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Alternative System of Medicine

Presented by:
Sonia M.Sc- 1st year

INTRODUCTION
India, an ancient civilization, has varied community supported living traditions including medical traditions. Indian medical traditions include folk medicine and classical medical system. The folk medicine implies local health traditions which are practiced in rural and tribal communities. The folk medicine is based on locally available herbs, flora, fauna and minerals. The folk medicine is widespread. It is practiced by indigenous dais who are about 7 lakh in number and who conduct majority of the deliveries in rural and tribal areas; the bone setters .who deal with the problems of joint dislocation and bone fracture etc; In addition, millions of housewives who practice folk medicine for minor ailments. But, this system did not receive any support from the Government. .

MEANING
Alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medicine. An example of an alternative therapy is using a special diet to treat cancer instead of undergoing surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy that has been recommended by a conventional doctor. Ayurveda is the main alternate classical medical system in India. Apart from main stream ayurveda, there are its regional streams e.g.sidha. other important traditional medical systems include yoga, naturopathy, unani and homeopathy. These systems are known as alternate system of medicine. These are practiced in government as well as in private sector. These services are provided through private, voluntary and government systems at the primary level, secondary and tertiary level. often nurses also work with them directly or indirectly at various level and need to be familiar with these systems so that they develop rational view about these systems of medicine.

Ayurveda system of medicine:

Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine practiced in the India. the word ayurveda (ayur+ veda) It means the science of life. One of the oldest system of medicines. It originated from Vedas. e.g. rig Veda .It is considered divine in origin. It has spread to east & west. e.g. India, Pakistan , Nepal Bangladesh & Sri Lanka.The celebrated authorities in ayurveda medicine were: Susruta, Atraya, Vaghbata Ayurveda is that knowledge of life. It deals with getting to the root of the issue and treatments involve the usage of natural/ herbal products.

The Body Matrix

Life in Ayurveda is conceived as the union of body, senses, mind and soul. The living man is made up of three humours (Vata, Pitta &Kapha), seven basic tissues (Rasa, Rakta, Mansa, Meda, Asthi, Majja & Shukra) and the waste products of the body such as faeces, urine and sweat.

Thus the total body matrix comprises of the humours, the tissues and the waste products of the body.

Panchamahabhutas
According to Ayurveda all objects in the universe including human body are composed of five basic elements (Panchamahabhutas) namely, earth, water, fire, air and vacuum(ether). There is a balanced condensation of these elements in different proportions to suit the needs and requirements of different structures and functions of the body matrix and its parts. The growth and development of the body matrix depends on its nutrition, i.e. on food ,which replenish or nourish the like elements of the body after the action of bio-fire (Agni).

Health and Sickness

Health or sickness depends on the presence or absence of a balanced state of the total body matrix including the balance between its different constituents. Both the intrinsic and extrinsic factors can cause disturbance in the natural equilibrium giving rise to disease. This loss of equilibrium can happen by dietary indiscrimination, undesirable habits and non-observance of rules of healthy living,improper exercise. The treatment consists of restoring the balance of disturbed body-mind matrix through regulating diet, correcting life-routine and behaviour, administration of drugs and resorting to preventive Panchkarma and Rasayana therapy.

Diagnosis
Internal physiological characteristics and mental disposition. the site at which the disease is located, patients resistance. his daily routine, dietary habits, condition of digestion and details of personal, social, economic and environmental situation of the patient. The diagnosis also involves the following examinations: General physical examination Pulse examination Urine examination Examination of the faeces Examination of tongue and eyes Examination of skin and ear including tactile and auditory functions

Treatment
Ayurveda, i.e. maintenance and promotion of health, prevention of disease and cure of sickness. Consists in avoiding causative factors responsible for disequilibrium of the body matrix . the use of Panchkarma procedures, medicines, suitable diet, activity and regimen for restoring the balance and strengthening the body mechanisms, to prevent or minimize future occurrence of the disease. For successful administration of a treatment four things are essential. The physician The medicaments The nursing personnel The patient

The physician comes first in order of importance. He must possess technical skill, scientific knowledge, purity and human understanding. Next in importance comes food and drugs. These are supposed to be of high quality, grown and prepared following approved procedures and should be available adequately. The third component of treatment is the role of nursing personnel who should have good knowledge of nursing, must know the skills of their art and be affectionate, sympathetic, intelligent. The fourth component is the patient himself who should be cooperative and obedient to follow instructions of the physician, may be needed for treatment.

Types of Treatment
The treatment of disease can broadly be classified as: Shodhana therapy (Purification Treatment) Shamana therapy (Palliative Treatment)

Pathya Vyavastha (Prescription of diet and activity)

Nidan Parivarjan (Avoidance of disease causing and aggravating factors) Satvavajaya(Psychotherapy) Rasayana therapy(use of immunomodulators).

