Nature's Bounty, a renowned brand in the realm of scientifically-backed vitamin and nutritional supplements, has recently unveiled its latest innovation – the Plant-Based Omega-3 dietary supplement. This vegetarian alternative to traditional fish oil takes a unique approach by sourcing EPA and DHA omega-3s directly from algae, offering a host of health benefits. Algae, being a plant-based source of these essential fats, serves as the primary ingredient in Nature's Bounty's new Plant-Based Omega-3 supplement, providing 1,000 mg of vegetarian algae oil to support heart, joint, and skin health. This cutting-edge dietary supplement is now available at leading retailers such as Amazon, CVS, Walgreens, Publix, and Kroger.
Nature's Bounty Introduces New Plant-Based Omega-3 Supplement
Donna Olufade, the Director of Marketing for the Nature's Bounty brand, expressed her enthusiasm about the launch of the Plant-Based Omega-3 supplement, emphasizing its role in making the health benefits of fish oil accessible to a wider consumer base through a vegetarian offering. She highlighted the fact that fish are naturally rich sources of omega-3s due to the algae in their diet, prompting the brand to tap into this source directly – algae. By leveraging algae as the key ingredient, Nature's Bounty has formulated a Plant-Based Omega-3 supplement tailored to cater to individuals following a vegetarian diet or seeking plant-based alternatives.
Each softgel of Nature's Bounty's Plant-Based Omega-3 supplement delivers 520 mg of total omega-3 fatty acids, with a significant concentration of 510 mg of EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) omega-3s. These essential fatty acids play a crucial role in promoting heart health while supporting the maintenance of healthy skin and joints. While additional research is needed, preliminary studies suggest that the consumption of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids may contribute to a reduced risk of coronary heart disease.
For more information about Nature's Bounty and its range of products, please visit www.naturesbounty.com.
The post Plant-Based Omega-3 Supplement appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alternative Medicine and How Does It Work?
It's a method of healing that focuses more on prevention than treatment. It also encourages people to become informed consumers actively engaged in improving their health and well-being.
Alternative medicine is any method of diagnosis and treatment that doesn't use conventional (allopathic) medical methods.
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 is not considered a substitute for conventional treatment but rather an addition to helping patients who want to take control of their healthcare by choosing what they believe is most appropriate.
On the other hand, naturopathy is used to complement conventional medical practices. It focuses on treating the whole body, mind, and spirit. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.
It is important to remember that some CAM modalities overlap slightly with conventional medicine. Both doctors and Naturopaths can prescribe herbal remedies. But, naturopaths are more concerned with lifestyle changes than prescribing medications.
Naturopathy is often called “complementary” or “complementary”, because it works with traditional medicine rather than replacing it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication as needed.
There are differences between naturopathic medicines and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths rarely prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths are able to work closely with patients' family physicians and refer them to specialists when necessary.
- Naturopathic doctors are licensed by the provincial licensing boards. CAM practitioners, however, are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and well-being while also educating about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths stress the importance of lifestyle factors. This includes nutrition, exercise and stress management.
- 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.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario is responsible for licensing Naturopaths.
- Naturopatrists are licensed by provincial regulatory bodies.
- Naturopaticians may be registered with Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia has licensed Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners is authorized to license Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses homeopaths.
- The belief that all aspects should be considered in making health decisions is called “holistic”. Holistic doctors will not focus on just one aspect of the equation but consider all elements.
What's the difference between alternative medicine or complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments not considered conventional by mainstream medical professionals but have been shown to provide benefits for certain conditions. Homeopathy, acupuncture and aromatherapy are all examples. Complementary therapies are those treatments that go beyond conventional treatment. They can also be used with conventional medicine. These include vitamins, minerals and herbs, as well as amino acids, enzymes and probiotics.
Both types of medicine are used frequently, but many conventional doctors won't recommend them due insufficient evidence or safety concerns.
There is not consensus among health professionals regarding the best approach for integrating CAM in patient care.
Many CAM treatments are based off theories that have been around for thousands years. But clinical trials in the past 20 years have suggested that these therapies might work.
