Receiving career advice inquiries has become a common occurrence for us, prompting us to address the topic of career guidance in the digital health and healthcare AI fields. While we are not career advisors, our expertise in these sectors allows us to provide valuable insights for individuals navigating their career paths.
For Researchers
Our previous publication on ‘Top 10 Research Topics to Pursue in Digital Health' remains relevant, offering potential pathways for researchers. Emphasizing the importance of finding a niche, exploring uncharted territories, evaluating entry ease, and addressing critical questions, we encourage researchers to align their interests with these pillars for impactful outcomes. Research areas like diabetes management with wearable trackers and the impact of ECG smartwatches on hospital admissions present promising opportunities.
With Medical Background
Individuals with a medical background possess a unique advantage when venturing into digital health and healthcare AI. Understanding the intersection of medicine and technology is crucial for effective collaboration in this sector. By acquiring insights into technological challenges and engaging with scientific literature, medical professionals can contribute meaningfully to the development of patient-centered healthcare solutions.
With Tech Background
Tech professionals keen on making a difference in digital health must prioritize understanding real medical and patient needs. Bridging the gap between technology and clinical applications, focusing on patient-centered design, and incorporating feedback from medical experts are essential steps for creating innovative and beneficial solutions. The current AI revolution offers abundant opportunities for tech professionals to drive advancements in healthcare.
Transitioning from Traditional Med-Tech to Digital Health
Transitioning from traditional medical technology to digital health requires a shift in mindset and application. Emphasizing user-friendly design, intuitive interfaces, interdisciplinary collaboration, and data accessibility, individuals entering the digital health sector must adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape. Addressing field-specific challenges like data privacy and security is paramount for creating safe digital health environments.
For Biomedical Engineers
Biomedical engineers play a vital role at the intersection of engineering and healthcare. Enhancing communication skills with medical professionals and patients, translating technical concepts effectively, and serving as communication bridges are key responsibilities for biomedical engineers. Their ability to align innovations with healthcare needs underscores their importance in developing health-related products and services.
In conclusion, embracing curiosity and passion while exploring career paths in digital health and healthcare AI is essential. As various fields converge to drive health-related innovations, individuals with diverse expertise and a multidisciplinary approach are highly valued in this ever-evolving landscape.
For more insights and updates on the intersection of technology and healthcare, visit The Medical Futurist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is holistic healing legitimate?
Both yes and no. Yes. Many medicines have been shown to be effective against different ailments. They don't cure all ailments. It depends on what you mean by “holistic.” It depends on what you mean when you use the term “holistic”.
Many people believe holistic medicine has existed since ancient times. This is simply not true. Even though natural remedies were used in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome by some healers, it was not scientifically proven.
The Middle Ages was the first time that medical professionals began to study anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. By the 19th century, most Western countries had developed public hospitals where trained doctors could provide medical care.
Today, traditional medicine is the predominant form of healthcare. However, many still prefer to use alternative and complementary medicine. Many people find that alternative medicine works better than pharmaceutical drugs.
For example, some people feel more relaxed after receiving massage therapy rather than taking tranquilizers. Others enjoy eating healthy foods instead of taking prescription medications. Others still believe that regular exercise improves their bodies' performance.
Where can I find out more information about holistic healing?
Holistic medicine refers to a way of treating the whole person, rather than just one area. It considers all aspects of a patient's life, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
The goal of holistic medicine is to treat the whole person instead of treating individual symptoms. Holistic medicine isn't about curing a disease. It is all about healing.
Holistic medicine is a combination of preventive measures like exercise and nutrition, as well as treatments for chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes.
There are many different types of holistic medicine:
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
What is the Difference Between Naturopathic & Holistic Medicine?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on surgery and drugs as the primary treatment. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM should not be considered as a replacement for traditional treatment. Instead, CAM can help patients take control of their health by helping them choose the best option.
Naturopathy, on one hand, can be used to complement traditional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many forms of naturopathy: Ayurveda and Traditional Native American Medicine as well as Functional Medicine.
It is important for you to know that some CAM modalities can overlap with conventional medicine. Naturopaths and doctors can prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths emphasize lifestyle changes more than prescription drugs.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” since it complements traditional medicine and does not replace it. Naturopaths could prescribe medication, if needed.
