1

5HW047: HOLISTIC APPROACHES TO HEALTHCARE: BENEFITS OF 2 CHOSEN

HOLISTIC APPROACHES

Student’s Name

Professor (Tutor)

The Name of the School (University)

The City and State where it is located

The Date
 2

5HW047: HOLISTIC APPROACHES TO HEALTHCARE: BENEFITS OF 2 CHOSEN

HOLISTIC APPROACHES

Introduction

Health can be viewed in different perspectives that are broken down depending on

various factors. For instance, a particular model of health might focus on mental health, or

physical health or emotional health. Holistic approach is a comprehensive health model that

focuses on the whole person: body, mind and spirit. Holistic healing comprises of various

complimentary medications as well as other alternative healthcare practices. Some of the

alternative healthcare practices existing within the realm of holistic healthcare are massage,

acupuncture, yoga/medication, therapy, herbalism, and physical therapy. Holistic health is

important as it addresses the mental, physical, social and spiritual needs. It also takes into

account environmental and external factors that could be impacting and influencing health and

wellness. There are five major aspects of holistic approaches to healthcare. These are mental,

spiritual, emotional, social and physical therapies. All these five aspects are the basis upon which

humans truly live each day in the happiest, and healthiest way possible. Two major holistic

approaches to healthcare will be addressed in this article: aromatherapy for cancer patients and

horticulture therapy for dementia. Although the preliminary studies on aromatherapy for cancer

patients have resulted into mixed results, some peer reviewed articles have given some reports

that the healthcare model is significant in addressing multiple conditions associated with cancer

such as pain, nausea, depressed mood and anxiety. Aromatherapists use hydrosols and essential

oils from trees, flowers, herbs and spices to treat various psychological conditions, physical

conditions and illnesses. Horticulture therapy on the other hand involves the combination of

social services and gardening techniques to improve physical and mental health conditions of
 3

patients. It is an effective model used in the treatment of dementia. Therefore, both horticulture

therapy and aromatherapy are efficient holistic healthcare models, and thus, they should be

implemented in the healthcare system.

Horticulture Therapy for Dementia

Explanation of the Therapy

In 2012, the World Health Organization declared dementia as a public health priority.

Many dementia patients are hospitalized mainly because of the psychological and behavioural

symptoms. Preliminary studies have found that horticulture is one of the activities that help many

people relax their minds. Lu et al., 2019 states that “Patients with dementia benefit from

horticultural by alleviating their degrees of agitate behaviours, increasing time of engaging in

activities and decrease time of doing nothing (Thompson, 2019 p.45).” Considering the

contemporary world, where the rate at which people are aging is rapid, the rate at which

dementia is invading is alarming. Dementia is associated to a range of emotions such as anger,

shock, disbelief, loss, grief and even relief (Thompson, 2019, p.55). This implies that there is a

need for a holistic model of care otherwise the patient’s condition may never be fully addressed.

Therefore, there is a need for the healthcare system to devise effective health policy responses,

that address the patients holistically. Horticulture therapy has been found effective in this case as

most elderly people can access it. The therapy can be used to address social, physical, emotional,

and mental aspects of the patient.

Target Audience and Health Condition

The target audience for horticulture therapy are people suffering from cognitive abilities,

task initiation, socialization, language skills, memory loss and dementia. Preliminary studies
 4

have argued that increase in age is associated with Alzheimer’s diseases and other forms of

dementia. Additionally, most of the conditions requiring horticulture therapy are associated with

the aged. Therefore, the aged (people above 65 years) are the main target audience for

horticulture therapy.

Rationale for Choosing Horticulture Therapy

Why should the healthcare system choose horticulture therapy for dementia patients? The

main reason why this therapy is significant is because it is holistic. Considering that the aged are

the primary audience for this method, there is a need to address their whole being. Another

rationale for using this approach is that it enables the patients acquire new skills, or find a way of

regain those that they have lost (Lu et al., 2019, p.44). Studies have shown that horticulture

therapy helps in improving cognitive abilities, memory, language skills, and socialization. It is

therefore effective in addressing emotional, social, spiritual and mental aspects of humanity. In

the physical dimension, horticultural therapy helps in the strengthening of joints and muscles,

improvement of coordination, endurance and balance.

