Alternative medicine has always been outside of the mainstream. But in the past few years, Americans have been accepting and using alternative remedies at higher rates.
These are the most widely accepted forms of alternative medicine:
In 2007, the most commonly used therapies in America were nonvitamin, nonmineral natural products (18 percent of Americans), deep breathing (13 percent), meditation (9 percent), chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation (9 percent), massage (8 percent), and yoga (6 percent).
None of these are new by any means—some, like meditation, have been practiced for centuries.
But as mainstream healthcare costs become more expensive, more Americans are turning towards alternative remedies instead of costly doctor visits to manage everyday aches and pains.
Physicians are also embracing alternative remedies as science tests and backs up the claims being made by alternative healers.
Alternative medicine has religious roots which, curiously, are not well known by many Americans. In fact:
promotional materials may not use religious or spiritual language, but instead tout scientifically validated health benefits. Consumers who would hesitate to enter a Hindu or Buddhist temple might eagerly practice yoga or mindfulness meditation, if recommended by a physician.
Given that healthcare costs are still increasing and alternative medicines are gaining more mainstream acceptance, it’s likely more Americans will continue to embrace the benefits of alternative medicine.
