About
One standard across two platforms
Holistic Medicines exists in two halves that share the same editorial rules. The encyclopedia (holisticmedicines.org) organises external evidence. The network (holisticmedicines.net) connects people. Neither half invents content.
No original medical content
We do not write our own medical guidance. An entry is a frame around a source that already exists — a health agency page, a systematic review, a reference publication — and it always names the publisher and links out.
Every entry has a source
An entry cannot be published without at least one external citation. If a claim has no source behind it, it does not appear here.
Evidence is labelled, not implied
Established evidence means findings from clinical trials or systematic reviews. Emerging means early or mixed results. Traditional claim means long-standing use without modern trial support. The label is set at curation and visible on every card.
Nothing is presented as a cure
No entry describes a treatment as curing a condition. Contraindications and risks are shown with the same prominence as potential benefits.
Profiles belong to practitioners
A practitioner profile is written by the practitioner, who states their own credentials and services. Verification means an editor reviewed the submitted details; it is not a clinical endorsement.
The network links out
Communities, events and publications are listed with credit and open at the original source, where the organiser sets dates, prices and terms.
Who does what
- Visitors
- Browse everything without an account. Follow citations out to the publisher.
- Practitioners
- Create and maintain their own profile, and submit it for verification.
- Editors
- Curate entries with citations, review practitioner submissions, and moderate network listings.
A note on safety
Holistic Medicines is an educational resource directory, not a medical service. It does not diagnose, treat or prescribe. Herbs, supplements and practices can interact with medicines and are not risk-free — always speak to a qualified clinician about your own situation.