Traditional medicine is based on the idea that there are three distinct forces or faults behind illness: imbalances of the vital forces, the presence of infectious agents, and environmental factors. The first of these forces are the vital forces. These are the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of a person's being, and they are believed to be necessary for the maintenance of health and balance. If one or more of these vital forces is out of balance, it can lead to illness. The second fault of traditional medicine is the presence of infectious agents. In certain cases, these agents may be responsible for causing an ailment. For example, the presence of a virus or bacteria could be responsible for a respiratory infection. Understanding the presence of these agents is key to effective treatments of certain illnesses. The third force of traditional medicine is the environment. This includes external factors such as air quality, water quality, and the presence of any toxins in the environment. Changes in the environment can put stress on the body, making it more susceptible to illness and impacting the health of both individuals and populations. Overall, traditional medicine seeks to address any imbalance in the vital forces, the presence of any infectious agents, and the environmental factors that can lead to illness. By utilizing a holistic approach, traditional medicine seeks to balance the body and promote overall health and wellness.