slept at all that night.

I gave so little, the best I could afford, but the reward was overwhelming - a tiny bit of charity was so rewarding to my heart and soul no money could ever buy. That experience has stayed with me, even to this day.

Still, I do not claim to have always lived up to that standard. There were many times I failed  - miserably. I was not the Good Samaritan I should have been, and for that I ask God's mercy. There were many times I sinned, and I pray that God forgives me, as I also hope for forgiveness for those who stumbled alongside me. But most of the time, when I was able to help, I did,  quietly, without wanting to remember or be remembered. I would prefer to remember my failures than my wins for me to seek forgiveness for my shortcomings.  

One experience that pierced my heart deeply was my mission to Pulau Bidong in 1979. I was sent by the government, at the request of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), to assess the health conditions of Vietnamese refugees who had fled their war-torn country by sea in tiny, overcrowded boats. Many never made it. It is said that only one out of three survived the perilous journey, others were lost at sea to storms, starvation, dehydration, engine failures, or tragically, to pirates.

When I arrived together with a lab technologist to help me should I need blood sample to be collected, the island was overflowing, over 40,000 souls crammed into makeshift shelters, each person allowed only 2 or 3 gallons of water a day. Freshwater had to be shipped every two days. I was given a simple but decent small house with a kitchen and bathroom, which I was uncomfortable accepting, knowing what the refugees were enduring just outside. I wished they could use the facilities given to me for them to bathe, or rest in my quarters. This would be a joy for me, but regulations kept them away from the officials’ quarters. My heart broke for them.

Despite their desperate circumstances, they did not complain. They were warm, respectful, and even sang together at night. It humbled me. Somehow, they knew my purpose there. They may have thought I could help them - and I dearly hope I could. But I walked among them, listened to them, touched and smiled with them, observed everything so I could report back to the government truthfully. I felt deeply for them with compassion. The clinic set up by UNHCR served the sick, those with insect bites, malaria, diarrhoea, vomiting, and I was there to help and advise them, yet the food they were given was often rotten, the vegetables decaying, the fruits spoiled. Their resilience was astonishing.

I was also told by UNHCR the refugees were short-changed when money was sent to them from their relatives from Vietnam or from another country. They did not get the official exchange rates. Only a small percent of the money sent was given to them. The rest were for those in-charge of mails and money sent. This sin broke my heart deeply. 

One story that stays with me is of a refugee mother with a young daughter. She found a way to write to me after I gave her my address. In her letters, she shared how her little girl would ask if she remembered me. Those few letters I received touched me deeply. Then, we lost contact. I often wonder what became of them, did they find peace, safety, a new life?

I remember how the sea was treacherous when I first tried to reach the island. The Northeast monsoon had just begun. The waves were too high ,  as tall as a two-storey building. I had to wait two days in Kuala Terengganu before the sea calmed enough for the ship to sail. Even then, the journey was rough. I became seasick despite being on a large double-decker vessel. That was only a taste of what the refugees had endured in their fragile boats.

I spent two weeks in Pulau Bidong. It has been 47 years since then, but the memories remain vivid. I think often of those who never made it, tens of thousands of them, men, women, children swallowed by the sea. I remember one tragic report in the newspaper: a boat had almost reached Kuala Terengganu safely, but as the refugees rushed toward the shore, a wave capsized their boat. Most of them drowned within sight of safety. I wept when I read that.

Through these memories, I have come to realise that our greatest wealth in life is not money, fame, or even knowledge. Our greatest wealth is love and  compassion. These are the only treasures we can carry with us beyond this brief life.

To all those Vietnamese refugees I met on that small island, I pray they are now living in peace - settled in new lands, with their families whole and their children blessed with opportunities they once only dreamed of.

That is my deepest wish for them. And that is the story that lives in my heart forever.

Understanding the Paradox of Hospital Crowding in a World Embracing Traditional Medicin

The World Health Organization has long acknowledged that approximately 80% of the world’s population relies on traditional, complementary, or alternative medicine for some part of their healthcare needs. This figure includes people from both developing and developed countries, including those from highly educated, urban populations in places like the United States, United Kingdom, China, South Korea, Japan, and others.

Naturally, this raises a curious and seemingly paradoxical question: if such a vast majority of the global population uses traditional medicine, why are hospitals still so crowded? Shouldn’t the reverse be true, with traditional clinics overwhelmed by demand and modern hospitals seeing far fewer patients?

This apparent contradiction is resolved when we look more closely at what the 80% figure truly represents. It does not mean that only 20% of the population uses conventional medicine. Rather, it means that the overwhelming majority of people turn to traditional medicine at some point, often for minor ailments, chronic conditions, or wellness maintenance, alongside their use of conventional care. Most people do not exclusively choose one system over the other, but instead navigate between both as circumstances require.

The key reason hospitals remain crowded is because they serve as the default destination for serious and acute medical needs. Emergencies such as strokes, heart attacks, trauma, or infections demand institutional care, advanced technology, and skilled intervention. Regardless of whether a person regularly uses herbal medicine or practices yoga for wellness, when an emergency strikes, they head to the hospital. Therefore, hospital traffic is not solely driven by conventional medicine users, it is a reflection of the severity of conditions being treated.

Moreover, hospitals are overwhelmed not just by emergencies but by the rising tide of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune conditions. These illnesses, often rooted in diet, lifestyle, and stress, require ongoing management through tests, monitoring, and pharmaceutical prescriptions. 

Conventional medicine, rather than addressing their root causes, often manages symptoms over the long term, necessitating frequent hospital visits. In other words, hospitals are crowded not because they are popular, but it is crowded by the same patients coming back in the next appointment for the same medicine for refill or the medicines giving at higher doses, or the old medicine substituted by another type as the older one is no longer effective as the disease becomes more chronic and out of control because all these 'medicines' are actually chemicals that does not cure anything except control the disease or the symptoms. Hence the hospitals are crowded by the same patients coming back over and over again with new patients coming in with the same disease to snow-ball larger and larger crowds over time since drugs do not cure any disease unless the root causes are removed. 

Unfortunately doctors are not trained in lifestyle medicine or how to teach patients the correct ways to live through protective nutrition and lifestyle modifications. They are only interested prescribing drugs called 'medicines' that are actually chemicals made in the factory of drug companies that they call it as 'scientific medicine' or 'modern medicine' to counteract the symptoms of the disease - termed as 'allopathy' vs 'homeopathy' 

Another very strong reason why most people these days, especially among highly educated people including medical professionals, scientists and health-conscious populations,  is their uneasiness, misgivings and distrust when they now realize - with the easy accessibility of  the Internet, Google, fast AI Chats to search - only to discover the so-called "medicines" used in allopathic modern medicine are actually made from petrol and petroleum chemicals first revolutionize by John D Rockefeller - see link below. They become very wary of this - especially using chemicals - especially made from petrol and petroleum products to treat chronic lifestyle diseases that never cured them. 

