Parkinson's disease is a nervous system disorder characterized by the destruction of brain cells that produce the neurotransmitter dopamine. The resulting loss of motor function can have debilitating effects, including muscle a...
An allergy is the immune system’s unusual reaction to substances often regarded as harmless. One of several types of allergies is a skin allergy. When human skin becomes inflamed after encountering a material's surface, t...
The pain, tingling and numbness associated with carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when this passageway narrows, thus compressing the nerves in the area. Activities such as racquet sports and performing office work with nonergonomic...
Treatment techniques are based on your need, the severity and the frequency of your headaches. Before self-treating chronic headaches with alternative forms of medicine or Ayurveda, consult with your doctor. Many traditional do...
Dialysis is a treatment required when the kidneys can no longer take care of the body's needs. Dialysis is necessary when end-stage kidney failure develops, usually when 85 to 90 percent of kidney function is lost, states the N...
Ephedra is an herb that has been traditionally used in Asian folk medicine as a treatment for a variety of respiratory problems. Ephedra became popular in Western countries as a dietary supplement that retailers purported could...
Liquid hawthorn is a solution prepared from dried hawthorn berries and is used by naturopaths and alternative medicine practitioners as a natural treatment for cardiovascular problems. Hawthorne is more often sold in tablet for...
Most alternative practitioners are unfamiliar with kidney disease. This is not surprising, because most medical doctors who have not specialized in nephrology or urology also tend to be unfamiliar with the current research on I...
Buerger's disease, states the National Center for Biotechnology Information, is a rare blood vessel disorder that commonly targets your hands and feet, causing arteries in these body parts to become blocked. Alternative herbal ...
Insulin is the hormone responsible for regulating blood glucose levels. Diabetes is characterized by uncontrolled, elevated blood glucose levels, which if left untreated, can lead to serious complications. Diabetes is usually t...
Herbs have been used for centuries in the treatment of health conditions. More women are interested in using them to treat infertility, defined as the inability to conceive within a year of unprotected intercourse. One herb tha...
While western medicine includes numerous treatments, therapies and medications that are validated by scientific bases, no scientific studies exist to support the alleged benefits of alternative types of health care following ea...
The virus transmits via contact with infected blood, but sexual transmission is rare, according to the "American Journal of Gastroenterology." The side effects of available drugs to treat hepatitis C can be severe, but as of 20...
Seasickness is a problem that many people experience when sailing or just taking a ferry ride in inclement weather. Although drugs and other remedies are available for seasickness, you may prefer to try a remedy that does not ...
A bunion may swell and cause excessive pain and tenderness over this joint, particularly when wearing tight-fitting shoes. Most bunions can be treated without surgical intervention, though patients should consult a medical prof...
The tumors are generally treated by surgery or hormonal therapy, but some alternative methods have been shown to be effective for women suffering uterine fibroids.
Consult with your health care provider before trying any alt...
According to MayoClinic.com, three out of four women develop uterine fibroids during their lifetime. Fibroids rarely require treatment, as they are generally benign and not dangerous, but they may cause discomfort, pregnancy co...
Hirsutism can be a distressing condition and may have a negative impact on a woman's self-esteem. Traditional treatments include electrolysis, drug therapy and laser treatment. According to the University of Maryland Medical Ce...
Samuel Hahnemann, is based on the principle of "like equals like." In an attempt to treat symptoms and stimulate the body's healing response, tiny amounts of plant, animal or mineral substances are given that--in larger amount...
In fact, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports that a third of the American population uses herbs, as of 2009. Herbal medicine was practiced by the ancient Chinese and the ancient Egyptians. Although manufactured dr...
It can cause irregular menstrual cycles, skin issues, ovarian cysts and possibly infertility. Symptoms of PCOS include abnormal periods, unexplained weight gain and increased hair growth on the face, abdomen and chest. A diag...
In hyperhidrosis, sweat glands excrete more perspiration than necessary to cool down the body. Most commonly, hyperhidrosis occurs on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet and underarms. Complementary and alternative therap...
Both basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancers are widely attributed to over-exposure to the sun. Skin cancer is highly treatable if caught early, notes the American Cancer Society. Skin cancer is usually treated with radiati...
