If you are concerned about hair loss, there are effective ways to address this issue. While it is common for men to experience thinning hair and baldness as they age, it is important to know that you can take action to combat these problems.
Identifying Symptoms of Hair Loss
It is essential to recognize the signs of hair loss, such as thinning hair or excessive shedding, to take proactive steps.
Top 6 Strategies to Combat Hair Loss
Here are six proven methods to preserve your hair and prevent male pattern baldness:
1. Focus on Nutritious Diet
Consuming a diet rich in protein, vitamins, and B vitamins can promote hair health and growth. Include foods like pork, eggs, chicken, fish, and leafy greens in your diet.
2. Nioxin Shampoo for Scalp Health
Consider using Nioxin shampoo to improve scalp health and strengthen existing hair. Look for products with natural ingredients like mint, rosemary, and castor oil.
3. Low-Level Laser Therapy
Low-level laser therapy can enhance blood circulation in the scalp and inhibit the production of DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss. Devices like Illumiflow offer at-home laser treatment options.
4. Hair Replacement Surgery
Hair replacement surgery can provide a quick and effective solution for hair loss. Options like the strip method involve transplanting hair grafts to balding areas.
5. Propecia (Finasteride) for Hair Growth
Propecia is an FDA-approved drug that inhibits DHT production to prevent hair follicle damage. It can be used in conjunction with other treatments for optimal results.
6. Minoxidil for Hair Preservation
Minoxidil is a topical cream that slows down hair loss and promotes hair growth. It is a long-term treatment that requires consistent use to maintain results.
If you are struggling with hair loss, know that there are effective solutions available. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action to combat male pattern baldness and promote hair regrowth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do people with cancer use alternative methods?
Cancer patients face many difficulties as they try to cope with their illness. Patients may feel hopeless or helpless, and might lose all hope of recovery. Some patients may feel nausea, pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, weakness, or other symptoms.
In addition, most conventional treatments are not effective against cancer cells. Patients with cancer should look into alternative treatments, such as complementary medicine. Research shows that nearly half of patients have used alternative medicine at least once in their treatment.
Some cancer patients choose complementary medicine over chemotherapy, believing it will be easier for them to manage side effects. They might also prefer it for its lower cost.
The following are other reasons:
Some patients believe that natural remedies can be used to prevent a repeat.
Many believe natural remedies can improve quality of life.
Others believe that natural remedies can reduce the risk of getting cancer again.
For those concerned about possible side effects of chemotherapy, natural remedies can be used as first-line therapy.
What are holistic medicines' advantages over conventional medicine?
Many religions and cultures around the world have used holistic medicines for thousands of years. They were based upon ancient knowledge and experienced.
These medicines are safe, efficient, natural, and inexpensive. Side effects of these medicines are very low compared to pharmaceutical drugs.
They will also assist you in achieving better health and well-being.
They can help prevent illness and improve your overall health.
They could even be used to treat heart disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, asthma and depression.
There are hundreds upon hundreds of traditional medicines around the world, each offering unique benefits.
According to the World Health Organization, around 80% of the population uses traditional methods to treat their illness or injury.
According to some reports, about half a million people depend on traditional herbal remedies for their primary healthcare.
The global market in complementary therapies is expected to reach $22.2 Billion by 2020.
People are increasingly turning towards alternative medical methods to avoid adverse side effects.
Complementary therapies are often used when other options fail to work. These therapies may be tried before they resort to medication or surgery.
There are many reasons people choose complementary therapies.
- To improve the quality and quantity of your life
- To reduce stress levels
- For relaxation
- To relieve pain
- To enhance immunity
- Support for those with serious illnesses
- To boost energy
- To control weight
- To maintain good nutrition
- To improve sleep patterns
- To treat chronic conditions
What is an alternative form of medicine?
Alternative medicine is a broad term that describes any alternative approach to healing. There are many types of alternative medicine. However, they all share the same premise: health care should be grounded in natural substances and practices, not chemical medicines.
Alternative medicine may include acupuncture, homeopathy or herbalism, naturopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, osteopathic manipulation, traditional Chinese medicine and reflexology.
Alternative practitioners often claim that they have better outcomes for patients, with fewer side effects and lower costs. These claims cannot be proven scientifically because the mainstream medical system has largely ignored evidence-based alternatives to medicine.
What are the Alternative Medical Systems?
There are five alternatives to traditional medicine: Ayurveda and Ayurveda; homeopathy; energy healing; aromatherapy; and Ayurveda.
Acupuncture uses fine needles placed in specific points of the body to stimulate qi flow throughout the body.
Ayurvedic medicines is an ancient system to balance the three senses of air, fire,, and water. It can be used to help with diet, exercise, herbs, massage, and meditation.
Homeopathic Medicine takes its name from the Greek words homoios, similar, and pathos, meaning disease. Homeopaths believe in natural causes for all diseases, but not necessarily symptoms. They prescribe small doses of substances to treat symptoms similar to those that are experienced when a person is ill.
Energy Healing is also known for Reiki, EFT Rolfing Therapeutic Touch, Rolfing and Rolfing. This therapy is based on a belief that we are all connected to the universal life force known as Ki. If this Ki flows freely though us, it makes us feel well. Energy healers work with touch and intention to restore harmony and balance between our mental, spiritual, and physical selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants to treat ailments. Aromatherapists believe certain smells can have a positive effect on mood and behavior. Lavender is the most popular essential oil used for aromatherapy.
What are examples of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine refers specifically to any treatment that is not used in mainstream medicine. These include traditional Chinese medicine as well homeopathy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, nutritional therapy and reiki.
Alternative medicine can also be defined as a practice that is not supported by scientific evidence, but which has been proven effective in clinical practice. These include yoga, meditation, aromatherapy, reflexology and flower essences.
What is complementary medicine?
Complementary Medicine is an umbrella term for any medical treatment that complements mainstream medicine. This covers treatments such as acupuncture (aromatherapy), chiropractic care, homeopathy and hypnosis.
Complementary medicine is not meant to be used in place of conventional medicine, but instead as a complement. These complementary medicines are also known as “alternative”, “integrative”, or “integrative” medicine. They combine Western scientific methods and other proven therapies to heal people.
Statistics
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- 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)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% 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)
External Links
webmd.com
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The Rise and Rise of Complementary and Alternative Medicine: A Sociological Perspective – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine – PubMed
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING & TENSION-TYPE HEADADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: A Randomized Controlled Trial to Determine the Effects of Foot Reflexology on Depression and Hospital Anxiety in Older Females: A Randomized Controlled Study – PubMed
cam.cancer.gov
How To
What are the Pros and Cons of Holistic Medical?
Holistic medicine is a form of holistic medicine that emphasizes the importance mind, body, spirit and environment in the healing process. It was created by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), whose first book, The Doctor's Book of Mind Cure (1924), describes the process. He used simple techniques, such as visualization, meditation, and even hypnosis. People with stress, anxiety, depression or pain experienced this treatment. This type of therapy also helps patients to cope with their problems, and improve their quality-of-life.
While holistic therapies remain popular today, little evidence supports their effectiveness. However, some studies show that these treatments can help reduce symptoms associated with chronic conditions such as asthma, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, migraine, obesity, osteoporosis, and others.
These are the highlights and pitfalls of holistic medicine:
- There is insufficient scientific evidence. The benefits of holistic therapies can only be evaluated in a small number of well-designed, randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Positive results are most common in observational studies.
- Alternative medicine is less expensive than conventional medicine. Some alternative medicines are cheaper than traditional ones, especially when the patient follows a natural diet.
- Patients are not under any pressure to adhere to the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors will recommend complementary treatments, even if they are not prescribed.
- Holistic therapies are often used in combination with conventional medicine. For example acupuncture is commonly combined with medication and surgery.
- Alternative treatments are more effective than conventional medicine, according to many people.
- Alternative drugs are considered more natural and less harmful than traditional drugs.
- Many patients choose complementary treatments to enhance their lifestyle changes. They not only want their health to be good, but they also want to have fun with their lives.
- Patients who use holistic treatments are generally healthier.
- An increasing number of older adults are turning to holistic treatment.
- It is important to conduct more research on complementary therapies.
- Studies show that most people prefer to try alternative treatments before going to a doctor.
- Doctors must understand that not everyone will benefit from alternative treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be a part of our culture, education system and society.
- Holistic treatments may not be safe for all.
- We must learn how to teach patients about different therapies so that they can make informed decisions.
- Holistic treatments are not just for hippies.
- Holistic treatments cannot cure certain diseases.
- Holistic treatments are sometimes dangerous.
- Holistic therapies can be beneficial for certain conditions.
- Holistic treatments are very effective.
- Holistic treatments are based on ancient knowledge.
- Holistic treatments are easy and simple to understand.
- Holistic treatments are difficult to learn.
- Holistic therapies are difficult to learn.
- Holistic treatments can be expensive.
- Holistic treatments are very expensive.
- Holistic treatment is less costly than conventional medicine.
- Holistic treatment is more expensive than conventional medicine.
****
A Brief History of Holistic Medicine
Holistic medicine is a system of healing that focuses on treating the whole person instead of just their symptoms. It addresses all aspects, including the physical, emotional and mental, as well as cultural, social, occupational, environmental, and cultural factors. It promotes prevention over cure.
Bastyr University, Seattle was the first school to offer holistic medicine. It was founded in 1972. Holistic medicine began to grow after the publication of Dr. Andrew Weil's book “Spontaneous Healing” in 1996. Dr. David Williams and Michael Murray established the American Holistic Medical Association (AHMA). There are hundreds of holistic medicine schools all over the world, including Bastyr University in Columbia, Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons and Maharishi Ayurveda Institute.
Holistic medicine was named by the World Health Organization as one of the five most important trends in healthcare. This trend involves integrating conventional medicine with complementary therapies such acupuncture (homeopathy), herbalism, massage treatment, reiki and yoga. This integration aims at providing safe, effective, patient centered care while minimizing costs and side effects.
Holistic medicine works as a result of an interconnected mind-body-spirit. Illness can occur when any one of these three components is out of balance. For example:
Stress and anxiety can cause you to become anxious and tense. Your body responds by producing cortisol, a hormone that increases inflammation throughout your body. It causes fatigue, weakness, and even sickness.
When your emotions run high, you experience negative thoughts and feelings like anger, fear, grief, and sadness. These create stress in your brain. Untreated, stress can cause your body to make adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline boosts heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate. Cortisol affects your immune system, digestive tract, and nervous system. Both hormones cause fatigue, muscle tension, headaches, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and other health problems.
When your spirit is depressed, you lose hope and faith in life. You might also experience low self-esteem, confidence, and lack of self-confidence. This could lead to unhealthy eating habits, low energy, and unhealthy relationships. When your spirit is healthy, you feel happy, joyous, peaceful, and optimistic.
Differentiation between alternative and allopathic medicine
Allopathic medicine is based upon the scientific method. To diagnose patients, doctors use x-rays and MRIs as well as CAT scans and other technologies. If needed, they may prescribe medication or perform surgery. Allopathic doctors believe they understand the human body, and can prescribe medications to treat ailments. Alternative medicine involves herbs, vitamins minerals, diet, exercise and spiritual healing. Alternative medicine is not defined in a standard way. It is sometimes called natural medicine, integrative medical, or complementary medicine. Others refer to them as traditional medicine, holistic medicine, and CAM.
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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.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: Effective Ways to Combat Male Pattern Baldness and Hair Loss
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/personal-care/6-best-fixes-for-fighting-hair-loss-and-winning/
Published Date: Tue, 02 Apr 2024 00:04:59 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do people with cancer use alternative methods?
Cancer patients face many difficulties as they try to cope with their illness. Patients may feel hopeless or helpless, and might lose all hope of recovery. Some patients may feel nausea, pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, weakness, or other symptoms.
In addition, most conventional treatments are not effective against cancer cells. Patients with cancer should look into alternative treatments, such as complementary medicine. Research shows that nearly half of patients have used alternative medicine at least once in their treatment.
Some cancer patients choose complementary medicine over chemotherapy, believing it will be easier for them to manage side effects. They might also prefer it for its lower cost.
The following are other reasons:
Some patients believe that natural remedies can be used to prevent a repeat.
Many believe natural remedies can improve quality of life.
Others believe that natural remedies can reduce the risk of getting cancer again.
For those concerned about possible side effects of chemotherapy, natural remedies can be used as first-line therapy.
What are holistic medicines' advantages over conventional medicine?
Many religions and cultures around the world have used holistic medicines for thousands of years. They were based upon ancient knowledge and experienced.
These medicines are safe, efficient, natural, and inexpensive. Side effects of these medicines are very low compared to pharmaceutical drugs.
They will also assist you in achieving better health and well-being.
They can help prevent illness and improve your overall health.