Hence, most of them, including medical doctors themselves - including many of my former medical colleagues, and other scientific professions now turn to traditional and plant-based or natural medicine. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KN9A8tbULU

https://scientificlogic.blogspot.com/2025/07/allopathic-medicine-and-traditional.html

https://scientificlogic.blogspot.com/2025/07/the-healing-renaissance-reclaiming.html

In contrast, traditional medicine, often practised at home or in outpatient settings, remains largely invisible in hospital data even though it is widely used.

Another contributing factor is that traditional medicine is usually practised outside institutional healthcare settings. It takes place in community clinics, private homes, herbal shops, and wellness centres, not in the large centralized facilities that are typical of hospitals. This decentralization makes traditional medicine less visible, while hospitals, being centralized and publicly funded, appear overburdened and congested.

Additionally, urbanisation and insurance coverage tend to favour hospital-based care. In cities, people have easier access to hospitals, and health insurance typically reimburses only allopathic treatments. This drives patients, even those who might otherwise prefer natural remedies, into the hospital system, further inflating demand.

It is also important to note that many people first seek help from traditional medicine. Only when symptoms worsen or traditional remedies prove insufficient do they turn to hospitals. This pattern makes hospitals appear to bear the full weight of healthcare, even though much care is taking place quietly and effectively elsewhere.

The truth is that most of humanity uses both systems, traditional medicine for long-term wellness and mild conditions, and conventional medicine for acute care and technological diagnostics. They are not competing paradigms, but complementary streams in the broader river of human healing.

Hospital crowding is not evidence of traditional medicine’s failure, but rather a symptom of modern healthcare systems structured around disease management rather than prevention. As chronic illnesses increase in prevalence, and as lifestyle-related disorders continue to dominate global health statistics, hospitals will remain burdened unless we integrate natural, preventive approaches into mainstream care.

The solution lies in building bridges between both worlds. Traditional medicine can offer powerful tools for prevention, recovery, and long-term vitality. Conventional medicine, with its technological strengths, excels in crisis intervention. Together, they form a complete and intelligent healthcare model, one that humanity sorely needs.

Let us then move forward not with rivalry between these systems, but with wisdom that recognises the strength of both. In doing so, we reclaim medicine not only as a science, but as an art of healing that honours both tradition and innovation.

The Expanding Definition of a Clinician

 

Who is a Clinician? 

During my years of service at the Institute for Medical Research, the term clinician was commonly and quite naturally reserved for our medical colleagues, and also doctors working in hospitals who directly attended to patients. It was a term that denoted those in the medical profession engaged in hands-on care, and our use of it reflected this understanding.

However, over the years, my perception of the word began to shift. I first encountered this broader application when I learned that my sister-in-law, a nursing graduate working at the National University Hospital in Singapore, was referred to as a nurse clinician. It intrigued me that the title extended beyond doctors to include nurses. Further conversations with friends from the healthcare field revealed that other professionals such as pharmacists, therapists, and various allied health workers were also being called clinicians.

To explore this further, I turned to official sources. A quick search brought me to the definition provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in the United States, which affirmed this broader use. According to CMS, a clinician is any healthcare professional qualified in the clinical practice of medicine who provides direct care to patients. This definition is not limited to medical doctors but includes a wide spectrum of healthcare providers, such as nurses, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, physician assistants, and allied health professionals.

The defining characteristic of a clinician is direct patient care. Clinicians are the ones who assess patients, diagnose illnesses, implement treatment plans, monitor progress, and provide follow-up care. Whether the care is ongoing, such as in the management of chronic diseases, or during a specific episode like hospitalization, clinicians are deeply involved in the patient’s healthcare journey. Some may provide primary care without a defined endpoint in the relationship, while others offer care upon referral or as ordered by another clinician.

What sets clinicians apart is not only their involvement in patient care but also their formal qualifications. They must have the appropriate education, clinical training, and licensure to practice in their respective fields. Moreover, each clinician works within a defined scope of practice established by professional and regulatory bodies, ensuring safety, accountability, and quality in the healthcare system.

It is also important to distinguish between clinicians and clinical staff. While clinical staff such as medical assistants or licensed practical nurses may support patient care, they typically do not operate independently or provide professional services under their own authority. Clinicians, in contrast, have the autonomy to assess, treat, and document care decisions directly.

Interestingly, the concept of a clinician is not confined solely to practitioners of modern or Western medicine. In countries like Malaysia, where traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) is formally recognized, registered practitioners of these disciplines may also be considered clinicians, so long as they are legally authorized to practice. The Traditional and Complementary Medicine Act 2016, for example, regulates the qualifications and registration of practitioners in fields such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Traditional Malay Medicine, Ayurveda, and others. These practitioners provide direct patient care through diagnosis, treatment, and holistic management, within their own systems of healing. They too are clinicians in their systems of medicine and healthcare

While their methods may differ from those of modern medical doctors, their role in healthcare and their patient-facing responsibilities meet the criteria of a clinician. The critical distinction lies in the system of training and the framework of regulation under which they operate.

In conclusion, the term clinician has evolved to encompass a wide and diverse range of healthcare professionals, those who are qualified, authorized, and actively engaged in the direct care of patients. From doctors and nurses to pharmacists, therapists, and even traditional medicine practitioners, clinicians represent the heart of patient-centered healthcare. Recognizing the breadth of this term not only brings clarity but also deepens our appreciation for the many hands and hearts involved in the healing process.

The Unsung Sentinel: How Our Immune System Protects Us Every Mome

 

First, before I write, I was reflecting since two days ago how our body protects us after a patient who was constantly ill asked me how to defend himself against infection  

1. Our Fearfully and Wonderfully Made Immune System: The Silent Guardian of Life

2. The Body’s Invisible Army: A Tribute to the Marvel of Immunity

3. Immunology: Nature’s Masterpiece in Defense and Healing

4. The Unsung Sentinel: How Our Immune System Protects Us Every Moment

5. When Cells Stand Watch: The Symphony of Human Immunity

In my previous reflection titled “The Healing Properties of Our Body: Is Prevention Better Than Cure?”, I explored the body’s remarkable ability to heal from wounds, bleeding, and fractures. These injuries, though painful and sometimes traumatic, are occasional occurrences in our lives. In contrast, what we face every single moment is the constant, invisible threat of pathogenic organisms, bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites—that surround us in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the surfaces we touch. These ever-present invaders pose a far greater threat to our survival than the visible injuries of trauma. It is therefore only fitting to devote deeper attention to the body's incredible defense mechanism, our immune system.

