Despite global efforts to improve our environment, we are still exposed to toxins in food, air, and products. These toxins accumulate in our body and can negatively impact our well-being and health, possibly limiting our ability to age healthy. It is important to detoxify your body.
Detoxification involves the removal of toxins to promote optimal health.
Detoxification can be supported by regular exercise, massage, more water, more sleep and the avoidance of environmental toxins. Incorporating antioxidant-rich food and supplements into your diet can prove to be very beneficial. Turmeric is one such superfood which has gained popularity in the last few years.
Turmeric, a yellowish spice, is the main ingredient in curry powder and has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of year, especially in Ayurveda. Turmeric has become popular in the West because of its health benefits. It is especially known for its detoxification properties and ability to support liver health. Turmeric’s powerful active component, curcumin (which gives it its yellow colour), is responsible for many of its health benefits. Curcumin, which has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, provides many health benefits including cellular protection, healthy aging, and cellular protection.
Both “turmeric”, and “curcumin”, are often used interchangeably. Turmeric is an annual flowering plant whose rhizomes are used for cooking. Curcuminoids are the bioactive compounds that turmeric roots contain. The main curcuminoid in turmeric rhizomes is curcumin. Turmeric supplements can be purchased as turmeric root powder, or turmeric root extract that is standardized for curcumin. This is the best option because researchers are more likely to concentrate on curcuminoids and curcumin when they are looking to determine specific health benefits.
How Turmeric (Curcumin), Promotes Healthy Detox
Turmeric’s bioactives can support detoxification through a variety of ways. The liver is protected by curcumin. The liver is a vital organ for overall health. It performs over 500 functions including detoxification and regulating metabolic processes. If the liver becomes overloaded with toxins it can lead to liver disorders, liver injuries, and other health issues. Turmeric’s curcumin can support liver health by protecting and detoxifying the liver.
Curcumin helps protect the liver by inhibiting inflammatory activity, particularly NF-kB, a major inflammatory pathway involved in liver disease, and reduces levels of many inflammation-producing proteins called proinflammatory cytokines.
Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant that also helps protect against oxidative stresses by neutralizing reactive species (ROS), which are a form of free radical. Curcumin can increase glutathione levels, a powerful anti-oxidant that helps reduce lipid peroxidation. It also protects the liver against damage. Curcumin’s antioxidant activity also protects the liver cells against death.
Curcumin also supports healthy liver function by improving lipid profiles, such as low-density cholesterol (“bad”) and triglycerides. This also has a positive impact on heart health.
Dr Shefali thanawala is the General Manager of Nutriventia’s Medical Affairs and an Ayurvedic practitioner. She says, “Multiple trials and in vivostudies show that turmeric and curcumin have a positive impact on liver function. Curcumin consumption has been shown to lower cholesterol and low-density lipids, and reduce liver enzymes in individuals with non-alcoholic fat liver disease.
Curcumin reduces fatty liver via several mechanisms. The mevalonate path, which involves the liver enzyme HMG-COA reducetase, is one of the key mechanisms. This pathway produces unhealthy levels of triglycerides. In some studies, curcumin was shown to inhibit HMG-COA reducetase activity. This led to regulating a healthy production of triglycerides. Curcumin also reduces cholesterol absorption in the intestine and improves lipid profiles. This results in a reduced risk of heart disease.
Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant that promotes healthy aging
All three are linked: liver function, detoxification and reduced cardiovascular risk. Healthy aging is a term that can accurately describe these positive results.
Curcumin, which is found in turmeric, can also promote healthy aging. Curcumin activates a protein known as sirtuin which regulates cell processes, such as the stimulation of mitochondria — cells’ powerhouses.
Curcumin is also known to support the health and function of telomeres. Telomeres are protective caps that cover the ends of our chromosomes. They help maintain DNA integrity, as well as healthy cell functions. Healthy telomeres will be “long”. Telomeres can range in length from 8,000 base pairs in newborns to 1,500 for elderly people. Short telomeres have been linked to diseases and aging. We can slow down the aging process by protecting our telomeres.
