Why Don’t Doctors Use Orthomolecular Treatments?

Orthomolecular medicine, often dismissed by traditional medical professionals, is a treatment method based on the use of natural substances including vitamins, minerals, and other nutritional supplements to treat symptoms. The term ‘orthomolecular’ itself, mistakenly conflated with a scientific field, actually refers to the study of the position of atoms within molecules in real scientific contexts.

The Current State of Medical Education

Medical students are predominantly taught about patented pharmaceutical drugs rather than natural treatments or nutritional deficiencies. The curriculum focuses heavily on the use of drugs for symptom suppression, rather than addressing the root causes of illnesses. This leaves a gap in the understanding of how nutrition and natural substances can impact health and well-being.

The Origins of Orthomolecular Psychiatry

The term 'orthomolecular psychiatry' was coined by Linus Pauling, a Nobel laureate, in a 1968 article in the prestigious journal Science. This field explores the use of naturally occurring substances in the body, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and essential fatty acids, to treat mental health disorders.

The human brain relies on a steady supply of nutrients from the body. Insufficient nutrients due to poor dietary habits, deficiencies, or genetic needs can lead to impaired brain function. An example of this was the earlier discovery that a poor diet of corn and fatback led to pellagra, a mental illness characterized by delusions and loss of control. Large doses of niacin showed promising results in treating schizophrenia-like symptoms.

History of Orthomolecular Treatment

In the early 1950s, Abram Hoffer and Humphrey Osmond conducted groundbreaking double-blind studies using niacin and vitamin C to treat schizophrenia. They observed significant improvements in patients who could return to work and avoid institutionalization. Their criteria for recovery were based on a patient's ability to work and pay taxes.

The Rise of Antipsychotic Drugs

However, with the introduction of the first antipsychotic drug, Thorazine, in 1953, there was a shift in treatment methods. These drugs, which block dopamine receptors, became the mainstream approach. While effective in the short term, they can create a ‘tranquilizer psychosis’ when used for long periods, making it difficult to withdraw without exacerbating symptoms.

The risks of long-term psychiatric drug use highlight the importance of exploring alternative, natural treatments. As Dr. Hoffer notes, blocking dopamine synapses can lead to hypersensitivity, causing severe withdrawal symptoms if drugs are stopped abruptly.

For more information on the benefits of orthomolecular treatments and natural healing, consider reading 'Natural Medicine' by Dr. Bonnie Camo or 'How to Live with Schizophrenia' by Hoffer and Osmond. These works provide a comprehensive overview of the efficacy and potential of orthomolecular approaches in mental health.

Conclusion

While orthomolecular medicine is not widely adopted by mainstream medical practitioners due to the lack of robust scientific data, its principles and success stories cannot be ignored. As research in this field continues to advance, it is crucial for medical education to include a broader spectrum of treatments, including natural and nutritional therapies.