Archive for the ‘Articles’ Category
Alternative Medicine 101 – the Interesting Facts About Alternative Medicine Practices
Sure, we have all heard the term “alternative medicine”, but many people do not understand exactly what it is all about and where it came from. Alternative medicine simply refers to medical practices which differ from conventional approaches. Some of the more common forms of alternative medicine include herbal medicine, homeopathy, chiropractic, and naturopathy.
Alternative medicine methods are usually based on philosophies that go against the grain of modern day medicine. Sometimes they incorporate spiritual practices, pre-modern medical traditions, or completely new approaches to the healing process.
Many have found that the best approach is to combine conventional and alternative medicine. When used in conjunction, an individual is able to benefit from the best of both worlds so to speak — using conventional medicine for information and diagnosis, and using alternative medicine for health enhancement.
Alternative medicine is growing in popularity among developed countries. In these areas, access to medicines is restricted by both lack of resources and poverty. As a result, traditional remedies (alternative remedies) often become a form of primary health care.
As health care costs continue to rise, alternative medicine is also picking up steam in the United States. According to a survey done a few years ago of adults ages 18 and up in the U.S., over 74% had used some form of alternative medicine and more than 62% had done so within the past 12 months.
Used properly, alternative medicine methods can be extremely effective in treating a wide range of medical conditions at a very reasonable cost.
Four Forms Of Alternative Medicine
Alternative medicine is often described as any form of treatment that differs from conventional medicine. As a method of treating a variety of ailments, alternative medicine is becoming increasingly popular with members of the public. As more people choose to use alternative treatments, the effectiveness and efficiency of the methods are being evermore tested and proved. This article attempts to highlight some of the most popular forms of alternative medicine treatments but is in no way a comprehensive list.
The first of these treatments is homeopathy; this form of alternative medicine has been in existence since the time of the Ancient Greeks. The word in fact means ’similar disease or suffering’. While some see homeopathy as purely a means of treating conditions diagnosed in contemporary medicine, it is in fact a science that uses its of diagnosis’ to classify a variety of medical problems.
This form of alternative medicine has the ultimate objective of using the body’s own defence mechanisms to cure the patient. Subsequently, the remedies given in homeopathy rely upon small doses to stimulate the natural defences of the body. A homeopathy practitioner works closely with the patient to develop a treatment plan that will achieve the best possible result. The approach is all encompassing, taking into account the whole body rather than purely the affected area.
Naturopathy is another form of alternative medicine that comes from the Indian medical heritage. Once again it relies upon the body’s ability to heal itself. As a result a naturopathic practitioner avoids using artificial medicines and surgery and instead attempts to heal their patients with the use of herbalism, acupuncture and aromatherapy combined. The differing forms of regulation for this medical profession mean that some are wary of its benefits, but they are definitely there. A well trained naturopath will be able to utilise blood tests and images to clearly diagnose what is wrong with a patient, by doing this they are able to devise a course of treatment that will heal the certain area.
Alternative medicine also broaches the physical ailments in terms of muscular problems, this area is named chiropractics. A chiropractor attempts to diagnose muscular problems and attempts to explain the relationship with the nervous system. Treatment is fundamentally physical, using manipulation of the body to heal affected areas. This form of alternative medicine is strongly advisable for complaints such as back pain.
Also, this form of treatment is well regulated as training is needed to perform on patients, in some cases, even a degree is necessary. The treatment is not purely about manipulating the body however, a practitioner will attempt to give the patient advice on lifestyle and exercise as a full solution to muscular problems. Like other forms of alternative medicine it relies on the body’s ability to heal itself for successful treatment.
One of the disciplines of alternative medicine does not rely on the body’s healing ability is herbal medicine. Instead of using synthetic drugs, herbal medicines are formulated from plant extracts; subsequently chemical additives are removed form the treatment equation. With prolonged use, some consider this a way of boosting the immune system and warding off disease in the long term. There can be side affects with herbal treatments however, and the usual advice is that a course should only be used after consultation with your physician.
These four forms of alternative medicine only scratch the surface of the wide array available to patients today. Picking the right ones can be difficult but with good advice it should be possible to find a treatment that will lead to good health and happiness.
The Origins Of Alternative Medicine
The origins of alternative medicine, also known as holistic medicine, can be traced back thousands of years to the very roots of medicine. Many millennia ago, physicians or healers would assess the sick person’s emotional condition in addition to their physical symptoms before beginning treatment. The roots of alternative medicine deal with the symptoms of the “whole” person, not merely the physical signs of illness. This is radically different from traditional medicine today.
