Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage therapy and meditation can be utilized to support your overall wellness.
If you’re thinking about trying one of these treatments, speak to your doctor first to ensure they are suitable for you. They may boost energy levels and mental focus, reduce stress levels and promote overall wellbeing.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical practice that utilizes needles to stimulate certain points on your body. This ancient practice helps promote your body’s innate healing capacity.
Natural and safe alternatives to medication and other medical procedures. It has the potential to manage pain, anxiety and depression.
Studies have demonstrated the therapeutic effects of acupuncture for a range of health conditions, such as chronic pain and headaches. Furthermore, it can reduce nausea and improve moods.
Acupuncture can be found in clinics, hospitals, medical spas, chiropractor offices and wellness centers. As Henry Hwang, DC, LAc – Assistant Professor and Director of Clinical Education for the Eastern Medicine Department at SCU Health – points out, it’s often used in combination with other medical treatments.
Dietary Supplements
Dietary supplements are a variety of nutrient-rich products people consume to promote their health. They may include vitamins, minerals, herbs or botanicals, amino acids, enzymes and other substances. Dietary supplements come in many forms such as pills, capsules, powders, bars energy drinks or gummies for easy consumption.
Vitamins and minerals can strengthen bones, keep the immune system functioning optimally, as well as may prevent certain diseases. For instance, folic acid is especially essential for pregnant women to help avoid birth defects.
However, dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA like prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are. That’s because the FDA lacks authority to review dietary supplements for effectiveness or safety before they’re sold to the public.
Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine utilizes plants in combinations to treat and prevent illness. As analysis and quality control improve, herbal medications are becoming a safe, effective treatment for an increasing range of conditions.
Herbs can be utilized in many ways, such as teas, syrups, oils, tinctures and dry extracts (pills or capsules). Always consult your doctor before taking any herbal products.
Herbs in the United States are not subject to regulation like prescription drugs. Therefore, you cannot guarantee that a supplement’s amount of herb is as stated on its label. It is therefore essential to select supplements from companies who follow proper manufacturing practices.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is a holistic, natural healing practice that manipulates the body’s soft tissues to reduce stress, pain and discomfort. It has been practiced worldwide since ancient civilizations.
In addition to providing pain relief, CBD has the potential for relieving symptoms associated with many conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and high blood pressure. Furthermore, it helps improve muscle tone and increase circulation.
Massages are the most common types, including Swedish, deep tissue and sports massage. Other techniques may also be utilized depending on the patient’s condition and preference; these may include acupressure, reflexology, shiatsu or hot stone massage.
Meditation
Meditation is a practice that helps you focus your mind and relax, which may also have beneficial effects on your overall health.
Meditation comes in many forms, so it’s essential to find one that suits you. For optimal results, practice in an area where you feel relaxed and at peace with yourself.
You can also experiment with different meditation styles, such as mantra-based or transcendental. A 2022 study discovered that these techniques can reduce anxiety and depression levels.
Meditation not only reduces stress and anxiety, but it can also make one feel more connected to others. Furthermore, it may assist in managing symptoms associated with certain medical conditions like cancer.