There are some differences in naturopathic medicine from other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
- Naturopaths work with the patient's family physician and may refer outpatients to specialists if necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians are regulated by provincial licensing boards, whereas CAM practitioners are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy stresses prevention and wellness, while offering education on diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths emphasize the importance of lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress management and exercise.
- Naturopharmacists are specialists in the use and treatment of specific conditions using botanicals and minerals.
- Naturopodists can provide personalized care, based on the individual needs of each patient.
- Regulation bodies such as the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issue licenses to Naturopaths.
- Provincial regulatory bodies grant licenses to naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians are registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia is responsible for licensing Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency entitles homeopaths.
- Holistic refers to the belief in all aspects of one's life, including spiritual, physical, and emotional. Holistic doctors will take into account all aspects of life, rather than focusing on one.
What are the Five Alternative Medical Systems (Alternatives)?
There are five alternatives to traditional medicine: Ayurveda and Ayurveda; homeopathy; energy healing; aromatherapy; and Ayurveda.
Acupuncture employs fine needles to stimulate the flow qi (energy) throughout your body.
Ayurvedic Medicine is an ancient system of health care based on balancing the three humors – air, fire, and water. It involves diet and exercise, herbal remedies as well massage and meditation.
Homeopathic Medicine gets its name from the Greek word homoios (similar) and pathos (disease). Homeopaths believe all diseases are caused by natural causes, but not always symptoms. They treat people by prescribing minute doses of substances that cause similar symptoms to those experienced when the person is ill.
Energy Healing can also refer to Reiki, EFT and Rolfing. This therapy is based upon the belief that all of us are connected to a universal force of life called Ki. Feeling well is possible when the Ki flows freely through you. Energy healers work with touch and intention to restore harmony and balance between our mental, spiritual, and physical selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential herbs extracted from plants to provide therapeutic benefits. Aromatherapists believe scents have the ability to affect mood and behavior. Lavender essential oil is the most commonly used in aromatherapy.
What are the benefits of holistic medicine over conventional medicine?
Many cultures and religions around the globe have been using holistic medicine for thousands of year. They were developed based on ancient knowledge and experience.
These medications are safe, affordable, effective, natural, as well as cost-effective. Side effects are less common than with prescription drugs.
They can help you attain better health, and overall wellness.
They can prevent disease and promote your overall well-being.
They might even cure cancer, diabetes or heart disease.
There are hundreds of traditional medicines in the world. Each has its own benefits.
The World Health Organization has estimated that around 80% rely on traditional methods of treating illness and injury.
A reported half-billion people use traditional herbal remedies to get primary healthcare.
Global market for complementary therapies will reach $22.2 billion in 2020, according to estimates.
Alternative medical treatments are becoming more popular to avoid the side effects of conventional treatment.
Many people turn to complementary therapies when they do not respond to other treatment options. These therapies may be tried before they resort to medication or surgery.
There are many reasons why people choose to use complementary therapies.
- To improve quality of life
- To reduce stress levels
- For relaxation
- To relieve pain
- To enhance immunity
- Help with managing serious illnesses
- To boost energy
- To control weight
- To maintain good nutrition
- To improve sleep patterns
- To deal with chronic conditions
Is holistic healthcare the same thing as alternative medicine?
Holistic Health Care is different than Alternative Medicine because it addresses the whole person rather than just symptoms.
Holistic Health Care looks at all aspects of an individual's life, including mental, physical, emotional, spiritual, social, environmental, occupational, cultural, and family factors.
Alternative Medicine doesn't address these issues. Alternative Medicine focuses on the body, mind and emotions.
Why is alternative medicine important?
Alternative medicine is very popular, as they are often less expensive and more beneficial than traditional treatments. Unfortunately, many patients have died as a result of side effects like allergic reactions. Other therapies might not work.
Alternate medicines can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know enough to choose the best ones. Vitamin supplements aren’t controlled as pharmaceuticals so it is easy to get too high on vitamins. To make matters worse, there are alternative remedies that contain toxic chemicals.
