ALTERNATIVE HEALING METHODS

It is imperative to note that the terms complementary and alternative medicine refer to “a broad set of health care practices that are part of a region’s own tradition and are not integrated into the dominant health care system. At times used interchangeably with traditional or integrative medicine. This includes naturopathic medicine, chiropractic treatment, massage therapy, and the practice of homeopathy. So, in other words, it means finding a way to restore natural healing. Whereas natural products, such as plants, herbs, fungus, and bee products, as well as minerals, shells, and certain animal products, represent the oldest form of medical treatment. Healing through food such as meat, fruits and vegetables is the ancient way of treatment in almost all cultures. In fact every culture would have their own remedies depending on what was available to them in nature. Currently, many of the commonly used drugs are of herbal origin and about 25% of the modern medicine contains at least one herbal-derived active ingredient or synthetic compound, which imitate a plant-derived compound. WHO has taken up the policy of promoting traditional medicine since 1976. Traditional medicine has seen an increased interest. There are some noteworthy traditional systems of medicine and treatments existing through centuries. These prominent systems are well researched and relied heavily upon trial and application. In fact all the modern advances in medicine find their basis in the early works of various scientists, traditional healers, physicians, surgeons and so on.

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Traditional Chinese Medicine is an ancient system of health and wellness that’s been used in ancient China for thousands of years. Where western medicine focuses mainly on treating disease traditional Chinese medicine takes in to account the entire well-being of an individual because it’s based on balance, harmony, and energy. TCM employs certain well known practices that include: Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a technique where subtle heat and stimulation is used on certain points along the body in order to treat ailments by stimulating the meridians. The treatment involves using different kinds of very fine needles placed gently in the skin. Cupping: heated cups that create suction on skin Herbs: teas, powders, and capsules made mostly from plants Meditation: is done mindfully where different techniques are used to connect with yourself and the universe.  Meditation helps with emotional stability And composing your thoughts Moxibustion: dried herbs are burned near the skin for the skin to absorb the fumes to promote healing Tai Chi: Tai chi has benefits for mind, body and spirit. It can be practiced at any age. Tai chi focuses on enhancing the inner energy with slow movements and inner reflection. Tai chi harmonizes the mind and body. Traditional Chinese medicine mainly focuses on balancing one’s energy called Qi. According to this system it’s the blocked or low Qi that causes illness in the body.

TRADITIONAL ARABIC ISLAMIC MEDICINE

Traditional medicine in Islam is often referred to as Medicine of the Prophet (al-tibb an-Nabawi). Muslims often redirect towards this system as an alternative to modern therapies, or as a supplement to modern medical treatment. Spirituality and ways of conducting oneself in everyday life holds tremendous significance. Hallmark treatment methods used in Islamic medicine consists of diet which emphasize on the use of honey, black seed, dates, seasonal fruits and vegetables and simple drugs. Bloodletting (hijama) and cautery being the non invasive techniques of the tradition. Perhaps the most prominent aspect is the fact that Prophetic Medicine was established on basis of the sayings and actions of the Prophet, mostly focusing on herbal tradition, hygiene, dietary practices, exercise regimes, as such related to dietary recommendations.  

 GRECO- ARABIC MEDICINE

Greco-Arab medicine has an official status, usually referred to Unani-Tibb. “Tibb” is an Arabic word meaning “medicine,” while “Unani” is thought to be derived from “Ionan” (meaning Greek), acknowledging the influence of early Greek medicine with Islamic medicine. Significant progress was made in medicine, pharmacology and surgery when two systems were merged together to further the knowledge in the field of treatment and science. Traditional Greco-Arab medicine widely continues to be practiced within the Mediterranean as well as most Islamic countries.

AYURVEDIC MEDICINE

The most important principle in Ayurveda comes from within—the body is a natural self-healing mechanism. Ayurvedic medicine does not believe in waiting until symptoms arise before starting the treatment. Rather, it teaches one to pay attention to simple and seemingly insignificant abnormal changes within the body. By recognizing and reversing early signs of imbalance, full-blown disease may be prevented. Ayurveda places great emphasis on prevention and encourages the maintenance of health through close attention to balance in one’s life, right thinking, diet, lifestyle and the use of herbs. Ayurveda also takes into consideration individual constitution and how to make lifestyle changes to bring about and maintain this balance. The three main life energies are Vata(wind), Pitta (fire) and Kapha(earth). Each human being has a prevailing dosha that shapes our minds and bodies. Ayurveda puts equal emphasis on elements from diet to exercise to mental composure. Right food in moderation holds a central place in Ayurveda healthy lifestyle. Eating mindfully and enjoying meals hold extreme importance as well as regular and thorough internal and digestive cleansing. Massages, mediation, yoga, self discipline are at the heart of healthy lifestyle.

HOMEOPATHY

Homeopathy is a distinctive medical specialty being practiced across the world. The system has blended well into the roots and traditions of many countries and play an important role in providing health care. Homoeopathy takes a holistic approach towards the sick through promotion of inner balance at mental, emotional, spiritual and physical levels. The unique concept of individualization that is practiced in homeopathy is an attempt to understand the patient. It is crucial to diagnose the patient with a deeper understanding on his/her constitution, temperament, presenting complaints, genetic makeup, personal, past and present histories etc. This is a unique process of profiling the patient. This approach is getting more validity from the science of medicine and now a totally new field of personal medicine is emerging. There are several advantages to using natural medicines. These include the fact that they alternate medicine are usually safer than mainstream medicines. Some of these natural medicines may also be completely free from side effects and harmful chemicals. Many people use alternative medicines as opposed to mainstream medications for a number of reasons. ADVANTAGES OF NATURAL MEDICINE The fact that natural medicines can be used for the prevention and treatment of various illnesses is one of the major advantages. Another popular advantage is that they are free from synthetic ingredients and have no side effects. Natural medicines are often less expensive and more effective than prescription drugs and can be easily incorporated in your daily routine. There are a number of natural and easily available medicines which are used to treat various ailments such as cough, colds, flu, diarrhea, and sore throat. These natural herbal compounds are less expensive compared to the synthetic medications made from chemicals. Most of the time, natural medicines are more effective than conventional medicines. These natural cures involve taking herbal remedies that are also available at your home. Therefore, you can easily cure the disease without going to a doctor or using costly prescription drugs. This is because these herbs are grown in your garden or under your roof and you can get them very easily without paying a doctor’s fee. However, Also, take note that there are many herbal cures which are very effective in curing certain types of illnesses. However, these herbs are very potent and can be very harmful if they are taken for prolonged periods of time. For instance, many people use green tea for curing their colds, but this type of tea is highly potent and can possibly cause some serious side effects. Last but not the least integrative treatments can be used in conjunction with modern medicine to make a person stronger and less likely to suffer from an illness or to rebuild the body after being treated with drugs or surgery. But remember prevention is better than cure. An active and balanced lifestyle with right but moderate food choices can ensure a disease free life. If you are looking for natural healing remedies, then it is important to ensure that you find the best one to use. It is advised to do some research beforehand and look for relevant and capable practitioners and stay finely tuned in to your own body.