What is orthomolecular medicine?

The term orthomolecular was coined in 1968 by Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling, and means the right molecules in the right amounts.

Orthomolecular medicine is an alternative medicine that focuses on maintaining health and treating disease by optimizing the concentrations of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and fatty acids in the body.

Treatment consists of nutritional supplements and lifestyle adjustments. The use of high doses of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other nutritional supplements is a central aspect of orthomolecular therapy.

Orthomolecular medicine is used for a wide range of conditions, from chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease to mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. Proponents claim it can also help improve overall vitality and slow the aging process.

But there is a lot of criticism from the scientific perspective. Orthomolecular medicine is controversial and not widely accepted within the conventional medical community. Criticism often focuses on the lack of robust scientific evidence for the effectiveness of high doses of dietary supplements and the safety of long-term use of such high doses.

The use of high doses of nutritional supplements can have side effects and is not without risks. Overdose of certain vitamins and minerals can be toxic and lead to health problems.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2021-09-29 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025