According to Wikipedia, "a survey (Barnes et al 2004) released in May 2004 by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that in 2002, 36% of Americans used some form of alternative therapy in the past 12 months — a category that included yoga, meditation, and herbal treatments." In developing countries, alternative medicine counts for more than 50 percent of all medical treatments used by the population.

Some alternative methods have gained respect from the medical community while others remain a source of controversy and disdain.  

Crystal Healing

Crystal healers believe that gemstones have properties ("life energy") that can enhance both physical and emotional health. According to practitioners, every living organism has a vibrational energy system that can be "tuned in" to improve well-being and balance energy. Crystal healers believe that crystals can not only conduct but also produce their own energy, which can be channeled through the chakras (energy points of the body) to help heal the body and cleanse the aura.

The most powerful (and most used) crystal is clear quartz, although many practitioners prefer to use colored gemstones that match each chakra's color. During a session, the recipient lies on his back and crystals are placed on his body following one direction (usually head to feet or "Sky to Earth"). After all stones have been placed, the practitioner can either let the person rest quietly absorbing the crystals' energy, or he can do a hands-on healing, "brushing" the aura.

There is a complicated correlation between colors, crystals, and chakras, and many practitioners also use color therapy (chromotherapy) together with crystals. Citrine, for example, corresponds to the color yellow and the third Chakra, Solar Plexus, the center of passions, impulses, and strong emotions. The Solar Plexus rules the digestive and nervous system, and disbalances can result in food allergies, digestive problems, and even diabetes.

It is possible to practice crystal healing on yourself, at home. If you can meditate and are willing to invest in a few stones, it could be worth a try.

Rebirthing

Rebirthing is a highly controversial healing method that postulates that birth is a traumatic event that leaves lasting scars in our subconscious. The memory of birth is not only stored in the mind, but also remains present at a cellular level, distributed amongst the body's tissues and organs.

Rebirthing was developed by Leonard Orr between 1962 and 1974 and it focuses mainly on a combination of breathing techniques, relaxation and physiological transformation. The main breathing technique (which calls for no pause between inhale and exhale) is aimed to increase oxygen in the blood, which in turn leads to a build up of life energy or prana, and to a rupture of the thin veil between the conscious and subconscious mind.

Proponents of rebirthing ascertain that the primary source of disease is built up tension. When this tension is released, spontaneous remission from many illnesses becomes likely, together with heightened mental clarity and a sense of purpose and personal value. During rebirthing sessions (usually advocated in blocks of ten), the person lies down with his eyes closed while the practitioner guides him or her into a gentle breathing rhythm, during which "life energy" is supposed to enter the body and heal the spirit. Sessions are usually two hours in length.

The most controversial aspect of rebirthing may be their belief that physical immortality is not only possible, but also easily attainable. Orr himself believes that there are three secrets to physical immortality: to stay tuned to the Infinite Energy (God), to erase the death urge instilled in us by society, and to keep the body clean and balanced through purification practices. He claims to have met immortals and learned their secrets. Orr's controversial work is considered a pseudoscience by the scientific community worldwide.

Cupping (or baguanfa)

Cupping is an ancient Chinese practice involving the placement of glass, plastic, or bamboo cups on the skin with a vacuum. This draws the skin and underlying tissues into the cup, purportedly releasing toxins, helping with circulation, and stimulating the lymphatic system. Fire cupping involves heated cups, which are considered more effective, albeit dangerous. Modern versions include a series of plastic cups and a hand vacuum, which connects to the top the cup and creates the suction artificially.

After a few minutes of being in place, the suction of the cups creates something called blood stasis, allowing energy to flow and the meridians (the interconnected channels through which the body's vital energy, "qi", circulates) to be unblocked. Cupping is widely used in China as a treatment for respiratory diseases and musculoskeletal pain. The cups are sometimes slid around on the skin, with the help of oils, to help "clean" the surrounding area.

Once placed, cups are kept on the skin for 5 to 15 minutes. Reddening of the skin, bruising, and a sunburn-like sensation are to be expected. Blisters are less common but can happen. Marks usually disappear within a few days.

There is no scientific basis for cupping and most doctors consider it quackery.

Chelation Therapy

Chelation therapy consists of a series of infusions that may be administered intravenously, intramuscularly, or orally. These infusions contain EDTA (ethylene-diamine-tetra-acetic acid), a substance that can purportedly bind to heavy metals and toxins and remove them from the body. The solution is administered by a physician in-office and under strict observation. Up to 30 treatments may be needed to see results. At a cost of $150 or more a session, it adds up.

The scientific community considers chelation therapy "effective enough." In fact, chelation therapy is used in conventional medicine as a treatment for acute heavy metal poisoning. That's where traditional science draws the line, however. Alternative practitioners of chelation therapy go much further, using chelation to treat coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, and autism. Proponents of chelation consider it a viable alternative to bypass surgery.

In a groundbreaking move, the FDA has recently granted approval to The American College of Advancement in Medicine to test chelation therapy in patients with peripheral vascular disease.

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy may be the oldest forms of medical treatment. Egyptians and Romans bathed in hot water and essential oils, and Hippocrates prescribed spring-water baths for a number of illnesses.

The name hydrotherapy may be misleading, as it is the temperature of the water, rather than the water itself, which offers the main benefits. Some practitioners prefer to use the name "Thermotherapeutics." Most hydrotherapy treatments are external, using water in the form of compresses, ice packs, body packs, or immersion. Colonics and steam inhalation (used to relieve chest congestion) are forms of internal hydrotherapy.    

Hot water hydrotherapy is used to treat a variety of conditions, including rheumatism and arthritis, while cold water is the preferred therapy for dental pain and muscle sprains.

Hydrotherapy is also widely used in the rehabilitation of patients with paralysis.

External Links:

• NCCAM - National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine