Alternative Medicine LifestyleAlternative Medicine Lifestyle

Natural Health and Wellness

Alternative Medicine

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Key Reasons Millions Of People Use Alternative Medicine

Alternative Medicine

Maybe you’re curious about alternative medicine and want to know why so many people use it. Maybe you’re skeptical about alternative medicine and are curious about why so many people put their faith in it.

According to The National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), “In the United States, approximately 38 percent of adults (about 4 in 10) and approximately 12 percent of children (about 1 in 9) are using some form of CAM.”

“Among adults aged 18 and over, increases were seen from 2012 to 2017 in the use of yoga, meditation, and chiropractors during the past year.” (https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db325-h.pdf).

According to Grandview Research, 70% of adults surveyed in 2017 in the United States believe complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) provides positive results. 78% of those responders were women, and 62% were men.

Grandview Research reports that “the global complementary and alternative medicine market size was valued at USD 52.00 billion in 2017.”

There are actually a number of reasons that millions of people use alternative medicine and the reasons can be different for everyone. Here we will discuss only a few reasons.

Availability

One reason that many people use alternative medicine is that it is widely available. For example, the use of herbs to maintain optimal health or to make home remedies, making it more accessible and affordable for a wide range of people. Mind body practices such as yoga and meditation can be easily practiced at home without the high costs often seen with traditional medicine practices.

Affordability

A related reason is that alternative medicine is usually more affordable than conventional medicine. People who may have trouble paying for medical bills may be drawn to the comparatively low cost of alternative medicine.

The cost of going to alternative medicine practitioners for services like acupuncture may be high but the cost of obtaining herbal supplements, essential oils, and other accoutrements of alternative medicine can be far more affordable than a trip to the hospital.

Natural Strategies In Healing

Prescription drug use is at an all-time high in the United States, and often patients complain that the first go to of their doctor is to write a script.

Most all of the therapies used in CAM are natural, this is far from the often chemically based interventions seen in conventional medicine. This includes but is not limited to, herbs, essential oils, diet, supplements, chiropractic treatment, mind-body practices and naturopathy.

This does not mean that CAM is a cure for any and all conditions, but it can offer a natural alternative and sometimes be a replacement of conventional medicine tools.

Improved Life Quality and Side Effects Of Treatment

Another important reason people use alternative medicine is that it can improve life quality and lessen side effects of treatment. When people endure serious illnesses or chronic conditions, inevitably their life quality suffers, and side effects of conventional medicine treatments bring undue hardship. CAM can help.

For example, Music Therapy is often used in pain management, which can be helpful for conditions such as arthritis and other chronic pain syndromes. Cancer.gov reports that acupuncture is helpful in reducing the side effects of treatment.

Trust

Millions of people all around the world genuinely trust alternative medicine as they have for the whole history of humanity. Some of the therapies used in CAM, including acupuncture, Ayurveda, Homeopathy and Herbalism have been in use for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations. Eastern culture strongly believes in their effectiveness in the modern world.

A more accurate term for “alternative medicine” might be “folk medicine.” “Folk” is usually used colloquially but it comes from the German word for “people,” so “folk medicine” means something like “the people’s medicine” or even “popular medicine.”

Another reason that might shock skeptics of alternative medicine is that some proponents of alternative medicine are skeptical of institutionalized medicine. What this really comes down to is whether we should trust man-made and manufactured solutions more than we should trust natural solutions.

Recent Studies

A final reason that an increasing number of people trust alternative medicine is that the reasons not to trust it are dissolving. A recent increase of scientific curiosity in alternative medicine has led to a number of legitimate scientific studies on its effects.

While several alternative medicinal cures and practices have been “debunked,” many, including essential oils, therapeutic touch, meditation and yoga are becoming more popular because scientific studies are adding validity to the trust that many people already placed in them.

If this article inspired you to look deeper into alternative medicine, that’s great. If it convinced you to have a little more understanding and respect to people who do use alternative medicine, that’s even better.

You don’t need to use alternative medicine yourself to understand that there are reasons that other people believe in it, that it often helps, and that it seldom hurts.

If you are interested in exploring alternative medicine, you can ease into it by talking to your primary care provider. Many conventional doctors recommend alternative therapies to their patients and can provide more information on how to get started.

You should also talk to your healthcare provider before exploring alternative medicine if you are on any medications. While very few alternative medicine practices are harmful for healthy people, some can interact with prescription medications.

A holistic medical doctor is trained in the use of both conventional and alternative medical care and is something of a one stop shop.

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DIY Products Using Fall Scents

Fall ScentsIf you are looking for more ways to use all your favorite fall essential oils, making home and beauty products is a great way to start. You can make your own blends from using cinnamon and ginger, to adding more woodsy scents like fir and eucalyptus. These products are easy to make yourself and have a lot of room for customizing them.

Pumpkin Scrub

Who doesn’t love a good body scrub? It helps to scrub away the dead skin cells and leave behind soft, smooth skin. When fall is here, you might also be a big fan of pumpkin, so combining your two favorite things should be at the top of your list. You can do that by making this pumpkin body scrub, which smells just like pumpkin pie or pumpkin spice lattes. For this scrub, you should use white table sugar, which is great for your skin. Add to the sugar some coconut oil that is melted, vanilla extract, and the same amount of pumpkin pie spice. Mix it together and use it just like any other body scrub.

Fall Candles

The next DIY product you can make that will use some fall scents is homemade candles. The great thing about candles is that you can combine any scents you want, or keep them simple with just one scent per candle. These are good for putting in your bathroom, kitchen, or living room to help with the scent, or to make and give away as gifts. They also happen to be the perfect gift to bring to Thanksgiving dinner for the host.

To make the candles, you want to use a good base, which can be beeswax or soy flakes. This is going to be melted, then added to a metal base with a wick. You will need your essential oils and herbs to add scent, such as clove, ginger, cinnamon, and vanilla. Choose any combination of fall scents that you prefer, experimenting with different combinations. There are candle-making kits you can also use to make the process easier.

Apple Bath Salts

These aren’t just apple-scented bath salts, but they smell just like freshly-baked apple pie! They are wonderful to use in your bath for a little natural exfoliation and to relax and unwind after a long day. You want to start with Epsom salt, then add in your scents. You can combine apple and cinnamon scents on your own, or just get apple pie blends that are already mixed. You will also need some powdered food coloring to make them look like apple pie if you want. Mix it all together and add to a jar for storage.

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What’s Your Ayurvedic Dosha?

Ayurveda Dosha

Are you Pitta, Vata, or Kapha? These are the three Doshas that influence your health and happiness. Even the slightest imbalance can take a toll on your body and mind.

Most people have a dominant Dosha or body type. Once you figure out yours, take the steps needed to improve your health. From what you eat to what exercises you do, everything affects your Dosha. Let’s take a quick look at the three body types and their characteristics:

Pitta

Pitta people are known for their intelligence and charisma. They’re hard-working, enthusiastic, and perfectionist. This makes them great leaders and gives them a competitive edge in business.

Their bodies are generally of medium size, strong, and well-proportioned. These individuals have a sharp mind and entrepreneurial spirit. When their Dosha is out-of-balance, they can become demanding and aggressive. Compared to the Vata type, they’re more passionate and romantic. They also have a strong appetite and get irritated when food is not readily available.

People with a Pitta body type have fine, straight hair and fair or reddish skin. They are prone to hair loss, balding, and sunburn. Common health problems include stomach acid, heartburn, skin cancer, boils, acne, poor vision, and insomnia. Those who fall into this category usually have the following characteristics:

  • Prefer cold climates
  • Become hot easily
  • Goal-oriented
  • Sleep well
  • Strong digestion
  • Radiant skin
  • Subject to anger and irritability
  • Good management and leadership
  • Excellent public speaking skills
  • Like to be in command
  • Self-confident and assertive
  • Soft nails
  • Sharp nose
  • Cravings for sweet, astringent, and bitter foods
  • Appreciate material prosperity

When the Pitta is out of balance, you may experience high blood pressure, mood swings, bleeding, and digestive problems. Skin disorders are common too.

Vata

Vata people are creative and can easily adapt to change. Their vivacious nature and good mood make them great friends. They also have high energy and are always up for adventure. However, when their Dosha is out of balance, they get tired easily and experience digestive distress.

Those with this body type are thin and have a hard time gaining weight. When sick, they’re at risk for muscle loss. Vata people need to get proper rest and avoid over-stimulation. PMS, consolation, weight loss, and poor digestion are usually attributed to Vata imbalances.

In general, Vata individuals have dry skin and prefer warm, humid climates. When their Dosha is in balance, they have a clear, alert mind, learn new things easily, and enjoy good digestion. Vata imbalances can result in fatigue, difficulty falling asleep, depression, anxiety, poor mental focus, and dehydration. Other common characteristics include:

  • Joyful, enthusiastic nature
  • High energy in short bursts
  • Variable appetite
  • Discomfort in cold climates
  • Cold limbs
  • Flat chest
  • Prominent veins and muscle tendons
  • Rough, cracked skin
  • Dark complexion
  • Brittle nails
  • Prone to anxiety
  • Tendency to spend money quickly

Adequate rest is crucial for keeping this Dosha in balance. Small, frequent meals, regular massage, and relaxation techniques, such as yoga, can help restore your Vata.