The claimed benefit is theoretical and based on anecdotal evidence. There is insufficient scientific evidence at this time to support its use in the treatment of tinnitus or Meniere's disease.
Excess mucus production can last for a few days, or it can last for years. Conventional doctors usually prescribe decongestants or antibiotics for thick, colored mucus, and patients should ask their doctors whether a variety of...
Doctors prescribe tamoxifen to treat breast malignancies because cancer cells need estrogen to develop. Athletes take Nolvadex to prevent the unwanted appearance of breast tissue caused by using steroids. While typically effect...
Seborrheic dermatitis generally presents as an accumulation of dandruff and yellow crusting in the areas of the scalp, ears, face and in some conditions, the trunk. Seborrheic dermatitis appears to be caused by a disruption in ...
Treatments are based on the severity of the condition and how many joints are affected. People with mild psoriatic arthritis may find relief with alternative medicine treatments, while those whose condition involves three or mo...
Symptoms may include fever, diarrhea, abdominal cramps and bloody stools. Conventional medications attempt to reduce inflammation, control diarrhea and fight infection, but they do not always work and may have unpleasant side e...
Atropic vaginitis is a condition of inflammation that occurs along the skin and mucosal layer of the vagina and vulva. The inflammation develops most commonly in women going through menopause. The diminishing estrogen levels of...
Symptoms can include abdominal pain, fever, constipation or diarrhea. Conventional treatment may include antibiotics and, in severe or recurring cases, surgery. Herbs with anti-inflammatory and demulcent actions may be an alter...
Controversy surrounding the popular over-the-counter medication Sudafed, or pseudoehpedrine, led it to be reclassified and removed from drug store shelves and placed behind the pharmacy counter in September, 2006, according to ...
Approximately 20 percent of Americans between the ages of 25 and 45 experience symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome, according to the book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Alternative therapies may reduce th...
According to the SpineUniverse website, the conventional Western approach to degenerative disc disease treatment involves medication, physical therapy and surgery. CAM approaches to degenerative disc disease are safe, noninvasi...
Conventional treatment may involve nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin, and antibiotics, but these drugs may have unpleasant side effects. Herbs may be an effective alternative medicine for treati...
Some alternative medical practitioners believe that eating the right foods can augment conventional medical treatment in addressing the symptoms and causes of disease. Foods have been used for their healing properties for thous...
Whether you have general fatigue or have been diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome, you might try some alternative treatments to reduce your symptoms. Alternative treatments for fatigue range from taking supplements or herbs...
Mayo Clinic.com advises seeing your doctor for trigger thumb; if the joint is hot and inflamed, seek medical care immediately. Many people turn to alternative treatments for relief from trigger thumb. Before starting any altern...
They can be caused by viral infections, nerve compression or injury, and neuropathy is also one of the major complications of diabetes. Conventional treatment may include antidepressants, anti-seizure medications and pain relie...
The results of the Women’s Health Initiative study and the Heart and Estrogen/progestin Replacement Study--which showed increased risk for heart attack, cancer and blood clots with HRT--triggered research in alternative r...
Conventional treatment may involve pain medication and antibiotics, or surgery to remove the gallbladder might be necessary. Alternative herbal medicines for acute cholecystitis are called cholagogues; they promote bile flow, r...
Herbs have a long history in treating gum and mouth inflammation and can be a useful alternative treatment for periodontal disease. It is important to consult a professional before beginning herbal therapy and to be aware of po...
Common GI problems include irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers, constipation and ulcerative colitis. Alternative medicines may be helpful for GI problems; specifics, however, should be discussed with a qualified professional, part...
Candida is the fungus or yeast that causes thrush and diaper rashes in babies; vaginal yeast infections in women; and often persistent intestinal gas, bloating, fatigue and weight gain. Candida albicans, according to "The Candi...
Bipolar I disorder is characterized by episodes of mania and major depression. The alternative treatments for bipolar I disorder may be no different than treatments used for other forms of bipolar disorder; it may be the specif...