A number of studies suggest that acupuncture may be able to relieve pain. Similar to chemotherapy, preliminary data suggest that acupuncture can reduce nausea or vomiting. Some studies have shown that acupuncture may be beneficial for irritable bowel syndrome (FBS), fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple Sclerosis, migraines, tension headaches as well as anxiety and depression.
Some CAM methods also appear to have potential therapeutic effects on diseases like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, asthma, heart disease, hypertension, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
While there are still questions about the effectiveness of CAM in treating different ailments, most experts agree it is possible.
As a result, more and more people are turning to CAM practitioners for relief from common illnesses.
Despite the popularity of alternative and complementary medicine, many people are still unsure what they mean.
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 uses fine needles inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of qi (energy) throughout the entire body.
Ayurvedic medicines is an ancient system to balance the three senses of air, fire,, and water. It includes diet, exercise and herbal remedies. Massage is also included.
Homeopathic Medicine is derived from the Greek words homoios meaning similar and pathos meaning disease. Homeopaths believe in natural causes for all diseases, but not necessarily symptoms. They use minute amounts of substances to treat their patients. These symptoms are very similar to what the patient experiences when they are sick.
Energy Healing can also be known by the names Reiki, EFT Rolfing and Therapeutic Touch. This therapy is based on a belief that we are all connected to the universal life force known as Ki. Feeling well is possible when the Ki flows freely through you. Energy healers use touch and intention to help restore balance and harmony between our physical, emotional, mental and spiritual selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from plants for therapeutic purposes. Aromatherapists believe certain scents can influence mood and behavior. Lavender is the most popular essential oil used for aromatherapy.
What is the distinction between holistic medicine, alternative medicine and holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine treats all aspects of the person: mind, body, soul, and spirit. It examines all aspects that affect a person’s overall health. These include the psychological, spiritual and environmental factors often overlooked in traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can be used to treat certain conditions like asthma, allergies, arthritis, or other medical issues.
Statistics
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- 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)
- 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)
- 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)
- 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
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING FOR TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE–PubMed
- A Randomized controlled trial to determine the effect of foot reflexology on depression and anxiety in older women: PubMed
webmd.com
cam.cancer.gov
nccih.nih.gov
How To
What are the 4 types of complementary or alternative medicine?
The main categories of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) are mind-body, natural products as well as manipulative therapies. Mind-body medicine includes yoga, meditation, Tai Chi, Reiki, acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic care, homeopathy, aromatherapy, reflexology, naturopathy, biofeedback, hypnosis, and herbalism. Natural products include herbs vitamins, minerals, nutritional supplements, and botanicals. Manipulative therapies can include physical manipulations such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and osteopathic/chiropractic care. You can also use prayer and visualization to help you heal your energy.
CAM is an umbrella term for various health practices outside traditional Western medical models. These practices can be supported by scientific evidence, or they may involve surgery. They also vary in terms of the conditions they treat. Some CAM professionals also perform diagnostic testing, such as blood tests, and prescribe medication. Others do neither.
These four categories are not the only ones. There are many subcategories within each one. In mind-body medicine there are relaxation techniques. Natural products include nutritional supplements, botanical remedies, homeopathic remedies and essential oils. Manual, movement, traction and electrotherapies are all forms of manipulative therapy. They include cupping, stretching and myofascial release. Trigger point therapy, orthotics, neurostimulation, trigger point therapy, manuals, trigger points, trigger point therapy, orthopedics. Spiritual healing includes faith healing and prayer.
Many CAM treatments treat symptoms but do not address the root cause. Some chronic diseases can be helped by CAM. If used correctly, CAM may be a complement to conventional treatments.
There are many reasons why people use CAM:
- To improve their overall health.
- To manage a special condition.
- To reduce discomfort or pain
- To prevent illness.
- To promote wellness.
- To address a personal belief system.
Some people turn to CAM because it offers more control over their health than conventional medicine. They might believe there are fewer side-effects. Others choose CAM to avoid taking prescription medications. Still, others prefer not to take pharmaceuticals if possible. And still, others seek out CAM because they have had bad experiences with conventional medicine.
Some people who use CAM say they want to be sure about what they are doing before trying something new. Many CAM users ask questions about the safety and effectiveness of CAM. Others rely on word of mouth from friends and family members.
