medicine's beneficial effects. One such theory involves endorphins. These neuropeptides bind to opiate receptors on a number of cells located throughout the body. Factors that increase endorphin release include massage, meditation, guided imagery, and acupuncture. High levels of these substances are thought to promote well being, improve immunity, and reduce pain, tension, anger, and depression. Such effects might even be capable of producing "spontaneous remissions from disease." It is already generally accepted that holistic modalities are the preferred treatment for certain conditions. For example, mild hypertension is probably best treated by relaxation and lifestyle changes.
One form of holistic therapy consists of homeopathy. One of the first holistic systems, homeopathy addresses each patient's uniqueness and individuality. It may be defined as a "form of regulatory therapy." Through the use of drugs, homeopaths attempt to stimulate and control autoregulation.
Homeopathic medicine was first started towards the end of the 18th century by the German physician, Samuel Christian Hahnemann (1755-1843). While translating Cullen's Materia medica, Hahnemann became dissatisfied with the explanation of how cinchona bark (the source of quinine) provides relief from intermittent fever (malaria). Eventually, the physician conducted a control
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