Environmental Medicine: A Natural Link to Wellness

Written by Portland Clinic of Natural Health on May 24, 2023

In the intricate and vast network of the world’s ecosystems, there lies a profound relationship that we, as humans, share with our environment. This relationship isn't just romantic or metaphysical; it's also physiological and pathophysiological. It underscores the premise of environmental medicine and its intrinsic connection to naturopathic medicine. As we delve deeper into the symbiotic relationship between us and our environment, we find that our health is not merely a reflection of our genetics, but a testament to our interaction with the environment. (1)

Rooted in the belief that the body is an interconnected system, naturopathic medicine aims to identify and address the underlying causes of disease, favoring treatment approaches that work in harmony with the body’s natural processes. Environmental medicine, an integral part of naturopathic medicine, takes this philosophy further by acknowledging that our health is profoundly shaped by our surroundings.

Various environmental factors can impact our health, sometimes even mediating or causing chronic diseases. These influences may be subtle and insidious, such as the gradual build-up of toxins due to exposure to pollution, or more pronounced, like the psychological stress caused by noise pollution. Understanding and addressing these influences is a key aspect of environmental medicine.

Air quality is one such example. Pollutants in the air, from car exhausts to industrial emissions, can irritate our respiratory system, exacerbating conditions like asthma and potentially contributing to lung diseases. Even indoor air quality can impact our health, with allergens and molds potentially causing a range of issues, from allergies to chronic sinusitis. (2)

Our food and water supply is another crucial aspect of environmental health. Pesticides used in conventional farming practices can accumulate in our bodies, potentially disrupting hormonal balances and immune responses. Similarly, contaminants in our water supply, like heavy metals, can have long-term health impacts, potentially leading to neurological disorders and other health problems. (3)

Lastly, consider the impact of our built environment. Urbanization often leads to a reduction in accessible green spaces, which are essential for our mental wellbeing and for encouraging physical activity. Studies have shown that living near green spaces can reduce stress, improve mood, and potentially decrease the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease. (4)

The practice of environmental medicine is the recognition that to nurture ourselves, we must also nurture our environment. It underscores the necessity of sustainable living, not just for the sake of the planet, but also for our health. And it is an integral part of the naturopathic approach to wellness, emphasizing prevention, natural healing, and an understanding of the interconnections between ourselves and the world around us.

As we continue to explore this complex and intricate connection, remember that each step taken towards environmental consciousness is also a step towards our own well-being. Our health and the health of our environment are not just intimately connected – they are, in essence, one and the same.

Resources:

  1. Fine AM, Patrick L. Environmental Medicine: Exploring the Pollutome for Solutions to Chronic Diseases. Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am. 2022 Aug;33(3):719-732. doi: 10.1016/j.pmr.2022.04.010. Epub 2022 Jun 23. PMID: 35989060.
  2. Karimi SM, Maziyaki A, Ahmadian Moghadam S, Jafarkhani M, Zarei H, Moradi-Lakeh M, Pouran H. Continuous exposure to ambient air pollution and chronic diseases: prevalence, burden, and economic costs. Rev Environ Health. 2020 Apr 22;35(4):379-399. doi: 10.1515/reveh-2019-0106. PMID: 32324166.
  3. Mostafalou S, Abdollahi M. Pesticides and human chronic diseases: evidences, mechanisms, and perspectives. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol. 2013 Apr 15;268(2):157-77. doi: 10.1016/j.taap.2013.01.025. Epub 2013 Feb 9. PMID: 23402800.
  4. Allender S, Foster C, Hutchinson L, Arambepola C. Quantification of urbanization in relation to chronic diseases in developing countries: a systematic review. J Urban Health. 2008 Nov;85(6):938-51. doi: 10.1007/s11524-008-9325-4. Epub 2008 Oct 18. PMID: 18931915; PMCID: PMC2587653.

Our Newsletter

Experience a New Level of Wellness - Sign Up for the Portland Clinic of Natural Health Newsletter Today!

Related Posts

What our Patients say about us

crossmenu