Which concept underlies the philosophy of CAM therapies?

The philosophy of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) therapies is fundamentally rooted in the concept that the body has an innate healing capability. This perspective emphasizes the belief that humans possess an intrinsic ability to heal themselves under the right conditions, such as through proper nutrition, stress management, and holistic approaches to health. CAM practitioners often aim to support this natural healing process through a variety of treatments, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and mind-body practices, rather than solely relying on conventional medical interventions.

In contrast, other options do not align with the foundational beliefs of CAM. The view that modern medicine is superior reflects a more traditional biomedical approach that prioritizes pharmaceutical and technological methods over complementary practices. Similarly, the assertion that all ailments require pharmaceutical intervention dismisses the complementary philosophies that advocate for a broader range of treatment options, including lifestyle changes and holistic care. Lastly, while some CAM proponents recognize the impact of lifestyle choices on health, attributing illness primarily to poor lifestyle choices does not fully capture the comprehensive view of health and healing that CAM embodies, which considers various physical, emotional, and environmental factors.