Alternative medical systems include therapies, such as acupuncture , Ayurvedic medicine, homeopathy, and naturopathy, which are based on specific theories of health and disease. Lifestyle and disease prevention is concerned with maintaining health, identifying and treating risk factors, and supporting the recovery process. It includes making changes in diet and behavior as well as exercise and stress management. This group also includes drugs and vaccines not yet accepted or tested by mainstream medicine, like bee pollen and hyperbaric oxygen, as well as procedures like iridology. Biofield medicine , which includes therapeutic touch and reiki , uses subtle energy fields in and around the body for healing purposes.
Bioelectromagnetic applications use the body's response to electromagnetic fields to heal the body.
The uses of complementary and alternative therapies Some authors have listed over 50 common illnesses that may be helped by various natural therapies. The table lists five of these along with conventional and alternative approaches. Before attempting any therapy, be sure to obtain an accurate diagnosis of the condition by a qualified physician. Avoid things you're allergic to, e.g. foods, plants, dust, molds, and animals. Use air conditioners and dehumidifiers.