This document provides information about complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) including definitions, basic concepts, and different types. It discusses alternative medical systems including Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani/Tibbi medicine. Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system based on homeopathy and naturopathy using herbs. Siddha medicine is a traditional Tamil system from South India that focuses on balancing three humors (vata, pitha, kapha) through diet, lifestyle, herbs and other treatments. Unani/Tibbi medicine is similar to Ayurveda and based on ancient Greek and Islamic theories involving four elements in the body.
This document provides information about complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) including definitions, basic concepts, and different types. It discusses alternative medical systems including Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani/Tibbi medicine. Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system based on homeopathy and naturopathy using herbs. Siddha medicine is a traditional Tamil system from South India that focuses on balancing three humors (vata, pitha, kapha) through diet, lifestyle, herbs and other treatments. Unani/Tibbi medicine is similar to Ayurveda and based on ancient Greek and Islamic theories involving four elements in the body.
This document provides information about complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) including definitions, basic concepts, and different types. It discusses alternative medical systems including Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani/Tibbi medicine. Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system based on homeopathy and naturopathy using herbs. Siddha medicine is a traditional Tamil system from South India that focuses on balancing three humors (vata, pitha, kapha) through diet, lifestyle, herbs and other treatments. Unani/Tibbi medicine is similar to Ayurveda and based on ancient Greek and Islamic theories involving four elements in the body.
PRACTICE UNIT - X TOPIC - COMPLIMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE SYSTEMS OF MEDICINE HOURS - 2HRS NAME OF THE EVALUATOR-PROF.RAJI RAJU NAME OF HOD - PROF.RAJI RAJU SUBMITTED BY -MRS.LEKSHMY CHANDRAN SUBMITTED ON - INDEX
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I INTRODUCTION 1 II DEFINITION 2 III TYPES 3-48 1.ALTERNATIVE MEDICAL SYSTEM 2.BIOLOGICALLY BASED TREATMENT 3.MIND BODY TECHNIQUE 4.MANIPULATIVE AND BODY BASED METHODS 5.ENERGY THERAPIES 6.OTHER THERAPIES IV SUMMARY 49 V ABSTRACT VI CONCLUSION 50 VII BIBILIOGRAPHY 51 COMPLIMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE SYSTEMS OF MEDICINE INTRODUCTION Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) – includes various healing approaches and therapies that originate from around the world and that are not based on conventional Western medicine. These therapies are called alternative medicine when they are used alone and complementary medicine when they are used with conventional medicine. Alternative medicine includes therapies and health care practices not widely taught in most medical schools; however, many such practices are popular, and some areused in hospital. Although the distinction between conventional and alternative medicine is not always easy to determine, abasic philosophic difference exists. Alternative medicine often defines health as a balance of body systems physical, emotional, and spiritual involving the whole patient; ie, the approach. Is holistic. Conventional medicine generally defines health as the absence of disease; disease is usually thought to result from isolated factors ( eg, pathogens, biochemical imbalances), and treatment often involves drugs or surgery. Disease is thought to result from disharmony and imbalances between body systems. Treatment often involves strengthening the body-sown defences and restoring these balances and energy flows. Patients are most likely to seek alternative medicine for conditions such as chronic low back pain, stress, migraine headaches, menopausal symptoms, cacer , and arthritis. Some patients seek alternative medicine when conventional medicine offers little hope, especially at the end of life. DEFINITION Complementary and alternative medicine is a groun of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not generally considered part of conventional medicine. SHEBEER .P.BASHEER BASIC CONCEPTS Several concepts are common to most alternative practices. These are holism, humanism, balance, spirituality, energy & healing environments. Holism: The idea that the whole of the sick person, their body, mind and way of life, should be considered when treating them, and not just the symptom of the disease. Humanism: A system of thought that considers the solving of human problems with the help of religious beliefs. It emphasizes the fact that the basic nature of humans is good. Balance: A situation in which different things exist in equal, correct or good amount. Energy: The ability to put effort and enthusiasm into an activity, work etc Healing: The process of returning to normal function after a period of disease or injury. TYPES 1. Alternative medical systems. 2. Biologically based treatments. 3.Mind-body techniques. 4.Manipulative and body-based methods. 5.Energy therapies. 1.ALTERNATIVE MEDICAL SYSTEMS a)Ayurveda
Ayurveda is a System of healing based on homeopathy
and naturopathy, with an extensive use of herbs. Ayurveda (devanagari, the ‘science of life) is a system of traditional medicine native to the Indian Subcontinent originated > 5000 yr ago and practiced in other parts of the world as a form of alternative medicine. In Sanskrit, the word Ayurveda consists of the words ayus, meaning ‘life’ ,and veda, meaning ‘related to knowledge’ or ‘science’. Evolving throughout its history Ayurveda remains aninfluential system of medicine in South Asia. The earliest literature of Ayurveda appeared during the Vedic period in India. The Sushruta Samhita and the Charaka Samhitawere influential works on traditional medicine during this era. Ayurvedic practitioners also identified a number of medicinal preparations and surgical procedures for curing various ailments and diseases. As per Indian heritage and science, “Ayurveda” an Upaveda or annexure to the four main vedas (knowledgesystems ). The famous treaties of Ayurveda ate CharakaSamhita by Sage Charaka, which details the prevention and treatment of disease, and Sushruta Samhita of Sage Sushruta, which deals with Ayurvedic surgical procedures. In the Ayurvedic system, the prevention of all types of disease has a prominent place in treatment, including restructuring a patient’s lifestyle to align with the course of nature and the – four seasons to guarantee complete wellness. The aim is to remove the cause of disorders, prevent illness and harmonize body, mind and consciousness. Ayurveda aids in maintaining good health, increasing longevity and overall quality of life. Alternative Ayurvedic treatments and self help regimens include: nutrition, herbal remedies, aromatherapy, lifestyle recommendations, massage treatments, colour or soundtherapY, meditation, Panchakarma (detoxification), Yoga, meditation and rejuvenation therapies. Ayurveda empowers the individual to take control of their own health and wellbeing. A few examples are – 1. Terminalia arjuna is useful in all eviating the pain of angina pectoris and in treating heart failure and coronary artery disease. Terminalia may also be usefulin treating hyper cholesterolemia. 2. Black pepper and long pepper are combined with ginger to form the traditional trikatu. Mixture in Ayurveda. This mixture increases appetite, promotes the secretion of digestive juices, and cures certain gastric disorders particularly Achlorhydria and Hypo chlorhydria b)Siddha The Siddha medicine is a form of south Indian Tamil traditional medicine and part of the trio Indian medicines –ayarveda, siddha and unani, However Lord Sri Akshunna, a master of northern siddha tradition, says there is use of siddha medicine in the north Indian part or rather in Himalayan region as jharphuk and siddha buti. (medicine) tantra. This system of medicine was popular in ancient India due to the antiquity of this medical system,the siddha system of medicine is believed to be the oldest medical system in the known universe. The system is believed tobe developed bY the 9 nath and 84 siddhas in the north and 18 siddhas in the south called siddhar. Tuey are the ancient supernatural spiritual saints of India and the Siddha system is believed to be handed over to the Siddhar by the Hindu God – Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi. So are the siddhars, the followers of Lord Shiva (saivam)- Siddhars total numbers which are eighteen in which the magathiyaris the first siddhar. Siddharas were of the concept that a healthy soul can only be developed through a healthy body. So they developed methods and medication that are believed to strengthen their physical body and there by their souls. Men and women who dedicated their lives into developing the system were called Siddharas. They practiced intense yogic practices, including Years of fasting and meditation and believed to have achieved super natural powers and gained the supreme wisdom and overall immortality. It is assumed that when the normal equilibrium of three humors (vatha, pitha and kapha) is disturbed, disease is caused. The factors, which assumed to affect this equilibrium are environment, climatic conditions, diet, physical activities, and stress. According to the siddha medicine system, diet and life style play a major role not only in health but also in curing diseases. The treatment in siddha medicine is aimed at keeping the three humors in equilibrium and maintenance of seven elements. So proper diet, medicine and a disciplined regimen of life are advised for a healthy living and to restore advised for a healthy living and to restore Thiruvalluvar explains four requisites of successful treatment. These are the patient, the attendant, physician and medicine. When the physician is well qualified and the other agents possess the necessary qualities, even severe diseases can be cured easily. The treatment should be commenced as early as possible after assessing the course and cause of the disease. Treatment is classified into three categories: devamaruthuvum (Divine method); manudamaruthuvum (rational method) and amiramaruthuvum (surgical method). In Divine method medicines like parpam, chendooram, guru, kuligai made of mercury, sulphur and pashanams are used. In the rational method, medicines made of herbs like churanam, kudineer, vadagamare used. In surgical method, incision, excision, heat application, blood letting, leech application are used. According to therapies the treatments of siddha medicines could be further categorized into following categories such as purgative therapy,emetic therapy, fasting therapy, steam therapy, oleation therapy, physical therapy, solar therapy and blood letting therapy, Yogatherapy, etc c)Unani & Tibbi As an alternative form of medicine, unani has found favour in Asia, especially India. In India, these Unani practitioners can practice as qualified doctors, as the Indian government approves their practice. Unani medicine is very close to Ayurveda. Are based on theory of the presence of the elements (in Unani, they are considered to be fire, water, earth and air) in the human body· (Theelements, attributed to the philosopher Empedocles, determined the way of thinking in Medieval Europe.) According to followers of Unani medicine, these elements are present in different fluids and their balance leads to health and their imbalance leads to illness. All these elaborations were built on the basic Hippocratic theory of the Four Humours. The theory postulates the presence in the human body of blood, phlegm, yellow bile and black bile. Each person’s unique mixture of these substances determines his temperament: a predominance of \,, blood gives a sanguine temperament; a predominance of phlegm makes one phlegmatic; Yellow bile, bilious ( or choleric); and black bile, melancholic. As long as these humours are in balance, the human system is healthy, it’s imbalance can result in disease. d)Homeopathy
