Herbal medicine which bases on the use of plants and plant extracts is probably the oldest form of treating illnesses, wounds and injuries, relieving symptoms of series of health problems and strengthening of natural resistance. The popularity of plants and plant extracts for therapeutic properties declined after the introduction of synthetic drugs and emergence of modern medicine. However, the knowledge of health benefits of certain plants survived until nowadays and the number of people who prefer natural remedies over synthetic drugs is rapidly growing. Popularity of herbal remedies can be attributed to scientifically proved efficacy and safety of many traditional herbal remedies as well as to various side effect which are virtually inevitable if using synthetic medications.

Clinical researches have shown that many traditional herbal treatments are both effective and safe. On the other hand, researches also proved that some very popular herbal remedies have very little or any health benefits, while the others were even proved harmful to health.  In addition, the majority of herbs can also cause different side effects and interact with other medications. If deciding to use herbal remedies you are highly recommended to consult with your health care provider about the use of herbal medications especially if being pregnant, breast-feeding, being older than 65 years, having a medical condition or taking any medications. Herbal remedies should not be given to children younger than 16 years of age. Always follow the direction and never exceed the recommended dosage when using herbal remedies. Pay attention to the expiry date, quality due to potential contamination with pesticides and avoid unpackaged herbs. If having any doubts consult with a qualified practitioner.

Naturopathy is an alternative medical system which emphasizes body’s vital ability to heal and maintain itself with minimal use of synthetic drugs and surgery. Naturopathy bases on the use of natural remedies and treatments which might greatly vary from one naturopath to another. Many naturopathic treatments and methods are very similar to those offered by non-naturopaths – herbal and homeopathic remedies, reflexology, hydrotherapy, etc. but all naturopaths emphasize a holistic approach.

The philosophy of naturopathy bases on self-healing abilities of the body. Thus naturopaths recommend methods and remedies which encourage the body’s abilities to fight against diseases and health problems on its own. Before giving any directions a naturopath examines the patient and learns as much as possible about the patient’s health, diet, lifestyle, etc. When naturopath has a clearer picture about health problems and lifestyle of a patient he/she might recommend change of diet, dietary supplements, herbal remedies, homeopathic medications, massage, hydrotherapy, etc. to re-establish a natural balance which is often disturbed by unhealthy lifestyle and stress.

Like other alternative medical systems, naturopathy is criticized by the conventional medicine although the scientific researches proved health benefits of the majority of naturopathic methods. You are advised not start naturopathic treatment on your own if having a medical condition or if being older than 65 years of age before consulting with a professional naturopathic practitioner. You also should not start any alternative medical treatment including naturopathy before consulting with your health care provider if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, or if having epilepsy, anemia, diabetes or mental disorder.

Acupressure is an alternative medicine deriving from the traditional Chinese medicine’s acupuncture, another alternative medical system which bases on theory that general health and overall well-being depend on energy flow or qi around the body through meridians (acupuncture points). Unlike acupuncture which uses the procedure of inserting filiform needles into the meridians, acupressure uses physical pressure applied with the hand or various devices to stimulate the acupressure points and to rebalance the qi.

Shiatsu is a Japanese hands-on therapy which derived from acupressure and is regulated as a licensed medical therapy in Japan. Currently, there is little evidence to support the theory of acupuncture points or to verify the benefits for health of both acupressure and shiatsu techniques. However, most people report feeling better, relaxed and calm after the treatment, while some researches imply it might be very helpful for muscular/joint problems and reducing stress-related illnesses and disorders.

Both acupressure and shiatsu are generally considered safe and can be used as a supplementary treatment. Neither acupressure nor shiatsu do not represent any health risks and cannot cause any side effects. However, some acupressure points – especially on the lower abdomen should not be stimulated in pregnant women. Neither of both methods should not be applied on swollen, inflamed, injured or wounded areas, bruises, varicose veins and sites of a recent surgery. If having a medical condition you are highly recommended to consult with your health care provider before using acupressure or shiatsu.