In today’s era, where we are becoming highly health-conscious, we try to go beyond standard care to achieve a healthy life. We are exploring alternative techniques and products that are not yet approved by standard medical practice, but they may still be beneficial for us. These practices are nothing but complementary and alternative medicine.
Understanding the meaning of both words will give you a clearer idea. Complementary medicine is that which is taken along with the standard care. If you are taking a doctor-prescribed painkiller and also taking an acupuncture therapy session for relief, then it is known as complementary medicine.
As the name suggests, in alternative medicine, you prefer non-standard medication in place of standard medication. If you are choosing a high-dose vitamin regimen for cancer instead of going for chemotherapy or surgery, then it is an alternative medicine practice.
Examples of Common CAM Practices
- Mind and body practices
- Natural products
Benefits of CAM
- Holistic approach to health
One of the main things about this type of medication is that it follows the holistic approach. It does not just treat the diseases but treats the whole person. They focus on mind, body and spirit as these are in balance, the person can live a healthier life.
- Provides you with relief and stress management
There are many therapies, like acupuncture, which can help you in pain management if you are suffering from chronic conditions. These types of relief and pain management are still difficult to get from standard medication.
The impact of these practices not only heals the injuries but also helps you in stress management. Yoga, meditation, these are the effective practices that can help you if you are suffering from anxiety, depression or a sleeping problem.
- Integration with conventional medicine
When it is used as a complementary, it can help the patients to handle the effects of conventional medicine. We know how painful chemotherapy can be, but when you take the help of complementary therapies along with it, you can feel more at ease and less in pain.
Risk and Considerations
- Importance of consulting healthcare professions
These practices can be useful, but never try them without consulting your healthcare professionals. If the right thing is taken the wrong way, then it might cause a health risk for you. Your doctor has the right to know all about your medication history. Do not hide from them, as it will affect their decision and what medicine they prescribe to you.
- Potential interaction with prescription medications
Not all types of herbs or natural products are suitable for you if you are taking prescribed medicines. Some might increase the power of the drugs, and some might decrease it. Both conditions are concerning for you, and to avoid this, consulting with a professional is important.
- Proven and experimental treatments
Some of the practices, like acupuncture therapy, are scientifically proven and can provide you with guaranteed results. But some therapies promise miracles without having any scientific base or research.
How To Choose CAM Safely
As this is not a standard medication, do not rely on a random person for medication therapies. Take your time and search for a reliable person who has experience in this field and has a proper licence to carry on these types of practices.
Before trying new therapies, check their basis and whether they are proven or not. Prefer consulting with your doctor and CAM professionals for their insight and suggestions. Once they both agree, you can start with your routine.
Conclusion
CAM is a complement to your conventional medicine. It does not try to replace it, but it can provide you with more relief and pain management when you are taking a heavy dose of standard medications. It brings balance in your body, mind and spirit to live a healthier life. You can enjoy the benefits, but before that, do not forget to consult with your professional doctors for better decisions.
Erika Rhein, the contributing author and the professional blogger by profession. With years of experience, I now focus on writing blogs on varied niches. Being a research enthusiast, I like to provide my readers with the useful and informative articles on the different topics they are looking for. I aim to create a difference through my writing.
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