Kapha

Kapha maintains body resistance. This Dosha has a strong impact on your immune system, brain function, and energy levels.

People with this body type have a large build and gain weight easily. They dislike cold weather and tend to be possessive. Unlike other Doshas, their veins and bones are not prominent.

Kapha individuals are easy-going, forgiving, and affectionate. They move gracefully and maintain a balance in everything they do. They’re non-judgmental and have a compassionate nature. Their strong listening skills and kind personality make them excellent friends that you can rely on. Other common characteristics include:

  • Calm mood
  • Loving
  • Loyal
  • Patient
  • Dislike change
  • Avoid conflict
  • Stubborn
  • Sleep well
  • Good digestion
  • Difficulty letting go of things and relationships

When out-of-balance, Kapha people can become overweight and experience strong food cravings. They may also lose their motivation and get tired easily. Hay fever, common cold, respiratory disorders, depression, and high blood pressure are common concerns.

As you see, each Dosha has specific traits. Consider these aspects when planning your diet. For instance, if you’re the Kapha type, avoid sugar, fatty foods, and salt. Pitta people, by comparison, can enjoy sugary treats without having to worry about weight gain. Spend some time figuring out your dominant Dosha and start eating for your type for better physical and emotional health.

 

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Simple Dietary Changes to Balance Your Kapha

Are you gaining weight despite eating healthy? Feeling overwhelmed by stress and emotions? Have a hard time focusing at work? In this case, your Kapha might be out-of-balance.

An aggravated Kapha can wreak havoc on your mind and body. Your energy will drop, your cravings will increase, and the scale will go up. In the long run, you may experience respiratory disorders, heart problems, and depression.

Fortunately, it’s never too late to bring Kapha into balance. What you eat has the biggest impact on your Dosha. Kapha people respond best to warm and hot foods, well-spiced meals, and freshly cooked dishes. Their diet should consist of local and seasonal produce, white meat, and fish. At the same time, it’s recommended to avoid fried, oily, sour, and sweet foods. Alcohol, except for an occasional glass of wine, is off limits.

What to Eat to Soothe Your Kapha

Kapha individuals are prone to weight gain and have a tendency to overeat during times of stress. Their diet should include light meals and lots of fresh produce. Choose warm over cold, dry over moist, and rough over smooth. Bitter, pungent, and astringent foods should come first on your list.

This Dosha thrives on a minimalist diet with small meals. Sugary treats, snacks and alcoholic beverages should be kept to a minimum. Fasting and regular cleanses can help prevent weight gain and balance your Kapha. Let’s see what you should eat:

  • Sour fruits (apples, pomegranate, cranberries, pears, citrus fruits, berries, etc.)
  • Most vegetables (bell peppers, cruciferous veggies, spinach, kale, carrots, tunips, garlic, etc.)
  • Certain grains (quinoa, amaranth, buckwheat, rye, millet, barley)
  • Oats, brown rice, and basmati rice in moderation
  • All legumes and beans
  • Small amounts of almonds, pine nuts, and seeds
  • Dark chicken and turkey meat
  • Rabbit
  • Eggs (cooked without fat)
  • Freshwater fish in moderation
  • Unrefined olive oil flaxseed oil, and ghee in moderation
  • Most spices (cloves, black pepper, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, oregano, ginger, etc.)
  • Small amounts of raw honey and stevia
  • Small amounts of milk, hard cheese, cottage cheese, and unsalted butter
  • Fruit juices in moderation (diluted with water)
  • Herbal teas

Ideally, fast with water, soups, and herbal teas once a week. Avoid sugar and most sweeteners. Drink warm ginger tea for a better digestion. Sweet fruits, such as bananas, figs, and dates, are not recommended. Most meals should be rich in vegetables and spices.

