Alternative and Complementary Therapies (reversed)

Pressure is applied with fingers, palms, thumbs, or elbows to specific pressure points of the body to stimulate and regulate the flow of energy. used to treat muscular–joint pain, depression, digestive problems, and respiratory disorders.

Ancient Chinese therapy that involves the insertion of very thin needles into specific points along the meridians in the body to stimulate and balance the flow of energy. used to relieve pain, especially headache and back pain, reduce stress-related illnesses, and treat drug dependency and obesity.

Nutritional therapy that encourages the use of substances called antioxidants to prevent or inhibit oxidation, which can damage body cells. Examples of antioxidants are vitamins A, C, and E, and selenium; may prevent heart disease, cataracts, and some types of cancer.

Therapeutic use of selected fragrances to alter a mood and restore the body, mind, and spirit. Used to relieve stress and tension, stimulate relaxation, and reduce headaches or backaches.

Relaxation therapy that uses monitoring devices to provide a patient with information about their reaction to stress. Used to treat hypertension, migraine headaches, and stress-related illnesses.

Ancient Japanese/Tibetan healing art based on the idea that disease causes an imbalance in the body’s energy field. Used to promote relaxation, reduce pain, and promote wound healing.

Uses herbal medicines that have been used in almost all cultures since primitive times. Based on the belief that herbs and plant extracts can alter blood chemistry and protect against disease.

Uses very minute, dilute doses of drugs made from natural substances to produce symptoms of the disease being treated. Very controversial form of treatment.

Uses water in any form for healing purposes. Common external examples include water aerobics and soaking in hot springs.

Technique used to induce a trance-like state so a person is more receptive to suggestion. Used to encourage desired behavior changes.

Technique of using imagination to visualize a pleasant and soothing image. Used to decrease tension, anxiety, and adverse effects of chemotherapy.

Special machines called air ionizers are used to produce negatively charged air particles or ions. Used to treat common respiratory disorders.

Nutrition therapy based on the Taoist concept of balance between yin and yang, and the belief that different foods represent yin (sweet foods) and yang (meat and eggs) Encourages balanced foods and discourages processed foods, red meat, sugar, and caffeine.

Therapy that teaches breathing and muscle relaxation techniques to quiet the mind Used to reduce stress and pain, slow heart rate, and lower blood pressure.

Uses pets to enhance health and stimulate an interest in life. Helps individuals overcome physical limitations and decrease depression.

Nutritional therapy that recommends foods containing phytochemicals with the belief that the chemicals help prevent disease. Used to prevent heart disease, stroke, cancer, and cataracts.

Uses toys to allow children to learn about situations and express their emotions. Important aspect of psychotherapy for children with limited language ability

Therapy that involves developing self-awareness, self-esteem, and self-love to allow the body to heal itself. Based on the belief that disease can be reversed by an individual’s mental processes.

Ancient healing art based on the concept that the body is divided into ten equal zones that run from the head to the toes. Used to promote healing and relaxation, reduce stress, and improve circulation.

Based on the belief that health depends on both physical and spiritual aspects. Uses prayer, meditation, and spiritual guidance to promote healing.

Based on the ancient theory that health is harmony with nature and the universe. Used to treat digestive disorders, stress, depression, and arthritis.

Uses various hand motions to increase circulation and relieve musculoskeletal stiffness. Induces relaxation and increases range-of-motion.

Based on the belief that illness is an imbalance in an individual’s energy field. Used to encourage relaxation, decrease anxiety, and stimulate wound healing.

Hindu discipline that uses concentration and specific positions to maintain balance and encourage self-awareness. Used to relieve stress and anxiety, and increase muscle tone.