Shodhana
The process involves internal and external purification. The usual practices involved are Panchkarma (medically induced Emesis, Purgation, Oil Enema, and Nasal administration of medicines). Panchkarma treatment focuses on metabolic management. It provides needed purificatory effect. This treatment is especially helpful in neurological disorders, musculoskeletal disease conditions, certain vascular or neuro-vascular states, respiratory diseases, metabolic and degenerative disorders.

Shamana

Shamana therapy involves suppression of vitiated humours (doshas). The process by which disturbed humour subsides or returns to normal without creating imbalance of other humours is known as shamana.

This treatment is achieved by use of appetisers, digestives, exercise and exposure to sun, fresh air etc. In this form of treatment, palliatives and sedatives are used.

Pathya Vyavastha
Pathya Vyavastha comprises indications and contraindications in respect of diet, activity, habits and emotional status. This is done with a view to enhance the effects of therapeutic measures . Emphasis on dos and donts of diet etc is laid with the aim to stimulate Agni and optimize digestion of food in order to ensure strength of tissues .

Nidan Parivarjan
Nidan Parivarjan is to avoid the known disease causing factors in diet and lifestyle of the patient. It also encompasses the idea to refrain from precipitating or aggravating factors of the disease

Satvavajaya
Satvavajaya concerns mainly with the area of mental disturbances. This includes restraining the mind and cultivation of courage, memory and concentration. The study of psychology and psychiatry have been developed extensively in Ayurveda and have wide range of approaches in the treatment of mental disorders.

Rasayana
Rasayana therapy deals with promotion of strength and vitality. Promotion of memory, intelligence, immunity against the disease. The maintenance of optimum strength of the body and senses are some of the positive benefits..

Diet and Ayurvedic Treatment

In Ayurveda, regulation of diet as therapy has great importance. This is because it considers human body as the product of food. An individuals mental and spiritual development as well as his temperament is influenced by the quality of food consumed by him. Thus, food is basic to all life activities. Lack of nutrients in food or improper transformation of food lead to a variety of disease conditions.

YOGA
The concepts and practices of Yoga originated in India about several thousand years ago. Its founders were great Saints .

Yoga today, is no longer restricted to saints, it has entered into our everyday lives and has aroused a worldwide awakening .
Yoga has important role in the prevention and mitigation of diseases and promotion of health. Yoga is one of the six systems of Vedic philosophy. Maharishi Patanjali, rightly called "The Father of Yoga" He advocated the eight folds path of Yoga, popularly known as "Ashtanga Yoga" for all-round development of human beings. They are:- Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi.

These steps are believed to have a potential for improvement of physical health by enhancing circulation of oxygenated blood in the body, retraining the sense organs and Mind. The practice of Yoga prevents psychosomatic disorders and improves an individuals resistance and ability to endure stressful situations.

Definition of Yoga
Yoga is a discipline to improve or develop ones inherent power in a balanced manner. It offers the means to attain complete self-realisation. The literal meaning of the Sanskrit word Yoga is Yoke. Yoga can therefore be defined as a means of uniting the individual spirit with the universal spirit of God.

Salient Features of Yoga

Yoga a universal practical discipline Yoga as evolutionary process Yoga as soul therapy

Types of Yoga
Japa Yoga Karma Yoga Gyana Yoga Bhakti Yoga Raja Yoga Swara Yoga Kundalini Nadi

Japa Yoga To concentrate ones mind on divine name , mantra etc. like OM, Rama, Allah, God, Vahe Guru etc.
Karma Yoga Teaches us to perform all actions without having any desire for their fruit. In this sadhana, a Yogi considers his duty as divine action, perform it with whole-hearted dedication. Gyana Yoga Teaches us to discriminate between self and non-self and to acquire the knowledge of ones spiritual entity through the study of scriptures, company of Saints and practices of meditation. Bhakti Yoga Bhakti Yoga, a system of intense devotion. The true follower of Bhakti Yoga is free from egoism.

Raja Yoga Raja Yoga popularly known as Ashtanga Yoga is for all-round development of human beings.These are Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, , Dhyana and Samadhi. Swara Yoga Swara Yoga is the Science which is about the realisation of consciousness, through the awareness/ observation then control/ manipulation of the flow of breath in the nostrils. It is the association of the breath in relation to the activities or phases or positions of the Sun, Moon, Planets, Seasons, Time of day, with the physical and mental conditions of the individual . Kundalini Kundalini Yoga is a part of Tantric Tradition. the Tantrics and yogis have realised that in this physical body.The seat of Kundalini is a small gland at the base of the spinal cord. In the masculine body it is in the perineum between the urinary and excretory organs. In the female body its location is at the root of the uterus in the cervix. Those people who have awakened this supernatural force have been called Rishis ,Yogis