What NOT to Eat

People with a Kapha body type should avoid most foods that are sweet and high in fat. Cold and frozen beverages are not allowed. Try to limit meat and dairy as much as possible. The same goes for grains, nuts, seeds, and root vegetables. Most fruits boast large amounts of fructose, so they should only be consumed occasionally. Avoid the following:

  • Naturally sweet fruits (raisins, mango, dates, coconut, bananas)
  • Corn, wheat, white rice, wild rice, and semolina
  • Tomatoes
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Yams
  • Squash
  • Pickles
  • Cucumbers
  • Most nuts and seeds (peanuts, Macadamia nuts, cashews, pistachios, sunflower seeds, etc.)
  • Red meat (lamb, venison, beef)
  • Shellfish
  • Saltwater fish
  • Most oils and fats (butter, soy oil, sunflower oil, almond oil, olives, tahini, mayonnaise)
  • Certain spices (vanilla, nutmeg)
  • Sugar and most sweeteners (fructose, sugar cane juice, coconut sugar, maple syrup, etc.)
  • Most dairy (yogurt, sour cream, feta cheese, buttermilk, salted butter)
  • Almond milk, hot chocolate, fruit-based smoothies, licorice root, milk chocolate

Now that you know what a Kapha-pacifying diet looks like, give it a try! A few weeks from now on, you’ll feel lighter, have greater energy, and enjoy better digestion. For inspiration, check out the delicious recipes included in our special Kapha diet plan! (insert linik)

 

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Signs and Symptoms of Unbalanced Doshas

unbalanced doshaAccording to Ayurveda, optimal health is a state of balance between the three Doshas. Each has a unique set of characteristics that must be addressed through diet and lifestyle changes. Stress, poor nutrition, heavy workloads, and other factors can affect this delicate balance. Many common health concerns are actually signs of an imbalanced Dosha.

Once you figure out your body type, watch for any warning signs. An imbalanced Vata, for instance, may cause anxiety, fear, nervous, and dry skin. You might also have trouble sleeping at night and feel worried for no reason.

Each Dosha manifest itself in a specific way when out-of-balance. Depending on your body type, you may experience the following symptoms:

Common Pitta Imbalances

Pitta is located in the small intestine. Thus, any imbalance will affect digestion and appetite. You may gain weight, eat more than usual, and experience mood swings. Your strengths, such as ambition and perseverance, can turn into weaknesses. For instance, Pitta people tend to become judgmental and harsh when their Dosha is out of balance. Other warning signs include:

  • Anger
  • Irritability
  • Depression
  • Hostility
  • Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Heartburn
  • Intense hunger and cravings
  • Bad breath
  • Peptic ulcers
  • Skin rashes, eczema, or dermatitis
  • Excessive sweating
  • Indigestion
  • Inflammation in the body and joints

In general, pitta imbalances are triggered by emotional stress, toxin buildup, poor food choices, and prolonged exposure to the sun.

Common Vata Imbalances

Vata is located in the heart, lungs, brain, and throat. Thus, most symptoms tend to affect the upper body and mental function. When this Dosha is imbalanced, you may feel anxious and insecure, have a hard time staying focused, and experience intense fear. In the long run, excessive Vata can result in sleep disorders, mental instability, and depression.

People with an imbalanced Vata may lose weight for no obvious reason, struggle with bloating, and worry excessively. Other common symptoms include:

  • Negative thoughts
  • Feeling ungrounded
  • Confusion
  • Anxiety
  • Increased sensitivity to cold
  • Dizziness
  • Loss of strength
  • Low energy
  • Fatugue snd lethargy
  • Dry skin
  • Dehydration
  • Constipation
  • Muscle atrophy
  • Joint pain
  • Tremors

There are various factors that can aggravate the Vata, such as sleep deprivation, exposure to cold, and too much traveling. Stress has the biggest impact on this Dosha. Thus, proper rest is essential. Meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and exercise can make all the difference.

Common Kapha Imbalances

Kapha resides in the upper part of the stomach as well as in the heart and lungs. When out-of-balance, it may cause respiratory tract disorders and cardiovascular problems. Brain fog, depression, asthma, hypertension, and lethargy are all warnings that it’s time to change your lifestyle habits. Excessive Kapha may also trigger:

  • Emotional eating
  • Negative emotions
  • Feeling slow and dull
  • Weight gain
  • Constipation
  • Digestive problems
  • Thick, white tongue coat
  • High cholesterol
  • Atherosclerosis
  • Nasal congestion
  • Hay fever
  • Chronic sinus infections
  • Fluid retention
  • Deep vein thrombosis

Over time, Kapha imbalances can lead to heart disease, cancer, and cystic ovaries. You may also experience daytime sleepiness, poor mental focus, and excessive thirst. Your cravings for sweet and salty foods will increase.

Bringing the three Doshas into balance requires lasting lifestyle changes. Once you make these changes, your life will improve on every level. Your energy will increase, your mind will be sharper, and you’ll reach your goals easier.