It is a system of therapy based on the concept
that disease can be treated with drugs (in minute doses) which are capable of producing the same symptoms in healthy people as the disease itself. Homeopathy. Developed in Germany in the late 1700s, homeopathy is based on the principle that like cures like. A substance that, when given in large doses, causes asset of symptoms is believed to cure the same- symptoms when it is given in minute doses. Remedies used in homeopathy are derived from naturally occurring substances, such as plant extracts and minerals. Extremely low concentrations are prepared in a specific way. The more dilute the homeopathic medicine, the stronger it is considered to be. Traditional scientists can find no scientific explanation for how the diluted remedies used in homeopathy could cure disease. Some solutions are so dilute that they contain no molecules of the “active” ingredient. However, homeopathy has few risks; rarely, an allergic or toxic reaction occurs. Homeopathic remedy Rhus toxicodendron, derived from poison ivy substance prepared with a particular procedure and intended for treating patients. Examples include Arsenicum album (arsenic oxide), Natrum muriaticum (sodium chloride or table salt) and Thvroidinum (thyroid hormone). Homeopaths also use treatments called nosodes ( from the Greek nosos, disease) made from diseased or pathological products such as fecal, urinary, and respiratory discharges, blood, tissue. Homeopathic remedies prepared from healthy specimens are called sarcodes. e) Naturopathy It is a system of therapy based on preventative care, and on the use of heat, water, light, of the whole patient, and use of the body’s natural healing abilities. This system also focuses on finding the cause of a disease rather than merely treating symptoms. Some of this system’s principles are not that different from those of modern Western medicine. In treating the whole person the naturopathic practitioner searches for causes at many levels, and attempts to eliminate the fundamental cause of illness, not simply to remove symptoms. The following therapies are considered to be of primary importance in the naturopathic treatment of disease: a. Nutrition and Dietetic This includes the prescription of a balanced wholesome, natural diet, based on the principles advocated by naturopathic practitioners. b. Fasting The controlled abstinence from food has been used therapeutically for over 2.000 years. It advocated by Hippocrates as a treatment for many diseases, because it allowed the bod)’ to concentrate its resources on dealing with the disease rather than the processes of digestion. Although 1argely ridiculed bY orthodoxy for many years, fasting has recently begun to gain a reputation as an excellent and safe treatment for conditions such as obesity high blood pressure, arthritis and rheumatism., various allergies and some psychiatric disorders. c. Structural Adjustment . By such methods as osteopathy, chiropractic, neuromuscular technique, postural re-education and remedial exercises, the naturopathic practitioner seeks to balance and integrate the spine, muscles, ligaments and joints of the whole body. d. Hydrotherapy This is the use of water, both internally and externally in the form of baths, packs, compresses, sprays and douches. Hydrotherapy is of value in most conditions and rightly applied can give remarkable results in the treatment of both acute and long-standing conditions. e. Healthy Lifestyle This includes the general care of one’s body the use of moderate physical exercise, the cultivation of a positive approach to life and health, relaxation techniques, etc. f. Education In naturopathic philosophy it is Just as if not more so, to explain to the patient why disease occurs and what the patient can do for him or herself to maintain the new, improved level of health given to them by naturopathic treatment. In this way the patient is given responsibility for his or her health. Naturopathy is based on the belief that the body is self-healing. The body will repair itself and recover from illness spontaneously if it is in a healthy environment. Naturopaths have many remedies and recommendations for creating a health)’ environment so the body can spontaneously heal itself. 2.BIOLOGICALLY BASED TREATMENTS a)Herbal Medicine Herbal medicine has always attracted some scientific interest and many well known drugs are plant-derived, for example digoxin from foxgloves morphine from poppies. The following are some of the herbs commonly thought to be effective: St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a safe and effective treatment (if taken as the onb’ treatment) for mild to moderate depression. It may also help fatigue possibly because fatigue is a common aspect of depression. Ginkgo Biloba may be effective in relieving the symptoms of dementia and it may also support memory in all older people. Ginger is an effective remedy for nausea and vomiting. Horse chestnut seed extract can alleviate the of varicose veins. Tea tree oil may be effective against fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. Vegetables from the allium family ( onions and garlic) may protect against certain cancers if eaten regularly, especially cancers of the digestive tract, though further studies need to be done. Remember, some herbal medicines and prescribed drugs do not mix, consult your doctor if you are taking conventional drugs. b)Nutritional therapy Nutritional therapy is a system of healing based on the belief that food, as nature intended, provides the medicine we need to obtain and maintain a state of health: our food is our medicine and our medicine is our food. Although some health problems require specific medication, many conditions can be relieved effectively with nutritional therapy. These include disorders ranging from chronic fatigue, energy loss, insomnia and depression, to backache, skin complaints, asthma, and headaches. Nutritional therapy will also benefit You if You