History of Alternative Medicine

One of the oldest of medication that has been prevalent in the ancient world for thousands of years is "Alternative Medicine". The concepts of alternative medicines were mentioned in the ancient scriptures of India, China, Egypt and almost all ancient civilizations of the world. Historical evidences tell though the names of the various alternative medicines differed, the procedure of making and mixing them was one and the same. The concept of alternative medicines and medications prevailed in both the eastern and western part of globe. Today, alternative medicine is still practiced in countries such as India and China.

History of Alternative Medicine - East

The culture and traditions of Asian countries are known as eastern culture. Alternative medicines prevailed in Asian countries such as China and India for almost 6,000 years.

In India, the alternative medicines were known as Vedic medicines or Ayurveda. Ayurveda has been practiced for thousands and thousands of years and is still in practice. The aim of Ayurveda medicine is balancing the harmony of mind, soul and body.

Ayurveda is an alternative medicine made from herbs, certain vegetables, fruits and natural minerals. There are historical evidences that surgeries were also performed as part of ayurvedic treatment in olden days. Ayurveda prescribes alternative medicines for curing common cold, stroke and paralysis and certain mental diseases.

In China, alternative medicine was practiced for centuries and its concept is based on Taoist philosophy. The practice of alternative medicine in China that also spread to Japan and Korea is known as Oriental branch of alternative medicine. The two schools that contributed to the practice of alternative medicine and therapies are "Jinfang" and "Wenbing". You must be aware of the term "acupuncture". This originated in China and is used to treat various orthopedic and neurological ailments and is popular even today. Chinese treated the human mind and the body and not the disease. They believed a strong human body could never fall sick.

History of Alternative Medicine - West

Alternative medicine in the west is divided into European alternative medicinal practice and American therapy. In Europe, both professional physicians and peasant folks practiced alternative medicines. The alternative medicine was practiced in Europe as herbalism, hydrotherapy using water and naturopathy. These alternative medicines have been practiced for almost 2,000 years.

The concept of naturopathy evolved in Europe and is popular even today. This alternative medicine gives importance to good nutritional supplements along with ample sleep and rest. They also included herbal medicines as a part of the treatment for various diseases.

A German doctor Samuel Hahnemann introduced homeopathy in the 19th century. This alternative medicine is effective in treating various ailments and disorders including mental illness.

Alternative medicine therapies were practiced in American continent also. A health movement known as "herbalism" prevailed in this continent around 500 years ago. Various herbs and plant extracts were used to make potions and concoctions to cure various ailments.

Researches and studies reveal alternative medicines have no side effects like the Allopathic medicines and therapies. Alternative medicines and therapies are gaining importance today.