The human immune system is a sophisticated, multi-layered marvel designed to protect us against these microbial assaults. It is broadly divided into two interdependent arms: innate (non-specific) immunity and adaptive (specific) immunity. Together, they form a seamless and dynamic response to danger, swift and general at first, and then precise and enduring.

Innate immunity is the body’s first line of defense. It includes physical and chemical barriers that act instantly to block invaders. The skin, our largest organ, forms a resilient wall that prevents pathogens from entering. Mucous membranes lining our respiratory, digestive, and genitourinary tracts secrete mucus that traps pathogens before they can cause harm. Secretions like tears, saliva, and mucus contain enzymes such as lysozymes that dismantle bacterial cell walls. Meanwhile, the stomach’s acidic environment destroys most ingested microbes, and the cilia in the respiratory tract rhythmically sweep mucus and trapped pathogens upward and out of the lungs.

If pathogens breach these outer defenses, cellular defenders spring into action. White blood cells patrol the bloodstream and tissues, ready to detect and eliminate invaders. Among them, neutrophils are the most abundant and respond swiftly to infection sites. Macrophages, residing in tissues, engulf pathogens and clean up cellular debris. Dendritic cells act as scouts that gather foreign antigens and present them to the adaptive immune system. Natural Killer (NK) cells roam the body looking for virus-infected or cancerous cells, triggering programmed cell death or apoptosis in those deemed dangerous.

Inflammation is a hallmark of innate immunity. When tissues are injured or infected, the inflammatory response increases blood flow to the affected area, leading to redness and warmth. Blood vessels become more permeable, allowing immune cells and proteins to move into the tissue and create swelling. This targeted influx of immune components helps isolate the threat and initiate repair. The complement system, a group of proteins in the blood, also plays a role by enhancing phagocytosis, forming pore-like complexes in microbial membranes, and marking pathogens for destruction. Additionally, virus-infected cells release interferons to warn neighboring cells and inhibit viral replication.

If the innate system is the rapid response team, the adaptive immune system is the elite intelligence force. Though slower to act initially, it provides long-lasting protection through specificity and memory. Adaptive immunity is mediated by lymphocytes: B cells and T cells. B cells, upon encountering a foreign antigen, transform into plasma cells that produce antibodies, proteins precisely tailored to bind and neutralize that specific invader. Some B cells become memory cells, which persist long after the infection is cleared and provide rapid protection if the pathogen returns.

T cells come in two main types. Helper T cells (CD4+) coordinate immune responses by releasing signaling molecules called cytokines, which activate B cells, macrophages, and other T cells. Cytotoxic T cells (CD8+) directly kill infected or cancerous cells. These functions rely on the presentation of antigens by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. MHC Class I molecules, found on all nucleated cells, present antigens to cytotoxic T cells, while MHC Class II molecules on specialized antigen-presenting cells present antigens to helper T cells.

The body ensures that only the lymphocytes needed for a particular infection multiply through a process called clonal selection. When a lymphocyte binds its specific antigen, it rapidly multiplies, creating an army of identical cells ready to fight. Some of these become effector cells that actively combat the infection, while others become memory cells that provide immunity in the future.

Central to the adaptive response are antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins. These Y-shaped proteins bind to pathogens in several ways. They neutralize toxins and viruses, mark invaders for phagocytosis (opsonization), activate the complement system, and clump pathogens together (agglutination) for easier elimination. There are five primary classes of antibodies, each with specific roles.

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is the most abundant and provides long-term protection. It can cross the placenta to protect the developing fetus. IgA is found in mucosal secretions such as tears, saliva, and breast milk, guarding mucosal surfaces from infection. IgM is the first antibody produced during an infection and is highly effective at forming immune complexes. IgE is involved in allergic responses and defense against parasites, while IgD is found on the surface of immature B cells and plays a role in their activation.

Some antibody classes have subclasses that offer specialized functions. IgG1 and IgG3 are highly effective in complement activation and opsonization, while IgG4 is involved in allergen responses. IgA1 predominates in blood, and IgA2 in secretions. Beyond natural antibodies, modern medicine now uses engineered monoclonal antibodies to target diseases such as cancer and autoimmune disorders. Examples include rituximab for lymphoma, trastuzumab for breast cancer, and omalizumab for allergic asthma.

Innate and adaptive immunity are deeply interconnected. Cytokines, chemokines, and antigen-presenting cells bridge the two systems, ensuring a coordinated and efficient defense. The beauty of this system lies not only in its power but in its constant vigilance. Every moment of our lives, this invisible army stands on guard, monitoring, responding, and remembering, without us even being aware.

Yet despite this natural marvel, modern medicine often rushes to intervene with antibiotics for every minor infection. This over-prescription has led to a crisis of antimicrobial resistance, where bacteria evolve to survive even the strongest drugs. Many of these infections could have been resolved by the immune system alone, had it been given the chance and support to do so.

However, immunity can be compromised. One of the most pervasive causes is malnutrition. Both macronutrient (caloric and protein) and micronutrient deficiencies impair the immune system. Protein-energy malnutrition leads to reduced production of immune cells, weakening both innate and adaptive responses. Deficiencies in vitamins A, D, E, C, and minerals such as zinc, selenium, and iron reduce the body’s ability to generate antibodies, mount T cell responses, and maintain the integrity of mucosal barriers. Malnourished children, especially in poorer regions, are more susceptible to measles, tuberculosis, diarrheal diseases, and respiratory infections, with longer recovery times and higher mortality.

Chronic stress and sleep deprivation also impair immune function. Stress hormones like cortisol dampen lymphocyte activity and suppress inflammation, leaving the body vulnerable. Similarly, inadequate sleep reduces the activity of natural killer cells and weakens immune surveillance.

Environmental pollutants such as cigarette smoke, industrial chemicals, and heavy metals like lead and mercury further compromise immune defenses. Some medications, particularly immunosuppressants used for autoimmune disorders and organ transplants, as well as chemotherapy, suppress the immune system deliberately, increasing infection risk.