Curcumin in Your Diet
You can incorporate turmeric containing curcumin in your diet in many different ways. Turmeric powder is a popular way to add turmeric to your cooking. Turmeric is commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern food. You can add it to many dishes including curries and stews. It is also great in scrambled egg. Turmeric is also added to smoothies, and can be used to make teas or tisanes. Consider taking a supplement if you want a more convenient, easier and potent turmeric.
But there’s one caveat: To get any benefit from this culinary-medical spice, you have to consume at least 2-3 teaspoons of it with fat. This is not only unpalatable, but also impractical. Consider adding turmeric to your food as an added bonus.
Turmeric supplements come in many forms including capsules and tinctures. Turmeric powders or standardized extracts are popular supplements that provide consistent bioactives/servings. However, they require high doses as turmeric is not easily absorbable by the body. When choosing a curcumin supplement, make sure it contains a dose that is bioavailable, natural and clinically proven. By design, these should also have a significantly lower dose.
Turmeric supplements may also be combined together with other detoxifying nutrients to form a powerful combination. Some supplements contain milk thistle or ashwagandha – adaptogens that help reduce stress and balance your body.
Detoxification is a process that helps to eliminate harmful toxins, and it also promotes healthy ageing. There are many ways to promote detoxification. However, adding certain foods and supplements to your diet can prove particularly beneficial. Turmeric has been shown to be a powerful superfood with many health benefits. These include supporting liver health, preventing cellular damage and reducing inflammation.
Focus on turmeric (curcumin), supplements that have been clinically tested for their dosage and benefits, as well as those with a higher curcuminoid content.
Rajat Shah, Founder & Executive Director Nutriventia Limited
The post Meet the Turmeric-Detox-Healthy Aging Pathway appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the importance of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicines are very popular because they’re often cheaper and better for you than traditional treatments. Many patients have died due to side effects or allergic reactions after using these treatments. It’s also possible that certain alternative therapies may not help at all.
In addition, alternative medicines can be dangerous if you don’t know enough about them to choose the right ones. Vitamin supplements, for example, are not regulated like pharmaceuticals. It is easy to overdose on vitamins. To make matters worse, there are alternative remedies that contain toxic chemicals.
What’s the Difference Between Naturopathic Medicine & Holistic Medicine.
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs and surgery as its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. The CAM is not intended to be a replacement for conventional treatment. It is meant to assist patients who wish to have control over their own healthcare and choose what is best.
On the other hand, naturopathy is used to complement conventional medical practices. It is a holistic approach to treating the whole body, mind, as well as the spirit. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.
It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. For example, herbal remedies can be prescribed by doctors and naturopaths alike. Naturopaths, however, tend to recommend lifestyle changes rather than prescription medication.
Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths might prescribe medication if necessary.
There are some differences between naturopathic and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths don’t usually prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths are able to work closely with patients’ family physicians and refer them to specialists when necessary.
- The provincial licensing boards for Naturopathic physicians regulate Naturopathic physicians, while CAM practitioners can be self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and well-being while also educating about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths emphasize the importance of lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress management and exercise.
- Naturopharmacists focus on the use of minerals and botanicals to treat certain conditions.
- Naturopodists are skilled in providing personalized care that meets the needs of each patient.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for Naturopaths.
- Naturopatrists can be licensed by the provincial regulatory agencies.
- Naturopaticians may be registered with Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency grants licenses to homeopaths.
- The term “holistic” refers the belief that all aspects, including physical, spiritual, social, and mental, should be taken into consideration when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will look at all of these aspects rather than just one.
Why do people with advanced cancers use alternative methods of treatment?
Cancer patients often face many challenges as they attempt to overcome their illness. Patients may feel hopeless or helpless, and might lose all hope of recovery. Patients might experience nausea, pain or fatigue, as well as loss of strength and appetite.
Additionally, many conventional treatments do not work against cancer cells. Many cancer patients turn to complementary medicine for treatment. Studies show that almost half of them use alternative medicines at least once during treatment.
Sometimes, cancer patients will choose complementary medicine to chemotherapy. This is because they believe it will be easier and more effective in managing side effects. They may also prefer it because it is less expensive.
There are also other reasons.
Some patients believe that natural remedies can be used to prevent a repeat.
Many people believe natural remedies can improve their quality of living.