have no specific illness, but want to maintain a state of optimum health. It is safe for babies and children as well as adults, and the change of eating patterns that is typically prescribed usually has far fewer side effects than synthetic medicines. Nutritional therapy is a holistic discipline; the key to good health is the all-embracing fundamental principle used since the time of the famous Greek doctor and founder of western medicine, Hippocrates, to help people of all ages to stay at their personal peak of energy and vitality. Today, new insights of food scientists play a significant role in the practice of nutritional therapy as preventative medicine. During the last fifty years, many wonderful breakthroughs have improved our understanding of the role of food in our lives. Many ofus are realizing that food is the cornerstone on which, our modem lifestyle, has been built. Antioxidants are also the nutritional suppliments which can remove the free radicals from human body so as to prevent severe disease conditions like cancer. 3.MIND BODY TECHNIQUES Mind-body techniques are based on the theory that mental and emotional factors can influence physical health. Behavioral, psychologic, social, and spiritual methods are used to preserve health and prevent or cure disease. Because of the abundance of scientific evidence backing the benefits of mind-body techniques, many of the approaches are now considered mainstream. Methods include the following: Meditation Hypnotherapy (hypnosis) Biofeedback Qigong & Tai Chi Relaxation techniques Guided imagery Mind-body techniques can be used to treat anxiety and panic disorders, chronic pain, coronary artery disease, depression, headaches, difficulty sleeping (insomnia), and loss of urinary control (incontinence). Mind- body methods also are used as an aid in childbirth, in coping with the disease-related and treatment-related symptoms of cancer, and in preparing people before surgery. a)Meditation In meditation, people regulate their attention or systematically focus on particular aspects of inner or outer experience. Meditation usually involves sitting or resting quietly, often with the eyes closed. Sometimes it involves the repetitive sounding of a phrase ( a mantra) meant to help the person focus. Highly studied forms of meditation are transcendental meditation and mindfulness meditation. Meditation has been shown to have favourable effects on heart and blood vessel ( cardiovascular) function, immunity and brain activity, such as increasing activity in parts of the brain associated with mental clarity. Meditation often induces physical relaxation, mental calmness, and favourable emotional states such as loving-kindness and even temperedness. Most meditation practices were developed within a religious or spiritual context and held as their ultimate goal some type of spiritual growth, personal transformation, or transcendental experience. As a health care intervention, however, meditation may be effective regardless of people’s cultural or religious background. b)Relaxation Techniques Relaxation techniques are practices specifically designed to relieve tension and strain. The specific technique may be aimed at reducing activity of the nerves that control the stress response (sympathetic nervous system), lowering blood pressure, easing muscle tension, slowing metabolic processes, or altering brain wave activity, Relaxation techniques may be used in combination with other techniques, such as meditation, guided imagery, or hypnotherapy. c)Guided Imagery Guided imagery involves the use of mental images to promote relaxation and wellness, reduce pain, or facilitate healing pf a particular ailment, such as cancer or psychological trauma. The images can involve any of the senses and may be self directed or guided by a practitioner, sometimes in a group setting. For example, a person with cancer might be told to imagine an army of white blood cells fighting against the cancer cells. Guided imagery has not been thoroughly scientifically studied, but many people claim to have had success with it. d)Hypnotherapy This alternative therapy is derived from Western practice. In hypnotherapy (hypnosis), people are guided into an advanced state of relaxation and heightened attention. Hypnotized people become absorbed in the images suggested by the hypnotherapist and are able to suspend disbelief. Because their attention is more focused and they are more open to suggestion, hypnotherapy can be used to help people change their behaviour and thus improve their health. Hypnotherapy can be thus improve their health. Hypnotherapy also may be helpful in treating many conditions and symptoms in which treating many conditions and symptoms in which psychological factors can influence physical symptoms - Phobias Certain pain syndromes Smoking cessation Conversion disorders (in which apparent physical illness actually is caused mainly by psychological stress and conflict) Irritable bowel syndrome Headaches Asthma Some skin disorders (such as warts and psoriasis) High blood pressure Nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, particularly the nausea some people get before chemotherapy ( anticipatory nausea) Anxiety and diminished quality of life in people who have cancer. Hypnotherapy has been used with some success to help people stop smoking and lose weight. Some people are able to learn to hypnotize themselves. The mechanism of hypnotherapy is poorly understood from a scientific standpoint. e)Biofeedback Biofeedback is a method of bringing unconscious biologic processes under conscious control. Biofeedback involves the use of electronic devices to measure and report back to the conscious mind information such as heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, and brain surface electrical activity. With the help of a therapist or with training, people then can understand why these functions change and can learn how to regulate them. Biofeedback typically is used to treat pain including headache and chronic abdominal pain, stress, insomnia, faecal or urinary incontinence attention deficit disorder and mild cognitive impairment, and tinnitus . Biofeedback has been shown to be clinically effective in treating certain problems (for example, headaches, incontinence, and attention deficit disorder). 