Overview of Alternative and Complementary Medicine

Alternative and complementary medicines are treatments that are generally outside of the mainstream of medicine. Alternative medicine is generally used instead of conventional medicine, while complementary medicine may be used in addition to conventional medicine and recommended by a physician.

Practices of alternative medicine include chiropractic, naturopathic, homeopathic, naprapathic and acupuncture. Complementary treatment which may be used along with conventional or alternative medicines include massage, Tai Chi, Yoga and vitamin and herbal supplements.

Practitioners of complementary and alternative medicine base their work upon some common principles that support overall good health with holistic principles. Holistic medicine focuses upon treating the whole person, realizing that physical health, mental health, spiritual health and relationships are all interconnected and play a role in overall health.

Alternative and complementary medicines focus upon prevention by taking steps to better health before you get sick. You can build up your own immune system to prevent disease with a healthy, well balanced diet and exercise.

The body has an amazing ability to heal itself. Alternative medicine helps to facilitate the natural healing of the body by stimulating the body's own ability to heal.

Examples of Alternative and Complementary Healing Systems

Ayurveda is an ancient form or medicine which has been used for over 5,000 in India. Treatments are based upon individual needs and may include meditation, yoga, massage, herbal cures and diet.

Homeopathy is based on the theory that minute doses of a substance can stimulate the body's healing response.

Naturopathy focuses on noninvasive ways to stimulate the body to heal using many different forms of medicine, including acupuncture, massage, herbs, exercise and counseling.

Mind Body Techniques help to strengthen communication between the mind and body include biofeedback, meditation, yoga, prayer, hypnosis and relaxation therapies.

Dietary Supplements and herbal remedies are treatments that use ingredients found in nature. Vitamins and herbal remedies may not always be compatible with prescription medicine, so consult your doctor before taking supplements.

Manipulation therapies include chiropractic, osteopathy and acupressure. Naprapathic treatments are a specific treatment that works with the muscle tissue. Massage is a touch therapy that works with the muscle tissue.

Energy therapies focus upon balancing the energy fields to promote health. Energy therapies include therapeutic touch, Reiki, magnet, therapy, polarity therapy and light therapy.

Alternative and complementary practices offer heath benefits and can help the patient feel in control of their health. While many patients report success, it is important to note that many claims have not been supported by scientific research, largely because of the cost of studies. Moreover, not all treatments are appropriate for every individual. It is up to the consumer to determine whether to investigate alternative medicine.

Information in this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions about alternative or complementary medicine, please consult a physician.

Resources:
Mayo Clinic webiste
National Institute of Health NIH - CAM

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