Nadi Nadis are flow of energy which we can visualize at the psychic level as having distinct channels, light, colour, sound and other characteristics

Naturopathy system of medicine:

Naturopathy is an art and science of healthy living and a drugless system of healing based on well founded philosophy. It has its own concept of health and disease and also principle of treatment. Naturopathy is a very old science. We can find a number of references in our Vedas and other ancient texts. Gandhiji was influenced by the book Return to Nature written by Adolf Just and become a firm believer of Naturopathy. He not only wrote several articles in favour of Naturopathy in his newspaper Harijan but did its several experiments on himself too, on his family members and members of his Ashram. Indian Naturopathy movement started mainly in the States of Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Definition of Naturopathy
Naturopathy is a system of man building in harmony with the constructive principles of Nature on physical, mental, moral and spiritual planes of living. It has great health promotive, disease preventive and curative as well as restorative potential.

Salient Features of Naturopathy

The primary cause of disease is accumulation of morbid matter. Nature is the greatest healer. The human body itself has the healing power to prevent itself from disease and regain health if unhealthy. In Nature Cure it is not the disease but the entire body of the patient.

Naturopathy treats all the aspects like physical, mental, social and spiritual at the same time. Naturopathy treats the body as a whole.
According to Naturopathy, Food is only the Medicine, no external medications are used.

Techniques and Benefits of Different Modalities of Naturopathy

Diet Therapy Fasting Therapy Mud Therapy Hydrotherapy Masso Therapy Acupressure Acupuncture Chromo Therapy Air Therapy Magnet Therapy

Diet Therapy
the food must be taken in natural form. Fresh seasonal fruits, fresh green leafy vegetables and sprouts are excellent. These diets are broadly classified into three types which are as follows: i).Eliminative Diet Liquids-Lemon, Citric juices, Tender Coconut water, Vegetable soups, Butter milk, Wheat Grass juices etc.

ii).Soothing Diet Fruits, Salads, Boiled/Steamed Vegetables, Sprouts, Vegetable chutney etc.
iii).Constructive Diet Wholesome flour, Unpolished rice, little pulses, Sprouts, Curd etc. Being alkaline, these diets help in improving health, purifying the body and rendering it immune to disease. To this end, a proper combination of food is necessary. Our diet should consist of 20% acidic and 80% alkaline food for maintaining health.

Food is regarded as Medicine in Naturopathy.

Fasting Therapy
Fasting is primarily the act of willingly abstaining from some or all food, drink, or both, for a period of time. The word derived from the old English , Feastan means to fast, observe, be strict. In Sanskrit Vrath means determination and Upavasa means near to God. Fasting is an important treatment modality for health preservation. The duration of the fast depends upon the age of the patient, the nature of the disease and amount and type of drugs . During fasting, the body burns up and excretes huge amounts of accumulated wastes. We can help this cleansing process by drinking alkaline juices. Sugars in juices will strengthen the heart. A lot of energy is spent during the fast in the process of eliminating accumulated poisons and toxic waste materials.

Mud Therapy
Mud therapy is very simple and effective treatment modality. The mud used for this should be clean and taken from 3 to 4 ft. depth from the surface of the ground. There should be no contamination of stone pieces or chemical manures etc. in the mud. Mud is one of five elements of nature having immense impact on the body both in health and sickness.

Advantages of using mud:

Its black colour absorbs all the colours of the Sun and conveys them to the body. Mud retains moisture for a long time, when applied over the body part it causes cooling. It is cheap and easily available.

Benefits When applied to abdomen it relieves all forms of indigestion. It is effective in decreasing intestinal heat and stimulates peristalsis. A thick mud pack applied to head in congestive headache, relieves the pain immediately. Application of the pack over the eyes is useful in cases of conjunctivitis, hemorrhages in the eyeball, itching, allergy, glaucoma where it helps to reduce eyeball tension.

Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy is a branch of Nature Cure. It is the treatment of disorders using different forms of water. These forms of water application are in practice since age-old days. Hydrothermal therapy additionally uses its temperature effects, as in hot & cold baths, saunas, wraps, etc and in all its forms-solid, fluid, vapour, ice and steam, internally and externally. Water is without doubt the most ancient of all remedial agents for disease.

Effects & uses of Water

Taking bath properly with clean cold water is an excellent form of Hydrotherapy. Such baths open up all the pores of the skin and make the body light and fresh. The old tradition of taking bath in rivers, ponds or waterfalls on specific occasions is virtually a natural form of Hydrotherapy only. It is capable of absorbing heat and also gives out heat with great readiness. 4. Being a universal solvent, its use internally, in the form of Enema or Colonic Irrigation or Water drinking aid greatly in the elimination of uric acid, urea, salts, excessive sugar, and many other blood and food chemicals that are waste products.