They could even be used to treat heart disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, asthma and depression.
There are hundreds upon hundreds of traditional medicines around the world, each offering unique benefits.
According to the World Health Organization, around 80% of the population uses traditional methods to treat their illness or injury.
According to some reports, about half a million people depend on traditional herbal remedies for their primary healthcare.
The global market in complementary therapies is expected to reach $22.2 Billion by 2020.
People are increasingly turning towards alternative medical methods to avoid adverse side effects.
Complementary therapies are often used when other options fail to work. These therapies may be tried before they resort to medication or surgery.
There are many reasons people choose complementary therapies.
- To improve the quality and quantity of your life
- To reduce stress levels
- For relaxation
- To relieve pain
- To enhance immunity
- Support for those with serious illnesses
- To boost energy
- To control weight
- To maintain good nutrition
- To improve sleep patterns
- To treat chronic conditions
What is an alternative form of medicine?
Alternative medicine is a broad term that describes any alternative approach to healing. There are many types of alternative medicine. However, they all share the same premise: health care should be grounded in natural substances and practices, not chemical medicines.
Alternative medicine may include acupuncture, homeopathy or herbalism, naturopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, osteopathic manipulation, traditional Chinese medicine and reflexology.
Alternative practitioners often claim that they have better outcomes for patients, with fewer side effects and lower costs. These claims cannot be proven scientifically because the mainstream medical system has largely ignored evidence-based alternatives to medicine.
What are the Alternative Medical Systems?
There are five alternatives to traditional medicine: Ayurveda and Ayurveda; homeopathy; energy healing; aromatherapy; and Ayurveda.
Acupuncture uses fine needles placed in specific points of the body to stimulate qi flow throughout the body.
Ayurvedic medicines is an ancient system to balance the three senses of air, fire,, and water. It can be used to help with diet, exercise, herbs, massage, and meditation.
Homeopathic Medicine takes its name from the Greek words homoios, similar, and pathos, meaning disease. Homeopaths believe in natural causes for all diseases, but not necessarily symptoms. They prescribe small doses of substances to treat symptoms similar to those that are experienced when a person is ill.
Energy Healing is also known for Reiki, EFT Rolfing Therapeutic Touch, Rolfing and Rolfing. This therapy is based on a belief that we are all connected to the universal life force known as Ki. If this Ki flows freely though us, it makes us feel well. Energy healers work with touch and intention to restore harmony and balance between our mental, spiritual, and physical selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants to treat ailments. Aromatherapists believe certain smells can have a positive effect on mood and behavior. Lavender is the most popular essential oil used for aromatherapy.
What are examples of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine refers specifically to any treatment that is not used in mainstream medicine. These include traditional Chinese medicine as well homeopathy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, nutritional therapy and reiki.
Alternative medicine can also be defined as a practice that is not supported by scientific evidence, but which has been proven effective in clinical practice. These include yoga, meditation, aromatherapy, reflexology and flower essences.
What is complementary medicine?
Complementary Medicine is an umbrella term for any medical treatment that complements mainstream medicine. This covers treatments such as acupuncture (aromatherapy), chiropractic care, homeopathy and hypnosis.
Complementary medicine is not meant to be used in place of conventional medicine, but instead as a complement. These complementary medicines are also known as “alternative”, “integrative”, or “integrative” medicine. They combine Western scientific methods and other proven therapies to heal people.
Statistics
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- 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)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% 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)
External Links
webmd.com
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The Rise and Rise of Complementary and Alternative Medicine: A Sociological Perspective – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine – PubMed
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING & TENSION-TYPE HEADADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: A Randomized Controlled Trial to Determine the Effects of Foot Reflexology on Depression and Hospital Anxiety in Older Females: A Randomized Controlled Study – PubMed
cam.cancer.gov
How To
What are the Pros and Cons of Holistic Medical?
Holistic medicine is a form of holistic medicine that emphasizes the importance mind, body, spirit and environment in the healing process. It was created by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), whose first book, The Doctor's Book of Mind Cure (1924), describes the process. He used simple techniques, such as visualization, meditation, and even hypnosis. People with stress, anxiety, depression or pain experienced this treatment. This type of therapy also helps patients to cope with their problems, and improve their quality-of-life.
While holistic therapies remain popular today, little evidence supports their effectiveness. However, some studies show that these treatments can help reduce symptoms associated with chronic conditions such as asthma, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, migraine, obesity, osteoporosis, and others.