Statistics
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING & TENSION-TYPE HEADADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: Randomized controlled trial examining the effects of foot reflexology on hospital anxiety and depression in female older adults.
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The rise and rise of complementary and alternative medicine: a sociological perspective – PubMed
- Holistic medicine – PubMed
liebertpub.com
- Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine – A systematic review of randomized controlled trials involving acupuncture for insomnia treatment
doi.org
How To
What products can be used in holistic medicines?
These products are best described as “natural” although not necessarily organic. Although they may have been grown using pesticides or natural fertilizers, the products were also processed in safer ways for human health. Some herbs may cause allergic reactions so you might need to prepare them differently depending on what they are. The herbs sold in health food stores are more standard than those found at grocery stores. These herbicides and/or fungicides are often higher in the latter.
The majority of herbal products are made from dried plants. Many people prefer to buy herbal supplements in liquid form. This is cheaper. But, liquid herbs are not necessarily safer. Liquid herbs can lose nutrients during processing. The product may lose its original potency. A majority of herbal supplements aren't subject to quality control testing before being sold.
After cooking, herbs and spices can be added to foods. They are often found in condiments such ketchup or mustard, salad dressings and soup mixes.
Supplements are typically taken orally (by mouth). Most vitamins and minerals come in tablet form. Others are available in capsule form.
Homeopathic remedies are highly diluted substances derived from plant, animal, mineral, or synthetic sources. They are meant to stimulate the body's healing mechanisms. Although they are called “homeopathic,” they do not work like regular medications. They act on the body’s immune system to restore balance, and promote wellness. Homeopathic remedies may be safe and not toxic. They are widespread in Europe, Canada Australia, New Zealand South America, Asia and Africa.
Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points along the meridians of your body. The practice is based upon a traditional Chinese medical theory, which states that there are energy channels through the body through which life force flows. According to this theory, illness is caused by blockages in these channels. By stimulating energy flow along the meridian lines, the body is believed to recover its normal functioning.
Chiropractors adjust the spine to correct misalignments. This technique was developed in 1895 by Daniel David Palmer, an American doctor. He claimed he could diagnose and treat diseases by manipulating vertebrae. His methods included spinal adjustments, muscle tests and percussion.
Chiropractic has seen a lot of popularity in recent years. Many people believe chiropractic works better than conventional medicine when it comes to back pain.
Massage therapy includes rubbing, tapping or tapping on muscles, joints, or other body parts. Massage can help loosen tight muscles, ease tension, and relax sore muscle. Swedish massage, deep tissues, sports, reflexology, myofascialrelease, trigger point therapy and other methods are used by massage therapists.
Reflexology, an alternative form of medicine, involves pressure being applied to certain areas of the feet or hands with thumb pads, fingers and toes. Reflexologists claim this stimulates the body's natural healing process.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from plants to relieve stress, improve well-being, and enhance moods. The chemical composition of essential oils can help with a wide range of conditions, including headache relief and arthritis treatment. Aromatherapy comes in many forms, including:
Craniosacral Therapy uses gentle touch to ease pain and discomfort. Cranial refers to the skull; sacrum means “sac” in Latin, and cranial sacral therapy combines both. In this therapy, the therapist applies light pressure to various spots on the head, face, neck, shoulders, arms, legs, and torso while moving her/his hands across the patient's body.
Cupping therapy works by placing cups on the skin to create a vacuum and draw out toxins. Cupping is often combined with acupuncture or moxibustion (burning herbs) and may be used for detoxification.
Dietary Supplements are oral or topical products containing vitamins, minerals. Dietary Supplements Health and Education Act of94 is the FDA's regulation of dietary supplements. To be legal, a dietary supplements must meet two criteria. First, it must contain a “dietary ingredient,” meaning that it contains more than one percent of a vitamin, mineral, herb, or other botanical listed on the Food and Drug Administration's Generally Recognized As Safe List. It must also have adhered to Good Manufacturing Practices. This means that its ingredients were properly handled during production.
Electrotherapy uses currents to stimulate nerves, and muscles. The most widely used form is transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation (TENS). Low-level electrical pulses are delivered by TENS devices using electrodes that are placed on the skin. These pulses activate receptors in the brain that block pain signals. Electrotherapy can also be used in interferencential current therapy (MFT), magnetic field therapy, or ultrasound therapy.
