Some evidence natural cures really do work - some of them

When people think of natural cures there are dozens of options to consider these days. From old wives tales, to research on herbal remedies, to new upstart claims flooding the internet. What is the right answer to the ailment you might be vexed by.

Well there are a few options that ther is some science on that back up their claims. While they might not be perfect, or work exactly for ever person there is some evidence they do have positive effects. Of course a positive attitude is always a benefit to any treatment you might consider.

Acupuncture
What is it? Chinese practice of inserting needles at strategic points in the skin.
What does it do? Traditionally, it balances the body’s energy flow or “qi.”
Proof: The stimulation appears to boost the activity of your body’s natural painkillers and increase blood flow. It’s been proven to combat nausea and other ailments. However, one of the problems is that most medicines are tested against a placebo - and it’s hard to find a placebo that would mimic the effect of sticking needles in your body, without actually sticking needles in your body.
Warning: It shouldn’t be used if you have thin blood, and going to a recommended practitioner is paramount.

Chasteberry
What is it? Dried fruit.
What does it do? Combats PMS symptoms; increases fertility.
Proof: Clinical trials suggest that it may reduce some symptoms of PMS, but its effect on fertility has not been proven conclusively.
Warning: Some people may have slight stomach troubles, dizziness, or dry mouth; however, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians, these side effects are minimal. Despite its name and historical uses, the chasteberry does not have any proven effect on the libido.

Meditation
What is it? Quiet reflection, usually performed alone; often includes rhythmic breathing.
What does it do? Increases mental focus.
Proof: Like acupuncture, it’s hard to test this against a placebo. However, there’s no proof it doesn’t work.
Warning: This one falls into the “what can it hurt?” school of thinking. It’s safe, there aren’t known to be any harmful side effects, and many people believe it works.

St John’s Wort
What is it? An herb.
What does it do? Combats mild depression.
Proof: According to the Mayo Clinic, the scientific evidence supports the claim that St John’s Wort can combat mild to moderate depression.
Warnings: Shouldn’t be taken with other antidepressants. Check out Health Canada’s warning on drug interactions involving St John’s Wort.

Hopefully this will help. But always remember to discuss any new medications or treatments with a qualified medical practioner.

2 Responses to “Some evidence natural cures really do work - some of them”

1. Rose Shapiro questions alternative medicine | Natural Cures Blog Says:
   August 12th, 2008 at 8:46 pm

   [...] But for all the questionable practicioners out there reasons to accept alternative medicine do exist. Like St Johns Wort “Proof: According to the Mayo Clinic, the scientific evidence supports the claim that St John’s … [...]

2. Rose Shapiro questions alternative medicine | 1800blogger Says:
   August 12th, 2008 at 8:49 pm

   [...] But for all the questionable practicioners out there reasons to accept alternative medicine do exist. Like St Johns Wort “Proof: According to the Mayo Clinic, the scientific evidence supports the claim that St John’s … [...]

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