Others believe natural remedies can help reduce your risk of getting again cancer.
People who are worried about side effects of chemotherapy should consider natural remedies for first-line treatment.
Is holistic healing legitimate?
Yes, and no. Yes. There are many medications that have been proven to be effective against various conditions. They don’t cure all ailments. It depends on what you mean by “holistic.” It all depends on what you mean by “holistic.”
Many people believe holistic medicine has existed since ancient times. However, this is simply false. 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. In the 19th Century, almost all Western countries had public hospitals that could be used by trained doctors to provide medical care.
Today, traditional medicine is the predominant form of healthcare. Many people still prefer 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. Some people enjoy healthy eating and avoid prescription medications. Others find that exercise is essential for peak performance.
What are some examples of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is any treatment that isn’t considered medically necessary to treat disease. These include traditional Chinese medicine.
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. Meditation, yoga, aromatherapy and reflexology are some examples.
What are the strengths of holistic medicine compared to conventional medicine?
Many religions and cultures around the world have used holistic medicines for thousands of years. They are based on ancient knowledge, experience, and were created.
These medicines are safe, efficient, natural, and inexpensive. These side effects are far less severe than those from pharmaceutical drugs.
They are also beneficial for your overall health and well-being.
They can reduce the risk of disease and increase your overall well-being.
They could even be used to treat heart disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, asthma and depression.
There are hundreds, if not thousands, of traditional medicines all over the world. Each one has its own unique benefits.
The World Health Organization estimates that 80% of the population relies on traditional methods to treat illness or injury.
It has been reported that around half a trillion people rely on traditional herbs for their primary health care.
Global market for complementary therapies will reach $22.2 billion in 2020, according to estimates.
People are increasingly turning to alternative medical practices to avoid harmful side effects associated with conventional treatments.
Many people turn to complementary therapies when they do not respond to other treatment options. They might also consider them before considering surgery or medication.
There are many reasons why people choose to use complementary therapies.
- To improve your quality of life
- To reduce stress levels
- For relaxation
- To relieve pain
- To enhance immunity
- To support you in dealing with serious illness
- To boost energy
- To control weight
- To maintain good nutrition
- To improve sleep patterns
- To deal with chronic diseases
Statistics
- 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 the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- Acupuncture for Treatment of Insomnia: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
webmd.com
nccih.nih.gov
doi.org
How To
What are the Shortcomings and Advances in Holistic Medicine?
Holistic medicine refers to a medical approach that stresses the importance of the mind, body and spirit in healing. It was first developed by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), and his first book, The Doctor’s Book of Mind Cure in 1924. He used simple techniques such as meditation, visualization, and hypnosis. People suffering from anxiety, depression and pain can benefit from this treatment. This therapy can also help patients deal with their problems and improve their quality life.
Although holistic therapies are still popular, evidence is lacking to support their effectiveness. Some studies have shown that holistic therapies can reduce the symptoms of chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, arthritis, headaches, heart disease, hypertension and migraines, as well as other diseases such as cancer, heart disease, hypertension, stroke, bone fractures, and obesity.
Advances and shortcomings of holistic medicine are:
- There is insufficient scientific evidence. There are very few well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs), that evaluate holistic therapies’ benefits. The majority of researches show positive results.
- Traditional medicine has a higher cost. Alternative medicines are often cheaper than conventional ones, especially if the patient follows an organic diet.
- Patients do not feel pressured into following the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors recommend complementary therapies without prescribing them.
- Many holistic therapies can be used alongside conventional medicine. For example, acupuncture is usually done along with medication or 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 seek out complementary therapies to help them adapt their lifestyles. They want to be well but still enjoy their lives.
- Patients who use holistic treatments are generally healthier.
- Older adults are increasingly turning to holistic treatments.
- Complementary treatments require more research.
- Studies show that most people prefer alternative treatments to going to the doctor.
- Doctors must understand that not everyone will benefit from alternative treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be part of our culture and education system.
- Holistic treatments may not always be safe for everyone.
- So that patients can make informed decisions, we must be able to communicate with them about the various therapies.
- Holistic treatments don’t just appeal to hippies.
- Holistic treatments cannot cure certain diseases.