The Application of Holistic Health Model in Physical Therapy

The holistic model of healthcare is at the centre of horticultural therapy. It is an effective

therapy that addresses the major aspects of holistic health. First, horticultural therapy enhances

socialization by bringing people together especially in vocational horticultural therapy.

Horticultural therapy also addresses mental, spiritual and emotional aspects of humanity through

improvement of cognitive abilities, memory, task initiation and equipment of language skills (Lu

et al., 2019, p.34). Dementia is not associated with physical pain, as it is more of a cognitive

related health condition. However, since horticultural therapy is holistic, it also addresses
 5

physical aspects of human development. For instance, the activities involved in the horticultural

activities are essential in enabling the patients strengthen their muscles and joints, as well as

helping them improve their balance, endurance and coordination.

Parties Involved in Horticulture Therapy

There are two parties involved in horticultural therapy: the patients and the horticultural

therapists. Horticultural therapists focus on holistically addressing the needs of the patients by

improving their mental and physical health. In some cases, the through therapists may work with

a separate group that helps the patients benefit from their therapy (interaction with plants) (Lu et

al., 2019, p.35). An example of groups that may work with horticultural therapists are the

veterans, the elderly, children and those dealing with mental health problems and addiction.

Biomedical Model versus Horticultural Therapy

The biomedical model perceives the patients’ mental disorders as brain diseases and thus,

emphasizes on pharmacological treatment to ensure that the presumed biological abnormalities

are appropriately addressed. The biological model has dominated the American healthcare

system for more than three decades. The model has multiple advantages, which are the reasons

why it has dominated the healthcare system. The major benefit of this model is that it offers

explanation to mental-health conditions that many patients find reassuring and thus, facilitate to

their recovery. The model is however founded on the assumption that the cause of mental

illnesses lies within the individuals and therefore, it focuses its treatment on the symptoms that

occur to the body. Therefore, it presents shortcomings that can only be addressed in the scope of

a more holistic model. The horticulture on the other hand is entirely founded on the holistic

healthcare model and therefore, it addresses the problems of patients as a whole. For instance,
 6

the biological model does not have a framework that addresses the physical aspects of humanity.

Therefore, the biological model, although has dominated the American healthcare system for

over three decades hitherto, has particular shortcomings that can be fully addressed by a

perfectly holistic healthcare model.

The Specific Protocol involved in Horticulture Therapy

Horticulture therapy involves hand-on activities – active involvement such as potting

plants, or passive involvement such as viewing a garden of plants via an open window. The

process can also involve listening to birdsong. The focus of the therapy is on multisensory

experiences which ensures that all human senses are involved. Therefore, the process involved in

horticultural therapy do not only address physical health, but also human cognitive abilities.

Relevant Regulatory Bodies for Horticultural Therapy

The American Horticultural Therapy Association is the body in charge of horticultural

therapy in the United States. The body defines the activities and services which patients should

be subjected to by their horticultural therapists. This involves the definition of the processes

involved in treatments (Thompson, 2019). The documentation detailing the state and content of

horticultural therapy is maintained by this body. Lastly, the American Horticultural Therapy

Association also defines and dictates the ethical and legal practices required of all horticultural

therapists.

Ethical and Legal Frameworks in Horticultural Therapy

Horticultural therapists are guided by a set of ethical and legal frameworks that define

how they attend to their patients. The code of ethics that govern horticultural therapy are
 7

integrity, professional duty, social responsibility, excellence, altruism, compassion and

accountability. The American Horticultural Therapy Association also plays a critical role in

ensuring that horticultural therapists are ethical.