The good news is that immune health can be supported and enhanced. A balanced, antioxidant-rich diet, rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, and lean proteins, nourishes the immune system. Regular moderate exercise enhances immune surveillance and cellular function. Sufficient sleep and sunlight, particularly for vitamin D synthesis, contribute significantly to immune regulation. Probiotics help maintain gut microbiota, a key component in immune homeostasis. Immunization, too, remains one of the most powerful tools to train and protect the immune system.

Reflecting on all these intricacies, one cannot help but marvel at the immune system’s design. Its complexity, adaptability, and intelligence defy mere randomness. It is not just a system, it is a silent, unceasing guardian that works around the clock to protect and heal us. Truly, as the Psalmist proclaimed, we are “fearfully and wonderfully made.”

Let us not take this guardian for granted. Let us nourish, respect, and support it—not only as individuals but as a society. The immune system is our first and last line of defense, and in honoring its design, we honor the miracle of life itself.

References:

1. Abbas, A. K., Lichtman, A. H., & Pillai, S. (2022). Basic Immunology: Functions and Disorders of the Immune System (6th ed.). Elsevier.
2. A foundational textbook covering innate and adaptive immunity, antibody classes, cytokines, antigen presentation, and more.
3. Parham, P. (2020). The Immune System (5th ed.). Garland Science.
4. Provides detailed explanations on MHC, T cell and B cell functions, and immune memory.
5. Janeway, C. A., Travers, P., Walport, M., & Shlomchik, M. J. (2001). Immunobiology: The Immune System in Health and Disease (5th ed.). Garland Science.
6. A classical reference for understanding the molecular and cellular basis of immunity.
7. Calder, P. C., Jackson, A. A., et al. (2000). Undernutrition, infection and immune function. Nutrition Research Reviews, 13(1), 3–29.
8. https://doi.org/10.1079/095442200108728982
9. Discusses the impact of protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies on immunity.
10. Katona, P., & Katona-Apte, J. (2008). The Interaction between Nutrition and Infection. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 46(10), 1582–1588.
11. https://doi.org/10.1086/587658
12. Explores how infection worsens malnutrition and how poor nutrition impairs immune response.
13. World Health Organization (WHO). Nutrition and immune function.
14. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/malnutrition
15. A concise overview of nutrition’s role in immune health and disease vulnerability.
16. Chinen, J., & Shearer, W. T. (2004). Secondary immunodeficiencies, including HIV infection. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 113(5), 957–968.
17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2004.03.030
18. Miller, A. H., et al. (2009). Chronic stress and immunity: mechanisms and clinical implications. Immunology and Allergy Clinics of North America, 29(2), 293–307.
19. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.iac.2009.02.007
20. Covers how stress and neuroendocrine responses impact immune function.
21. Ventola, C. L. (2015). The Antibiotic Resistance Crisis: Part 1: Causes and Threats. Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 40(4), 277–283.
22. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378521/
23. Explains the danger of antibiotic overuse and rising bacterial resistance.
24. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Antibiotic resistance threats in the United States, 2019.
25. https://www.cdc.gov/drugresistance/pdf/threats-report/2019-ar-threats-report-508.pdf
26. Carter, P. J., & Lazar, G. A. (2018). Next generation antibody drugs: pursuit of the “high-hanging fruit”. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 17(3), 197–223.
27. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrd.2017.227
28. Discusses monoclonal antibodies used in cancer, autoimmune disease, and allergic conditions.
29. Mahase, E. (2020). Covid-19: What have we learnt about immunity, reinfection, and vaccines? BMJ, 371, m4347.
30. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.m4347
31. A recent article touching on immune memory, vaccine responses, and antibody roles.
32. Nieman, D. C., & Wentz, L. M. (2019). The compelling link between physical activity and the body's defense system. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 8(3), 201–217.
33. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jshs.2018.09.009
34. Demonstrates how moderate exercise enhances immune function.
35. Carr, A. C., & Maggini, S. (2017). Vitamin C and immune function. Nutrients, 9(11), 1211.
36. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9111211
37. Zhang, Y., et al. (2020). The role of vitamin D in immune function. Nutrients, 12(4), 1031.
38. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12041031

The Healing Renaissance: Reclaiming Medicine Beyond Pharmaceuticals

The Healing Renaissance: Reclaiming Medicine Beyond Pharmaceuticals

Over the years, I have reflected deeply on the evolution of medicine, from its natural roots to the modern pharmaceutical empire. This transformation, though propelled by scientific discoveries and genuine need, has also been shaped by commercial forces that have steered the course of healthcare in directions that now merit serious re-evaluation.

Historically, humanity relied on nature’s pharmacy. Ancient civilizations such as those in Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, India, and Greece all documented extensive use of herbs, minerals, and dietary interventions to promote healing. Texts like the Mesopotamian clay tablets, the Ebers Papyrus, and the Chinese Materia Medica are testament to an era when medicine was intimately intertwined with natural substances and holistic wisdom. The teachings of Dioscorides and Theophrastus further underscore the prominence of botanicals and diet in health management.

The transformation from natural to synthetic began in earnest in the industrial age. A striking example is the journey of aspirin. Originally derived from willow bark, its active ingredient, salicin, was eventually synthesized by Bayer into acetylsalicylic acid. Once patented, it marked the beginning of a new pharmaceutical era. When the patent expired, it opened the floodgates for the development of other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), each slightly modified to become a new, patentable and profitable product.

This strategy became a recurring theme in the pharmaceutical industry. The discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming revolutionised medicine, but its mass production only became viable through industrial efforts during World War II, spearheaded by companies like Pfizer. Again, once the patent protections faded, pharmaceutical firms rapidly pivoted towards newer, broader-spectrum antibiotics, often more expensive and sometimes less effective than the original.

This pattern raises fundamental ethical concerns. Has modern medicine become more focused on healing or on sustaining business models built around patents, dependency, and profit? While there is no denying that synthetic drugs have saved countless lives, especially in emergencies, the prioritisation of profit over accessibility and root-cause healing has introduced serious imbalances in healthcare.

Today, many patients are unaware of the origin, nature, or long-term implications of the medications they take. A significant number of physicians openly acknowledge that chronic, lifestyle-related illnesses such as hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, and hyperlipidemia cannot be cured by pharmaceuticals alone. Instead, these conditions are managed, often indefinitely, without addressing the underlying causes such as poor diet, inactivity, stress, and environmental toxins.