In medicine today, people demand to be cured immediately, and the demand for medicines and treatments that do so is very high. Most physicians today are trained to assess physical symptoms and base treatments on that, without much consideration of the person’s emotional or intellectual state.
Since its inception, alternative medicine has survived the ages and stages of the field of medicine. Despite the prevalence of modern medical practices, there are still millions of people worldwide that take advantage of alternative treatments for ailments or well-being. Some of these alternative treatments include massage therapy, herbal remedies, and meditation. Massage is one of the most long-standing forms of alternative treatment, and it is highly popular today as a treatment for aches and pains, and as a means of stress release and relaxation. Most people probably don’t even think about massage as a type of alternative medicine.
Through the ages, every society has used their own forms of alternative medicines and treatments. There is over 5000 years of history and many types of treatments that were used far and wide, and many traditional medical treatments can even find their roots in alternative medicine from long ago.
Long ago in Europe, medical issues were treated by one of two types of healers, the physicians or the folk healers. The folk healers appealed to the poorer factions of society, in that they used natural treatments that were more affordable and easier to come by. Folk healers were often highly respected in these underprivileged sections of society. Folk healers often incorporated philosophy and religious faith into their healing practices, which helped to strengthen a sick person’s mind and spirit, as well as his body.
Eventually, folk medicine evolved into the traditional medicine we are familiar with in today’s world. With each passing century, many great advances have been made in treatments and cures for various diseases and conditions.
Despite the dominance of traditional medicine in the world today, there is still a place for alternative medicine. It is alive and well, and used by many people around the world through massage therapy, acupuncture, aromatherapy, herbal remedies, meditation, and many other forms of alternative treatments. Many physicians now support many of these treatments, making them less alternative.
The origins of alternative medicine were very forward thinking. Alternative medicine has survived through the millennia because it has real validity, despite a great deal of ridicule through the ages. Though they do not have the immediate effect that many drugs and treatments of traditional medicine, they are a feasible option for a person to consider.
What is Alternative Medicine?
What is alternative medicine? This is a term used to describe the different forms of medicine other than conventional methods. Alternative medicine includes a wide variety of medical practices including non-European (non-Western) medical practices and will include some new approaches to medicine. There is also a term called complementary medicine. This is a combination of conventional medicine coupled with alternative medicine.
With increasing research and new findings in medicine there is a universal rise in the Western nations of alternative medicine. In the Eastern part of the world, namely the Orient, some forms of alternative medicine has been practiced for many centuries. Part of this trend in the West may be due to the growth of medical education among people and the increased amount of travel to different regions. More literature is now available on this subject and medical societies specializing in different forms of alternative medicine are available.
Some of the most common forms of alternate medicine are:
AcupunctureHomeopathyNaturopathic medicineOsteopathy
Acupuncture: this is an ancient art which had its origins in the Orient. It involves manipulating and inserting needles into special points in the body. It is thought to restore health and create well-being. There are several forms of acupuncture which are taught worldwide. This is one of the most famous forms of alternative medicine.
Homeopathy: is a form of medicine that tries to stimulate the body’s immune system in order to promote healing. The practice of Homeopathy endeavors to bring the entire body back into homeostasis, or balance.
Naturopathic medicine: Is a practice that is designed to stimulate the body’s own healing system. This system utilizes multiple forms of alternative medicine. It can also be referred to as Natural therapy, and can include dietary supplements, exercise and different foods.
Osteopathy: Was originally a form of alternative medicine based on manipulation of the joints. It is still used for chronic back pain. It is often used with other forms of medicine.
When treating illness and serious diseases it is important to consult your physician before taking any decisions. Many doctors will endorse some sort of alternative medicine coupled with conventional medicine, especially if conventional medicine is not proving very effective for a chronic condition. Despite the lack of credibilty given it by MD.s, some alternative medicine can work surprisingly well. It will all depend on your particular illness and your own body’s functionality whether alternative medicine will work well for you.
Alternative Medicine Seminars: What They Teach
Find Alternative Medicine Seminars in the United States and Canada. Much like traditional medicine workshops, alternative medicine seminars typically center on pathology-specific and/or innovative health treatments. In addition, a number of alternative medicine seminars will sometimes offer diplomas of completion, certification and/or continuing education units.
Some excellent examples of alternative medicine seminars may include classes in acupuncture treatment for particular health issues, such as auricular therapy for eye disorders. Other alternative medicine seminars may be strictly for practitioners and health care professionals who would like introductory courses in homeopathy, natural healthcare or other related subjects of study.
