Approximately 50% of Americans report having tried some alternative medicine at some point in their life, according to Pew Research Center. The benefits of using herbal treatments, energy therapies, and other alternative healing methods are a hot debate. So while medical experts claim that more research is required to determine their effectiveness, this hasn’t discouraged people from testing them.

Alternative and natural therapies are healing techniques that differ from conventional Western medical approaches. Keep in mind, some of these healing practices are more than a thousand years older than modern-day treatments. So, are you looking for holistic treatment? Below are some alternative therapies used for natural healing.

Acupuncture

This traditional Chinese healing practice is one of the most popular alternative therapies around the world. It entails the use of sharp needles to stimulate specific parts of the body. Typically, an acupuncturist or practitioner sticks thin needles into your skin, with the ultimate goal being to boost your body’s natural healing process. There are several benefits tied to acupuncture treatment, including reduced anxiety, infertility, chronic pain, insomnia, and depression.

Crystal Healing

While crystal therapy is popular, many people are unaware of the meaning and use of healing gemstones. Ideally, crystal healing encompasses the use of gems to treat various ailments holistically. Since precious stones have stable and unchanging energy, they have the potential to bring balance in your life and mind. Crystals have been used for centuries as jewelry and talisman. Amethyst and Moonstone bracelets or any other jewelry have a calming effect on the wearer and are helpful in times of stress. They also believed in promoting sleep, helping with anxiety, and boosting self-esteem.

The overall benefits of healing crystals revolve around mental well-being, such as increased tranquility, focus, pain relief, and improved immunity. But each gemstone has a unique healing quality. For example, snowflake obsidian is known as the detox stone that people use to cure ailments affecting the skeletal and vascular system. Jade helps to boost mood, while amethyst enhances blood circulation and heals headaches.

Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurveda, or Ayurvedic medicine, is the oldest natural healing practice that originated from India. It encompasses various techniques like massage, special diet, herbs, yoga, and meditation. All these practices aim to balance the mind, body, and spirit to boost overall wellness.

Some positive results linked to Ayurveda practices include swishing coconut oil in your mouth to get rid of bacteria and taking turmeric to reduce inflammation. Yoga and meditation are also proving useful in reducing anxiety and depression.

Alternative medicine is a diverse field. Besides crystal healing, Ayurvedic, and acupuncture, you can also try Reiki, acupressure, aromatherapy, and balneotherapy. And while each technique has unique benefits, they all aim to bring balance to an individual’s mind, body and spirit to enhance overall health.