Iridology to nutritional therapy: A-Z of complementary medicine
Discover the benefits of complementary medicine with our indispensable A-Z
Iridology
Modern iridology was conceived by a Hungarian doctor in the 19th century, but a map of the iris, showing which parts correspond to which bodily organs, was devised in the 1950s by a US doctor. Iridologists study the markings on a person's iris to assess their health and pinpoint possible weaknesses. To find an iridologist, visit the website of The Guild of Naturopathic Iridologists International on www.gni-international.org or call 020 7821 0255.
Kinesiology
Developed by a US chiropractor in the late 1960s, and based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, kinesiology works on the theory that any imbalance in the body can be detected in muscle weaknesses. A practitioner will test muscle strength to identify health complaints, while small glass phials containing foods, chemicals or bacteria may be placed on the body to test for toxins or allergies. Kinesiology is thought to be particularly useful in assessing long-standing health problems. For more information, or to find a practitioner, contact the Kinesiology Federation on 0845 260 1094 or visit www.kinesiologyfederation.org.
Light therapy
A Danish doctor won the Nobel prize at the turn of the 20th century for his work into the use of ultraviolet light in treating tuberculosis. Since then, light has also been used to treat seasonal affective disorder and skin problems, such as psoriasis. Treatment involves lying under a bright white light for a prescribed amount of time. To find out more, visit the website of the The Seasonal Affective Disorder Association at www.sada.org.uk or The British Association of Dermatologists at www.bad.org.uk
Magnetic therapy
Popular in Japan, magnetic therapy uses magnetic devices such as wrist bands and shoe insoles, to influence the body's natural electric currents. Magnetic straps worn on knees or elbows, for instance, are thought to ease the pain of injury or arthritis, while sleeping on a magnetic mattress is thought to boost circulation and stimulate the immune system. For more information, call The British Institute of Magnet Therapy on 01495 752122 or visit www.cogreslab.co.uk.
Naturopathy
Based on the ancient belief that the body has the power to heal itself, naturopathy (also known as ‘natural medicine'), seeks to discover the root cause of a problem rather than simply treating the symptoms. An unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, stress and inadequate rest are all believed to counter the body's ability to maintain good health. A naturopath uses a variety of treatments, including nutrition, massage, counselling, acupressure, breathing exercises and reflexology, to stimulate the body's own healing powers. Naturopathy is used for a wide range of conditions, including depression, fatigue and high blood pressure. To find a naturopath, contact the General Council and Register of Naturopaths on 0870 745 6984 or visit www.naturopathy.org.uk
Nutritional therapy
The basis for nutritional therapy is that ‘we are what we eat', and that good health is directly related to the quality of our diet. Therapists will seek to redress any vitamin or mineral imbalances to treat health problems and promote health - for instance, a deficiency in vitamin B6 is believed to trigger PMS. Nutritional therapy is said to improve mood, general health and well-being, and can be used for a wide range of problems including migraines, IBS, digestive problems, skin problems and tiredness. Food allergies and intolerance can also be pinpointed. To find a therapist, contact the Institute for Optimum Nutrition at www.ion.ac.uk or call 0870 979 1122.
A-Z of complementary medicine...
...Chinese herbalism to crystal healing
...floatation therapy to hypnotherapy
...osteopathy to reflexology
These natural remedies are intended to be complementary therapies only and should not be interpreted as substitutes for conventional medicines. For specific health problems, please see your GP. For more information on conventional medicines, visit www.netdoctor.co.uk
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