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The Term Alternative Medicine can be
defined as “A heterogeneous set of practices that are offered as an
alternative to conventional medicine, for the preservation of health and
the diagnosis and treatment of health-related problems”In general terms,
Alternative therapy refers to all those modalities and techniques of
healthcare, which are not provided by the conventional allopathic
practitioner, and is outside the purview of western medicine.There are
more than 100 systems of Alternative Medicine, which are still in vogue
all over the world. Some of the very popular systems are Ayurveda,
Acupuncture, Naturopathy, Yoga, Acupressure, Magneto therapy,
lndo-Allopathy, Electro Homoeopathy, Bio-chemic, Bach Flower Remedies, Gem
& Teletherapy, Aroma Therapy, Reiki, Spiritual Healing, Oriental
Diagnosis & Therapy, Music Therapy etc.
In recent times, there
has been a boom in the study and practice of various systems of
Alternative Medicine. More and more people in general and patients in
particular are opting for these traditional systems of maintaining health
and curing diseases.
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One of the most important reasons for this renewed interest is the
detrimental side- effects and the spiraling cost of western medicines,
which make them out of bounds.
The Specialties/Benefits of Alternative
Medicine can be briefly outlined as under:
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This system considers the human body as a whole being, i.e. the
sum total of its physical, mental, social & spiritual dimensions.
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It has no side effects, unlike allopathic medicines and
treatment.
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Remedies are based on natural ingredients, thereby advocating a
drugless cure.
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In Alternative therapy, medicines & treatment are easily
affordable.
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Alternative Medicines are simple to prescribe and
practice
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Preventive and promotive aspects of health are accorded equal
emphasis.
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Permanent cures can be found for seemingly incurable diseases and
illnesses of chronic nature.
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