Types of Complementary Therapies

Complementary Therapies broadly fall into five categories: alternative medical systems, mind-body intervention, biological-based therapies, manipulative and body-based methods, and energy therapies.
Alternative Medical Systems: This includes traditional practises from different parts of the world such as Homeopathy, Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. These utilise natural healing methods and remedies, often incorporated with a holistic perspective towards health.
Mind-Body Intervention: This type of therapy focuses on the interaction between the mind, body, and behaviour to improve physical functioning and promote health. Examples include meditation, hypnosis, yoga and prayer.
Biological-Based Therapies: These therapies use substances found in nature, such as herbs, foods, and vitamins, to treat or prevent health issues. Examples are dietary supplements, herbals, and using food for medicinal purposes.
Manipulative and Body-Based Methods: These therapies place importance on the structures and systems in the body, including bones and joints, soft tissues, and the circulatory and lymphatic systems. They include therapies such as chiropractic and osteopathic manipulation, massage, and reflexology.
Energy Therapies: These practises aim to manipulate biofields by applying pressure or manipulating the body by placing hands in, or through, these fields. Examples are Reiki, tai chi and qi gong.
Some complementary therapies are based on principles and an evidence-base that is not recognised by the majority of independent scientists. Therefore, effectiveness and benefits can vary and should be researched and considered carefully.
Complementary therapies can be used alongside traditional medical treatments, with the intention to provide a more holistic approach to healthcare.
It’s crucial to always inform health care providers when using complementary therapies to ensure safe, coordinated care.
Besides promoting overall wellness, different types of complementary therapies can also help manage conditions such as chronic pain, stress, anxiety, insomnia, and more.
Ethical considerations in complementary therapies relate to practitioner-client relationships, informed consent, confidentiality, professional boundaries and avoiding harm to clients.