Although CAM is often seen negatively in society, most users report positive feelings towards CAM. People who use CAM are happier and healthier than those who don’t. This holds true regardless your age, gender or race.
A large majority of Americans practice some form or another of complementary and alternative medicines. 95% of adults have used CAM at some point in their lives. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health was able to estimate that around 40 million people visited CAM practitioners in 2010 alone.
The NCCIH estimates that 10% of the U.S. population is treated by chiropractors or massage therapists.
2013 was a year that the American Medical Association (AMA) reaffirmed its support of integrative medicine. It recognized that doctors must “integrate scientifically valid alternative and complementary medicine into clinical practices…to meet patients' needs.”
The Institute of Medicine published a landmark study in 2007 titled “Releasing Constraints – Improving Access to Complementary and Alternative Healthcare” which concluded that “there is no credible evidence of any specific CAM intervention being effective in preventing, treating, and curing cancer.”
CAM continues to gain popularity despite this finding. In 2008, CAM practitioners saw an 8 percent increase in number compared with 2007.
Recent research found that nearly half of respondents used CAM in their primary healthcare routine.
CAM therapies include natural products, mind-body practices, manipulative techniques, energy healing modalities, exercise, dietary supplements, and other approaches.
Many CAM therapies are used primarily as pain relief. But, many offer additional benefits such relaxation, improved moods, better sleep, decreased stress and enhanced immunity.
Acupuncture can, for example help with chronic back pain, anxiety and depression, improve immune function as well as promote weight loss.
Many CAM treatments are rooted in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. Their roots date back thousands of years.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which originated in China 5,000 years back, has been practiced in China ever since.
It was not until the mid-1800s when Western science began to gain prominence, but TCM remains an important element of health care today.
TCM treatment is now used by over 70% of American citizens.
Yoga is another popular CAM treatment. Yoga was first developed in India around 5000 B.C. and is now embraced worldwide.
Yoga has been gaining popularity with the general population because it provides many physical, mental, and spiritual benefits.
Yoga can relieve stress, improve flexibility, and increase strength.
Although limited scientific research has been done, yoga may have beneficial effects on sleep33.
Other CAM therapies are also gaining acceptance in mainstream medicine, including meditation, homeopathy, and aromatherapy.
One of the most used types of CAM is herbal medicine.
Herbal medicines include herbs, spices and flowers, seeds, fruits and mushrooms, bark, leaves roots, stems, and bark.
They are often considered safer than prescription drugs and are used widely by consumers.
The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimates that about 90 million Americans use some form of complementary/alternative medicine.
According to the American Cancer Society, 45% of adults diagnosed with cancer said they used alternative medicine during their illness.
The National Institutes of Health estimates 60% of cancer patients use CAM. Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports approximately 50% of all cancer survivors report using CAM.
According to a recent survey, 51% reported that they used at least one type (CAM) of CAM.
However, only 8% of these individuals discussed this use with their physicians.
This is a serious problem with healthcare delivery because there is not enough communication between conventional medical practitioners and CAM users.
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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: Plant-Based Omega-3 Supplement
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/choice-products/plant-based-omega-3-supplement/
Published Date: Tue, 10 Dec 2024 14:53:57 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alternative Medicine and How Does It Work?
It's a method of healing that focuses more on prevention than treatment. It also encourages people to become informed consumers actively engaged in improving their health and well-being.
Alternative medicine is any method of diagnosis and treatment that doesn't use conventional (allopathic) medical methods.
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 is not considered a substitute for conventional treatment but rather an addition to helping patients who want to take control of their healthcare by choosing what they believe is most appropriate.
On the other hand, naturopathy is used to complement conventional medical practices. It focuses on treating the whole body, mind, and spirit. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.
It is important to remember that some CAM modalities overlap slightly with conventional medicine. Both doctors and Naturopaths can prescribe herbal remedies. But, naturopaths are more concerned with lifestyle changes than prescribing medications.
Naturopathy is often called “complementary” or “complementary”, because it works with traditional medicine rather than replacing it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication as needed.
There are differences between naturopathic medicines and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths rarely prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths are able to work closely with patients' family physicians and refer them to specialists when necessary.
- Naturopathic doctors are licensed by the provincial licensing boards. CAM practitioners, however, are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and well-being while also educating about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths stress the importance of lifestyle factors. This includes nutrition, exercise and stress management.