For millennia, the ancient Greeks, Chinese, Indians, and other traditional cultures embraced nature’s solutions, namely, using herbs, foods, and lifestyle changes. This practice continued until the early 20th century when figures like John D. Rockefeller helped redirect medicine’s course towards petroleum-based synthetic drugs. This shift was not purely scientific, it was deeply influenced by commercial interest.

Many modern doctors are now expressing concern about the long-term use of pharmaceuticals, especially those known to accumulate in the liver and kidneys, potentially causing harm over time. Some doctors actively discourage their extended use, instead advocating for a more holistic approach. Indeed, a growing number of physicians and patients alike are returning to natural medicine, recognising that chronic dependency on drugs is not the same as true healing.

This has given rise to new paradigms like integrative and functional medicine. These approaches go beyond managing symptoms; they seek to uncover and treat root causes. Chronic inflammation, gut dysbiosis, nutritional deficiencies, toxin accumulation, and unmanaged stress are now recognised as key drivers of modern diseases. Integrative medicine seeks to understand the whole person, not just the pathology, and to harness the healing potential of the body through nutrition, exercise, mindfulness, and botanicals.

From my perspective, the future of medicine must be a harmonious integration of both conventional and traditional practices. Pharmaceuticals are essential in acute and life-threatening situations such as heart attacks, infections, trauma, and surgeries. However, for long-term health maintenance and chronic disease prevention, a more natural, lifestyle-based approach is indispensable.

This future vision of medicine would emphasise food as the foundation of health. Preventative medicine must be rooted in anti-inflammatory diets, gut microbiome integrity, and optimal nutrient intake. Equally, mind-body practices such as meditation, tai chi, yoga, and breathwork must become essential components of disease prevention and management. Treatments should be personalised, guided by genetic, microbiome, and metabolic assessments, while safe and effective plant-based medicines like curcumin, resveratrol, berberine, and adaptogens should be more widely adopted. Environmental toxins, including endocrine disruptors, petrochemicals, and heavy metals, must be minimised through public health efforts and education.

Yet despite the compelling case for such a model, we must contend with strong resistance. The pharmaceutical industry has vested interests in maintaining the status quo. There is a great deal of money at stake. I have personally known many doctors, some my close colleagues during my time at the Institute for Medical Research, who confided that when they themselves fall ill, they often turn to traditional or natural medicine, despite prescribing pharmaceuticals to their patients.

One close friend, a Professor and Chair of Psychiatry at the University of Malaya, shared with me a telling story. After suffering from chronic pain for years, unrelieved by conventional rheumatology treatments and a long list of NSAIDs, he finally sought care from a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner. After just a few sessions, his chronic pain vanished, at a mere RM30 per session, with no harsh side effects. He expressed great frustration with the limitations of the drug-based system he had spent his life studying and practising.

Others I know have quietly begun integrating natural therapies into their private practices. Malaysia, to its credit, permits licensed and qualified traditional and complementary medicine practitioners to operate legally, just as many other countries do. Nations such as Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, the UK, and the United States now recognise the importance of traditional systems of medicine, often with the encouragement of the World Health Organization (WHO).

Indeed, the WHO estimates that over 80% of the global population continues to rely on traditional medicine in some form. We are witnessing a slow but visible shift in public awareness. Media outlets regularly feature discussions on diet, exercise, natural therapies, stress reduction, and holistic wellness. This shift, while welcome, is unsettling to pharmaceutical corporations whose business models depend on a steady stream of patented drug sales.

It is not uncommon to see suppression or dismissal of effective natural remedies and off-patent therapies, not because they lack efficacy, but because they lack profitability. Medical professionals who champion natural approaches often face institutional resistance, ridicule, or even disciplinary action. Nevertheless, a growing number of physicians are speaking out, recognising that real healing must go beyond symptom control.

As public awareness grows, so too does the momentum for reform. Some medical schools are beginning to incorporate lifestyle medicine into their curricula, albeit slowly. Functional medicine, nutritional therapy, and integrative health are gaining legitimacy and public demand.

The future of healthcare must not be an either-or debate between modern and traditional medicine, but a balanced, integrative synthesis. We must preserve the life-saving power of pharmaceuticals in emergencies while embracing the ancient wisdom of food, herbs, movement, and mindfulness for long-term wellness. This is not a return to the past, but a forward-looking renaissance of medical understanding.

I am grateful to share these insights with colleagues, patients, and the wider public. The need for change is real, and while resistance is formidable, the call for a more humane, intelligent, and patient-centred system of care is growing louder.

To quote the father of medicine:

“Let food be thy medicine, and not medicine be thy food.” — Hippocrates

Even as early as 1935, Clive McCay demonstrated that calorie restriction could extend lifespan in laboratory animals. Subsequent research has confirmed that moderate caloric restriction, when practiced without malnutrition, can significantly reduce the risk of chronic illnesses including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. Caloric restriction is itself a natural, evidence-based therapeutic strategy, requiring no pills, only understanding and discipline.

It is one of nature’s simplest, most powerful interventions. It demonstrates how, by cooperating with the body’s natural rhythms, we can unlock its extraordinary ability to heal, renew, and thrive, without lifelong dependence on drugs.

This, I believe, is the direction in which medicine must evolve. And I remain hopeful that governments, medical schools, and healthcare institutions will eventually embrace this shift, not just for the sake of progress, but for the healing of humanity.

From Nature to Petrochemicals: How Medicine Lost Its Way – and the Journey Toward a New Dawn in Medicine

by: lim ju boo

Professor Dr Marilyn Li Ching who is a regular contributor in a WhatsApp group recently sent me this video for my comment. 

1. How Medicine was Hijacked 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KN9A8tbULU

Professor Dr Ling Siew Ching also separately sent me another video last month for my attention 

2. Dr Peter Gotzsche on drugs as 3rd leading cause of death

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dozpAshvtsA

There is also another video I saw here: 

3. Deadly Medicines and Organised Crime: How Big Pharma Has Corrupted Healthcare

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18428805-deadly-medicines-and-or-

After viewing all these videos. here's my comment. 

But first, let me write very briefly on the history of medicine.  

History of medicine: 

The transition from natural remedies to synthetic drugs was driven by scientific advancements but also by corporate profit motives. While synthetic drugs have saved lives, the modern pharmaceutical industry prioritizes patents, high pricing, and market control over accessibility and affordability. The challenge remains in balancing innovation with ethical medicine.