Horticultural Therapy Monitoring

Horticultural therapy is monitored using the mixed-method evaluation. Mixed

methodology is a design that purposes on collection, analysis and mixing of both qualitative and

quantitative data to evaluate a problem. This is also the same method used in monitoring the

activities and improvements in the patients’ health.

Limitations and Barriers for Horticultural Therapy

Horticultural therapy has several barriers that hinder its effectiveness. First, a high level

of education is required for the therapists. Therefore, there are few experienced therapists who

can perform perfectly and adhere to the set code of ethics (Thompson, 2019). Additionally, the

patients need to have a higher level of education, otherwise the therapy might not be beneficial

for their situation. These hinder a lot of people from using this form of therapy. Horticultural

therapy is a costly procedure and thus, only wealthy people can access it. Lastly, skilled labour

and techniques are essential for effective results.

Aromatherapy Massage for Cancer Patients

Explanation of the Therapy

Cancer patients are prone to intense pain. Pain among cancer patience occurs when the

tumour grows to destroy human tissues. Aromatherapy is a holistic healthcare model designed to

help cancer patients relieve their intense pain. The physical health is highly useful in
 8

aromatherapy as most cancer patients are battling with different types of physical pain. The

physical health is what most people associate with because most the signs and symptoms that

occur to the physical body are quite obvious (Swinkels et al., 2011). Signs and symptoms

occurring to the physical body are easy to measure and track compared to non-physical signs that

might be more profound. In holistic approach to healthcare, physical health is addressed using a

few practices from which patients can be benefit from and make a significant difference in their

whole being (Swinkels et al., 2011, p.106). There are various therapies involved in physical

health approach. For instance, sleeping for 8 hours each day is recommended. This therapy

allows the body to rest regain its lost energy. Aromatherapy involves the use of hydrosols and

essential oils to relieve pain in cancer patients. Nutrition is also an essential aspect in physical

health. Healthcare practitioners mostly advocate for nutrient-dense diet that is rich in organic

animal and plant-based products. Physical exercise is also a therapy used in physical health

management. Individuals in critical conditions are expected to move their bodies for about 30

minutes each day. While different individuals might have different exercise routines, each of

them should eventually benefit from at least 30 minutes of daily movement. Limiting the

consumption of hydrogenated oils and processed foods is also an essential therapy in enhancing

physical health. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is not recommended for better

physical health.

Target Audience and Health Condition

In aromatherapy, trained healthcare practitioners examine and treat abnormal physical

functions linked to, for instance, cancer, a disability, injury, condition or disease.

Aromatherapists provide care to patients in all stages of healing, from the initial phases of

diagnosis, through the restorative ones, to the preventive phases of recovery (Şahin, 2017, p.56).
 9

Aromatherapy could be performed in standalone phases, or it may include a combination of other

treatments. In whatever way they come the horticultural therapists, patients expect four major

treatments. First, patients requiring physical therapy expected to go through physical test and

examination, inclusive of a health history and particular testing procedures. Evaluation of

posture, flexibility and movement, joint and muscle as well as the overall body performance

(Rakel and Faass, 2006). Second, patients also expect to receive a clinical diagnosis, plan of care,

prognosis as well as short- and long-term goals. Based on the therapist’s evaluation and

diagnosis, patients should receive the appropriate therapy treatment and intervention. Lastly,

patients expect to receive self-management recommendations.

Rationale for Choosing Aromatherapy

The first and most essential rationale for aromatherapy is pain elimination. Through

manual therapy techniques and therapeutic exercises, physical therapies can help patients reduce

their pain levels, and also provide ways of preventing the pain from returning in the future.

Physical therapy is used where there is a need to relieve airway obstruction. Aromatherapy helps

cancer to strengthen the muscles affected by injuries. “It is also used for decreasing the

ventilatory effects of increased resistance to flow (Şahin, 2017, p.58).” Aromatherapy may also

be an alternative to surgery. Additionally, where the is a need to improve mobility and flexibility,

physical therapy could be the best option.