1. Compresses and Fomentation: a) Cold Compress: Abdominal Cold Compress. b) Heating Compress: Chest pack, abdominal pack, throat pack, Knee pack,. Hot and Cold Compresses: Head, Lung, Kidney, Gastro-Hepatic, pelvic & Abdominal hot and cold compresses. c) Fomentation 2. Baths: a) Hip Bath- Cold, Neutral, Hot, Stiz Bath b) Spinal Bath :-Cold, Neutral, Hot c) Foot and Arm Bath: Cold, Hot Foot Bath, Arm Bath, Hot Foot . d) Steam Inhalation & Steam Bath e) Sauna Bath f) Sponge Bath

Colon Hydrotherapy
It is the process of cleansing and flushing out colon or large intestine. The treatment is similar to an enema but is more extensive. It uses clean filtered water under gentle pressure (without pain) to wash out or detoxify colon of stagnated faecal materials. Most people require a series of 3-6 treatments to receive a thorough cleansing of the colon.

Masso Therapy
Massage is an excellent form of passive exercise. from Arabic massa meaning "to touch, feel or handle" Massage is the practice of soft tissue manipulation. it can be highly stimulating . Massage is also a modality of Naturopathy and quite essential for maintaining good health. Target tissues may include muscles, tendons, ligaments, skin, joints, or other connective tissue, as well as lymphatic vessels. Massage can be applied with the hands, fingers, elbows, knees, forearm, and feet. There are over eighty different recognized massage modalities. It aims at improving blood circulation and strengthening bodily organs. In winter season, sun bath after massaging the whole body is well known practice of preserving health and strength. It is beneficial to all. .Massage is a substitute of exercise for those who cannot do the same. The effects of exercise can be derived from massage.

Various oils are used as lubricants like mustard oil, sesame oil, coconut oil, olive oil, aroma oils etc. which also have therapeutic effects. There are modes of manipulation in massage and these are: Touch, (stroking), friction (rubbing), tapotement (percussion), vibration (shaking or trembling) and Joint movement. Another form of massage helpful in most ailments are the vibratory massage, Powder massage, Water massage, Dry massage. Powders of neem leaves, rose petals and are also used as lubricants for massage.

Benefits of massage
It tones up the nervous system. The elimination of poisons and waste material from the body . It also boosts blood circulation and metabolic processes. A massage removes facial wrinkle.

Acupressure
Acupressure is an ancient healing art that uses the fingers or any blunted objects to press key points called as Acu Points (Energy stored points) on the surface rhythmically. When these points are pressed, they release muscular tension and promote the circulation of blood and the bodys life force to aid healing. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same points, while acupressure uses the gentle but firm pressure of hands or any blunted objects, but acupuncture employs needles. Acupressure philosophy and acupoint stimulation is based on the same principles as Acupuncture. There are 14 main meridian lines, each of which corresponds to an individual organ of the body. When you experience pain or illness it is an indication that there is a block or leak in the energy flow within your body. Stimulation is given by steady pressure or five seconds on and five seconds off rotating pressure. Usually one minute is sufficient for each treatment session.

14 Meridian

Advantages; 1. It help in relieve headaches, eyestrain, sinus problems, neck pain, backaches, arthritis, muscle aches, and tension due to stress, ulcer pain, menstrual cramps, lower back aches, constipation, and indigestion, anxiety, insomnia. 2. To balance the body and maintain good health. 3. Reduces tension, increases circulation, and enables the body to relax deeply.

Acupuncture
Acupuncture is the procedure of inserting and manipulating fine filiform needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain or for therapeutic purposes. The word acupuncture comes from the Latin acus, "needle", and pungere, "to prick". According to traditional Chinese medical theory, acupuncture points are situated on meridians along which the vital energy, flows. Series of diseases, symptoms or conditions for which acupuncture has been demonstrated as an effective treatment: Allergic rhinitis Depression Headache Nausea and vomiting including morning sickness Pain in the epigastrium, face, neck, tennis elbow, lower back, Primary dysmenorrhea Rheumatoid arthritis Insomnia

Chromo Therapy
Seven colours of Sun rays have different therapeutic effects. These colours are-Violet, Indigo, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange and Red. For being healthy and in treatment of different diseases, these colours work effectively. Water and oil exposed to sun for specified hours in coloured bottles and coloured glasses, are used as devices of Chromo Therapy for treating different disorders . The simple methods of Chromo Therapy help in the process of recovery in a very effective manner.