Energy healing is based on the belief that we all possess innate healing abilities and that our thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and intentions affect our physical health. Although energy healing has been practiced since ancient days, practitioners today accept that there is more than one layer of energy. Emotional energy is one layer. Another layer of energy is called mental. There are many other energy types, including spiritual, physical, chakras, vital and life force, prana. Kundalini, biofield. aura. quantum fields. These energies could be linked to the larger universe according to some. Some claim that they can heal others using just their mind. But, there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of energy medicine.
Energy psychology involves studying how human emotions affect physiological functions and vice versa. Energy psychology is often considered an alternative for psychotherapy, as it does not focus on past events but rather on helping clients to change their behaviour. Energy psychology does require no specific theoretical framework. Instead, it draws upon many disciplines like cognitive behavioral therapy, transactional psychoanalysis, interpersonal psychoanalysis as well as attachment theory and developmental psychology.
–
——————————————————————————————————————————————
This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you're experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
——————————————————————————————————————————————
By: berci.mesko
Title: Career Guidance in Digital Health and Healthcare AI
Sourced From: medicalfuturist.com/career-guide-in-digital-health-and-healthcare-ai
Published Date: Thu, 06 Feb 2025 10:35:57 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
Is holistic healing legitimate?
Both yes and no. Yes. Many medicines have been shown to be effective against different ailments. They don't cure all ailments. It depends on what you mean by “holistic.” It depends on what you mean when you use the term “holistic”.
Many people believe holistic medicine has existed since ancient times. This is simply not true. Even though natural remedies were used in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome by some healers, it was not scientifically proven.
The Middle Ages was the first time that medical professionals began to study anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. By the 19th century, most Western countries had developed public hospitals where trained doctors could provide medical care.
Today, traditional medicine is the predominant form of healthcare. However, many still prefer to use alternative and complementary medicine. Many people find that alternative medicine works better than pharmaceutical drugs.
For example, some people feel more relaxed after receiving massage therapy rather than taking tranquilizers. Others enjoy eating healthy foods instead of taking prescription medications. Others still believe that regular exercise improves their bodies' performance.
Where can I find out more information about holistic healing?
Holistic medicine refers to a way of treating the whole person, rather than just one area. It considers all aspects of a patient's life, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
The goal of holistic medicine is to treat the whole person instead of treating individual symptoms. Holistic medicine isn't about curing a disease. It is all about healing.
Holistic medicine is a combination of preventive measures like exercise and nutrition, as well as treatments for chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes.
There are many different types of holistic medicine:
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
What is the Difference Between Naturopathic & Holistic Medicine?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on surgery and drugs as the primary treatment. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM should not be considered as a replacement for traditional treatment. Instead, CAM can help patients take control of their health by helping them choose the best option.
Naturopathy, on one hand, can be used to complement traditional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many forms of naturopathy: Ayurveda and Traditional Native American Medicine as well as Functional Medicine.
It is important for you to know that some CAM modalities can overlap with conventional medicine. Naturopaths and doctors can prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths emphasize lifestyle changes more than prescription drugs.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” since it complements traditional medicine and does not replace it. Naturopaths could prescribe medication, if needed.
There are some differences in naturopathic medicine from other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
- Naturopaths work with the patient's family physician and may refer outpatients to specialists if necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians are regulated by provincial licensing boards, whereas CAM practitioners are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy stresses prevention and wellness, while offering education on diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths emphasize the importance of lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress management and exercise.
- Naturopharmacists are specialists in the use and treatment of specific conditions using botanicals and minerals.
- Naturopodists can provide personalized care, based on the individual needs of each patient.
- Regulation bodies such as the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issue licenses to Naturopaths.
- Provincial regulatory bodies grant licenses to naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians are registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia is responsible for licensing Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency entitles homeopaths.
- Holistic refers to the belief in all aspects of one's life, including spiritual, physical, and emotional. Holistic doctors will take into account all aspects of life, rather than focusing on one.
What are the Five Alternative Medical Systems (Alternatives)?