As far as I know the earliest records of natural products were depicted on clay tablets in cuneiform from Mesopotamia (2600 B.C.) which documented oils from Cupressus sempervirens (Cypress) and Commiphora species (myrrh) which are still used today to treat coughs, colds and inflammation . The Ebers Papyrus (2900 B.C.) is an Egyptian pharmaceutical record, which documents over 700 plant-based drugs ranging from gargles, pills, infusions, to ointments. The Chinese Materia Medica (1100 B.C.) (Wu Shi Er Bing Fang, contains 52 prescriptions), Shennong Herbal (~100 B.C., 365 drugs) and the Tang Herbal (659 A.D., 850 drugs) are documented records of the uses of natural products . The Greek physician, Dioscorides, (100 A.D.), recorded the collection, storage and the uses of medicinal herbs, whilst the Greek philosopher and natural scientist, Theophrastus (~300 B.C.) dealt with medicinal herbs. 

Aspirin's discovery began with the ancient use of willow bark for pain relief, leading to the synthesis of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) by Felix Hoffmann at Bayer in 1897, which was then marketed as a pain reliever in 1899. The use of willow bark for pain relief and fever reduction dates back thousands of years, with Sumerians and Egyptians using it for medicinal purposes. The synthesis of Aspirin started in 1897, when Felix Hoffmann, a chemist at the Bayer company, synthesized acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), the active ingredient in aspirin, by modifying salicylic acid. Bayer, was a German pharmaceutical company that patented the process and marketed the drug under the name "Aspirin" in 1899. After Aspirin lost its patent rights, other pharmaceutical companies began to manufacture other analgesics such as NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). 

The same scenario is with other antibiotics after the discovery of penicillin after the Scottish bacteriologist Alexander Fleming accidentally discovered penicillin in 1928 while working at St. Mary's Hospital in London, noticing a mold inhibiting bacterial growth on a contaminated petri dish, leading to the development of the first 

First of all, I must straight away say it is not entirely true that drugs are unless. There are many drugs that are life-saving and irreplaceable as they can act very fast to stabilize a patient especially in a medical emergency. I have written some examples here:

https://scientificlogic.blogspot.com/search?q=pharmacology

https://scientificlogic.blogspot.com/search?q=Emergency+drugs

 

 Here are further examples:

1. Epinephrine (Adrenaline) – Used in anaphylaxis (severe allergic reactions) and cardiac arrest.
2. Aspirin – Essential for heart attack and stroke prevention.
3. Insulin – Vital for type 1 diabetes management.
4. Antibiotics (Penicillin, Vancomycin, Meropenem, etc.) – Critical for bacterial infections and sepsis.
5. Steroids (Dexamethasone, Prednisone) – Used for severe inflammatory conditions and autoimmune disorders.
6. Anticoagulants (Heparin, Warfarin, DOACs) – Prevent blood clots that could cause strokes or pulmonary embolisms.
7. Antiviral Drugs (Tamiflu, Paxlovid, Remdesivir, etc.) – Used for severe viral infections, including influenza, COVID-19, and HIV/AIDS.
8. Chemotherapy Drugs (Cisplatin, Doxorubicin, Imatinib, etc.) – Essential for treating various cancers.
9. IV Fluids and Electrolytes – Lifesaving in dehydration, shock, and metabolic imbalances.
10. Oxygen Therapy & Ventilators – Indispensable in respiratory failure, pneumonia, and critical care settings.

Some of these drugs especially emergency drugs, and powerful antibiotics are very life savings. 

While many chronic diseases require lifestyle-based solutions, there are pharmaceutical drugs that have undoubtedly saved millions of lives. 

As I have some training in emergency medicine let me very briefly in a nutshell explore this area.  

Here are more key examples of life-saving drugs that are absolutely essential. 

A. Emergency & Critical Care Drugs

1. Epinephrine (Adrenaline) – Used for anaphylactic shock, severe asthma attacks, and cardiac arrest.
2. Atropine – Used in emergencies to increase heart rate during severe bradycardia (slow heartbeat).
3. Norepinephrine & Dopamine – Critical for septic shock to maintain blood pressure and circulation.
4. Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic Acid) – Rapidly given during heart attacks to prevent clot expansion.
5. Nitroglycerin – Used to relieve angina (chest pain) and heart attacks by dilating coronary arteries.
6. Thrombolytics (e.g., Alteplase, Streptokinase, Tenecteplase) – Dissolve blood clots in strokes and heart attacks.

B. Life-Saving Antibiotics & Antivirals

1. Penicillin & Cephalosporins – Still crucial for treating bacterial infections like pneumonia, syphilis, and meningitis.
2. Vancomycin – One of the last-resort antibiotics for MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) infections.
3. Doxycycline & Azithromycin – Effective against malaria, bacterial pneumonia, and Lyme disease.
4. Rifampin & Isoniazid – Key drugs for tuberculosis treatment.
5. Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) & Remdesivir – Used for severe cases of influenza and COVID-19.
6. HIV Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) – Drugs like Tenofovir, Efavirenz, and Dolutegravir allow HIV-positive individuals to live long lives with undetectable viral loads.

C. Surgical & Anesthetic Drugs

1. Propofol & Midazolam – Used in surgeries and intensive care for anesthesia and sedation.
2. Lidocaine & Bupivacaine – Local anesthetics for pain relief during procedures.
3. Heparin & Warfarin – Essential for preventing deadly blood clots during surgeries.

These drugs are not lifestyle medicines but true life-saving interventions. They remain indispensable for acute, life-threatening conditions.

The Problem with Pharmaceutical Dominance in Chronic Diseases

Let me point out, chronic lifestyle diseases (diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, etc.) cannot be  "cured" by drugs, they are simply managed indefinitely. This benefits Big Pharma, which profits from lifelong patients.

Examples of chronic disease drugs that do not "cure" are: 

Statins (e.g., Lipitor, Crestor) – Reduce cholesterol but don’t address the root cause of cardiovascular disease.

Unfortunately most of the diseases today are chronic illnesses that do not require fast-acting emergency drugs. 

 

It’s always a pleasure for me to engage in thought-provoking discussions with my medical colleagues, including highly qualified physicians, patients and lay readers on the current state of pharmaceutical medicine and compare them with other more natural systems of medicine that were already practised for over 5,000 years. 

Instead of using drugs let us dive into integrative medicine first.    

Integrative medicine is an approach that combines conventional allopathic (western) medicine with evidence-based complementary therapies to treat the whole person - body, mind, and spirit, rather than just the symptoms of disease. It focuses on lifestyle, nutrition, mind-body connection, and natural therapies alongside conventional treatments like pharmaceuticals and surgery.