4.MANIPULATIVE AND BODY BASED METHODS a)Yoga The fundamental idea behind the practice of Yoga is to unite the individual self (Jiva) with the supreme or pure consciousness (Brahma). The factual connotation of Yoga is unification. Merging in this static realism liberates the spirit from all sense of separation. It liberates the mind from the ignorance of time, space and causation. However, as Yogic philosophy says, the human body and mind are parts of the deceptive world of matter, with a limited period, whereas the spirit is endless and passes onto a new world when this body dies. Therefore, fundamental to Yogic philosophy are the concepts of Karma- cause and effect relationship. In the present view, Yoga is one of the most helpful healthy forms of experience to manage the influence of thinking by turning psychological and physical force into spiritual energy, Yoga therapy eases oneself from the cramped tension. Concentration is enhanced by Yoga. Yoga therapy cures all diseases and controls the aging process. Its daily practice is often seen as a way of gaining control over your health. Most of the practices of yoga therapy are used as complementary practices to conventional medicine. Some of these practices are exercise, medicine. Some of these practices are exercise, practitioners of yoga therapy it is safer and more effective for the treatment of common medical conditions. It takes only individual health and physical limitations into account. The main aim of Yoga therapy is the mind/body integration, which strike into the normal healing properties of the body and helps to restore functions of your bod)’ and health. Yoga therapy consists of three basic parts of your body which work together. Physical posture It helps to stretch and strengthen your muscles. It also improves your mobility, flexibility and balance. The proper posture enhances your body’s natural functions of circulation, elimination, respiration, and digestion. Breathing technique Mainly focuses on awareness of breath and helps promote calm, focus the mind and relieve stress and fatigue. Relaxation technique It mainly helps you to recharge and ease tension. Benefits of yoga therapy Yoga therapy shows positive results in treating depression. Deep breathing associated with yoga is beneficial in controlling premature ventricular complexes. Yoga therapy is beneficial in post-treating strategy, breast cancer and other survivors . Yoga therapy shows significant benefits that includes emotional functions, fitness variations and psychological benefits. It also shows variations in tension, mood disturbances, cognitive function and gastrointestinal disturbances. Practice of regular yoga exercise increases Your body·s ability in using antioxidants. This is beneficial in the prevention of cancer . If you are a diabetic patient then yoga therapy improves nerve function and lower blood sugar. If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, the practice of yoga increases your band grip strength. Yoga helps in treating some problems like asthma,, respiration problems, back pain, etc. it help in weight reduction. Criticisms of Yoga Therapy The practice of yoga therapy is impossible if You have limited mobility and flexibility. While attempting some of the postures of Yoga without any pre-exercise preparation then there is a possibility of getting injured. b)Chiropractice In chiropractice, the relationship between the structure of the spine and function of the nervous system is thought to be the key in maintaining or restoring health. The main method for achieving balance is spinal manipulation. Chiropractic is often useful in treating low back pain, headaches, and nerve impingement syndromes. Generally, however, the effect of manipulation on conditions not directly related to the musculoskeletal system has not been established. Serious complications resulting from spinal manipulation ( eg, low back pain, damage to cervical nerves, damage to arteries in the neck) are rare. c)Tai Chi & Qigong It has recently been considered as an alternative method for lowering the blood pressure levels. This discovery has big implications for patients who are suffering from chronic hypertension. Knowing this makes it possible for such people to avoid negative effects of continuous intake of prescribed anti- hypertension drugs. Let’s take a Closer look at some issues surrounding such therapy with regard to blood pressure monitoring. The potential of Tai Chi therapy to lower the higb. Blood pressure is growing, as we are continuing live in high stress conditions. When we experience stress, our body elicits a certain response to the stressful situation. The prolonged. Periods of stress lead to chronic blood pressure fluctuations and create physical changes in your body organs. All of these in their turn intensify hypertensive conditions. When we are stressed, our pituitary gland releases a hormone called. ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) which is triggering other glands, including adrenal glands, to produce enormous amounts of adrenaline. Meditation, including Tai Chi therapy, leads to a relaxation response. This can result in loosening the walls of the arteries that carrying the blood to the brain. This way the blood supply to the brain is increasing. Apart from reducing the high blood pressure, repetitive activities (i.e., Tai Chi, Yoga., and others) can positively affect metabolic rate, heart and breathing rate, and other life supporting processes. People practicing Tai Chi have documented less frequent headaches, diarhea and are less prone to anger, anxiety, and frustration. It boosts their energy level and adds to their daily activities. 5. ENERGY THERAPIES a)Massage Therapy Body tissues are manipulated to promote wellness and reduce pain and stress. The therapeutic value of massage for many musculoskeletal symptoms and stress is widely accepted. Massage has been shown to help relieve muscle soreness, pain due to back injuries, and fibromyalgia and to help relieve anxiety in cancer patients. Massage therapy is also effective in treating low birth weight infants, preventing injury to the mother’s genitals during childbirth, relieving chronic constipation, and controlling asthma . b)Acupuncture
