Orthomolecular medicine is a science-based approach to health that emphasizes the use of optimal levels of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients to prevent and treat disease. The term “orthomolecular” was coined by two-time Nobel laureate Dr. Linus Pauling, who defined it as “the right molecules in the right amounts” to maintain health.
This approach operates on the principle that many chronic diseases stem from nutritional deficiencies, imbalances, or genetic predispositions that can be corrected or mitigated by adjusting dietary intake and supplementation. Unlike conventional medicine, which often focuses on treating symptoms with pharmaceuticals, orthomolecular medicine seeks to restore biochemical balance at the cellular level.
Key nutrients used in orthomolecular therapy include high doses of vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, essential fatty acids, amino acids, and minerals like magnesium and zinc. These nutrients support immune function, detoxification, neurotransmitter production, and cellular repair, which can be beneficial for conditions such as cardiovascular disease, mental health disorders, autoimmune diseases, and metabolic disorders.
Critics argue that some high-dose nutrient therapies lack sufficient clinical trials, but a growing body of research supports the role of nutrition in disease prevention and management. Orthomolecular medicine aligns with functional medicine principles, emphasizing individualized treatment, lifestyle modifications, and evidence-based nutritional strategies for long-term health.