- 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.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario is responsible for licensing Naturopaths.
- Naturopatrists are licensed by provincial regulatory bodies.
- Naturopaticians may be registered with Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia has licensed Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners is authorized to license Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses homeopaths.
- The belief that all aspects should be considered in making health decisions is called “holistic”. Holistic doctors will not focus on just one aspect of the equation but consider all elements.
What's the difference between alternative medicine or complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments not considered conventional by mainstream medical professionals but have been shown to provide benefits for certain conditions. Homeopathy, acupuncture and aromatherapy are all examples. Complementary therapies are those treatments that go beyond conventional treatment. They can also be used with conventional medicine. These include vitamins, minerals and herbs, as well as amino acids, enzymes and probiotics.
Both types of medicine are used frequently, but many conventional doctors won't recommend them due insufficient evidence or safety concerns.
There is not consensus among health professionals regarding the best approach for integrating CAM in patient care.
Many CAM treatments are based off theories that have been around for thousands years. But clinical trials in the past 20 years have suggested that these therapies might work.
A number of studies suggest that acupuncture may be able to relieve pain. Similar to chemotherapy, preliminary data suggest that acupuncture can reduce nausea or vomiting. Some studies have shown that acupuncture may be beneficial for irritable bowel syndrome (FBS), fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple Sclerosis, migraines, tension headaches as well as anxiety and depression.
Some CAM methods also appear to have potential therapeutic effects on diseases like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, asthma, heart disease, hypertension, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
While there are still questions about the effectiveness of CAM in treating different ailments, most experts agree it is possible.
As a result, more and more people are turning to CAM practitioners for relief from common illnesses.
Despite the popularity of alternative and complementary medicine, many people are still unsure what they mean.
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 uses fine needles inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of qi (energy) throughout the entire body.
Ayurvedic medicines is an ancient system to balance the three senses of air, fire,, and water. It includes diet, exercise and herbal remedies. Massage is also included.
Homeopathic Medicine is derived from the Greek words homoios meaning similar and pathos meaning disease. Homeopaths believe in natural causes for all diseases, but not necessarily symptoms. They use minute amounts of substances to treat their patients. These symptoms are very similar to what the patient experiences when they are sick.
Energy Healing can also be known by the names Reiki, EFT Rolfing and Therapeutic Touch. This therapy is based on a belief that we are all connected to the universal life force known as Ki. Feeling well is possible when the Ki flows freely through you. Energy healers use touch and intention to help restore balance and harmony between our physical, emotional, mental and spiritual selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from plants for therapeutic purposes. Aromatherapists believe certain scents can influence mood and behavior. Lavender is the most popular essential oil used for aromatherapy.
What is the distinction between holistic medicine, alternative medicine and holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine treats all aspects of the person: mind, body, soul, and spirit. It examines all aspects that affect a person’s overall health. These include the psychological, spiritual and environmental factors often overlooked in traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can be used to treat certain conditions like asthma, allergies, arthritis, or other medical issues.
Statistics
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- 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)
- 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)
- 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)
- 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
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING FOR TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE–PubMed
- A Randomized controlled trial to determine the effect of foot reflexology on depression and anxiety in older women: PubMed
webmd.com
cam.cancer.gov
nccih.nih.gov
How To
What are the 4 types of complementary or alternative medicine?
The main categories of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) are mind-body, natural products as well as manipulative therapies. Mind-body medicine includes yoga, meditation, Tai Chi, Reiki, acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic care, homeopathy, aromatherapy, reflexology, naturopathy, biofeedback, hypnosis, and herbalism. Natural products include herbs vitamins, minerals, nutritional supplements, and botanicals. Manipulative therapies can include physical manipulations such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and osteopathic/chiropractic care. You can also use prayer and visualization to help you heal your energy.
CAM is an umbrella term for various health practices outside traditional Western medical models. These practices can be supported by scientific evidence, or they may involve surgery. They also vary in terms of the conditions they treat. Some CAM professionals also perform diagnostic testing, such as blood tests, and prescribe medication. Others do neither.