A. therapy within traditional Chinese medicine, is
one of the most widely accepted alternative therapies in the Western world. Specific points on the body are stimulated, usually by inserting thin needles into the skin and underlying tissues. Sometimes additional stimulation is added by using a very low voltage electrical current, by twisting the needle, or by wanning the needle. Stimulating these specific points is believed to unblock the flow of qi along energy pathways (meridians) and thus restore balance between yin and yang. The procedure is not painful but may cause a tingling sensation. A variation of acupuncture, called acupressure, uses localized massage instead of needles to stimulate acupuncture points. Acupuncturists are licensed to practice after receiving 3000 hours of training and passing a state board examination; some medical doctors, often pain specialists, perform acupuncture after about 300 hours of training. Licensure varies by state. Research has training. Licensure vanes by state. Research nas neurotransmitters ( eg, endorphins) that act as natural painkillers. Reasonable evidence supports the effectiveness of acupuncture as a pain reliever, an anti- nauseant, and an antiemetic. However, acupuncture is ineffective for smoking cessation and weight loss. Adverse effects are rare if the procedure is done correctly. Worsening of symptoms (usually temporary) and fainting are the most common. Infection is extremely rare; most practitioners use disposable needles. c)Reflexology A variant of massage therapy relies on manual pressure applied to specific areas of the foot; these areas are believed to correspond to different organs or body systems via meridians. Stimulation of these areas is believed to eliminate the blockage of energy responsible for pain or disease in the corresponding body part. d)Hand Mediated Bio-field Therapies Therapeutic touch (TI) is a mostly secular variant of faith healing, started by Dolores Krieger in the early 1970s. The IT practitioner moves his hands over the patient’s body, specifically the affected. Area, without actually touching the patient. TT adherents claim that this directs the flow of chi so that the patient can heal. The practice is based on the belief that living beings have an energy field or aura which extends beyond the surface of the body that can be manipulated by the therapist. No evidence of effectiveness has been found. 6.OTHER THERAPIES a)Traditional Chinese Medicine Traditional Chinese medicine: Originating> 2000 Years ago, traditional Chinese medicine is based on the theory that disease results from improper flow of the life force ( qi). Qi is restored bY balancing the opposing forces of yin and Yang, which manifest in the body as heat and cold, external and internal, and deficiency and excess. Various practices ( eg, acupuncture, herbal remedies, massage, meditation) are used to preserve and restore health remove reflex . b)Curanderismo It is a cultural healing tradition found in latin America and among many latinos in the United States. Although it is a traditional healing system, it utilizes western biomedical belief, treatment and practices. Three levels of care are practiced among curanderos (man) and curanderas (women) the material level, the spiritual level and the mental level. Healers have the gift for working at only one of this level. The majority of healer work at the material level and most combine spiritual healing, herbal medicine and first aid techniques. c)Aroma Therapy Aromatherapy is based on the healing power of plant oils which may be massaged into the skin inhaled or used in the bath. Anecdotally it is said to induce a feeling of well-being Aromatherapy massage relieves tension and improves circulation and can reduce anxiety in short-term settings such as intensive care. A trial of ‘melissa (lemon balm) aromatherapy shows highly significant effects in reducing agitation and increasing social interaction in dementia patients d)Spiritual Therapy Spiritual therapy is a regimen designed to heal ones spirit and psyche as well as the body. In many traditions it is believed if one’s spirit is ailing one’s whole being suffers. This is where spiritual therapy comes in. It treats the whole being, especially the spirit to promote a healthy whole person. a. Faith and prayer Faith is the confident belief or trust in the truth. Or trustworthiness of a person, idea, or thing. The word “faith” can refer to a religion itself or to religion in general. As with “trust”, faith involves a concept of future events or outcomes, and is used conversely for a belief “not resting on logical proof or material evidence. Informal usage of the word “faith” can be quite broad, and may be used in place of “trust’ or “belief.” Faith is often used in a religious context, as in theology, where it almost universally refers to a trusting belief in a transcendent real it}’, or else in a Supreme Being and/or this being’s role in the order of transcendent, spiritual things. Faith is in general the persuasion of the mind a certain statement is true. It is the belief and the assent of the mind to the truth of what is declared by another, based on his or her authority and truthfulness. The English word faith is dated from 1200-50, from the Latin fidem, or fides, meaning trust, akin to fidere, which means to trust. b. Baha’I Faith In the Baha’I Faith is ultimately the acceptance the divine authority of the Manifestations of God. In the religion’s view, faith and knowledge are both required for spiritual Faith involves more than outward obedience to this authority, but also must be based on a deep personal understanding of religious teachings. By faith is meant, first, conscious knowledge, and second, the practice of good deeds c. Prayer