In a world where modern medicine often takes centre stage, the allure of natural remedies rooted in ancient traditions is experiencing a resurgence. The World Health Organisation estimates that 88% of all countries use traditional medicines. Natural medicine, encompassing practices such as Homeopathy, Acupuncture, Ayurveda, Yoga, and Meditation, offers a holistic approach to health. Despite its resurgence, many people still do not understand how natural medicine can help them. Following is an overview of possible nature based options.
Stress & Mental Health
Many people are finding their way to yoga, meditation and breath-work to reduce stress. These ancient practices intertwine spiritual and physical well-being and offer profound benefits. With regular practice, they improve flexibility, reduce stress, and contribute to overall improved mental and physical health. Meditation has been linked to lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress. By reducing cortisol levels, meditation can help mitigate the physiological effects of chronic stress.
Depression & Anxiety
Typical treatments for depression include psychotherapy, counselling or eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Another option for treating anxiety is homeopathy, which aims to address the original cause of depression and reduce the related physical and emotional symptoms that the person is experiencing.
Chronic Pain & Inflammation
Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow. It’s known to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and restore balance in the body’s energy pathways. Reiki is another method that can reduce pain in the body in a gentle yet effective way. Additionally, herbal teas such as ginger, curcuma and nettle tea are helpful in reducing inflammation.
Oral & Digestive Tract Disorders
In Ayurveda, the practice of tongue brushing is considered an important aspect of daily oral and health hygiene dating back centuries. This practice is believed to contribute to a healthy digestive track by removing bacteria, toxins, and residue from the tongue’s surface. The tongue is connected to various organs and systems in the body and brushing it positively influences the functioning of the digestive organs. A helpful tip is to avoid using a toothbrush on the tongue because it could damage the sensitive taste buds. Instead, it is best to use a stainless steel or silver tongue cleaner.
Eczema & Skin Disorders
Many people suffer from various skin disorders for years without relief. Disorders of the skin can have various causes including poor diet, hormonal changes, microbial factors, or stress. Natural medicine can improve skin conditions. Homeopathy in particular has demonstrated results in treating pesky water warts or ringworm in both children and adults. While Ayurveda or Nutrition can help identify nutritional imbalances that improve the gut microbiome and thereby produce healthier skin.
To further explore the benefits of natural medicine, we invite you to the grand opening of The Hague Natural Health Centre on 20 January, 2024. Take advantage of free workshops throughout the day and learn about the transformative power of natural medicine.
Note: It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before discontinuing the use of any medications, especially for serious or chronic conditions.
Written by Sandra D. Quist, Homeopath & Founder of The Hague Natural Health Centre