Alternative medicine is a term used a lot these days, but what exactly is it? What does it encompass? How is it different from conventional treatment?
Alternative medicine requires active patient participation
Caroline Myss in her book Anatomy of the Spirit makes the distinction between conventional medicine and alternative medicine this way: conventional medicine puts the responsibility for healing on the doctor, the surgery or the drug. The patient consents to the treatment, but if he makes no changes in his mind, body or spirit, he still expects healing.
Alternative medicine relies upon not just the patient's cooperation with healing modalities, but his active participation. The patient must take responsibility for health and healing. He or she contributes to the illness in some way, through body, mind or spirit, and can use his healing energy to get better.
That's not to say that people always create their own illness, or that negative thinking leads to sickness. Everyone has negative thoughts now and then, and viruses, bacteria and genetic abnormalities DO contribute to illness.
But many of the illnesses that bring people to their doctors' offices – aches, pains, stomach upsets, headaches that won't go away – have no official diagnosis, nor do they have any conventional cure. That's when alternative medicine comes into play.
A broken leg, stroke or a heart attack, or a car accident and many other emergencies should not be treated through alternative medicine. They need conventional medicine's diagnostic equipment, surgery and drugs. A trip to the hospital emergency room is in order!
The majority of illnesses, however, are the nagging kind, the kind that disrupt quality of life, and it is for these that many people turn to alternative medicine.
What's types of treatments are included in the term alternative medicine?
Newcomers to the world of alternative medicine quickly become overwhelmed by the variety of treatments available. These may include:
- Herbal medicine
- Chinese medicine
- Ayurveda
- Homeopathy
- Bach flower remedies
- Homeopathy
- Massage
- Acupuncture
- Diet
- Meditation
- Exercise
- Energy healing
- Reiki
- Music and art therapies
- Colon cleansing
- Affirmations
If this seems like an overwhelming amount of therapies to consider, there are this many and more conventional treatments out there. Visiting a naturopathic physician, or a person trained in holistic and alternative medicine, can provide personal guidance to help you navigate this new territory.
Use common sense and talk to your doctor or healthcare provider.
As you explore the world of alternative medicine and holistic remedies, it's important to keep a few things in mind:
- Just because something is holistic or alternative doesn't mean it is perfectly safe or without side effects. Always review potential side effects, drug interactions, cautions and contraindications before embarking on an alternative therapy.
- If you have a serious medical condition or are pregnant or nursing, it's best to check with your doctor before using any alternative medicine.
- Use any advice at your own risk. It's up to you to check our resources, treatment options, side effects and more. Remember, part of holistic treatments is taking responsibility for YOUR health.
- Alternative therapies aren't magic bullets. There's no one wonder food, magic vitamin or herb that will make you feel better.
Explore the world of alternative medicine and take charge of your health today.
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