A number of alternative medicine seminars may involve integrative medicines that are used in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases, and other health problems. In addition, there are alternative medicine seminars that have been specifically designed to help professional health care providers to better understand the theories and principles of alternative and complementary medicine, which help to erode stereotypes associated with these natural health modalities.
Some alternative medicine seminars are geared toward promoting healthier lifestyles and better nutritional concepts; while others present advanced and continuing education classes in glyconutrients, massage therapy, yoga, Tai chi, qigong and herbal remedies. Many alternative medicine seminars also include programs in guided imagery, chiropractic, homeopathy, meditation, mind-body medicine, and additional natural therapies.
Alternative medicine seminars vary in length and credit; some may be as short as an hour-long course, while others can range up to two weeks. Most alternative medicine seminars do provide certificates of completion, which is always a professional enhancement to any health career.
If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding appropriate alternative medicine seminars to help attain your dream job, let education within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs near you.Alternative Medicine Seminars: What they Teach© Copyright 2007
The CollegeBound Network
All Rights ReservedNOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box are included; and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.
Alternative Medicine For: Diabetes, Blood Pressure, Menopause
What is Alternative Medicine? The term “Alternative Medicine” is used to describe herbal medicine. People used to consider practices like these out side the mainstream, which is why they got the name ‘Alternative.” Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is the term for medical products and practices that are not part of the standard care. Standard care is what medical Doctors, therapists, allied health professionals, such as registered nurses and health professionals use. Complementary medicine means non-standard treatments that you use along with standard ones
Alternative Medicine is as old as the human race. In the beginning, when man was created, he was given free access to use the “Herbs” that were created by God for food and medicinal use. Eastern countries have long been using traditional methods of treating their health problems and diseases. Oriental countries like: China and India and far east countries like: Egypt and ancient Babylon have all used alternative herbal medicine to treat health problems.
What is Herbal Medicine? “Herbal Medicine” also called Botanicals and. A herb is a plant or plant part used for its scent, flavor or therapeutic properties. Herbal medicine products are dietary food, supplements or properties that people take to improve their health. Many herbs have been used for a long time for claimed health benefits. They are sold as tablets, capsules, teas, extracts and fresh or dried. However, some are not effective and some may interact with other drugs you are taking. It is always wise to consult or inform your Doctor about your use of herbal medicine.
Doctors, health professionals and patients in western countries are becoming more receptive to learning and using alternative and herbal medicine to treat and reverse their health problems. As a result, many western medical schools are now teaching alternative treatments, techniques and theories. Some hospitals and Doctors are now supplementing their regular medical care with alternative and herbal techniques and treatments.
Micronutra alternative herbal medicine made by real Doctors has led the way in producing high quality herbal products to help reverse many known chronic diseases. Many people with long term chronic illnesses have been using Micronutra herbal products with amazing results. These products are effective in reversing the root causes of : diabetes, high blood pressure, gout, menopause, fatigue, asthma, arthritis, stress, sex problems in men and women, acid reflux, lupus, allergies, yeast infection, weight loss, cholesterol and immune system. Micronutra herbal medicine has made a difference in the lives of many people. Why not learn more about Micronutra medicine and see if these products can help you in your health problems?
Alternative Medicine Programs in America
Find Alternative Medicine Programs in the United States and Canada. With the phenomenal expansion of complementary and holistic therapies, there are growing numbers of healing arts schools that now offer alternative medicine programs to both practitioners and prospective students searching for unique career-training opportunities.
Of the numerous alternative medicine programs – massage therapy, holistic health, energy healing, and nutritional consulting are some of the more popular academic programs available today. However, more comprehensive alternative medicine programs in chiropractic, naturopathy and Oriental medicine are gaining leeway in the educational industry as well.
For example, alternative medicine programs in herbology entail studies in both Eastern and Western medicine principles with an emphasis on botany, medicinal plants, herbal pharmacy, and more. Depending on the healing arts school in which you enroll, more advanced training in Chinese herbal medicine may be available. As well, there are several alternative medicine programs at acupuncture schools and naturopathy schools with curricula that include in-depth studies in herbal medicine.
Other alternative medicine programs, like massage therapy and other bodywork training can be completed in less than a year’s time. In many cases, these natural healing courses are comprised of 500 training hours; however, some may well exceed 1,000 hours. Students enrolled in bodywork programs gain hands-on instruction in various massage modalities; including Swedish massage, sports massage and deep tissue massage.
