Modern western medicine with hospitals, equipment and pills is not very common throughout the world. Compared to the history of our species, modern medicine is still in it’s infancy, or at least it’s terrible twos. Medicines once thought miraculous when they appeared have, over time, been seen to cause illnesses of their own.
For example, if you take antacids for heartburn regularly, over the years they will give you an ulcer. So many people are looking at the dozens of types of alternative medicine therapies available. This is a short look at three of the most popular types of alternative medicine therapies – Ayurveda, Chinese Traditional Medicine and Herbalism.
Ayurveda
This is the oldest known medical system in the world, and not just the oldest of the types of alternative medicine. Herbal remedies were mentioned in Indian texts thousands of years old (There is still some debate as to just how old the manuscripts are). Since many ancient societies relied on an oral tradition before they wrote anything down, it is very possible that Ayurveda is over five thousand years old. And since it’s still practiced today shows that it is a system that works for many people. You have to have a license to practice Ayurveda in India, but in America you need some kind of medical degree.
You will be asked all about your life to treat the whole you, and not just the symptoms. You will be expected to change your diet and how you manage stress. You will be given herbal preparations and teas.
Chinese Traditional Medicine
This is another of the types of alternative medicine that has a written tradition that goes back thousands of years. And some of the herbal and dietary treatments do overlap with Ayurveda. For example, garlic and onions are considered aphrodisiacs in both systems. In America, you do have to be licensed before you can practice these types of alternative medicines: Chinese Herbalism, acupuncture or acupressure.
If you live near a large city, chances are good that you will find a Chinese Traditional Medicine practitioner and can easily find the recommended herbs and teas. Some Chinese Traditional medical practices are covered under health insurance, but check with your health insurance first. You might need several sessions and try out many herb combinations before you find the right mix for you.
Herbalism
This is one of the most interesting types of alternative medicine. You have to be just as involved in any decision making process as the herbalist. The herbs used are from all around the world, so sometimes it may be called Integrated Herbalism. You must let the herbalist know your entire medical history to avoid clashes with any herbs.
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