- Holistic treatments are sometimes dangerous.
- Holistic treatments are helpful for specific conditions.
- Holistic treatments are effective.
- Holistic therapies are based upon ancient wisdom.
- It is easy to learn holistic treatments.
- It is not easy to learn holistic treatment.
- Holistic treatments are hard to learn.
- Holistic treatments can be expensive.
- Holistic treatments are very expensive.
- Holistic therapies are more affordable than traditional medicine.
- Holistic treatments tend to be more expensive that conventional medicine.
****
A Brief History of Holistic Medicine
Holistic medicine refers to a system that treats the whole person rather than just the symptoms. It addresses all aspects, including the physical, emotional and mental, as well as cultural, social, occupational, environmental, and cultural factors. Prevention is better than treatment. It focuses on prevention and management of disease, such as diet, exercise, relaxation, stress management, and so forth.
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 founded the American Holistic Medical Association, Dr. Michael Murray co-founded it in 1997. Today, there are hundreds of holistic medicine schools worldwide, including Bastyr University, Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons, Maharishi Ayurveda Institute, Pacific School of Oriental Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and many others.
The World Health Organization named holistic medicine as one of five key trends in healthcare in 2013. This trend integrates conventional care with complementary therapies like homeopathy, acupuncture or herbalism, massage, therapy, reiki, yoga and meditation. This integration will provide safe, effective and patient-centered care with minimal side effects.
Holistic medicine works because we have an interconnected body-mind-spirit. An imbalance in any of these components can lead to illness. This is an example:
You become tense and out of balance when your mind is stressed or anxious. Your body reacts by making cortisol. This hormone increases inflammation throughout your body. This causes you to feel weak and tired.
If your emotions run high, you may experience negative feelings and thoughts like fear, anger, grief, or sadness. These feelings cause stress in your brain. If left untreated, this stress causes your body to produce adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline can increase your heart rate and blood pressure as well as your breathing rate. Cortisol impacts your immune system as well as your digestive tract and nervous system. Both hormones can lead to fatigue, muscle tension headaches and dizziness, anxiety, depression, and other health issues.
You can lose your faith and hope in life if you feel depressed. You might also experience low self-esteem, confidence, and lack of self-confidence. This can lead you to poor eating habits and unhealthy relationships. It can also cause low energy. When your spirit is healthy, you feel happy, joyous, peaceful, and optimistic.
There are differences between alternative and traditional medicine.
Allopathic medicine uses scientific methods. Doctors use x-rays (MRIs, CAT scanners), and other technologies to diagnose patients. If needed, they may prescribe medication or perform surgery. Allopathic doctors believe their knowledge of human anatomy and the best ways to treat diseases. Alternative medicine involves herbs, vitamins minerals, diet, exercise and spiritual healing. Alternative medicine does not have a defined definition. 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: Meet the Turmeric-Detox-Healthy Aging Pathway
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/aging/meet-the-turmeric-detox-healthy-aging-pathway/
Published Date: Fri, 12 May 2023 06:00:00 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the importance of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicines are very popular because they’re often cheaper and better for you than traditional treatments. Many patients have died due to side effects or allergic reactions after using these treatments. It’s also possible that certain alternative therapies may not help at all.
In addition, alternative medicines can be dangerous if you don’t know enough about them to choose the right ones. Vitamin supplements, for example, are not regulated like pharmaceuticals. It is easy to overdose on vitamins. To make matters worse, there are alternative remedies that contain toxic chemicals.
What’s the Difference Between Naturopathic Medicine & Holistic Medicine.
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs and surgery as its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. The CAM is not intended to be a replacement for conventional treatment. It is meant to assist patients who wish to have control over their own healthcare and choose what is best.
On the other hand, naturopathy is used to complement conventional medical practices. It is a holistic approach to treating the whole body, mind, as well as the spirit. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.
It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. For example, herbal remedies can be prescribed by doctors and naturopaths alike. Naturopaths, however, tend to recommend lifestyle changes rather than prescription medication.
Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths might prescribe medication if necessary.
There are some differences between naturopathic and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths don’t usually prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths are able to work closely with patients’ family physicians and refer them to specialists when necessary.
