functional medicine

American  

[fuhngk-shuh-nl med-uh-sin] / ˈfʌŋk ʃə nl ˈmɛd ə sɪn /

noun

1. individualized medical care that recognizes the interactions between genetic and environmental factors and between the body's interconnected systems.

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Etymology

Origin of functional medicine

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

Means opened a practice focused on functional medicine, a form of alternative medicine, and began recommending supplements and blood tests on social media.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 30, 2025

We break down why it’s happening and the dangers of Means, an unlicensed functional medicine doctor who talks to trees, advocates against sunscreen and is an aspiring poet, being nominated for Surgeon General.

From Salon • Jun. 13, 2025

Attendees at the daylong event can attend panels and talks on functional medicine, medical cannabis, and treatments of neurodegenerative diseases.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 12, 2018

My child was diagnosed with Crohn's several years ago and our functional medicine doctor had us feed him only organic, non-gmo foods, and use reverse osmosis water for cooking and drinking.

From New York Times • Jul. 25, 2017

My close inner circle are yogis, meditation practitioners and functional medicine doctors, a nd a core group of women who support each other and our dreams.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 26, 2011