Tinnitus affects 10 to 15 percent of the U.S. population, according to a 2009 Mayo Clinic article. This article echoes the most common noise descriptions as ringing, whining, whistling, hissing or whooshing. No cure for tinnitu...
Alternative treatments using herbs and vitamins provide some of the same relief as prescribed medications; however, no definitive studies prove these results conclusively. Consult with a physician or certified holistic doctor f...
Dandruff usually can be treated with over-the-counter medications. Some people may need to rotate dandruff treatments to prevent worsening or recurrence of their dandruff symptoms.
A heated cup made of class, bamboo, pottery or plastic is placed upside down on the affected body area and acupressure or acupuncture points for optimal healing benefits. Understanding some basic Chinese cupping methods may off...
Relaxation therapy encompasses several different methods, all aimed at reducing stress, allostatic load--the physical impacts of stress--tensions and the employment of imagery. Relaxation therapists, according to website Integr...
It blooms pale yellow feathers and cone-shaped leaves, according to Drugs.com. While the bark is the primary source of its uses as an herbal remedy, the walnut-sized, hairy fruit is also sometimes used in various treatments. It...
NSAIDs are known to cause gastrointestinal bleeding. Pain medications that contain narcotics, like hydrocodone or oxycodone, can be addictive. People seek pain treatments that are effective and with minimal side effects. Altern...
Diabetes refers to a disorder in the way the body metabolizes blood glucose, also called blood sugar. People with diabetes have too much glucose in their blood and this can lead to serious health problems, including heart disea...
TMJ is generally caused by degeneration or damage to the joint or cartilage. TMJ is not considered fatal and responds well to self-care. For those who prefer a more natural form of treatment, there are a number of alternative m...
Hammertoe, claw toe and mallet toe are all types of malformed toes. Typically it is the second toe, next to the largest toe, that is curled under. This is sometimes a result of the toe being too long or secondary to a bunion, a...
Migraine headaches, the most severe type, cause intense pain and sensitivity to light and noise. Cluster headaches usually occur on one side of the head behind the eye. Over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription medicatio...
When looking at alternative health spas as a viable treatment option for a specific condition, it is important to consult your doctor for recommended holistic options. According to the Mayo Clinic, alternative medicine and conv...
Acne is an inflammatory skin condition caused by the buildup and combination of dead skin cells and sebum, a body oil that lubricates hair and skin. Acne is often treated with over-the-counter and prescription topical and oral ...
With more medical professionals beginning to suggest the use of alternative therapies in combination with conventional medical treatments, many more studies are underway to examine both the usefulness and safety of these nonsta...
Alternative medicine is defined by the Mayo Clinic as wellness therapies that are not considered part of conventional Western medicine. Some of the alternative treatment methods they list include acupuncture, herbs and dietary ...
Understanding the field of alternative medicine can be difficult, but becoming familiar with its components will help. The National Institute of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) consid...
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, alternative medicine is a collection of treatments that are practiced separately from conventional medicine.
Outbreaks are often triggered by stress, fatigue, hormone changes, food allergies and other infections. The frequency of these outbreaks, as well as the symptoms of the outbreak, can sometimes be lessened by alternative therapies.
There has been much controversy over how effective many natural therapies are for hypertension; however, the Seventh Report (2003) of the Joint National Committee on the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation and Treatment of High B...
Everyone feels anxiety from time to time, but if you find that you are anxious most of the time, and your anxiety is interfering with work and relationships, then you may seek help in the form of life changes, therapy or medica...
Doctors prescribe analgesics, antidepressants or anticonvulsants, but these drugs may have unpleasant side effects. Herbal medicines offer an effective alternative for fibromyalgia sufferers.
It is caused when the contents of the stomach passively reflux up into the esophagus (the hollow tube that begins just past the back of the throat and extends down to the top of the stomach).
Common symptoms of GERD include h...
These procedures should only be done by a licensed, practitioner. Chiropractics is an example. Natural healing always includes treatment of the mental well being of a person. Therefore, stress relief techniques are part of the ...
Because aspirin can have serious side effects, including stomach irritation and bleeding, herbs that contain anti-inflammatory chemicals and do not upset your stomach are a useful alternative.
Traditional medications for anxiety include antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, but both the Mayo Clinic and the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicines" suggest some safe alternates to reduce anxiety.
It is treated through psychotherapy and medications. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a variety of alternative, or complementary, medicine treatments are available that may help treat the disorder.
In the Hindu tradition, "prana" is the word given to a life-sustaining force that pervades all living beings and the universe at large. It is similar to the traditional Chinese medicine idea of qi. Focusing your prana is an imp...
Often crafted into pendants or necklaces, amber is a soft material that is slightly warm to the touch. Amber is good for grounding the emotions and promoting healing through drawing out negative energy, according to some New Ag...
Yeast infections can occur in different parts of the body such as in the vagina, mouth, esophagus, skin and even in the blood-stream, which can be life-threatening. Antifungal medications normally eliminate yeast infections, bu...
Medicines traditionally given for bipolar disorder can have side effects that are difficult to deal with, leaving patients looking for less harmful treatments. Alternative medicine treatment can be a safe supplement to drugs, b...
Normally, treatment consists of anti-thyroid medications to decrease thyroxine production and radioactive iodine treatment to kill thyroid cells. Lately, patients are seeking alternative treatments for Grave's disease.
According to the Mayo Clinic, most doctors recommend some sort of medical procedure, such as surgical removal, cryotherapy or laser therapy, to treat this condition. However, there is an alternative form of treatment that may p...
Young athletic women often have low body fat and low weight, which increase the risk of osteopenia. They may also be more likely to suffer from asthma and receive treatment with corticosteroids, which also increase the likeliho...
The brain, heart and lungs may not be receiving the amount of blood required. A person with PAD has an increased risk of heart disease, stroke or other complications. Besides lifestyle changes and medical procedures, several al...
It can often be corrected through a variety of methods. While there is no specific medication available to treat the condition, various exercises, natural and alternative treatments and approaches to the condition may alleviate...
This can result in a multitude of symptoms--including heart palpitations, fatigue, weight gain and breathlessness. To treat hypothyroidism naturally, you can try a few alternative treatments for an underactive thyroid.
For the nearly 4.5 million Americans and their families struggling with Alzheimer's disease, alternative treatments may present the only promise for impeding the progress of their illness. More and more alternative--and home--r...
Most people know cystitis by the more familiar UTI, or urinary tract infection. Cystitis is caused by bacteria in the urinary tract and bladder. The infection can be contracted during sexual relations, from improper wiping afte...
Both urethra and bladder infections are common and may be activated by anything from sexual intercourse to improperly wiping after a bowel movement. If the UTI is discovered early enough, it can be treated with a variety of nat...
Hemorrhoids are inflamed veins in the anus and lower rectum. The veins become inflamed as a result of excess pressure which may result from straining to defecate or excess body weight. The most common symptoms are itching, ble...
But Prozac and other SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) such as Paxil and Zoloft can have adverse side effects like insomnia, restlessness, weight gain, headaches, anxiety and loss of sex drive. And for some people...
Conventional treatments for sciatica involve drugs, injections and possibly even surgery, but there are also alternative measures you can take.
Osteoporosis is a serious health condition that leads to bone fractures, particularly in the wrist, spine and hip. Alternative medicine may be used alone to help maintain bone mass or as a complementary therapy with traditional...
Osteoporosis is a long-term condition, so anyone that begins taking medication for it will find themselves on prescription medications for a long time. This is one of the reasons that many people look to alternative medicines a...
Often, medications prescribed for acid reflux are not safe for long-term use, and may only relieve the symptoms, as opposed to curing the problem of excess acid production. Sometimes lifestyle changes, such as avoid trigger f...
There are three kinds of alopecia areta---alopecia areta universalis, the total loss of hair on the entire body; alopecia areta totalis, the complete loss of hair on the scalp; and alopecia areta, which is hair loss on the body...
You can use alternative medicine as a stand-alone treatment for a variety of diseases and conditions. Some individuals use alternative medicine after trying conventional treatments and being turned off by the side effects. One...
CAM, complementary and alternative medicine, refers to medical systems and practices currently not considered a part of conventional medicine. CAM treatments are split into five main categories, which include biologically base...
