Ananda Mahony
NaomiWhat is Complementary Medicine?
August 22nd 2006 00:12
Agency
reamswork
reamsworkComplementary medicine, natural therapy, alternative medicine; are all words that we are becoming more familiar with. But what are they and why should we use them?
Complementary medicine as the modern term dictates is; the use of an alternative or herbal medicine in addition to conventional medicine.
Most of the treatments come from ancient cultures and healing traditions, many of which are still unfamiliar to the majority of the population. However recent studies have shown that more than 3 billion of the world's population is using complementary medicine in addition to their primary health care.
Complimentary medicine concentrates more on treating the patient as a whole; mind, body and spirit by using nature as a healer. Wheras, conventional medicine sometimes involves introducing foreign and synthetic substances to the body which although fix the intial problem, can cause an imbalance in the body. This can create havoc and side effects in other areas. A perfect example of this would be antibiotics.
Due to common misconceptions, many people are dubious about using alternative medicines and that is warranted as not all therapies are safe and effective. However, before commencing any therapy or treatment it is advised you do some leg work first by finding out more about the treatment that you are considering, by applying the following criteria.
1. Research - reading, internet, articles
2. Checking the credentials of the treating practitioner
3. Word of mouth - speak with other patients that have used the treatment.
Agency: Dreamswork
It is important to remember as with conventional medicine; never self medicate. Always speak to a proffessional first. And you must inform them of all the medications that you are currently taking (both natural and prescribed), as some treatments can have an adverse or antidotal affect.
In the upcoming weeks we will investigate specific treatments and how they can be of benefit.
Sources: Most commonly asked questions about Alternative Medicine, by Dr. Michael Alan Morgan
www.healthy.net/scr/article.asp?Id = 510
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