Epigenetic Mechanisms of Integrative Medicine

Figure 1

Different types of WSM and IM work through epigenetic modulation. The figure lists prevalent IM practices that have been commonly used to improve health and ameliorate pathological conditions. Since ancient times human civilizations have made use of various natural resources to restore health. It is only in recent years that we have focused on unraveling the underlying mechanism in the light of molecular genetics and biochemistry. NCCIH guidelines classify the different types of IM practices under natural products, mind and body practices, and other practices that are highlighted by light green, light blue, and light orange background colors, respectively. Additional classification of IM practices as material, energy, temporal, and spatial medicine is represented by red, yellow, pink, and purple colored boxes around each graphical icon of IM practices. However, some IM practices can fall under two categories, for example, homeopathy is material and energy medicine. It is interesting to note that mechanisms as widely different as aromatherapy and chiropractic treatment impart psychological impacts prior to their influence on epigenomic DNA in individual cells. The prime impact is always “symptomatic relief” regardless of the practice; however, the pathways leading to that relief are variable, with potential for additional investigative approaches and novel findings. Despite the central dogma that time is the best healer, human civilizations have continually explored modes and means of healing injuries and diseases. In addition to ameliorating the symptoms, these approaches have continued to affect mind, body, and epigenome of somatic cells in the human body. The impacts of some pathways have been partially characterized, while the remainders are being explored from various angles.