Alternative medicine is a healing practice that does not fall under the realm of ‘conventional medicine’. Alternative medicine has been in use in spite of the fact that it is not shown to be consistently effective. The most notable feature of alternative medicine is that it makes use of the historical and cultural traditions rather than the scientific ones.
There are many medical institutions that oppose the use of alternative medicine. The term ‘alternative medicine’ has come under serious scrutiny over the years, especially by experts who oppose this treatment method. These experts often term it is ‘medicine that works and one that does not’.
Naturopathy
Homeopathy
Accupuncture
Hypnosis
Traditional Chinese treatment
Chiropractic
Herbalism
The aforementioned treatment methods are some of the common types of alternative medicines available.
History of alternative medicine
According to various independent publications in the United States, it was stated that approximately 50 million of Americans had opted for the use of alternative medicine as opposed to the conventional treatment methods. However, it was also stated that most of the medical centers failed in their bid to maintain the success.
Classification of alternative medicine
A classification system was developed for alternative medicine in order to make it easy for people to understand the field of alternative medicine. Some of the common classifications in the field of alternative medicine include:
Whole Medical system: Traditional Chinese medicine, Naturopathy, Ayurveda and Homeopathy.
Mini-body medicine: Takes a holistic approach to health that helps in exploring the interconnection between the mind and the body.
Biology based products: Herbs, foods, vitamins and other natural substances.
Manipulative products: This involves the manipulation of body parts as performed in chiropractic and osteopathic.
Refer to this guide if you are planning to opt for alternative medicine.
alternative medicine
