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Orthomolecular Medicine; A scientific modality for Natural Healing
Submitted by: Catherine R. Farrell MS, PhD, ROHP, DAAIM
Orthomolecular medicine, as conceptualized by double-Nobel laureate Linus Pauling, aims to restore the optimum environment of the body by correcting imbalances or deficiencies based on individual biochemistry, using substances natural to the body such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, trace elements and fatty acids. The key concept in orthomolecular medicine is that genetic factors affect not only the physical characteristics of individuals, but also their biochemical makeup. Biochemical pathways of the body have significant genetic variability and diseases such as atherosclerosis, cancer, schizophrenia or depression are associated with specific biochemical abnormalities which are causal or contributing factors of the illness.
