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To the Heart of the Matter
medicine. In contrast, biomedical science, has stated that: “from the point of view of the scientific
medical establishment most unconventional medical procedures…are defined as speculative,
subjective and non-measurable by current scientific methods” (Monckton et al. 1998, p. 13). The
almost mutually exclusive nature of the two conceptual approaches often places them in diametric
opposition and effectively prevents the possibility of any academic exchange.
However, an alternative way to address this problem, could be to examine the conceptual
differences from a non-polarised position. Analysis of the facts of observation that are inherent in
traditional and biomedically based therapeutic understanding could constitute a neutral focus for
developing a comparative dialog. Recent advances in biomedical science are beginning to facilitate
this process by establishing theories of mind-body system interaction, which can encompass the
holistic model. By transcending the differing conceptual boundaries, there could arise a potential for
unifying what currently appear as irreconcilable approaches to medicine. The result could be a
common forum for a broad discussion aimed at developing the understanding of disease processes
and their subsequent treatment.
1.2. Western Herbal Medicine as an Empirical Repository
~ a hypothesis
This dissertation examines the hypothesis, that within the differing historical conceptual models that
have been used to describe disease processes and the subsequent application of treatment, there can
be found common elements of understanding. Furthermore, that this can be clearly demonstrated by
examining the empirical therapeutic philosophy of Western Herbal Medicine (WHM).
The practice of WHM is based upon a synthesis of empirical understanding and biomedical
explanations, which are integrated to serve as models with which to understand the application of
remedies in a therapeutic context (Mills 1991). Within this unique framework, it should be possible
to illustrate that in its application of an eclectic approach to treatment, WHM demonstrates aspects
of therapeutic understanding which transcend the differing conceptual approaches that characterise
its practice. As hinted by Whitelegg (1994), WHM is in an excellent position where research can be
a catalyst: “eroding boundaries between conventionally-defined knowledge generation and
application” (Whitelegg 1994, p. 22)
2 John Gerard, English physician (1545-1607).
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