Alternative health treatments can be used to treat all kinds of health problems, let’s take a look at the various treatments and which one may suit you…
For some of us with persistent medical problems or health complaints conventional medicine may not be able to offer a solution. Many people across the world sing the praises of alternative health treatments and complementary therapies to treat all types of illness – from eczema to back pain.
Harness the power of plants with herbalism, or use the ancient healing powers of acupuncture to recover from illness. With such a wide variety of alternative medicines on offer it can be difficult to know which is right for you. A qualified practitioner should be able to advise you on the best course of treatment, but first here is a brief introduction to some of the most popular therapies around…
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Acupuncture
Originating in ancient China, acupuncture therapy uses tiny, thin needles inserted to specific points in the body depending on the ailment treated.
According to those who practise acupuncture, it can correct imbalances of the flow of qi – or life energy – through the channels known as meridians.
Studies have shown acupuncture to be particularly good for pain relief and also to alleviate post-operative nausea.
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Herbalism
Much like many mainstream medicines, herbalism - also known as botanical medicine – uses plants to treat all sorts of health problems, ranging from hormonal to skin problems.
Visiting a Medical Herbalist involves a run-down of your full medical history, taking into account allergies, diet, lifestyle and family history. They may also ask for urine or blood samples and take your blood pressure.
Following a full discussion, your practitioner will make up a herbal prescription to help your symptoms and book you in for a follow up to assess your progress.
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Homeopathy
Homeopathy works on that basis that you treat like with like – so the patient is given a highly diluted substance which contains a small amount of a substance to trigger the bodies healing response.
Use homeopathy to treat a number of chronic problems, such as allergies and rheumatic diseases.
Reiki
Reiki is a hands-on type of healing, which come from Japan and is said to be a very relaxing process. Your reiki practitioner can perform the treatment while you are fully clothed and will non-intrusively place their hands on various parts of your body, corresponding to the chakras.
Try Reiki to ease stress levels, reduce anxiety and deal with physical pain.
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Craniosacral Therapy
In a craniosacral therapy session, the practitioner will work on the dural membranes – fluid which connects all of the cranial bones – by gently placing their hands on the patients clothed body. Crainosacral therapy is practised by a number of professionals including physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors and massage therapies.
Crainosacral therapy can help neck and back pain, stress, migraines, and chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia.
While for many alternative therapies may be a last resort, they should also be considered on their own merits and are a wonderful way to maintain excellent health and wellbeing in the long run. Being seen privately can be expensive, although check your health insurance policy to see if any types of treatment are covered, and remember many practitioners run special offers to make treatment more affordable.
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June 6, 2012
Life and Spirit