- The provincial licensing boards for Naturopathic physicians regulate Naturopathic physicians, while CAM practitioners can be self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and well-being while also educating about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths emphasize the importance of lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress management and exercise.
- Naturopharmacists focus on the use of minerals and botanicals to treat certain conditions.
- Naturopodists are skilled in providing personalized care that meets the needs of each patient.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for Naturopaths.
- Naturopatrists can be licensed by the provincial regulatory agencies.
- Naturopaticians may be registered with Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners licenses Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency grants licenses to homeopaths.
- The term “holistic” refers the belief that all aspects, including physical, spiritual, social, and mental, should be taken into consideration when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will look at all of these aspects rather than just one.
Why do people with advanced cancers use alternative methods of treatment?
Cancer patients often face many challenges as they attempt to overcome their illness. Patients may feel hopeless or helpless, and might lose all hope of recovery. Patients might experience nausea, pain or fatigue, as well as loss of strength and appetite.
Additionally, many conventional treatments do not work against cancer cells. Many cancer patients turn to complementary medicine for treatment. Studies show that almost half of them use alternative medicines at least once during treatment.
Sometimes, cancer patients will choose complementary medicine to chemotherapy. This is because they believe it will be easier and more effective in managing side effects. They may also prefer it because it is less expensive.
There are also other reasons.
Some patients believe that natural remedies can be used to prevent a repeat.
Many people believe natural remedies can improve their quality of living.
Others believe natural remedies can help reduce your risk of getting again cancer.
People who are worried about side effects of chemotherapy should consider natural remedies for first-line treatment.
Is holistic healing legitimate?
Yes, and no. Yes. There are many medications that have been proven to be effective against various conditions. They don’t cure all ailments. It depends on what you mean by “holistic.” It all depends on what you mean by “holistic.”
Many people believe holistic medicine has existed since ancient times. However, this is simply false. 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. In the 19th Century, almost all Western countries had public hospitals that could be used by trained doctors to provide medical care.
Today, traditional medicine is the predominant form of healthcare. Many people still prefer 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. Some people enjoy healthy eating and avoid prescription medications. Others find that exercise is essential for peak performance.
What are some examples of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is any treatment that isn’t considered medically necessary to treat disease. These include traditional Chinese medicine.
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. Meditation, yoga, aromatherapy and reflexology are some examples.
What are the strengths of holistic medicine compared to conventional medicine?
Many religions and cultures around the world have used holistic medicines for thousands of years. They are based on ancient knowledge, experience, and were created.
These medicines are safe, efficient, natural, and inexpensive. These side effects are far less severe than those from pharmaceutical drugs.
They are also beneficial for your overall health and well-being.
They can reduce the risk of disease and increase your overall well-being.
They could even be used to treat heart disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, asthma and depression.
There are hundreds, if not thousands, of traditional medicines all over the world. Each one has its own unique benefits.
The World Health Organization estimates that 80% of the population relies on traditional methods to treat illness or injury.
It has been reported that around half a trillion people rely on traditional herbs for their primary health care.
Global market for complementary therapies will reach $22.2 billion in 2020, according to estimates.
People are increasingly turning to alternative medical practices to avoid harmful side effects associated with conventional treatments.
Many people turn to complementary therapies when they do not respond to other treatment options. They might also consider them before considering surgery or medication.
There are many reasons why people choose to use complementary therapies.
- To improve your quality of life
- To reduce stress levels
- For relaxation
- To relieve pain
- To enhance immunity
- To support you in dealing with serious illness
- To boost energy
- To control weight
- To maintain good nutrition
- To improve sleep patterns
- To deal with chronic diseases
Statistics
- 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 the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- Acupuncture for Treatment of Insomnia: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
webmd.com
nccih.nih.gov
doi.org
How To
What are the Shortcomings and Advances in Holistic Medicine?
Holistic medicine refers to a medical approach that stresses the importance of the mind, body and spirit in healing. It was first developed by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), and his first book, The Doctor’s Book of Mind Cure in 1924. He used simple techniques such as meditation, visualization, and hypnosis. People suffering from anxiety, depression and pain can benefit from this treatment. This therapy can also help patients deal with their problems and improve their quality life.