Air Therapy
Fresh air is most essential for good health. The advantage of air therapy can be achieved by means of Air bath. Everybody should take an air bath daily for 20 minutes or longer if possible. It is more advantageous when combined with morning cold rub and exercises. In this process, one should walk daily after removing the clothes or wearing light clothes at a lonely clean place where adequate fresh air is available. Mechanism: In order to react against the chilling effect of cold air or water, the nerve centers, which control the circulation, send the blood to the surface in large quantities, flushing the skin with warm.

Magnet Therapy
Magnet therapy is a clinical system in which human ailments are treated and cured through the application of magnets to the body of the patients. It is the simplest, cheapest and entirely painless system of treatment with almost no side or after effects. The only tool used is the magnet. Magnetic treatment is applied directly to the body parts by the therapeutic magnets available in different powers or as general treatment to the body. Also magnetic belts are available for different parts e.g. Abdomen, knee, wrist etc. Magnetic necklaces, glasses and bracelets are also used for treatment. Benefits: 1. Helps in balancing the energy. 2. Improves circulation to the applied area. 3. Increases the warmth ness in the body

Unani system of medicine:

The Unani System of Medicine has a long and impressive record in India. It was introduced in India by the Arabs and Persians sometime around the eleventh century. It has the largest number of Unani educational, research and health care institutions. Unani system originated in Greece. The foundation of Unani system was laid by Hippocrates. In this process they made extensive use of the science of Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology, Therapeutics and Surgery. In India, Unani System of Medicine was introduced by Arabs . It was mainly Sharifi family in Delhi, the Azizi family in Lucknow and the Nizam of Hyderabad due to whose efforts Unani Medicine survived during the British period.

Cont
After independence the Unani System along with other Indian systems of medicine received a fresh boost Government of India took several steps for the all round development of this system. It passed laws to regulate and promote its education and training. It established research institutions, testing laboratories and standardized regulations for the production of drugs and for its practice. Today the Unani system of medicine with its recognized practitioners, hospitals and educational and research institutions, forms an integral part of the national health care delivery system.

Principles Concepts and Definition

one of the greatest scholars of Unani Tibb (medicine), has defined it as: The basic theory of Unani system is based upon the well- known fourhumour theory of Hippocrates. This presupposes the presence, in the body, of four humours viz., blood, phlegm, yellow bile and black bile. The human body is considered to be made up of the following seven components are: Arkan (Elements) Mizaj (Temperament) Akhlat (Humors) Aaza (Organs) Arwah (Spirits) Quwa (Faculties) Afaal (Functions)

The human body contains four elements. Element Temperament Air Earth Fire Water Hot and Moist Cold and Dry Hot and Dry Cold and Moist

Mizaj (Temperament) In the Unani system, the temperament of the individual is very important as it is considered to be unique. The individuals temperament is believed to be the result of the interaction of the elements. Akhlat (Humours) Humours are those moist and fluid parts of the body which are produced after transformation and metabolism ; they serve the function of nutrition, growth and repair; and produce energy, for the preservation of individual and his species. The humours are responsible for maintaining moisture of different organs of the body and also provide nutrition to the body Aaza (Organs) These are the various organs of the human body. The health or disease of each individual organ affects the state of health of the whole body. Arwah (Spirits) Ruh (Spirit) is a gaseous substance, obtained from the inspired air, it helps in all the metabolic activities of the body. These are the carriers of different powers, which make the whole body system and its parts functional.

Quwa (Faculties) These are of three kinds: Quwa Tabiyah (Natural power) Quwa Nafsaniyah (Psychic power) Quwa Haywaniyah (Vital power) Quwa Tabiyah or Natural power is the power of metabolism and reproduction. Liver is the seat of this power and the process is carried on in every tissue of the body.. Quwa Nafsaniyah or Psychic power refers to nervous and psychic power. It is located inside the brain and is responsible for perceptive and motive power. Quwa Haywaniyah or Vital power is responsible for maintaining life and enables all the organs to accept the effect of psychic power. This power is located in the heart. It keeps life running in the tissues. Afaal (Functions) This component refers to the movements and functions of all the organs of the body. In case of a healthy body the various organs are not only in proper shape but are also performing their respective functions.

Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves investigating the causes of disease thoroughly and in detail. For this, the physicians depend mainly on Pulse (Nabz) reading and examination of urine and stool. The alternative contraction and expansion of the arteries produced by the systolic and diastolic of heart is called Pulse (Nabz).

Prevention of Disease
Prevention of disease as curing of sickness. There is emphasis on the need for keeping water, food and air free from pollution. Six essentials prerequisites have been laid down for the promotion of health and prevention of disease. These are: Air Food and drinks Bodily movement and repose Psychic movement and repose Sleep and wakefulness Evacuation and retention Exercises as well as rest are considered necessary for maintaining good health. Exercise helps the growth of muscles and ensures nutrition, increases blood supply and proper functioning of excretory system. It also keeps the heart and the liver in good condition.

