Holistic or alternative medicine is a broad term that covers many different types of practices and therapies that aim to improve health and well-being by considering the whole person, not just the physical symptoms or diseases. Holistic or alternative medicine may include the following categories:
Whole medical systems: These are complete systems that have their own philosophy, theory, diagnosis, and treatment methods. They are often based on ancient or traditional practices from different cultures. Some examples are acupuncture, Ayurveda, homeopathy, naturopathy, and traditional Chinese medicine.
Mind-body techniques: These are techniques that use the power of the mind to influence the body and promote healing. They often involve relaxation, meditation, hypnosis, biofeedback, guided imagery, and other methods that can reduce stress, pain, anxiety, and depression and enhance coping skills, mood, and quality of life.
Biologically based practices: These are practices that use natural substances, such as herbs, vitamins, minerals, dietary supplements, and foods, to affect health and prevent or treat diseases. They may also include special diets, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or ketogenic diets, that claim to have health benefits or cure certain conditions.
Manipulative and body-based practices: These are practices that involve physical manipulation or movement of the body, such as massage, chiropractic, osteopathy, cupping, reflexology, and yoga. They may help to relieve pain, tension, and inflammation and improve blood circulation, flexibility, and posture.
Energy therapies: These are therapies that use energy fields, such as electromagnetic, magnetic, or biofield energy, to heal or balance the body. They may include practices such as reiki, qigong, tai chi, and crystal healing that claim to manipulate or enhance the flow of energy in and around the body.
These are some of the most common and popular types of holistic or alternative medicine, but there are many more that are not listed here. Some of them may have scientific evidence to support their effectiveness and safety, while others may not. Some of them may be compatible and complementary with conventional medicine, while others may be contradictory or harmful. Therefore, it is important to consult with your doctor before using any holistic or alternative medicine and to inform them of any therapies or products you are using or considering. Holistic or alternative medicine should not replace or delay medical diagnosis or treatment, but rather supplement and support it.