Types of Alternative Medicine
There are many different types of alternative medicine that each offers their own philosophy and discipline. You will have to decide for yourself where your interests lie as well as what form of alternative medicine is best able to help you heal any particular health problems that you have. The following types of alternative medicine are presented in no particular order:
· Herbal medicine. This type of alternative medicine uses certain properties of herbs and other plants as a means to promote health and to heal specific health problems. The parts of the plant that are used can include the leaves, flowers, stems, or a combination of all. Specific herbs are known to deal with certain health problems or to enhance certain qualities, such as valerian, which is used to calm the central nervous system.
· Chinese herbal medicine. This ancient form of traditional Chinese medicine has been around for thousands of years. One of the focuses of Chinese herbal medicine is to prevent disease before it has a chance to manifest itself, as well as treating existing health problems. Chinese herbal medicine uses herbs and a combination of herbs to heal the body.
· Acupuncture. Acupuncture originates from China and is based on the stimulation of nerve impulses on the body, which are called acupuncture points. It is believed that your life energy, or “qi,” travels along your body on what are known as “meridians”. When this flow of energy is broken and damaged your body is weak and this is when health concerns can occur. Acupuncture stimulates these points along your body by using needles.
· Acupressure. Acupressure uses the same points on your body as acupuncture but this time the stimulation is achieved by the pressure of the hands.
· Massage. There are many different types of massage therapy but the basic premise behind this type of alternative medicine is the manipulation of certain parts of the body in order to relax, stimulate, and enliven your body.
· Shiatsu. Shiatsu originates in Japan and is another form of acupressure. Certain parts of your body are manipulated by the use of hands, fingers, and palms in the effort to increase the flow of energy through your body.
· Reflexology. This type of alternative medicine involves the stimulation and manipulation of certain points of your feet with the belief that each part of your foot directly corresponds with a certain part of your body. It is this manipulation of your foot that stimulates the blood flow to that particular part of your body and at the same time relieves the tension in your body and mind.
· Homeopathy. Homeopathy is the principle of “treating like with like”. Homeopathic remedies are substances derived from plants and minerals that are diluted in a precise way as to cause toxic behavior and cure the symptoms.
· Yoga. Yoga is one of the oldest forms of natural health methods and is practiced by thousands of people from all around the world. Yoga uses specific body “postures” to reduce your stress, slow your breathing and heart rate, lower your blood pressure, and promote relaxation that is necessary for a healthy body and mind.
· Aromatherapy. Aromatherapy uses the extracts of plants to relax and balance your body, creating a feeling of harmony with your senses. The extracts of certain plants are used for specific parts of your body as well to relieve certain symptoms. This type of alternative medicine deals with all spectrums of your being: body, mind, and soul.
· Ayurveda. Ayurveda originated in India and is based on the philosophy that disease occurs you are not living harmoniously within your environment. To reestablish this harmony, Ayurveda uses a combination of herbs and body/mind interaction.
· Meditation. There are many different types of meditation, such as visualization, that are practiced all around the world. All meditations use a specific technique to induce relaxation and allow your mind to still itself long enough to promote a deep inner feeling of peace. It is this relaxing calmness that can help to reduce and alleviate any symptoms of ill health that you may be feeling, including headaches, back pain, and high blood pressure.
There are many other forms and variations of alternative medicines for you to choose from when it comes to promoting natural health and healing in your life. Take the time to research what will work best for you, your health issues, and your lifestyle.