Alternative Medicine Acupuncture Herbal Remedies

Alternative Medicine: Acupuncture, Herbal Remedies and Combining the Two

In alternative medicine, acupuncture, herbal remedies and the combination of the two are widely used and have been since ancient times. Acupuncture is form of ancient Chinese medicine that has been practiced since the B.C. times. From the 19th century to today, acupuncture has spread to the Western nations of Canada and the United States. This therapy has reached widespread popularity and is used all over the world. The practice of using herbal remedies to treat a variety of ailments is one that is as old as time, in all parts of the world. It's only natural that healers, both then and now, would seek to combine herbal remedies with acupuncture for the most effective therapy possible.

Acupuncture is used to treat a wide variety of complaints. For example, it can be used for chronic pain such as in the back and neck. Or, it can be used to stimulate the metabolism and encourage weight loss. Another common use is that of bodily detoxification. Many people swear by acupuncture for the breaking of addictions such as smoking. The average session will take about an hour, with the needles being left in between 30 and 45 minutes per session. Because the needles are so thin, they do not usually hurt when inserted. The insertion of these needles along strategic points works to stimulate various functions. Therapies similar to this include reflexology and acupressure, which uses the same points but does not use needles to stimulate them.

Herbal medicine is even more widely used than acupuncture, and has been all over the world since ancient times. There are a staggering number of uses for countless herbs, plants and flowers. For example, ginseng is commonly used to promote energy and vitality. Gingko biloba is thought to improve memory function and eyesight. Chamomile is said to soothe the nerves and the stomach. Garlic is an antiseptic herb that is thought to be excellent for purification as well as beneficial for the heart. Rather than perform your own herbal healing, however, it is crucial that you seek advice from your physician or a licensed herbologist. Many herbs can interact with prescription and OTC drugs and are not safe for everyone.

In the practice of alternative medicine, acupuncture, herbal remedies and the combination of the two is just the tip of the iceberg. Many practitioners use Western medicine in conjunction with these therapies. You may also find those that integrate aromatherapy and massage into treatments as well. The wise combination of such remedies and practices by a qualified professional can offer maximum benefit for the body, mind and spirit for many patients.

Cleanse Your Body

Acupuncture News:

Acupuncture May Be Effective for Migraines
Title: Acupuncture May Be Effective for Migraines Category: Health News Created: 1/13/2012 11:01:00 AM Last Editorial Review: 1/13/2012..

Acupuncture may boost fertility treatments - Private MD

Private MD

Acupuncture may boost fertility treatments
Private MD
Women who have learned through FSH testing that they have low levels of fertility and are undergoing treatments for the condition may benefit from seeking acupuncture. New research shows that this therapy may improve the outcome of in vitro .

Technorati Tags: Acupuncture, Alternative Medicine Acupuncture Herbal Remedies