The Application of Holistic Health Model in Aromatherapists

Aromatherapy is also an effective method of helping patients recover from cancer and the

associated pain. After a cancer or stroke, an individual is more likely to experience some degree

of impairment in movement and flexibility. Aromatherapy plays a critical role in enabling cancer
 10

patients regain balance and gait, and thus strengthening their weakened body parts.

Aromatherapy is an effective method of preventing falls, improving balance and managing

vascular conditions and diabetes. Patients who are at risk of falls can be guided by therapists

through therapists that safely challenge their body balance. Physical exercises may also be used

to improve coordination, which incorporates walking. Patients suffering from diabetes who may

experience sensations in their legs and feet can also be subjected to physical therapy. In this

context, the aromatherapists educate the patients on proper footcare, which helps them avoid

further complications. Lastly, aromatherapy is critical for helping patients recover from sport

related injuries. Aromatherapists rely on their knowledge to create effective prevention or

recovery programs that help athletes and other sporting individual manage their stress fractures,

torn muscles and strained tendons.

Parties Involved in Physical Aromatherapy

Aromatherapists are healthcare specialists who examine and treat disorders occurring to

the body. Aromatherapists essentially use hydrosols and oils to perform massage, detoxification

and relaxation techniques to ensure that the needs of cancer patients are effectively met. They

help in the management of the disorders that occur to the: musculoskeletal system (bones and

muscles), neurological systems (brain), cardiopulmonary system (heart and lungs) and

integumentary system (skin) (Swinkels et al., 2011, p.106). Therapy is given to individuals of all

ages, who might have medical conditions, injuries or illnesses that hinder or limit their ability to

move and function properly.

Biomedical Model versus Aromatherapy

 11

According to the biological model, mental problems are perceived as illnesses in the

same way as other health problems such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Therefore,

mental illnesses have a cause and can be treated just like any other form of illnesses. Biological

model offers a variety of explanations to mental health which are aimed towards recovery. It can

therefore be used to relieve symptoms such as hallucinations, rapid heartbeats and constant

anxiety. This is unlike aromatherapy that address physical pain (Rakel & Faass, 2006). The two

therapies however intercept in that proper mental health can be used to improve physical health.

On the other hand, physical health is an important aspect in improving mental health. Since the

biological model can only address mental-related issues, it has multiple shortcomings that are

best addressed in a holistic model. Aromatherapy is founded on holistic care and thus, unlike the

biomedical model that addresses the mental aspects of humanity.

The Specific Protocol Involved in Aromatherapy

The protocol involved in the implementation of aromatherapy depends on the intensity of

the cancer, or rather the stage of the cancer. Orthopaedic aromatherapy is meant for the treatment

of musculoskeletal injuries (these are injuries affecting bones, muscles, fascias, tendons and

ligaments). Geriatric physical therapy helps patients to develop their conditions that impact their

flexibility, mobility and physical function (Şahin, 2017, pg.54). Neurological aromatherapy is

used to relieve pain to patients having Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s

disease, spinal cord injury, stroke and cerebral palsy. Vestibular therapy is used for the treatment

of problems that arise from inner ear conditions. This form of therapy involves are series of

therapies that enable the patients regain their normal balance and coordination. Wound care

therapy, as the name suggests, is a physical therapy used to treat patients undergoing intense pain

as a result of wounds. In this case, physical therapy could involve electric stimulation,
 12

compression therapy, wound care and manual therapies. Lastly, decongestive aromatherapy is

conducted to help patients who need to drain accumulated fluid. It involves multiple exercises

that help in the draining of the fluid.

Relevant Regulatory Bodies for Aromatherapy

Essential oils in the United States are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration

(FDA). Other governing bodies also exist in other countries. The body ensures that

aromatherapists administer competent and safe physical therapy care, while respecting the rights

and responsibilities stipulated by the state (Swinkels et al., 2011, p.106). The FDA has

established tools for state licensing authorities that are used for regulation of aromatherapy.