I see several key strengths and considerations regarding integrative medicine:

Strengths of Integrative Medicine

1. Holistic Approach – It considers not just the disease but also the patient’s overall well-being, including diet, stress, sleep, exercise, and emotional health. This is in line with modern understanding that lifestyle factors significantly impact chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer.

2. Personalized Treatment -  Integrative medicine often tailors treatments to individual patients, considering genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. This agrees well with the emerging field of personalized medicine.

 3. Preventive Care Focus -  Unlike conventional medicine, which often focuses on treating diseases after they appear, integrative medicine strongly emphasizes prevention, which is key to reducing the burden of chronic diseases.

4. Less Dependence on Pharmaceuticals - While conventional medicine heavily relies on drugs, integrative medicine incorporates non-pharmaceutical treatments like acupuncture, herbal medicine, meditation, and nutritional therapy, which can sometimes be equally effective and have fewer side effects.

5. Scientific Basis for Some Complementary Therapies - Some integrative approaches, such as mindfulness, yoga, and plant-based nutrition, have strong scientific backing in improving health outcomes, especially in mental health, inflammation reduction, and chronic pain management.

Challenges and Considerations

1. Lack of Regulation and Standardization -  Unlike pharmaceuticals, many complementary therapies do not undergo rigorous clinical trials, making quality control and efficacy harder to verify. Some herbal remedies, for example, may have variable potency or interact with prescription drugs.

2. Risk of Pseudoscience - Some practitioners incorporate unproven or even harmful treatments. It is crucial to differentiate evidence-based integrative medicine from pseudoscientific or exaggerated health claims.

3. Mainstream Resistance - Despite growing interest, some conventional doctors view integrative medicine with skepticism, often due to the lack of extensive large-scale clinical trials for many complementary therapies.

4. Economic and Industry Influence - The pharmaceutical industry has long shaped modern medicine, sometimes limiting the integration of alternative approaches. This raises concerns about conflicts of interest and whether the best treatment options are always prioritized.

I see integrative medicine as a promising approach if it is grounded in scientific evidence. The future of medicine should not be a battle between conventional and alternative medicine but rather a fusion of the best, based on rigorous scientific validation. The ultimate goal should always be what benefits patients the most with the least harm.

The list of 50 integrative doctors I like to provide here as examples including well-known figures like Dr. Mark Hyman and Dr. Andrew Weil who show that even highly trained conventional physicians see the value in integrating nutrition, lifestyle, and natural therapies into medical practice. This is an encouraging trend.

Besides this list there are also other medical doctors and immunologists and scientists who too believe the body can heal itself if injured or diseased given the appropriate stimuli. 

Among the medical doctors are: 

1. Professor Dr Chang Jia Rui, MD a Taiwanese physician who wrote the book “The Body’s Natural Instinct: Understanding Your Body’s Healing Ability” . Professor Chang is the Honorary Professor and Chairman of the World Natural Medicine Foundation 

2.  Dr Vernon Coleman MD who wrote several books about the body as a natural medicine that can heal itself. Among the many books he wrote are: 1. Body Power 2. How To Stop Your Doctor Killing You 3. Anyone Who Tells You Vaccines Are Safe and Effective is Lying 4. Twelve essential medical secrets which could save your life 5. Mindpower: How to Use Your Mind to Heal Your Body. 

3.  Dr Jau-Fei Chen PhD who is a Nutritional Immunologist 

4. Dr Niwa MD, PhD (Med), a well-known Japanese physician, immunologist and researcher who wrote a book called “Drugs Do Not Cure Disease” 

Integrative medicine continues to gain recognition as healthcare professionals worldwide acknowledge the body's inherent ability to heal when provided with appropriate support. Beyond the practitioners I  mentioned, numerous other doctors and scientists advocate for combining conventional medical treatments with complementary therapies to promote holistic healing. Here are some further notable figures in the field:

1. Dr. Andrew Weil, MD

Background: A pioneer in integrative medicine, Dr. Weil is the founder and director of the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona.

Contributions: He emphasizes the body's natural healing capacity and advocates for a balanced approach that includes nutrition, mind-body interventions, and botanical medicines.

2. Dr. Mark Hyman, MD

Background: A family physician and a leading advocate for functional medicine, Dr. Hyman is the Head of Strategy and Innovation at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine.

Contributions: He focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of chronic diseases through personalized treatments, including dietary changes and lifestyle modifications.

3. Dr. Avni Sali, MD, PhD

Background: An Australian surgeon and academic, Dr. Sali is the founder of the National Institute of Integrative Medicine (NIIM) in Melbourne.

Contributions: He has been instrumental in promoting integrative medicine in Australia, emphasizing evidence-based complementary therapies alongside conventional treatments.

4. Dr. Deepak Chopra, MD

Background: An endocrinologist and a prominent figure in mind-body medicine, Dr. Chopra has authored numerous books on health and wellness.

Contributions: He integrates principles from Ayurveda with modern medicine, focusing on meditation, yoga, and the mind's role in health and healing.

5. Dr. Joseph Mercola, DO

Background: An osteopathic physician, Dr. Mercola advocates for natural health approaches and preventive care.

Contributions: He emphasizes the importance of nutrition, exercise, and natural therapies in maintaining health and preventing disease.

6. Dr. Tieraona Low Dog, MD

Background: A physician with extensive training in herbal medicine, midwifery, and massage therapy, Dr. Low Dog has served on the faculty of the University of Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine.

Contributions: She focuses on women's health, dietary supplements, and integrative approaches to health and wellness.

7. Dr. David Katz, MD, MPH

Background: A preventive medicine specialist and founder of the Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center.

Contributions: Dr. Katz emphasizes the role of lifestyle and nutrition in preventing chronic diseases and advocates for integrative approaches to healthcare.

These practitioners, among others, have significantly contributed to the field of integrative medicine, promoting a holistic approach that combines the best of conventional and complementary therapies to support the body's natural healing processes.

There is also a very thick and voluminous book I have called: “Integrative Medicine” 

This book is edited by Dr David Rakel MD who is a Professor and Chair Dept. of Family and Community Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico. 

He edited this massive book written and contributed by over 100 specialist physicians, most of them with not just a medical MD degree, but also armed with additional qualifications such as,  MSc, MS, ND, MPH, MHS, DO, ABIHM, FACOFP, RD, ABOIM, FAAFP, FRCP, MTS. 