Although holistic therapies are still popular, evidence is lacking to support their effectiveness. Some studies have shown that holistic therapies can reduce the symptoms of chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, arthritis, headaches, heart disease, hypertension and migraines, as well as other diseases such as cancer, heart disease, hypertension, stroke, bone fractures, and obesity.
Advances and shortcomings of holistic medicine are:
- There is insufficient scientific evidence. There are very few well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs), that evaluate holistic therapies’ benefits. The majority of researches show positive results.
- Traditional medicine has a higher cost. Alternative medicines are often cheaper than conventional ones, especially if the patient follows an organic diet.
- Patients do not feel pressured into following the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors recommend complementary therapies without prescribing them.
- Many holistic therapies can be used alongside conventional medicine. For example, acupuncture is usually done along with medication or 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 seek out complementary therapies to help them adapt their lifestyles. They want to be well but still enjoy their lives.
- Patients who use holistic treatments are generally healthier.
- Older adults are increasingly turning to holistic treatments.
- Complementary treatments require more research.
- Studies show that most people prefer alternative treatments to going to the doctor.
- Doctors must understand that not everyone will benefit from alternative treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be part of our culture and education system.
- Holistic treatments may not always be safe for everyone.
- So that patients can make informed decisions, we must be able to communicate with them about the various therapies.
- Holistic treatments don’t just appeal to hippies.
- Holistic treatments cannot cure certain diseases.
- Holistic treatments are sometimes dangerous.
- Holistic treatments are helpful for specific conditions.
- Holistic treatments are effective.
- Holistic therapies are based upon ancient wisdom.
- It is easy to learn holistic treatments.
- It is not easy to learn holistic treatment.
- Holistic treatments are hard to learn.
- Holistic treatments can be expensive.
- Holistic treatments are very expensive.
- Holistic therapies are more affordable than traditional medicine.
- Holistic treatments tend to be more expensive that conventional medicine.
****
A Brief History of Holistic Medicine
Holistic medicine refers to a system that treats the whole person rather than just the symptoms. It addresses all aspects, including the physical, emotional and mental, as well as cultural, social, occupational, environmental, and cultural factors. Prevention is better than treatment. It focuses on prevention and management of disease, such as diet, exercise, relaxation, stress management, and so forth.
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 founded the American Holistic Medical Association, Dr. Michael Murray co-founded it in 1997. Today, there are hundreds of holistic medicine schools worldwide, including Bastyr University, Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons, Maharishi Ayurveda Institute, Pacific School of Oriental Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and many others.
The World Health Organization named holistic medicine as one of five key trends in healthcare in 2013. This trend integrates conventional care with complementary therapies like homeopathy, acupuncture or herbalism, massage, therapy, reiki, yoga and meditation. This integration will provide safe, effective and patient-centered care with minimal side effects.
Holistic medicine works because we have an interconnected body-mind-spirit. An imbalance in any of these components can lead to illness. This is an example:
You become tense and out of balance when your mind is stressed or anxious. Your body reacts by making cortisol. This hormone increases inflammation throughout your body. This causes you to feel weak and tired.
If your emotions run high, you may experience negative feelings and thoughts like fear, anger, grief, or sadness. These feelings cause stress in your brain. If left untreated, this stress causes your body to produce adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline can increase your heart rate and blood pressure as well as your breathing rate. Cortisol impacts your immune system as well as your digestive tract and nervous system. Both hormones can lead to fatigue, muscle tension headaches and dizziness, anxiety, depression, and other health issues.
You can lose your faith and hope in life if you feel depressed. You might also experience low self-esteem, confidence, and lack of self-confidence. This can lead you to poor eating habits and unhealthy relationships. It can also cause low energy. When your spirit is healthy, you feel happy, joyous, peaceful, and optimistic.
There are differences between alternative and traditional medicine.
Allopathic medicine uses scientific methods. Doctors use x-rays (MRIs, CAT scanners), and other technologies to diagnose patients. If needed, they may prescribe medication or perform surgery. Allopathic doctors believe their knowledge of human anatomy and the best ways to treat diseases. Alternative medicine involves herbs, vitamins minerals, diet, exercise and spiritual healing. Alternative medicine does not have a defined definition. 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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