Prayer is the act of addressing a god or spirit for the purpose of worship or petition. Specific forms of this may include praise, requesting forms of this may include praise, requesting guidance or assistance, confessing sins, as an thoughts and emotions. The words used in prayer may take the form of intercession, a hymn, incantation, words of gratitude, or a spontaneous utterance in the person’s praying words. Praying can be done in public, as a group, or in private. Most major religions in the world involve prayer in one way or another in their rituals. Although in some cases the act of prayer is ritualized and must be followed sometimes through a strict sequence of actions, many faiths teach. That prayer can be done spontaneously bY anyone at any moment. Scientific studies regarding the use of prayer have mostly concentrated on its effect on the healing of sick or injured people. The efficacy of petition in prayer for physical healing to a deity has been evaluated in numerous studies. e)Music therapy is an interpersonal process in which a trained music therapist uses music and all of its facets physical, emotional, mental, social, aesthetic, and spiritual to help clients to improve or maintain their health. In some instances, the client’s needs are addressed directly through music; in others they are addressed through the relationships that develop between the client and therapist. Music disorders, medical problems, physical handicaps, sensory impairments, developmental disabilities, substance abuse, communication disorders, interpersonal problems, and aging. It is also used to: improve learning, build self-esteem, reduce stress, support physical exercise, and facilitate a host of other health-related activities. Music therapists are found in nearly evecy area of the helping professions. Some commonly found practices include developmental work ( communication, motor skills, etc.) with individuals With special needs, song writing and listening in reminiscence/orientation work with the elderly, processing and relaxation work, and rhythmic entrainment for physical rehabilitation in stroke victims. It is considered one of the expressive therapies. f)Humour and Laughter Laughing is found to lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, increase muscle flexion, and boost immune function by raising levels of infection-fighting Tcells, disease-fighting proteins called Gammainterferon and Bcells, which produce disease destroying antibodies. Laughter also triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and produces a general sense of well-being. Laughter is infectious. Hospitals around the country are incorporating fonnal and informal laughter therapy programs into their therapeutic regimens. In countries such as India, laughing clubs in which participants gather in early morning for the sole purpose of laughing are becoming as popular as Rotary Clubs in the United States. Benefits of laughter Laughter Activates the Immune System Laughter Decreases “Stress” Hormones Laughter brings in positive emotions that can enhance well being but cannot replace conventional treatments. Hence it is another tool available to help fight the disease. Humour Humour is the tendency of particular cognitive experiences to provoke laughter and provide amusement. Many theories exist about what humour is and what social function it serves. People of all ages and cultures respond to humour. The majority of people are able to be amused, to laugh or smile at something funny and thus they are considered to have a “sense of humour ‘’. The term derives from the humoral medicine of the ancient Greeks, which stated that a mix of fluids known as humours (Greek: -:-oiuo, chymos, literally juice or sap, metaphorically, flavour) controlled human health and emotion. A sense of humour is the ability to experience humour, although the extent to which an individual will find something humorous depends on a host of variables,including geographical location, culture, maturity, level of education, intelligence and context. For example, Young children may favour slapstick, such as Punch and Judy puppet shows or cartoons such as Tom and Jerry. Satire may rely more on understanding the target of the humour and thus tends to appeal to more mature audiences. Nonsatirical humour can be specifically termed ‘ recreational drollery·. Humor is a universal language. It’s a contagious and a natural diversion. It brings other people has no known side reactions. g)Bioelectromagnetic Therapy Bioelectromagnetic therapy (BT) is the application of electromagnetic fields to treat and prevent disease and promote health and longevity.Electromagnetism is a powerful clinical tool, simple to apply Yet complex in its biological effects. Whenever current (I) passes through a wire, it induces a magnetic field. Although the electricity itself remains confined within the wire, the magnetic field induced moves outside. What makes this treatment so remarkable is that living tissue is essentially transparent to magnetic fields. When a varying electromagnetic field is placed close to a conductive medium such as the human body, it will induce electrical currents. BT may be new to the reader, but it has been applied clinically almost from the moment we learned to send electricity over wire. It is standard practice in Eastern Europe, where it has been studied systematically for many years. Positive results are documented in a lengthy list of conditions and thousands of studies have been performed. Some of the documented effects of electromagnetic fields include accelerated healing, greater cellular energy (increased ATP), vasodilatation/increased blood flow, reduced inflammation and edema, muscle relaxation, cell membrane changes, enhanced movement of calcium, sodium and other ions, bone formation, improved oxygenation, better sleep, lysis of clots, reduction in platelet adhesion, increased fertility, enhanced cognitive ability, improved central and peripheral nerve function, reduced stress and better mood h)Photo Energy Therapy photo Energy Therapy devices emit near infrared light (NIR