Integrating Natural Health Science into Modern Healthcare: A Critical Synthesis and Implementation Pathways

Purpose To critically synthesise the case for integrating Natural Health Science (NHS) into modern healthcare and to outline practical implementation pathways suitable for health policy and planning contexts.  Approach Conceptual/synthesis design using Chapter 1 as the sole data source, with explicit articulation of the synthesis design and transparent notes on limitations due to the absence of primary data.  Results The synthesis identifies modality-specific themes (herbal medicine, nutrition, mindfulness, lifestyle) and cross-cutting barriers and facilitators to NHS integration, including safety, regulation, education, workforce readiness, and health equity. A practical, stepwise implementation framework is proposed.  Conclusions NHS integration holds potential to enhance patient-centred care, prevention, and health system sustainability. The article provides actionable guidance for clinicians, educators, and policymakers and outlines a policy and research road-map.