Some of these regulatory resources are model practice act, minimum data set, licensure reference

guide, legislative tracking tool and licensure portability resource guide.

Ethical and Legal Frameworks in Aromatherapy

Ethical and legal principles in ensure that aromatherapists provide quality services to

patients, maintain trust to the public and work efficiently with their colleagues. The code of

ethics that govern physical therapy are integrity, professional duty, social responsibility,

excellence, altruism, compassion and accountability (Şahin, 2017, p.55). The FDA also ensures

that aromatherapists adhere to the ethics and legal frameworks required of them. The legal

requirements for physical therapy are autonomy, beneficence, justice, non-maleficence,

confidentiality and effective dissipation of knowledge.

Aromatherapy Monitoring
 13

Aromatherapists use an ExerciseCheck to monitor the entire process of patients’

recovery. The ExerciseCheck uses the a Kinetic to monitor the patient’s movement trajectory.

Alternatively, a web browser that monitors the movement of the patients through a web browser

can also be used to visualize movement. Based on the monitoring, physical therapists can then

make a decision on the best exercises for the patients. Lastly, monitoring vital signs is also an

effective method of monitoring physical therapy. The triad of pulse, blood pressure and

respiration rate are considered to the most basic indicators of patients’ health status. Therefore,

the measurement of blood pressure, respiration rate and pulse are the major vital signs

monitored. Mixed-evaluation is also used in some cases where evaluation of the patients is

needed.

Limitations and Barriers for Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is associated with multiple side effects such as allergic reactions, asthma

attacks, skin irritation, nausea, rashes and headaches. Due to these side effects, some people have

become sensitive and cannot use the therapy. Another limitation of aromatherapy is that the fuels

are not always pure. This is essentially one of the reasons why the therapy involves multiple side

effects. The misconception that physical therapy is for patients with serious injuries is also a

demerit of the therapy. Most individuals do not understand that they should seek for physical

therapy even when they are suffering from minor pains. Most patients have troubles while

accessing physical therapists. This is because they do not understand that they do not to pass

through a medical doctor to be recommended to an aromatherapist.

 14

Bibliography

Haller, R.L. and Capra, C.L. (2017). Horticultural therapy methods : connecting people and

plants in health care, human services, and therapeutic programs. Boca Raton: Taylor &

Francis.

Information, N.C. for B., Pike, U.S.N.L. of M. 8600 R., MD, B. and Usa, 20894 (2016).

SUMMARY OF EVIDENCE. [online] www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Canadian Agency for Drugs

and Technologies in Health. Available at:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK409578/ [Accessed 18 Jun. 2021].

Jack, K., McLean, S.M., Moffett, J.K. and Gardiner, E. (2010). Barriers to treatment adherence

in physiotherapy outpatient clinics: A systematic review. Manual Therapy, [online]

15(3), pp.220–228. Available at:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2923776/.

Lu, L.-C., Lan, S.-H., Hsieh, Y.-P., Yen, Y.-Y., Chen, J.-C. and Lan, S.-J. (2019). Horticultural

Therapy in Patients With Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. American

Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease & Other Dementias®, 35, p.153331751988349.

Şahin, N. (2017). Effectiveness of physical therapy and exercise on pain and functional status in

patients with chronic low back pain: a randomized-controlled trial. Turkish Journal of

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 64(1), pp.52–58.

Swinkels, R.A., van Peppen, R.P., Wittink, H., Custers, J.W. and Beurskens, A.J. (2011). Current

use and barriers and facilitators for implementation of standardised measures in physical

therapy in the Netherlands. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, [online] 12, p.106.

 15

Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3126762/#:~:text=The

%20main%20barriers%20are%20on [Accessed 18 Jun. 2021].

Thompson, J. (2019). Relaxation : a complete guide for body relaxing including aromatherapy

& massage therapy. United States.