There are five alternatives to traditional medicine: Ayurveda and Ayurveda; homeopathy; energy healing; aromatherapy; and Ayurveda.
Acupuncture employs fine needles to stimulate the flow qi (energy) throughout your body.
Ayurvedic Medicine is an ancient system of health care based on balancing the three humors – air, fire, and water. It involves diet and exercise, herbal remedies as well massage and meditation.
Homeopathic Medicine gets its name from the Greek word homoios (similar) and pathos (disease). Homeopaths believe all diseases are caused by natural causes, but not always symptoms. They treat people by prescribing minute doses of substances that cause similar symptoms to those experienced when the person is ill.
Energy Healing can also refer to Reiki, EFT and Rolfing. This therapy is based upon the belief that all of us are connected to a universal force of life called Ki. Feeling well is possible when the Ki flows freely through you. Energy healers work with touch and intention to restore harmony and balance between our mental, spiritual, and physical selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential herbs extracted from plants to provide therapeutic benefits. Aromatherapists believe scents have the ability to affect mood and behavior. Lavender essential oil is the most commonly used in aromatherapy.
What are the benefits of holistic medicine over conventional medicine?
Many cultures and religions around the globe have been using holistic medicine for thousands of year. They were developed based on ancient knowledge and experience.
These medications are safe, affordable, effective, natural, as well as cost-effective. Side effects are less common than with prescription drugs.
They can help you attain better health, and overall wellness.
They can prevent disease and promote your overall well-being.
They might even cure cancer, diabetes or heart disease.
There are hundreds of traditional medicines in the world. Each has its own benefits.
The World Health Organization has estimated that around 80% rely on traditional methods of treating illness and injury.
A reported half-billion people use traditional herbal remedies to get primary healthcare.
Global market for complementary therapies will reach $22.2 billion in 2020, according to estimates.
Alternative medical treatments are becoming more popular to avoid the side effects of conventional treatment.
Many people turn to complementary therapies when they do not respond to other treatment options. These therapies may be tried before they resort to medication or surgery.
There are many reasons why people choose to use complementary therapies.
- To improve quality of life
- To reduce stress levels
- For relaxation
- To relieve pain
- To enhance immunity
- Help with managing serious illnesses
- To boost energy
- To control weight
- To maintain good nutrition
- To improve sleep patterns
- To deal with chronic conditions
Is holistic healthcare the same thing as alternative medicine?
Holistic Health Care is different than Alternative Medicine because it addresses the whole person rather than just symptoms.
Holistic Health Care looks at all aspects of an individual's life, including mental, physical, emotional, spiritual, social, environmental, occupational, cultural, and family factors.
Alternative Medicine doesn't address these issues. Alternative Medicine focuses on the body, mind and emotions.
Why is alternative medicine important?
Alternative medicine is very popular, as they are often less expensive and more beneficial than traditional treatments. Unfortunately, many patients have died as a result of side effects like allergic reactions. Other therapies might not work.
Alternate medicines can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know enough to choose the best ones. Vitamin supplements aren’t controlled as pharmaceuticals so it is easy to get too high on vitamins. To make matters worse, there are alternative remedies that contain toxic chemicals.
Statistics
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING & TENSION-TYPE HEADADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: Randomized controlled trial examining the effects of foot reflexology on hospital anxiety and depression in female older adults.
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The rise and rise of complementary and alternative medicine: a sociological perspective – PubMed
- Holistic medicine – PubMed
liebertpub.com
- Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine – A systematic review of randomized controlled trials involving acupuncture for insomnia treatment
doi.org
How To
What products can be used in holistic medicines?
These products are best described as “natural” although not necessarily organic. Although they may have been grown using pesticides or natural fertilizers, the products were also processed in safer ways for human health. Some herbs may cause allergic reactions so you might need to prepare them differently depending on what they are. The herbs sold in health food stores are more standard than those found at grocery stores. These herbicides and/or fungicides are often higher in the latter.
The majority of herbal products are made from dried plants. Many people prefer to buy herbal supplements in liquid form. This is cheaper. But, liquid herbs are not necessarily safer. Liquid herbs can lose nutrients during processing. The product may lose its original potency. A majority of herbal supplements aren't subject to quality control testing before being sold.
