Many forms of complementary medicine exist; in particular I practice a form of complementary medicine called anthroposophic medicine.

What is anthroposophic medicine?

The first challenge for many is to pronounce anthroposophy. The word rhymes with anthropology, which helps some to get started… Anthroposophic medicine is an extension of conventional medicine, and provides a holistic and spiritual approach to healing. This medicine originated from the work of Rudolf Steiner, a philosopher who founded biodynamic gardening, Waldorf education, and contributed to other disciplines as well.

If you want a conventional treatment for an infection or problem, I can do so. But we can usually go further, at the least with remedies as an adjunct therapy. Together we can discover the meaning of illness in the context of not just the physical body, but including soul and spirit. Then we truly promote healing and health.

This medicine is widely practiced in Europe, can be found around the world, and about 200 physicians in the US practice this medicine. Most practitioners have training beyond medical school and residency through the Physician’s Association for Anthroposophic Medicine (PAAM) here in the US, or through the international association in Germany.

www.ivaa.info/IVAA_new/info_brochures_am.htm
This website includes several excellent brochures to introduce anthroposophic medicine, remedies, and therapies.

Additional options are listed in the resources section of this website.

Are you a real doctor?
We could get into a philosophical discourse about what the meaning of “real” is—short of that, yes I am a real doctor. I went to medical school, received an MD degree, completed a residency, am board certified, and am licensed. See the “About Dr. Madsen” section for more information.

Does this mean you don’t practice conventional medicine?
Not at all. What I do is an extension of conventional medicine. I use anthroposophic medicine because I have found it to be effective, safe, and has the most healing potential.

What is an anthroposophic remedy?
Remedies are biodynamically prepared with mineral, plant, and animal substances, often potentised as in homeopathic remedies. Various forms—creams, liquids, tablets, and even injections are used depending on the diagnosis. They are formulated based on Rudolph Steiner’s work along with many physicians who have used this form of medicine since the 1920’s. Several pharmacies in the US create these medicines, and some are imported. Please see the handout in the Ways to be well section for more information.

Additional anthroposophic healing modalities exist and are available depending on your geographic location, including art, curative eurythmy, biography, and music therapy. If we work together, I can help you individualize your own approach to options besides the medicines.

If I use your medicines, do I have to give up the medicines I already take?
No. In fact, I am extremely careful to honor medicines given to you by other doctors and healers. That said, over time, some patients have been able to cut down on dosages or numbers of medications, both conventional and naturopathic. And again, sometimes I will add a conventional prescription to your list when necessary or appropriate.

Many people I treat have exhausted conventional options and are frustrated, in pain, or are tired of side effects from drugs. They may come to me as a last resort, and gratifyingly, end up with significant improvement. Instead of masking or treating symptoms, tapping the natural healing process can provide a new avenue.