Los Angeles Alternative Medicine
Los Angeles alternative medicine is a set of practices based on a philosophy. Most of these systems have evolved apart from and earlier than the conventional medical system used in the United States. There are four major philosophies that Los Angeles bases alternative medicine on, the first being Ayurveda. Ayurveda is a health system that people in India have used for more than 5,000 years. It emphasizes good health and prevention of illness through lifestyle practices such as massage, meditation, yoga, dietary changes, and the use of herbal remedies. Alternative medicine in Los Angeles uses ayuvedic practices to maintain health, reduce stress, and improve flexibility, strength, and stamina. Researchers currently are studying yoga and meditation as interventions for diseases such as asthma and arthritis.
The second philosophy that alternative medicine in Los Angeles is based on is Chinese medicine. Chinese medicine is a philosophy of medicine partly based on the idea that energy, called qi, flows along pathways in the body called meridians. In this belief, if the flow of qi along these meridians is blocked or unbalanced, illness can occur. In China, doctors have practiced Chinese medicine for thousands of years, and it is gaining in popularity in many Western countries. Alternative medicine in Los Angeles uses several of the same therapies as Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, acupressure, and massage.
The third philosophy that Los Angeles alternative medicine is based on is homeopathy. Homeopathy, or homeopathic medicine, is a medical philosophy and practice based on the idea that the body has the ability to heal itself. Homeopathy was founded in the late 1700s in Germany and has been widely practiced throughout Europe. Homeopathic medicine views symptoms of illness as normal responses of the body as it attempts to regain health. Historically, people have used homeopathy to maintain health and treat a wide range of long-term illnesses, such as allergies, atopic dermatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and irritable bowel syndrome. They have also used it to treat minor injuries, such as cuts and scrapes and muscle strains or sprains. Homeopathic treatment is not considered appropriate for serious illnesses, such as cancer, heart disease and major infections.
The final philosophy that created alternative medicine in Los Angeles is naturopathic medicine. Naturopathic medicine is based on the belief that the body can heal itself naturally. Naturopathic medicine attempts to improve health, prevent disease, and treat illness by promoting the use of organic foods and exercise; encouraging a healthy, balanced lifestyle; and applying concepts from other areas of complementary medicine.