Therapeutics
In this system the entire personality of a patient is taken into account. Each individual has got its own basic structure, physique, make-up, self-defense mechanism, reaction to environmental factors, likes and dislikes. Unani medicine has the following main types of treatment Regimental therapy Dieto therapy Pharnacotherapy Surgery

Regimental therapy (Ilaj-bil-Tadbir)

Regimental therapy is special technique/physical methods of treatment to improve the constitution of body by removing waste materials and improving the defense mechanism of the body and protect health. Important techniques in regimental therapy : (a) Venesectio (Fasd): This method of treatment has been found very effective for:Correction of blood related problems and relieve high blood pressure.Prevention of toxicity and accumulation of waste matter in the blood.Excretion of waste matters from various parts of the body.Stimulation of metabolic processes. (b) Cupping (Al-hijama): This method of treatment is used for: Cleaning the skin of waste matters.To stop excessive menses or epistaxis.To correct liver diseases.To treat malaria and spleen disorders.To treat piles, inflammation of testes and uterus, scabies, boils etc. (c) Sweating (Tareeq) : Waste matter from skin, blood and from other parts of the body is excreted through the normal process of sweating. It helps in reducing excessive heat .

(d) Diuresis (Idrar-e- baul): Poisonous matters, waste products and the excess of humours is excreted through urine. It is applied as a cure for diseases of the heart, liver and lungs. (e) Turkish bath (Hamam): This is recommended for: Resolving the waste matter and increasing sweating,Increasing nutrition,Decreasing fat., (f) Massage (Dalk, Malish): soft massage is sedative and relaxant; dry and hard massage is deobstruent and increases the blood supply while the massage with oil relaxes the muscles and softens the skin. (g) Counter irritation: This technique provides relief in pain, burning sensation and irritation. It helps to reduce inflammation and heals tumors. (h) Cauterization (Amal-e-Kae): it prevents the poison malignancy of one organ from transferring it to other organs. In case of pain of hip joint, this technique is found very useful. By this technique the pathogenic matters, which are attached to some structures, are removed or resolved.

(i) Purging (Ishal): Unani medicine widely uses purgatives for intestinal evacuation. There are written rules for using this method. This method influences normal metabolic process.

(j) Vomiting (Qai): Emetics are used to cure headache, migraine, tonsillitis, bronchopneumonia and also bronchial asthma. This also cures mental diseases like mania and melancholia.
(k) Exercise (Riyazat): physical exercise has great importance for maintenance of good health and for treating certain diseases. It is said to be good for stomach and for strengthening digestion. There are laid down rules, timings and conditions for various types of exercises. (l) Leeching Taleeq-e-Alaq): This method is used for removing bad matter from the blood. This is useful in skin diseases and ringworms etc. The system describes specific conditions for applying it.

Dieto therapy (Ilaj-bil-Ghiza) In Unani treatment, food plays a key role. By regulating the quality and quantity of food several ailments are treated successfully. There are several published books, which deals with the subject of diet in relation to specific diseases. Certain foods are considered as laxative, diuretic and diaphoretic.

Pharmacotherapy (Ilaj-bil-Dawa) This type of treatment involves the use of naturally occurring drugs, mostly herbal. Drugs of animals and mineral origin are also used. Unani medicine presupposes that the drugs also have their own temperament. Since in this system, emphasis is laid on the particular temperament of the individual, the medicines, administered are such as go well with the temperament of the patient.Drugs are used in the form of powders, infusion, Jawarish, Majoon, Khamira, Syrup and tablets etc. The system has set rules for prescribing alternative drugs.

Surgery (Ilaj-bil-Yad ) This therapy is of very limited use, although the Unani system is credited to be pioneer in this field and having developed its own instruments and techniques. At present only minor surgery is in use in the system.

Siddha system of Medicine:

Introduction and Origin Siddha system is one of the oldest systems of medicine in India . The term Siddha means achievements and Siddhars were saintly persons who achieved results in medicine. Siddha literature is in Tamil . The Siddha System is largely therapeutic in nature. Basic Concepts Have a close similarity to Ayurveda, with specialization in Iatro-chemistry. According to this system the human body is the replica of the universe and so are the food and drugs irrespective of their origin. Like Ayurveda, this system believes that all objects in the universe including human body are composed of five basic elements namely, earth, water, fire, air and sky. The food, which the human body takes and the drugs it uses are all, made of these five elements. As in Ayurveda, This system also considers the human body as a conglomeration of three humours, seven basic tissues and the waste products of the body such as faeces, urine and sweat. The food is considered to be basic building material of human body .The equilibrium of humours is considered as health and its disturbance or imbalance leads to disease or sickness.

