Acupressure is a treatment technique that involves application of pressure at the acupuncture points. Acupressure techniques include pressing, rubbing, chafing, rolling, pinching, kneading, wiping, etc. Corrective exercises may also be a part of the treatment course. Acupressure is a part of the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) philosophy. It is used to treat conditions such as obesity and motion sickness.

Puncture with long, fine needles belonging to an ancient Oriental system of therapy

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment philosophy that makes use of extremely fine needles that are sterilized and inserted at specific acupuncture points in the body that lie on the energy pathways. Acupuncture has many votaries who vouch for its effectiveness in controlling pain and allergies. It is also used as an anesthetic procedure for surgical operations. