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.

---

Etymology

Origin of functional medicine

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

Cole wrote on Instagram, telling viewers to respond to receive “the full story and a functional medicine approach on how to heal from chronic Lyme.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 11, 2026

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

The bride’s father is a physician assistant at Optimal Health and Performance, a functional medicine practice in Portland, Me., that specializes in nutrition and wellness.

From New York Times • Sep. 16, 2018

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