Natural Medicine can be simply defined as any system of medicine that complements and enhances the body’s natural capacity to heal by restoring balance without the use of synthetic drugs or chemicals. Natural medicine generally falls under the umbrella term of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). This is a scientific and natural system providing alternative solutions. Within the discipline of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, Naturopathy, Phyto-therapy, and Unani Tibb are offered. In this discipline, the focus is on natural and herbal medicines and treatments, regimental therapies such as cupping, meditation, massage, aromatherapy, and colour therapy. The modality also focuses on essential teaching on lifestyle management which includes correct breathing, sleeping, eating, and dealing with various emotions, activity, and other important lifestyle components.
The School of Natural Medicine runs various student training clinics related to Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, Naturopathy, Phyto-therapy and Unani Tibb. Each of these systems of medicine are available at UWC, Bellville Campus (Campus clinic) and Mitchells Plain Clinic, situated at Lentegeur Hospital. Patients are seen and assessed by senior students and supervised by qualified practitioners in the various disciplines. The clinics are well received by the community with a great need for extra medical assistance at the primary health care level. These training facilities allow students to engage with the healthcare needs of South Africa by offering a professional health based service to the public.
