Alternative medicine was once perhaps given a wide berth by the sceptics but today over 600 million people pay visits to those offering alternative treatments and remedies.

What Benefit does Alternative Medicine Have?

Most alternative treatments are based on the use of herbs, oils and massage so it’s perfectly safe and for thousands of people it has been proven to work time and time again. There are a vast array of different types and treatments available from minor illnesses through to those more severe, some people even suffering life threatening illnesses have benefited from some types of alternative medicine where conventional treatments have failed.

Different Types of Alternative Therapy Used

Listed below are some of the types of alternative treatments and therapies available:

Acupuncture -

Acupuncture treatment is not only the insertion of fine needles into the “points” on the body but also the detection of disharmony within the body. This is assessed by a series of questions on the person’s lifestyle and emotions.

Acupressure -

Originating from the Chinese Taoist monks acupressure is similar to acupuncture but without the use of needles, instead finger pressure is applied to the “points”.

Aromatherapy -

Essential oils taken from plants are used in this treatment which can take the form of massage or inhalation. It is thought to be especially beneficial for those suffering from stress related illnesses.

Ayurvedic medicine -

This type of treatment stems back from India and is a complete system of exercise, diet and detoxification of the entire body.

Chiropractic -

Chiropractic treatment works mainly for those suffering from joint problems and is performed along the spine by adjusting joints.

Chinese Herbal Remedies -

There is a vast range of herbs used in treatment which the Chinese have used for thousands of years and are capable of treating a wide variety of illnesses.

Acupuncture is thought to be safe for people of all ages and is thought to be particularly useful in the relief of pain during childbirth also throughout pregnancy.

How Is The Treatment Given?

Acupuncture is the insertion of tiny needles into pressure points throughout the body; there are roughly 500 of these points located on the body. Of these about 100 of them are the most commonly used.

Insertion of the needles into certain areas of the body stimulates certain organs in the body, although your illness or problem doesn’t necessarily correspond to the place of insertion of the needles.

For example if your problem is headaches then the needles are not inserted in the head or indeed any where near the head, it is most likely the needles will be inserted into your hand or even your foot. The acupuncturist may also use along with the needles, a substance called Moxa. This is an herb which is used to warm the points; this in theory helps the smooth flow of the body’s energy thereby assisting the treatment.

Is The Treatment Painful?

The treatment and insertion of the needles is different from the experience we have all had when having blood taken, the needles are much finer and are solid and are said to give a tingling feeling when inserted or a dull ache. The needles once inserted can be left in place for up to a maximum of 20 minutes or as little as just a few seconds, depending on the complaint and the effect required.

People who have gone through a course of acupuncture have been known to describe the treatment as pleasant and one of relaxation. Many people have also found there level of energy increases and they have an over all sense of well being in general as well as feeling benefit for there particular complaint.

How Often Will Treatment Be Necessary?

Every person is different and so treatment will vary greatly from individual to individual, though on average some benefit will be felt after about 5 treatments. On average you will have treatment twice a week and only two or three treatments may be necessary, while for some several months treatments are needed.