Alternative medicine programs in holistic health prepare candidates for careers as holistic health practitioners. In this field of study, students gain practical training in mind/body/spirit medicines including Ayurveda, energy healing therapies, intuitive healing, aromatherapy, herbology, hypnotherapy and/or NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), and massage techniques, among others.
Homeopathy is another subject that is avidly taught in alternative medicine programs in both naturopathic schools and homeopathic schools. Believing in the theory that “like treats like,” homeopathy is a medicine that is based on the law of similars, and students who participate in this program learn about homeopathic pharmacy, Hering’s Law, materia medica, and other related subject matter.
Whether individuals choose to enhance already-established healthcare services, or are primarily interested in gaining entry-level positions in the alternative healthcare industry, completing one or more alternative medicine programs can help to improve prospective career outlook as well as giving successful candidates the skills and knowledge necessary to help in healing.
If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding alternative medicine programs, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs near you.Alternative Medicine Programs in America
© Copyright 2007
The CollegeBound NetworkAll Rights ReservedNOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box are included; and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.
Alternative Medicine for Mental Wellbeing
Some recent healthcare studies* suggest that alternative medicine is growing in popularity. One of the many reasons for this increase is due in part to the fact that most alternative medicine therapies are often non-invasive, with little or no side effects.
For example, herbal medicine like St. John’s wort was scientifically studied* in Europe, presenting positive findings for its effectiveness on the treatment of certain cases of depression. However, large pharmaceutical company, Pfizer Inc., refuted these studies by carrying out an independent study on the herb. The difference, though, between this alternative medicine in comparison to drugs like Prozac, is the potentially lethal side effects; which have made recent headlines in anti-depressant/anti-anxiety drug lawsuits.
Complementary and alternative medicine like acupuncture is also making leeway in the field of mental healthcare. In a small pilot study* carried out by researchers, acupuncture was used as a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy on patients suffering from PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). Interestingly enough, research found that acupuncture may be effective in helping people, who have PTSD.
Another form of alternative medicine, believe it or not, is meditation. Studies* found that individuals who practice meditation are more proficient at recognizing and processing information. Does this mean that meditation gurus are more intellectual? No, it simply means that most individuals who practice meditation have an improved sensory-cognitive perception, or heightened sense of awareness. Perhaps alternative medicine like meditation may one day find its way into educational facilities across the country; which could potentially lead to more positive learning environments, as well as a reduction in attention deficit disorders?
Persons suffering from psychiatric problems like bipolar disorder may also find relief from complementary and alternative medicine like Omega-3 fatty acids. Because Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients, researchers studied this supplement to determine its effectiveness on certain mental health conditions. With promising results of the (researcher’s) meta-analysis, the future is looking brighter for those plagued with depression or bipolar disorder; and alternative medicine like Omega-3 fatty acids has the potential to play an important, complementary role in helping to treat these disorders.
Intrigued by alternative medicine? You’re not alone. Over 74 percent of US adults have used complementary and/or alternative medicine* at some time in their lives. This is also one of the many reasons why natural health and alternative healing schools have begun popping up all across the country.
If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding schools in alternative medicine, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore alternative medicine programs near you.*Source: National Center for Complementary and Alternative MedicineAlternative Medicine for Mental Wellbeing
© Copyright 2007
The CollegeBound Network
All Rights ReservedNOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box are included; and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.
Everything About Alternative Medicine and Its Advantages
Alternative medicine is divided into a number of categories, each one having a specific set of theories and principles. Furthermore, many people choose alternative medicine as it presents several advantages over conventional medicine.
Alternative medicine is defined as any approach to health care that are used in place of or are outside the field of conventional medicine. Most of the time, alternative medicine involves products and techniques which are generally not recognized by the medical community. Also, this type of curative standards and procedures are normally chosen by individuals whose ailments for some reasons have not been cured by prescribed drugs or any other kind of conventional medicine.
In addition, alternative medicine can be divided into five major domains of practice. These domains of practice consist of the following: alternative medical systems, biologically based therapies, mind-body techniques,
body-based therapies, and energy therapies.
Alternative medical systems usually deal with traditional medicine from China and unconventional techniques of natural healing from certain Western countries. Under this domain of practice is the popular technique known as acupuncture. Known as the most widely accepted alternative medical procedure in the world, acupuncture involves stimulating certain points of the body through the insertion of very fine needles.
The second domain of practice consists of biologically based therapies. Practitioners of this type of therapy make use of chemicals which are normally obtained from natural sources. Common examples of these products are herbal medicine which are taken from plants and are used to treat a wide range of diseases and can even help habits such as smoking.
