….by guest writer Amanda Kaestner
Benefits of Alternative Medicines
(….by Amanda Kaestner)
Despite the widespread availability of traditional Western medical options, people now are turning to alternative medicines with increased vigor than in the past.
Chiropractic adjustments and acupuncture are perhaps the most popular choices, but other techniques, such as cupping, are coming into their own, too. Each of these methods holds its own benefits.
Chiropractic Adjustment
Chiropractic adjustment involves…..
……manipulating and realigning the spine, usually through applied physical pressure.
A chiropractor usually performs simple lab tests and imaging techniques to determine where adjustments are necessary, and depending on your situation, they also may use complementary methods, such as massage.
Chiropractors believe that……
……. when the musculoskeletal system is the proper position, it can function much better, allowing your body to heal itself without the need for medication or more invasive solutions, such as surgery. Research shows that, when done properly, chiropractic adjustments are effective at reducing various types of pain, especially those related to acute injuries.
Practitioners also claim that chiropractic adjustments can improve coordination and motion of joints, nerve communication and posture. They claim that sessions lower stress and tension levels, as well.
Egyptian Chiropractors (though some say they are practicing Reflexology) photo source
Acupuncture
photo source
Acupuncture is an alternative medicine in which a practitioner inserts tiny sterile needles into your tissues. The idea is that illness, pain and other issues such as stress connect to poor or improper flow of energy in the body.
Practitioners claim that, by manipulating specific pressure points on the body with the needles, they can get energy to flow properly again and restore mental, physical and emotional balance.
photo source
Studies suggest…..
…….that acupuncture can relieve nausea, fibromyalgia symptoms, stress, poor mood and hypertension. Other potential benefits include allergy and acid reflux reduction, a boost to the immune system, better sleep and even weight control/loss.
Pain relief is probably its biggest benefit, however, with practitioners applying it for low back, period, migraine and other types of discomfort.
Cupping Therapy
photo source
Cupping is…..
……a method in which a practitioner burns a substance such as alcohol or herbs in a small cup. When the flame goes out, the practitioner turns the cup over onto your skin. The air inside the cup cools, creating suction.
In a "wet" method, the practitioner also may make tiny incisions in the skin, and some practitioners use a vacuum pump rather than cups to create the needed suction. Regardless of the exact technique, blood vessels expand, causing the skin to rise and redden.
Medical engravings of Cupping Instruments, "Kom Ombo" temple – Aswan, Egypt photo source
Like chiropractic adjustments and acupuncture, cupping reportedly alleviates pain and inflammation, as well as stress and depression. Practitioners also have asserted that it is useful for relieving the symptoms of certain blood disorders, infertility and gynecological conditions, skin problems and rheumatic diseases, such as arthritis.
Some people claim it is useful for treating allergies, varicose veins, asthma and high blood pressure, as well.
Who Should Try Alternative Medicine?
Alternative methods like chiropractic adjustment, acupuncture and cupping are good choices for individuals who are not responding to traditional Western techniques……
……..or who cannot proceed with certain "regular" treatments or medications that would be available due to a complication or other medical concern.
Some people choose these methods….
……to feel more in control or because they feel they are safer, more natural or gentler than the other choices they have.
Additional studies are needed to verify just how useful alternative medicines are for different conditions, but some research supports their inclusion in health care, pointing to a wide range of advantages.
If you are interested……
……in trying one of these techniques, check with your health care provider to stay safe, and remember that you often can use alternative therapies in conjunction with other options your doctor might recommend.
~stay healthy~
….about guest writer Amanda
Amanda Kaestner is a downtown resident of Phoenix. She’s an avid seeker of the latest innovations and research in healthcare and technology and has experience working in hospital and healthcare facilities
for questions, contact Amanda via Twitter at (@AmandaJaylene)
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………other articles by Amanda Kaestner on Gaia Health Blog
Recognizing Depression, and ways to overcome it Healthy Habits to boost fertility
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The Perks of Implementing Yoga (…also by Amanda Kaestner)
2 Responses
Hi All, I just want to ask if anyone ever tried using medical cannabis as an alternative meds? I have read many articles about medical marijuana and how it can help you in terms of chronic pain, glaucoma, eating disorder/anorexia, anxiety disorders and panic attacks, inflammation, even cancer and a lot more. Like this article about a marijuana strain sour tsunami from Cbd and thc are also new to me and I don’t even smoke. If this is true I cant find any solid conclusive evidence that speaks to its efficacy. Any personal experience or testimonial would be highly appreciated. Thanks
Researchers found the helpful side of Cannabis. Cannabis is known as for addiction only but now it can be our Alternative Medicine. Cannabis now has many benefits that will be good for your health. Cannabis oil is produced by extracting the resin of the female cannabis plant using a solvent. After the resin is dissolved in the solvent, It is evaporated leaving a concentrated extract behind. CBD Oil is a type of oil that contains CBD but does not contain THC which can give you a high efficiency. CBD Oil is from that cannabis flower, However, Cannabis now is proven that can help people to relieve pains or lessen seizure attacks. I have read many articles suggesting that cannabis has a very potent effect when it comes with pain and inflammation