Since this website is dedicated to alternative medicine and alternative health remedies I thought it would be a good idea to answer the question:

What is Alternative Medicine?

The term “alternative” medicine is a far-reaching one that describes a number of health and healing methods. Generally, when using “alternative” you are talking about medicinal and general health practices, products, etc. that are not a part of society’s conventional medical systems. Sometimes referred to as “complementary” medicine when used in addition to, as opposed to instead of, conventional systems, the term can cover everything from folk medicine to faith healing to therapeutic massage. In other words, if you can’t learn it in medical schools or get it in conventional hospitals, it’s considered “alternative.”

Because so many different approaches to health and wellness are lumped under the alternative heading, it can be difficult to decide whether or not to take any of them seriously. Fad diets, homeopathy, acupuncture, herbology, yoga, probiotics and new age healing are just a few of the choices that fall under alternative medicine. But how are you supposed to know what is real from what is quackery?

There are many sources that attempt to back alternative medicine practices with scientific study. A quick search through the library or Internet will result in lots of studies and first-hand experiences that prove or disprove the worth of just about any alternative method you can name. Ask friends and family if they have tried a particular treatment or practice, you’ll be surprised how many people go outside of conventional medicine for alternate therapies. Many of us already use alternative medicine without even realizing it. Remember when grandma insisted on her special chicken soup when you were sick, or a friend recommended an egg yolk mask for acne just because that’s what her mom did? Those are great examples of alternative medicine, and there’s plenty of research out there that shows them to have real world value. Chicken soup is easy to eat when you’re sick and provides necessary hydration, vitamins, minerals, and protein to help you recover. The high protein in egg yolks soothes and enriches the skin, as it dries it pulls out impurities, and all without adding oils or over drying. Just because a medical doctor didn’t proscribe them doesn’t necessarily mean they don’t work.

Some alternative medicines have become more accepted by the conventional medical community. Acupuncture, part of traditional Chinese medicine, has been practiced for thousands of years and is considered conventional in many Asian countries. However, acupuncture is accepted only for pain management in the US. Acupuncturists claim it can help everything from weight loss to infertility, but this has not been definitively proven in scientific study. Practitioners in the US are highly trained and must get a license before treating patients. Licenses aren’t infallible, but it does lend extra assurance that a professional with high standards is treating you. Further proof of acceptance is that many insurance companies will cover treatment by a licensed acupuncturist.

It is still important to take care when choosing to use alternative medicine. Be sure and do your homework. While it may not hurt to put egg on your face, taking herbs without knowing how they may interact with other medicines or knowing proper dosages can cause serious problems. Going to an unlicensed practitioner for something like acupuncture can result in serious injury. You should consult with your present health practitioner to discuss the alternative medicines you are considering. Be sure to weigh the risks and benefits carefully before trying anything new. Always let each health professional know all of your medical history and present practices.

Many people find great results from alternative and complementary medicine. When you explore these “new” options, you may find that there are centuries old ways to take care of your body and mind that have been overlooked by today’s western medicine. Careful research and a mindful approach can help you achieve a better lifestyle and enjoy good health.

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So, you’ve been wanting to lose a few pounds, but you’re not quite sure that you want to go on a full-fledged diet. There are a number of do it yourself natural weight loss habits that you can add to your daily routine that will help you to start seeing results sooner than you may think. Here are some simple ways to get started.

The key to do it yourself natural weight loss is to eat as many fresh fruits and vegetables as possible each day. This gives you a healthy amount of ‘good’ fiber, which will move the toxins and additional food out of your system. The best way to find good produce is to go to the farmer’s market if you can. There are a number of veggies and fruits that you can purchase at the local market or grocery store that are extremely affordable as well. For instance, cucumbers are always in season, and can range from 10 to 75 cents in size. Cabbage is also another affordable vegetable to purchase, since you will usually not pay more than 60 cents per head. Watermelon and strawberries are some fruits that are especially affordable, and are best in the spring and summer months.

Cutting out processed foods is another important part of do it yourself natural weight loss. Keep in mind that if you can’t grow a food, it’s probably not a good idea to eat it if you’re trying to lose weight. White bread, cold cuts, and processed pasta are a huge part of most people’s diets, but these foods will not help you to shed pounds. Instead, try whole grains like oatmeal and quinoa. This will add to your fiber content, which will flatten your stomach in just a few weeks. Eliminating processed foods will also will also help to improve your complexion, and will increase the number of vitamins and minerals that your body will absorb each time you eat. If you decide that you want to sweet treat, you should also buy sugary fruits instead of cookies and ice cream. Bananas, peaches, and berries will help you to curb your cravings, and you can even make a smoothie for breakfast that will help you to get all your fruit servings in for the day.

Do it yourself natural weight loss also means that you’ll need to set up a budget for yourself each week, since you may have to purchase some additional fiber supplements and natural weight loss herbs to help you along. You can pick up items like green tea from your local grocery store, and herbal supplements like hoodia can usually be purchased at the health food store in your area. Make sure that you only take these supplements as instructed, and talk to your doctor if you’re already on medication.

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