They all contributed chapters on conventional medicine together with other systems of medicine covering evidence-based references on medicine that incorporated botanicals, supplements, mind-body, lifestyle medicine, nutrition, exercise, spirituality, chelation therapy, disease-orientated approach among others.

I  think of doctors and other people these days are reverting to other therapeutic modalities especially integrative medicine rather than depending solely on pharmaceuticals that are actually chemicals derived from petrochemicals as what the link above "How modern medicine has been highjacked" clearly revealed. 

The book Integrative Medicine edited by Dr. David Rakel seems to be a monumental work in the field, reflecting the growing acceptance of integrative approaches by highly qualified medical professionals.

So Why Are More Doctors and Patients Turning to Integrative Medicine today? 

The shift towards integrative medicine and away from a sole reliance on pharmaceuticals is driven by several interrelated factors:

1. The Limitations of Pharmaceuticals

While pharmaceuticals have revolutionized medicine, their over-reliance has led to concerns about side effects, drug resistance, toxicity, and long-term dependency.

Many drugs treat symptoms rather than root causes, especially in chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and autoimmune disorders.

Petrochemical origins of many drugs raise concerns about biocompatibility and environmental impact, leading some to explore plant-based or holistic alternatives.

2. The Rise of Chronic Diseases and the Failure of Conventional Models

The modern world is facing an epidemic of lifestyle-related diseases (obesity, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune disorders).

Pharmaceuticals manage these conditions but rarely cure them.

Integrative medicine addresses lifestyle factors - diet, stress, exercise, environmental toxins, rather than just medicating symptoms.

3. Scientific Validation of Traditional & Complementary Therapies

Research has increasingly validated many traditional and alternative treatments:

Botanicals: Curcumin (turmeric) for inflammation, berberine for diabetes, and resveratrol for cardiovascular health.

Mind-body medicine: Meditation, yoga, and tai chi are now scientifically recognized for reducing stress, inflammation, and even altering gene expression.

Gut microbiome: The link between the microbiome and immunity, mental health, and chronic disease has validated probiotic and nutritional interventions.

4. The Public’s Increasing Awareness and Demand

People are more informed these days on nutrition, natural medicine, and preventive health.

There is growing distrust in Big Pharma, partly due to the perception that the industry prioritizes profit over patient well-being.

Social media and global access to research have democratized medical knowledge, allowing individuals to explore alternatives.

5. Shift in Medical Education & Research

Major institutions (Harvard, Stanford, University of Arizona, Cleveland Clinic, etc.) now have integrative medicine departments.

The NIH and other global health bodies fund research into herbal medicine, nutrition, acupuncture, and mind-body therapies.

Even the World Health Organization (WHO) supports traditional medicine integration, recognizing its value in primary healthcare. According to WHO, 80 % or more of the world population including those from advanced countries and highly educated people uses traditional medicine after they became disgruntled with conventional allopathic medicine that did not cure them except to control the disease and symptoms

Patients get very dissatisfied and disappointed when asked just take all these petroleum chemicals called ‘medicines’ for life in their doctors'  beliefs these drugs could cure them of their diseases. 

The Ideal Future: A Balanced Approach

I believe that integrative medicine is the future of healthcare, but it should be:

✔ Science-based, incorporating only therapies that have proven efficacy.
✔ Personalized, considering genetics, environment, and lifestyle.
✔ Preventive, reducing the need for pharmaceuticals in the first place.

Pharmaceuticals still have a vital role in emergency medicine, infections, and critical care, but for chronic disease, a holistic and integrative approach is superior.

Do we think mainstream medicine will eventually shift towards this model, or will resistance from the pharmaceutical industry slow its adoption a prominent physician asked me?

If you were to ask my opinion, I think conventional allopathic medicine that uses petroleum products as ‘medicines’ to ‘cure’ has never ‘cured’ any disease especially lifestyle diseases like heart disease caused by high blood pressure and high cholesterol, stroke, asthma, coronary artery disease, and most types of cancers, etc, etc will not get very far as most patients are now very educated and very intelligent.   

The Big Pharma and the pharmaceutical industry purposely make it this way so that after spending billions of US dollars developing their drugs over 10 - 15 years, they need to continue to reap lifelong profits out of them. The patients themselves too, trust their doctors that their ‘medicines’ could permanently ‘cure’ them.

I think we can blame this on the history of drug industry. Let's have a look how all these problem began with a brief history of profit-driven drug manufacturing. 

For most of human history, medicines were derived from natural sources, plants, minerals, and animal products. Traditional systems like Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, and herbalism relied on these remedies. However, the industrial era and advances in chemistry led to a major shift toward synthetic drugs, transforming medicine into a highly profitable industry.

1. Early Natural Medicines

Before the 19th century, remedies were largely plant-based, such as willow bark (aspirin precursor) and cinchona bark (quinine for malaria). These were often prepared by herbalists, apothecaries, and traditional healers.

2. Rise of Synthetic Pharmaceuticals (19th – Early 20th Century)

• 1804: Morphine was isolated from opium, marking the beginning of pharmaceutical chemistry.
• 1856: William Henry Perkin’s accidental discovery of synthetic dyes inspired the chemical industry, which later contributed to drug synthesis.
• 1897: Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) was synthesized by Bayer, one of the first blockbuster drugs, shifting medicine from natural extracts to lab-based production.

3. The Birth of Big Pharma (20th Century)

• 1928: Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin, but it wasn’t until WWII that companies like Pfizer industrialized its production, showing the profit potential of mass-producing antibiotics.

• 1950s – 1970s: The pharmaceutical industry exploded with drugs like corticosteroids, benzodiazepines, and statins. Synthetic drug patents allowed companies to monopolize medicines and generate enormous profits.

• Thalidomide Scandal (1950s-60s): The rush for profit led to ethical failures, such as the thalidomide tragedy, where a sedative caused birth defects.

4. The Patent-Driven Era (Late 20th Century – Present)

1. The 1980s-90s saw the rise of biotech and designer drugs, with companies shifting focus to patenting molecules rather than relying on nature.

2. The 1990s-2000s introduced high-profit chronic disease drugs, like statins and insulin analogs, often priced far beyond production costs.

3. Pharmaceutical lobbying and marketing grew, with companies spending more on advertising than research.

Current Landscape: Profits Over People?

1. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the tension between profit-making and public health, as vaccine patents limited global access.

2. Generic drugs remain under threat from evergreening (tweaking formulas to extend patents).

3. Natural medicine is often sidelined or dismissed as "unscientific," despite centuries of proven efficacy.