Therapy) typically at a wavelength Of 880 run. This wavelength is believed to stimulate the release of Nitric Oxide, an Endothelium derived relaxing factor into the bloodstream, thus vasodilating the capillaries and venuoles in the microcirculatory system. This increase in circulation has been shown effective in various clinical studies to decrease pain in diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Photo Energy Therapy devices seem to address the underlying problem of neuropathies, poor microcirculation, which leads to pain and numbness in the extremities . i)Detoxification Therapy Detoxification Therapy involves the removal of toxic substances. Our body naturally eliminates or neutralizes toxins. But due to industrial revolution the accumulation of toxins (food additives, chemicals, anesthetics and residue of pharma drugs, pesticides and heavy metals) surpasses its elimination. Detoxification Therapy Treatment There are a number of methods of detoxification. Firstly a brief physical checkup is made, X-Ray is taken; urine and blood samples are sent for analysis sometimes sweat and hair maybe analysed. Colonic irrigation, fasting, special diets, hyperthermia, other hydrotherapy treatments, lymphatic stimulation and nutritional supplements are some methods of detoxification. Nutritional Supplements – Intake of massive quantities of Vitamin C are recommended for people undergoing detoxification treatment. Vitamin A, Vitamin Band Vitamin E and minerals like Magnesium, Potassium, Selenium and Zinc are also suggested. Herbs such as cayenne, Echinacea and garlic are also included. Benefits of Detoxification Therapy Food additives, preservatives, environmental pollutants and many synthetic chemicals have bad effects and interfere with normal functioning of our bodies and cause serious damage to adrenal glands, liver, kidney and thyroid. A chemical free home and workplace and healthy diet is insufficient to fully undo the damage caused by years of toxic build up. And only detoxification programs are found beneficial in these cases. But some experts argue that many of the recommended treatments are ineffective and dangerous as well. Avoid Detoxification Therapy When; Weak or underweight, elderly, pregnant and nursing mothers; people suffering from ulcers and. Diabetes should avoid all forms of detoxification. Ulcerative colitis, crohn’s disease, any other type of bowel inflammation or haemorrhoids, diverticulitis, tumor of the large intestine or rectum. Liver or kidney problems High or low B.P., heart disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis or asthma. Lung problems or tuberculosis, heart problems, advanced cancer or diabetes. People with history of blood clots. j)Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) is a type of therapy that involves an animal with specific characteristics becoming a fundamental part of a person’s treatment.Animal assisted therapy is designed to improve the physical, social, emotional, and/or cognitive functioning of the patient, as well as provide educational and motivational effectiveness for educational ano monvanonal effectiveness for participants. Ml can be proviceo on an mruV1oua1 records and evaluate the participant’s progress. Many kinds of animals are used in therapy, including dogs, cats, elephants, birds, insects like bees, dolphins, rabbits, lizards, and other small animals. Such animals are often referred to as comfort animals. AAT with horses is known specifically as equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP),equine assisted creative living (EACL), equine-assisted personal development (EAPD) or hippotherapy. Benefits People who have pets benefit in various ways, for example, the comfort of physical contact with animals, reducing loneliness, and increased opportunities for meeting others, via the pets. In addition, caring for pets encourages nurturance, responsibility, and adherence to a daily schedule. Physical Improve fine motor skills . Improve wheelchair skills Improve standing equilibrioception (balance). May lower blood pressure, risk for stroke or heart and decrease depression. Mental Increase attention skills Develop leisure/recreation skills. Increase self-esteem. Reduce anxiety Reduce loneliness. Criticism The practice of capturing dolphins can leave more injured or even dead. k)Horticultural therapy It is the practice of horticulture as therapy to improve human well-being. According to the American Horticultural Therapy Association It is defined as ‘’a process utilizing plants and horticultural activities to improve social, educational, psychological and physical adjustment of persons thus improving their body, mind, and spirit.’’ Horticultural therapists are specially educated and trained members of rehabilitation teams ( with doctors, psychiatrists , psychologists, occupational therapists and other) who involve the client in all phases of gardening – from propagation to selling products- as a means of bringing about improvement in their life. SUMMARY Patients are most likely to seek alternative medicine for conditions such as chronic low back pain, stress, migraine headaches, meuopausal symptoms, cancer, when conventional medicine offers little hope, especially at the end of life. CONCLUSION A lot of research is being done in this field and sew drugs for treating more illness, are being explore the effect and the resistance to allopathy, drug is becoming a human concern, so people are turning to alternative approaches. So the prospects of alternative approach in the future are bright. BIBILIOGRAPHY Bibliography 1.Shebeer. P. Basheer; A concise Text Book of Advanced Nursing Practice;2nd edition; EMMESS Medical Publishers; Bangalore; Page No.72-76. 2.Piyush Gupta and O.P. Ghai; Text book of Preventive and Social Medicine; 2nd edition; Jaypee publishers; New Delhi; Page No.54-58. 3.A. H. Suryakantha; Community Medicine with Recent Advances; 3rd edition; Jaypee publishers; New Delhi; Page No. 730-735. 4.Sundarlal; Text book of Community Medicine; 2nd edition; Jaypee publishers; New Delhi; Page No.676-684. 5. www.healthknowledge.org.uk