These are the highlights and pitfalls of holistic medicine:
- There is insufficient scientific evidence. The benefits of holistic therapies can only be evaluated in a small number of well-designed, randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Positive results are most common in observational studies.
- Alternative medicine is less expensive than conventional medicine. Some alternative medicines are cheaper than traditional ones, especially when the patient follows a natural diet.
- Patients are not under any pressure to adhere to the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors will recommend complementary treatments, even if they are not prescribed.
- Holistic therapies are often used in combination with conventional medicine. For example acupuncture is commonly combined with medication and surgery.
- Alternative treatments are more effective than conventional medicine, according to many people.
- Alternative drugs are considered more natural and less harmful than traditional drugs.
- Many patients choose complementary treatments to enhance their lifestyle changes. They not only want their health to be good, but they also want to have fun with their lives.
- Patients who use holistic treatments are generally healthier.
- An increasing number of older adults are turning to holistic treatment.
- It is important to conduct more research on complementary therapies.
- Studies show that most people prefer to try alternative treatments before going to a doctor.
- Doctors must understand that not everyone will benefit from alternative treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be a part of our culture, education system and society.
- Holistic treatments may not be safe for all.
- We must learn how to teach patients about different therapies so that they can make informed decisions.
- Holistic treatments are not just for hippies.
- Holistic treatments cannot cure certain diseases.
- Holistic treatments are sometimes dangerous.
- Holistic therapies can be beneficial for certain conditions.
- Holistic treatments are very effective.
- Holistic treatments are based on ancient knowledge.
- Holistic treatments are easy and simple to understand.
- Holistic treatments are difficult to learn.
- Holistic therapies are difficult to learn.
- Holistic treatments can be expensive.
- Holistic treatments are very expensive.
- Holistic treatment is less costly than conventional medicine.
- Holistic treatment is more expensive than conventional medicine.
****
A Brief History of Holistic Medicine
Holistic medicine is a system of healing that focuses on treating the whole person instead of just their symptoms. It addresses all aspects, including the physical, emotional and mental, as well as cultural, social, occupational, environmental, and cultural factors. It promotes prevention over cure.
Bastyr University, Seattle was the first school to offer holistic medicine. It was founded in 1972. Holistic medicine began to grow after the publication of Dr. Andrew Weil's book “Spontaneous Healing” in 1996. Dr. David Williams and Michael Murray established the American Holistic Medical Association (AHMA). There are hundreds of holistic medicine schools all over the world, including Bastyr University in Columbia, Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons and Maharishi Ayurveda Institute.
Holistic medicine was named by the World Health Organization as one of the five most important trends in healthcare. This trend involves integrating conventional medicine with complementary therapies such acupuncture (homeopathy), herbalism, massage treatment, reiki and yoga. This integration aims at providing safe, effective, patient centered care while minimizing costs and side effects.
Holistic medicine works as a result of an interconnected mind-body-spirit. Illness can occur when any one of these three components is out of balance. For example:
Stress and anxiety can cause you to become anxious and tense. Your body responds by producing cortisol, a hormone that increases inflammation throughout your body. It causes fatigue, weakness, and even sickness.
When your emotions run high, you experience negative thoughts and feelings like anger, fear, grief, and sadness. These create stress in your brain. Untreated, stress can cause your body to make adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline boosts heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate. Cortisol affects your immune system, digestive tract, and nervous system. Both hormones cause fatigue, muscle tension, headaches, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and other health problems.
When your spirit is depressed, you lose hope and faith in life. You might also experience low self-esteem, confidence, and lack of self-confidence. This could lead to unhealthy eating habits, low energy, and unhealthy relationships. When your spirit is healthy, you feel happy, joyous, peaceful, and optimistic.
Differentiation between alternative and allopathic medicine
Allopathic medicine is based upon the scientific method. To diagnose patients, doctors use x-rays and MRIs as well as CAT scans and other technologies. If needed, they may prescribe medication or perform surgery. Allopathic doctors believe they understand the human body, and can prescribe medications to treat ailments. Alternative medicine involves herbs, vitamins minerals, diet, exercise and spiritual healing. Alternative medicine is not defined in a standard way. It is sometimes called natural medicine, integrative medical, or complementary medicine. Others refer to them as traditional medicine, holistic medicine, and CAM.