There are only two branches of medicine that are widely accepted by the community: traditional medicine and alternative medicine.
Many people around the world are already aware of the benefits and dangers of alternative medicine but the question remains: is alternative medicine still a viable option for patients in 2025?
HISTORY OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
The origins of alternative medicine cannot be traced back to a specific country or period. Different countries have developed unique methods of treating ailments dating back thousands of years.
In ancient China, apothecaries have already experimented with products and practices such as acupuncture, Tai Chi and various herbal items. Indians, meanwhile, would use herbs, metals, minerals, and other natural resources to cure a person’s “impurities.”
Native Americans mixed tobacco with other plants and would sing and dance to ask the “Great Spirit” to improve their well-being.
While modern advancements in traditional medicine would lessen the reliance on alternative healing methods, these practices won’t go away easily. Some countries would even combine these practices with established medical items and procedures.
IS ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE EFFECTIVE?
Since the invention of traditional medicine, there have been debates about whether these alternative methods and items are proven effective. Multiple studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of different alternative medical practices.
Some alternative medical practices like acupuncture and chiropractic medicine have undergone rigorous medical trials and have been proven to treat certain ailments. Certain herbs like ginseng and ginkgo biloba are also known to treat medical symptoms like allergies and chronic fatigue, among others.
Meanwhile, other alternative treatments for sickness like some energy therapies and Ayurvedic medicine have yet to undergo any scientific tests. Experts even cited that some materials used in Ayurvedic medicine are unsuitable for human consumption.
CAN WE STILL USE ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE IN 2025 AND BEYOND?
When it comes to future-proofing alternative medicine, multiple studies have been done as well. As early as 2008, 38% of American adults used alternative treatments to treat physical pain like back problems and arthritis.
In 2022, a survey was conducted in Iran about using alternative medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic. 50-66% of Iranians claimed to have used at least one type of alternative medicine to prevent the risk of getting COVID-19. The most commonly used alternative medicinal item was dietary supplements with 61.3%.
With these numbers, we can safely say that alternative medicine is still usable in 2025 and beyond. This, however, doesn’t mean it will replace traditional medicine as some people still question if the benefits provided by alternative medicine are true.
It is still best to consult your doctor or physician before undergoing any alternative medicinal treatment. These alternative methods may be good for your body and wallet but can cause more health problems than benefits if not properly implemented.
