Anza Sanctuary

In increasing numbers, Americans are turning to alternative medicine as the answer to their health needs. Many have become disillusioned with the rising costs of traditional medicine, its impersonal nature, and the sometimes-devastating side effects of medications. Billions of dollars are spent every year on complementary and alternative medicine. Recent estimates reveal that over 30 billion are spent annually on all forms of alternative medicine with at least four billion spent on herbs and other supplements. Although some people choose to rely solely on non-traditional medicine, many combine traditional with alternative as they seek to improve their health.

Alternative forms of medical treatment include many over-the-counter supplements that require no prescription. This is one of the most popular options for those seeking to improve their health. Although herbal and other supplements are prohibited by law from advertising as treatment for specific disorders, people with a basic understanding of herbs can determine what they need. Herbalists, homeopathic doctors, chiropractors, and others can advise specific herbs, vitamins, and minerals after diagnosing the patient. Despite the fact that herbs rarely have serious side effects when compared to pharmaceuticals, many traditional doctors discourage their use. This just reinforces the idea in many people’s minds that doctors have limited knowledge about nutrition, herbs, and health, relying almost exclusively on pharmaceuticals and surgery. Statistics show that people rarely inform their doctors of the supplements they are taking, primarily for this reason.

Other forms of non-traditional medicine include bodywork, such as massage and chiropractic, hypnosis, acupuncture, and various other forms of mind-body and energy therapies. Many people find these of real benefit when battling illnesses. They are usually given more individualized attention, rather than the traditional one solution for all approach and side effects are minimal to non-existent.

This allows the patient to play an active role in their health; many see this as the most important benefit.