While most people might be inclined to call their regular physician when they develop a cough or a skin rash, turning to Western medicine is not as popular as it used to be.
This is because of the access we have to medical alternatives today. Some of which might prove even more beneficial than the modern-day, scientific medicine we know and trust.
So, what are the most popular forms of alternative medicine that have gained the most traction in recent years? Read on to find out.
Medical Alternatives: How They’re Defined
Also known as alternative therapy, these treatments do not exist in the same realm as Western medical practice.
When alternative medicine works alongside traditional medical approaches it’s known as complementary medicine.
It’s quite difficult to put alternative medicine into a box with a definitive description. This is because the field is exceptionally diverse.
It includes alternative approaches such as:
- Mind-body therapies
- Biofeedback
- Chiropractic care
- Acupuncture
- Natural remedies
- Hypnosis and more
The efficacy of these therapies is often highly contested. But over 38 percent of U.S. adults today turn to alternative medicine versus traditional medicine.
Let’s take a closer look at the most popular forms of alternative therapy:
1. Ayurveda
Ayurvedic medicine dates back centuries and is a huge part of Indian culture and heritage. The premise of Ayurveda rests on the use of plants and minerals to restore balance within the body.
Ayurvedic medicine also includes other elements such as massage therapies to rid the body of negative energy. As well as the use of herbal oils for dispelling toxins.
2. Biological Therapy
Although this type of therapy is not as ancient as Ayurveda, the principles are very similar. Biological therapy centers on the use of naturally-derived substances for healing the body.
Biological therapy focuses on the use of the following:
- Dietary supplements to treat and manage conditions
- Botanicals and plant extracts to treat, heal and manage health conditions, i.e. cannabis and kratom products
Biological therapy also encompasses the idea of holistic healing — focusing on all elements of your health to heal imbalances. This includes your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health.
3. Acupuncture
This is yet another alternative therapy that dates back centuries. Acupuncture centers on stimulating the nerves and muscles to remove and release toxic chemicals from the body.
The premise of acupuncture rests on the fact that the body becomes weighed down by negative energy — known as ”Qi”.
By inserting very fine needles into particular pressure points, you can alleviate pain and other health problems.
Acupuncture is beneficial for those who struggle with chronic pain, headaches, depression, and anxiety.
4. Naturopathy
This is the closest form of alternative practice to traditional Western medicine. Naturopathy includes a combination of both traditional and alternative therapies.
On the alternative end of the spectrum, naturopathy uses natural ingredients, herbs, supplements, massage, and exercise. A big focus within naturopathy centers on gut health and healing gut imbalances.
And on the traditional end of the spectrum, some naturopaths might also prescribe pharmaceuticals.
Take Total Charge of Your Health
In today’s day and age, these are the top medical alternatives you’ll find many people turning to over Western medicine.
What’s important to keep in mind is that not all alternative approaches work for the same health concern. It’s all about finding what works for you!
Keen to take charge of your health? Explore the rest of this site for your daily updates on all things fitness, health, lifestyle, beauty, and more.