Strength The Siddha system is capable of treating all types of disease other than emergency cases. In general this system is effective in treating all types of skin problems particularly Psoriasis, STD, urinary tract infections, diseases of liver and gastro intestinal tract, general debility, postpartum anaemia, diarrhoea and general fevers in addition to arthritis and allergic disorders.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Identification of causative factors is through the examination of pulse, urine, eyes, study of voice, colour of body, tongue and the status of the digestive system. The Siddha System of Medicine emphasises that medical treatment is oriented not merely to disease but has to take into account the patient, environment, the meteorological consideration, age, sex, race, habits, mental frame, habitat, diet, appetite, physical condition, physiological etc.

The Siddha System also deals with the problems affecting the womens health. The care for womens health starts from the first day of the girl child. The Siddha System strongly advocates breast feeding upto the first three months of the life. The Siddha System believes in the principle of Food itself is medicine and during this nursing period, lactating mothers are advised to take the food rich in iron, protein and fibre so as to prevent any nutritional disorders both to the child as well as the mothers.

Cont

The Siddha Medicines which contains mercury, silver, arsenic, lead and sulphur have been found to be effective in treating certain infectious diseases including venereal diseases.

Practitioners have claimed that Siddha medicines are effective in reducing the highly debilitating problems that manifest themselves among patients of HIV/AIDS. More research into the efficacy of these medicines is presently in progress.

Homeopathy system of medicine:

Homeopathy has been in practice for 170 years by thousands of practitioners and there are over 100 homeopathy journals world-wide. Homoeopathy is a therapeutic method was developed by German physician Samuel Christian Hahnemann at the end of the 18th centuary. Definition: The term homeopathy comes from the Greek words homeo, meaning similar, and pathos, meaning suffering or disease. Homeopathy seeks to stimulate the bodys ability to heal itself by giving very small doses of highly diluted substances. Basic laws, diagnosis and treatment methods: These laws are:

The law of direction of cure: the direction of cure states that during curative process the symptoms disappear in the reverse order of its appearance- from above downwards, from more important organs to less important organs/from center to periphery etc.

The law of single remedy: No matter how many symptoms are experienced only one remedy is taken, and that remedy will be aimed at all those symptoms. The law of minimum doses: The remedy is taken in an extremely dilute form. Homeopathy is a second most widely used system of medicine in the world This success is fueled by several factors: Homeopathy is extremely effective. When the correct remedy is taken, results can be rapid, complete and permanent. Homeopathy is completely safe. Even babies and pregnant women can use Homeopathy without the danger of side effects. Homeopathic remedies can also be taken alongside other medication without producing unwanted side effects.

Homeopathy is natural. Homeopathic remedies are normally based on natural ingredients. Homeopathy works in harmony with your immune system. Homeopathic remedies are not addictive - once relief is felt, you should stop taking them. If no relief is felt, you are probably taking the wrong homeopathic remedy. Homeopathy has effective treatment for individuals with chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, bronchial asthma, skin, allergic and immunological disorders, behavioural disorders, mental diseases and for several other diseases. The services are rendered by private practitioners and practitioners working in government and non-government dispensaries, outpatient departments of hospitals, clinics etc.

Complementary Therapies
Complementary medicine used with conventional medicine Use is increasing Less expensive Have fewer side effects

More accessible
Increase in spirituality Personal growth Environmentalism Preventive health care

The Benefits of Complementary Therapy

Complementary therapies can help to restore the bodys natural equilibrium.

It can cope with the everyday stresses and strains of life much more effectively.
Complementary therapies can ; boost the immune system, help eliminate toxins, help relieve pain, improve circulation, improve sleep patterns, increase energy levels, induce deep relaxation, reduce stress and tension, restore balance to body systems. Complementary therapies can be used to target a specific physical, mental, emotional or spiritual problem.

Biologically Based Therapies

Dietary Therapies Herbs Aromatherapy

Dietary Therapies
Protective or healing agents found in plant and animal foods. Free radicals: unstable molecules that alter genetic codes and trigger the development of cancer growth in cells. Antioxidants: react with free radicals, preventing their damaging effects Sources of antioxidants: vitamin C, beta-carotene, vitamin E Macrobiotic Diets Balanced foods Foods to avoid: processed and treated foods, red meat, sugar, dairy products, eggs, caffeine Caution: children and pregnant women may have deficiency in Vitamins D and B12

Herbal Therapies
Herbal Medicine has always attracted some scientific interest and many well known drugs are plant-derived. E.g. Digoxin from foxgloves and Morphine from poppies. Sold as food or food supplements in health food stores No health claims can be made on label Ginger is an effective remedy for nausea and vomiting. Alovera is effective for bowel disease and it is antibacterial and antifungal in nature. Tea tree oil may be effective against fungal infections such as atheletic foot. Onions and Garlic may protect against cancers if eaten regularly.