After cooking, herbs and spices can be added to foods. They are often found in condiments such ketchup or mustard, salad dressings and soup mixes.
Supplements are typically taken orally (by mouth). Most vitamins and minerals come in tablet form. Others are available in capsule form.
Homeopathic remedies are highly diluted substances derived from plant, animal, mineral, or synthetic sources. They are meant to stimulate the body's healing mechanisms. Although they are called “homeopathic,” they do not work like regular medications. They act on the body’s immune system to restore balance, and promote wellness. Homeopathic remedies may be safe and not toxic. They are widespread in Europe, Canada Australia, New Zealand South America, Asia and Africa.
Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points along the meridians of your body. The practice is based upon a traditional Chinese medical theory, which states that there are energy channels through the body through which life force flows. According to this theory, illness is caused by blockages in these channels. By stimulating energy flow along the meridian lines, the body is believed to recover its normal functioning.
Chiropractors adjust the spine to correct misalignments. This technique was developed in 1895 by Daniel David Palmer, an American doctor. He claimed he could diagnose and treat diseases by manipulating vertebrae. His methods included spinal adjustments, muscle tests and percussion.
Chiropractic has seen a lot of popularity in recent years. Many people believe chiropractic works better than conventional medicine when it comes to back pain.
Massage therapy includes rubbing, tapping or tapping on muscles, joints, or other body parts. Massage can help loosen tight muscles, ease tension, and relax sore muscle. Swedish massage, deep tissues, sports, reflexology, myofascialrelease, trigger point therapy and other methods are used by massage therapists.
Reflexology, an alternative form of medicine, involves pressure being applied to certain areas of the feet or hands with thumb pads, fingers and toes. Reflexologists claim this stimulates the body's natural healing process.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from plants to relieve stress, improve well-being, and enhance moods. The chemical composition of essential oils can help with a wide range of conditions, including headache relief and arthritis treatment. Aromatherapy comes in many forms, including:
Craniosacral Therapy uses gentle touch to ease pain and discomfort. Cranial refers to the skull; sacrum means “sac” in Latin, and cranial sacral therapy combines both. In this therapy, the therapist applies light pressure to various spots on the head, face, neck, shoulders, arms, legs, and torso while moving her/his hands across the patient's body.
Cupping therapy works by placing cups on the skin to create a vacuum and draw out toxins. Cupping is often combined with acupuncture or moxibustion (burning herbs) and may be used for detoxification.
Dietary Supplements are oral or topical products containing vitamins, minerals. Dietary Supplements Health and Education Act of94 is the FDA's regulation of dietary supplements. To be legal, a dietary supplements must meet two criteria. First, it must contain a “dietary ingredient,” meaning that it contains more than one percent of a vitamin, mineral, herb, or other botanical listed on the Food and Drug Administration's Generally Recognized As Safe List. It must also have adhered to Good Manufacturing Practices. This means that its ingredients were properly handled during production.
Electrotherapy uses currents to stimulate nerves, and muscles. The most widely used form is transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation (TENS). Low-level electrical pulses are delivered by TENS devices using electrodes that are placed on the skin. These pulses activate receptors in the brain that block pain signals. Electrotherapy can also be used in interferencential current therapy (MFT), magnetic field therapy, or ultrasound therapy.
Energy healing is based on the belief that we all possess innate healing abilities and that our thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and intentions affect our physical health. Although energy healing has been practiced since ancient days, practitioners today accept that there is more than one layer of energy. Emotional energy is one layer. Another layer of energy is called mental. There are many other energy types, including spiritual, physical, chakras, vital and life force, prana. Kundalini, biofield. aura. quantum fields. These energies could be linked to the larger universe according to some. Some claim that they can heal others using just their mind. But, there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of energy medicine.
Energy psychology involves studying how human emotions affect physiological functions and vice versa. Energy psychology is often considered an alternative for psychotherapy, as it does not focus on past events but rather on helping clients to change their behaviour. Energy psychology does require no specific theoretical framework. Instead, it draws upon many disciplines like cognitive behavioral therapy, transactional psychoanalysis, interpersonal psychoanalysis as well as attachment theory and developmental psychology.