4 Types of complementary and alternative medicine

If you are considering complementary and alternative medicine but are unsure of what practices to follow, here are four standard practices that have become popular in recent years. Most complementary medicine approaches in the U.S. fall into two main categories that include natural products or mind-body practices

Natural products – Natural products include herbs, probiotics, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, plus chemicals such as glucosamine sulfate which aid in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Most natural products can be purchased over the counter. However, it is essential to speak to a doctor if you are opting for natural products to cure a severe illness.

Mind-body therapies – Mind-body therapies involve techniques that help to boost the mind’s capacity to influence the body. One of the most common methods includes Hypnotherapy or Hypnosis, which has helped patients lose weight, reduce back pain and stop smoking. Other standard techniques include meditation, which has helped patients reduce stress, reduce blood pressure and improved sleep. Yoga has also become more mainstream in the US and is a form of exercise that can manage anxiety, insomnia, headaches, and depression.

Alternative medical systems – This category includes traditional therapeutic methods from other countries, and include Ayurvedic practices as well as acupuncture, acupressure, and herbal medicine.

Manipulative and body-based methods – Manipulative and body-based methods include the Alexander Technique which involves relearning movements to reduce tension and improve overall well-being. Other methods in this category include reflexology and osteopathy.