Alternative therapy is a category of treatment that includes a variety of treatment approaches that fall outside the realm of conventional medicine. An increasing amount of research is being done to establish the safety and efficacy of alternative therapy.
Alternative therapy exists in all cultures to some degree and terms such as traditional medicine, indigenous medicine or folk medicine etc. are used to describe such practices. These medicines date back hundred or even thousands of years depending on the country and culture concerned.
The most popular forms of alternative therapies are Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Yoga, Acupuncture, Ancient healing system, Acupressure, Magneto therapy, Shiatsu, Herbalism, Meditation, Aromatherapy, Bach Flower Remedies, Diet therapy and Reiki etc.
Factors to Know Before Choosing an Alternative Therapy
There have been considerable increases in the number of people using common forms of alternative therapy, such as yoga, meditation, acupuncture, reiki and massage therapy.
Tell all your alternative therapist about all the health approaches you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.
The most important factor is probably the realization that it is still medicine and should not be taken lightly or without knowledge. Just because you can buy herbs off the shelf does not always mean you should use them. Consult a therapist, practitioner, such as a homeopathic doctor, acupressure therapist etc before embarking on an alternative therapy journey.
Find out and consider what scientific studies have been done on the safety and effectiveness of any alternative therapy that is recommended to or interests you.
Discuss the information and your interests with your therapist before making a decision. Only use treatments for your condition that have been proven safe.
Benefits