Aroma Therapy
Aroma therapy is based on the healing power of plant oil which may be massaged into the skin, inhaled or used in the bath. It is said to induce a feeling of wellbeing. Aroma therapy massage relieves tension and improves circulations and can reduce anxiety Lavender promotes relaxation & sleep Peppermint stimulation, concentration Sandalwood ease depression Lemon promotes sleep/ tx for insomnia and/or digestive disorders

Energy Therapies
Reflexology Therapeutic touch Reiki

Reflexology Therapy
A variant of massage therapy, relies on manual pressure applied to specific areas of the foot; these areas are believed to correspond to different organs or body systems via meridians. Stimulation of these areas is believed to eliminate the blockage of energy responsible for pain or disease in the corresponding body part.

Therapeutic Touch Therapy

Therapeutic touch is a mostly secular variant of faith healing, started by Dolores Krieger in the early 1970s. The Therapeutic touch practitioners moves his hands over the patients body, specifically the affected area, without actually touching the patient.

The practice is based on the belief that living beings have an energy field or aura which extends beyond the surface of the body that can be manipulated by the therapist. No evidence of effectiveness has been found.

Reiki Therapy
Reiki (pronounced Ray-key) is a Japanese word meaning Universal Life Energy, an energy which is all around us. Reiki is the name of the system of natural healing which was re-discovered in Japan in the early 1900s by Dr Mikao Usui, a Japanese Buddhist and teacher.

Dr. Usui was inspired to develop this healing system from ancient teachings after many years of study, research and meditation. He devoted the rest of his life practising and teaching Reiki.
Reiki is a gentle and powerfully effective form of natural hands on healing which works on every level of your being, spiritual, mental, emotional and physical.

During the treatment the practitioner gently places their hands nonintrusively in a sequence of positions which cover all the main energy centres of the whole body. As a holistic therapy the whole person is treated rather than specific symptoms. Reiki healing can be given anywhere and at any time as no special equipment is required. The practitioner is a purely channel for the healing energy which is drawn through them by the need or imbalances in the recipient

Mind Body Techniques

It is based on the theory that mental and emotional factors can influence physical health. Behavioral, psychological, social and spiritual methods are used to preserve health and prevent or cure disease.

Methods of Mind body technique inlude: Meditation Relaxation Technique Guided imagery Hypnotherapy Biofeedback

Meditation: People regulate their attentions or sytematically focus on particular aspects of inner or outer experience. Meditation involves sitting or resting quietly and often with the eyes closed. sometimes it involves the repetitive sounding of a mantra mean to help the person focus. Meditation helps in: Stress relief/ reduce anxiety Relaxation Decreased oxygen consumption Slowed heart rate Decreased blood pressure Improved function of immune system Reduce pain

Relaxation
Relaxation technique are practices specifically designed to relieve tension and strain. The specific technique may be aimed at reducing activity of the nerves that control the stress response, lowering blood pressure and slowing metabolic processes. Relaxation techniques may be used in combination with other relaxation techniques such as medication, guided imagery and hynotherapy.

Guided Imagery
Distraction when confronting pain, discomfort or fear Making decisions and altering behavior Caution: not recommended for emotionally unstable or cognitively impaired client Helps reduce pain. Reduction of nausea & vomiting. Decreasing anxiety Promoting comfort during cancer treatment Example: A person with cancer might be told to imagine an army of W.B.C fighting against the cancer cells.

Hynotherapy
This therapy is derived from western practice. In hynotherapy (hypnosis), people are guided to an advanced stage of relaxation and hightened attentions. Hypontized people become observed in the images suggested by the hypnotherapist. Hypnotherapy can be used to help people change their behavior and thus improve their health.

Other Therapies
Dance Therapy Music Therapy Laughter Therapy Prayer

Summary
In alternative system of medicine we have discussed that India, an ancient civilization, has varied community supported living traditions including medical traditions. Indian medical traditions include folk medicine and classical medical system. Alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medicine.

Ayurveda is the main alternate classical medical system in India. Apart from main stream ayurveda, there are its regional streams e.g.sidha .other important traditional medical systems include yoga, naturopathy, unani and homeopathy. These systems are known as alternate system of medicine. These are practiced in government as well as in private sector.

Conclusion
Alternative system of medicine is very effective for the treatment of many types of diseases. Every alternative system of medicine has its own advantages. There are various effective treatments for individuals with chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, bronchial asthma, skin, allergic and immunological disorders, behavioral disorders, mental diseases and for several other diseases. Earlier alternative system of medicine were not so much popular but now a days alternative system of medicine are highly popular and government also supported these alternative system of medicine.

THANKS