These four categories are not the only ones. There are many subcategories within each one. In mind-body medicine there are relaxation techniques. Natural products include nutritional supplements, botanical remedies, homeopathic remedies and essential oils. Manual, movement, traction and electrotherapies are all forms of manipulative therapy. They include cupping, stretching and myofascial release. Trigger point therapy, orthotics, neurostimulation, trigger point therapy, manuals, trigger points, trigger point therapy, orthopedics. Spiritual healing includes faith healing and prayer.
Many CAM treatments treat symptoms but do not address the root cause. Some chronic diseases can be helped by CAM. If used correctly, CAM may be a complement to conventional treatments.
There are many reasons why people use CAM:
- To improve their overall health.
- To manage a special condition.
- To reduce discomfort or pain
- To prevent illness.
- To promote wellness.
- To address a personal belief system.
Some people turn to CAM because it offers more control over their health than conventional medicine. They might believe there are fewer side-effects. Others choose CAM to avoid taking prescription medications. Still, others prefer not to take pharmaceuticals if possible. And still, others seek out CAM because they have had bad experiences with conventional medicine.
Some people who use CAM say they want to be sure about what they are doing before trying something new. Many CAM users ask questions about the safety and effectiveness of CAM. Others rely on word of mouth from friends and family members.
Although CAM is often seen negatively in society, most users report positive feelings towards CAM. People who use CAM are happier and healthier than those who don’t. This holds true regardless your age, gender or race.
A large majority of Americans practice some form or another of complementary and alternative medicines. 95% of adults have used CAM at some point in their lives. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health was able to estimate that around 40 million people visited CAM practitioners in 2010 alone.
The NCCIH estimates that 10% of the U.S. population is treated by chiropractors or massage therapists.
2013 was a year that the American Medical Association (AMA) reaffirmed its support of integrative medicine. It recognized that doctors must “integrate scientifically valid alternative and complementary medicine into clinical practices…to meet patients' needs.”
The Institute of Medicine published a landmark study in 2007 titled “Releasing Constraints – Improving Access to Complementary and Alternative Healthcare” which concluded that “there is no credible evidence of any specific CAM intervention being effective in preventing, treating, and curing cancer.”
CAM continues to gain popularity despite this finding. In 2008, CAM practitioners saw an 8 percent increase in number compared with 2007.
Recent research found that nearly half of respondents used CAM in their primary healthcare routine.
CAM therapies include natural products, mind-body practices, manipulative techniques, energy healing modalities, exercise, dietary supplements, and other approaches.
Many CAM therapies are used primarily as pain relief. But, many offer additional benefits such relaxation, improved moods, better sleep, decreased stress and enhanced immunity.
Acupuncture can, for example help with chronic back pain, anxiety and depression, improve immune function as well as promote weight loss.
Many CAM treatments are rooted in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. Their roots date back thousands of years.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which originated in China 5,000 years back, has been practiced in China ever since.
It was not until the mid-1800s when Western science began to gain prominence, but TCM remains an important element of health care today.
TCM treatment is now used by over 70% of American citizens.
Yoga is another popular CAM treatment. Yoga was first developed in India around 5000 B.C. and is now embraced worldwide.
Yoga has been gaining popularity with the general population because it provides many physical, mental, and spiritual benefits.
Yoga can relieve stress, improve flexibility, and increase strength.
Although limited scientific research has been done, yoga may have beneficial effects on sleep33.
Other CAM therapies are also gaining acceptance in mainstream medicine, including meditation, homeopathy, and aromatherapy.
One of the most used types of CAM is herbal medicine.
Herbal medicines include herbs, spices and flowers, seeds, fruits and mushrooms, bark, leaves roots, stems, and bark.
They are often considered safer than prescription drugs and are used widely by consumers.
The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimates that about 90 million Americans use some form of complementary/alternative medicine.
According to the American Cancer Society, 45% of adults diagnosed with cancer said they used alternative medicine during their illness.
The National Institutes of Health estimates 60% of cancer patients use CAM. Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports approximately 50% of all cancer survivors report using CAM.
According to a recent survey, 51% reported that they used at least one type (CAM) of CAM.
However, only 8% of these individuals discussed this use with their physicians.
This is a serious problem with healthcare delivery because there is not enough communication between conventional medical practitioners and CAM users.