In today’s episode, we are going to unravel the mystery of complementary medicine. It can be tricky to know which treatments are safe and what the best course of action for our health is. I will walk you through the things you need to think about before experimenting with different treatment options. Unlike alternative medicine, which is used as a substitute for conventional medicine, complementary medicine is used in addition to conventional treatment. Used with treatments prescribed by your physician, complementary medicine can help relieve some physical and mental symptoms associated with illness. However, complementary treatments are often poorly regulated and not backed up by science. They can also be harmful! Just because a medicine is natural does not mean that it is safe for you to consume. Always consult with your doctor before beginning any additional treatments and do thorough research about a practice or product to avoid being the victim of a fraudulent claim. This episode will help clear up some of the uncertainty surrounding complementary treatments and will help you learn how to make informed, healthy decisions. 

Key Points From This Episode:

• Kristina talks about the experience that made her aware of the importance of outlook.
• The need for a nuanced approach when it comes to alternative and traditional medicine.
• An explanation of complementary medicine and the definition according to the WHO.
• Learn why alternative medicine should be approached with the utmost caution.
• How integrative medicine differs from both alternative and traditional approaches.
• The five broad categories of complementary medicine according to MedicineNet.
• Where complementary medicine is being used and how it is increasingly incorporated.
• The importance of consulting your doctor before introducing complementary alternatives.
• Examples to prove that just because something is natural does not mean that it is safe!
• The risks involved in using complementary medicine without first consulting your physician.
• The benefits and limitations of practices such as meditation, yoga, acupuncture, Ayurveda, hypnosis, and more.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Kristina Hunter Flourishing

Complementary Medicine Definition (WHO) 

The Dangers of Alternative Medicine (American Cancer Society)

Integrative Medicine (US National Cancer Institute) 

WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (MedicineNet)

Complementary Medicine (Breastcancer.org)

Antioxidants and Chemotherapy (American Cancer Society)

Aromatherapy (Mayo Clinic) 

Placebo Effect (ScienceDaily) 

The Unexpected Gift Box