Alternative medicine and treatments aren’t a new fad in the health and wellness world. As a matter of fact, certain alternative treatments such as Homeopathy have been in practice since the 18th century. In 2017, in the UK alone there were around 9 million users of some kind of complementary or alternative medicine and the number continues to grow.
The prevalence of alternative medicine and treatment can be attributed to its multitude of benefits. Most alternative medicine focuses on curing the root cause, rather than just treating the symptoms. While using modern medicine can have side effects, alternative treatments can follow a natural, safer approach.
From fashion to health, we as a society continue to look up to celebrities for tips. So are Hollywood A-listers delving into the world of alternative therapies? Absolutely! Check what your favourite celebrities are into.
- Acupuncture
One of the most popular forms of alternative therapies, Acupuncture involves inserting really thin needles at specific points in a person’s body. It has proven to be effective for many medical conditions such as lower back pain, high blood pressure, headaches and dental aches.
Celebrities like multi-talented Jennifer Lopez and Academy Award-winner Natalie Portman use acupuncture.
- Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy focuses on using essential oils and other aromatics to improve a person’s mood or health. These oils can be inhaled or topically applied. Lavender is popularly used to induce relaxation and deep sleep, while Tea Tree essential oil has antiseptic properties useful for treating acne.
These days Academy Award-winning actress Gwenyth Paltrow is better known as a wellness guru, thanks to her million-dollar company Goop. She’s a big fan of essential oils, particularly, clary sage, jojoba and lavender.
- Osteopathy
Another popular alternative medicine, Osteopathy involves physical manipulation of the skeleton and musculature. A qualified practitioner offers a holistic approach and concentrates on the whole body to treat a range of medical disorders. Osteopathic care has helped people with back pains and sleep disorders.
Lesley Garrett, a renowned English soprano singer, has regularly sought Osteopathic care for over 20 years! She claims it has helped her with back pain, gut issues and spine realignment.
To book an Osteopathy Treatment in London, head over to Bodytonic Clinic.
- Ayurveda
Originating in the Indian Subcontinent, Ayurveda is a healing therapy that promotes overall good health rather than fighting a disease. Its goal is to restore the delicate balance between mind, body and spirit to keep illness at bay.
Critically and commercially acclaimed actress Julia Roberts partakes in ayurvedic treatments. Popular UK Youtuber and lifestyle vlogger Niomi Smart recently moved to India and started practising Ayurveda after completing a course for the same.
- Reiki
A form of Japanese alternative medicine, Reiki uses hands-on healing techniques to encourage emotional and physical healing. By assisting a person’s natural healing abilities, it promotes mental and spiritual wellbeing. It is believed to induce relaxation and alleviate stress.
One of America’s most beloved talk show hosts Ellen DeGenerous has received Reiki treatments for pain and stress.
- Reflexology
Reflexology involves massaging hands, feet and ears at different pressures to induce a range of health benefits. It may help to reduce stress, improve mood or boost the immune system.
Heavyweight champion Muhhamad Ali received foot reflexology from celebrity reflexologist Richard Minarik in 1976.
- Medical Cannabis
Medical cannabis or medical marijuana is prescribed by physicians to treat anxiety, insomnia, nausea, cancer’s side effects, Parkinson’s and other conditions.
Saturday Night Live! star Pete Davidson uses medical marijuana to manage the severe side effects of Crohn’s disease. It helps increase his appetite, which is impacted as a side effect of heavy medication. Lady Gaga has said to smoke cannabis to deal with mental and physical stress.