Alternative Medicine

Research Paper # 16083

Medical and Health > Medical Studies

An in depth paper which examines the definition and types of alternative medicine

5,947 words () | 20 sources | APA | 2000 United States

Paper Summary:

The term alternative medicine covers a broad range of healing philosophies, approaches and therapies. It generally describes those treatments and health care practices that are outside mainstream Western health care. This paper examines the history of alternative medicine, its risks and values. The paper discusses the different streams which make up alternative medicine such as acupuncture, mind-body healing, yoga and chiropractic therapy. Also discussed is craniosacral therapy, massage therapy, herbal medicine and aromatherapy.

From the Paper:

"Alternative health care is not easily defined. Often it is explained by describing what it is not. Alternative health care is not the scientific practice of nursing, or medicine as it has come to be understood in first world countries during this century. Throughout recorded history, people of various cultures have relied on what Western medical practitioners today call alternative medicine. The term alternative medicine covers a broad range of healing philosophies, approaches, and therapies. It generally describes those treatments and health care practices that are outside mainstream Western health care."