Next is the practice that involves mind-body techniques. This is derived from the theory that emotional and mental factors affect the person’s overall physical health. Meditation, relaxation, cognitive-behavior therapy, biofeedback, and imagery are the techniques that fall under this practice. Furthermore, chemicals are rarely used in these techniques as most of them involve concentration and mental activities.
Moving on, body-based therapies deal with curing ailments and maintaining physical health through bodily manipulations. Massage therapy and chiropractic are some forms of body-based techniques. Although these techniques differ in terms of approach and procedures, their main goal is to provide a way to alleviate aches and ailments through properly aligning the muscles and tissues of the body.
The last domain of practice under alternative medicine involves energy therapies. These techniques focus on the energy fields that are believed to be inside and around the body. These energy fields are known as biofields. Energy therapies aim to cure ailments by balancing or restoring the biofields in a person’s body. Oftentimes, people who practice energy therapies place their hands on the affected part of the patient’s body to transfer energy or affect the patient’s biofields.
Many individuals choose alternative medicine as they believe that it presents certain advantages. The first advantage is that it is apparently more safe than other curative procedures. Since alternative medicine rarely makes use of drugs and are done naturally, certain individuals are encouraged to try the said form of unconventional medicine. Another advantage of alternative medicine is that it improves not only a specific ailment but also the other aspects of a person’s life as well. It advocates proper diet, a better lifestyle, and the ways of achieving mental health. Apart from this, alternative medicine is usually less expensive than conventional medical procedures.
How To Become An Alternative Medicine Provider
Healing through alternative medicine is a broad subject, traditionally referred to as practices and applications not usually taught by conventional or western medical schools as treatment for illnesses. Alternative medicine is typically not covered by health insurance, although acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic have recently gotten the go ahead. For those of you interested in becoming alternative medicine providers, the practice is divided into seven major categories: Bioelectricmagnetic applications-which include magnet therapy, diet, nutrition, and lifestyle changes (homeopathic practices), herbal medicine, manual healing, ( Chinese medicine, massage, acupuncture) and biological treatments.
Alternative medicine is meant to treat the body holistically-body, mind, and spirit, and is highly based on preventative practices. That is, Alt. med. is geared toward preventing rather than simply treating symptoms of ailments. Actually, only about 30% of the world uses what we call western or modern medicine. The other 70% use holistic or alternative medicine and Americans are just now catching up. The good news is that American doctors are beginning to see the benefits of alternative forms of therapy and more of them are beginning to add some form of alternative medicine to their practice. “Mainstream” doctors are beginning to refer patients for massage therapy, surgeons are referring to chiropractors. The result is that the terms ”mainstream” and “alternative” are beginning to blur.
Alternative medicine is being used along with other alternative therapies or traditional therapies (called “complimentary”) and reflects a shift in attitude. It seems people are much more accepting of alternative medicine if it is used in conjunction with conventional methods of treatment rather than as an “alternative” or “instead of.” Professional alternative medicine practitioners are trained by accredited schools and practice in established locations-no back alley medicine here-you must meet all the entry requirements of the holistic medicine schools and maintain excellent skills to become accredited. Each health care system has its own accreditation, and includes Traditional Oriental Medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy, naturopathy, anthroposophy, and ayurvedic (Indian) medicine.
Each system has its own theory of illness (although if you study them separately you will see that they are very much the same indeed, which is another feather in alternative medicine’s cap-to have the same principles work on either end of the world), an educational plan to teach theory and practice, a support system and a legal and ethical committee to answer to. All have the need to restore balance as a common denominator. Homeopath medicine is used world wide, and involves natural animal, plant, and mineral substances. Practitioners of homeopath medicine usually are also accredited acupuncturists and are regulated by the food and drug administration. They treat acute and chronic diseases and into preventative therapies and promoting good health in order to prevent sickness. Homeopathy very much is able to combine modern medicine with natural and herbal care. Native American alternative medicine involves much sweating and expelling of toxins which cause imbalance and disease. This is achieved by the use of herbs and teas, and a lot of heat. Ceremonial dances and chants add to the mystical properties of the healing.
Or maybe you’re interested in working in the bioelectromagnetic field of alternative medicine. Working with magnets is growing in popularity as people are beginning to discover the benefits of wearing magnetic insoles in their shoes and sleeping on magnetically charged mattress pads. The magnets increase blood flow and bring about circulatory health which lessens back pain and headaches. Chances are you’ve decided to enter the world of alternative medicine because you’ve had a good experience with it. Your current health provider can help you research the area of your choice and give you advice as to how to proceed.