Having majored in human biology I once took a course in neurochemistry and behaviour.  It was an interesting course and I remember being instructed on the many names and effects of various pharmaceuticals but never was the concept of orthomolecular medicine touched upon.  We never heard mention about niacin, folic acid or any of the other vitamins, minerals and coenzymes and their beneficial effects.  It didn’t seem strange at the time as that was what the curriculum had outlined, but in retrospect, and having been introduced to the concept of orthomolecular medicine why didn't I question such a singular approach?  Why aren't students given the opportunity to explore what is natural to our biochemical environments? 

Generations upon generations of students have been shown the same path, the same ideas and the same chemical driven health solutions.  Health promotion and disease prevention have recently become such popular concepts and orthomolecular medicine speaks to both. 

Illness and disease occur most often when we are lacking in an essential(s) causing our bodies to become inadequate in carrying out a natural function.  It should follow then, that to feel better and regain our health we need to replenish what is missing.  This to me is common sense. We need to start conceptualizing our health and the treatment of our health in ways that speak to our body's natural needs and reserve drugs as a last option.