Increasingly more people are turning to alternative medicine to solve their health problems and prevent disease. Complementary medicine has never been more popular. From acupuncture and massage to homeopathy, reiki and alcohol rehabilitation, there are dozens of treatments available. Some are expensive and take a lot of time, while others provide immediate relief. Here are six alternative medical treatments that every family should aware of:


 


Acupuncture


Acupuncture has been used since ancient times for its healing effects. This therapy can cause multiple biological responses and treat chronic diseases. It has been shown to be effective for treating nausea, back pain, fibromyalgia, poor appetite, insomnia, obesity, anxiety and addictions. Most health insurance plans cover acupuncture.


 


Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation


Does anyone in your family smoke or drink? They might want to consider drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Many rehabilitation centers offer alternative cures targeting the mental, physical and social aspects of recovery. Alternative medicine practitioners claim that a holistic approach is more effective on long term than conventional treatments. Patients are encouraged to reach out to those that care about them and find the support that they need.


 


Massage Therapy


Message therapy is being used worldwide for pain relief, sports injuries, stress, depression and anxiety. This form of treatment is widely available and can be administrated at home. Several studies have found that massage therapy not only relaxes the mind and body, but also eases pain and improves health.


 


Yoga


From children and teens to pregnant women and seniors, anyone can benefit from yoga. This alternative therapy relaxes your body, strengthens your muscles and improves your balance. Many pregnant women practice yoga to prepare themselves for childbirth and ease labor pain. If you’re expecting a baby, yoga is an excellent choice. It’s also a great way to reduce stress and prevent cravings for alcohol or nicotine.


 


Chiropractic


Chiropractic is one of the most popular alternative medical treatments. It’s a preferred choice for those who are dealing with back and neck pain, headaches and injuries. This therapy is based on spinal manipulation. It relieves pain, increases flexibility and improves your posture.


 


Herbs and Nutritional Supplements


Most families have at least three or four herbal supplements at home. These products are based on plants and herbal extracts containing active ingredients, aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, echinacea, ginseng, senna, noni, wild yam and cat’s claw are very popular. Unlike conventional drugs, herbal supplements are made with natural ingredients and have fewer side effects.


 


Alternative therapies can be used along with conventional treatments. Many people find that certain therapies, such as meditation or hypnosis, improve the quality of their lives. Whether you want to quit smoking, lose weight or boost your immune system, alternative medicine can help you reach your goals.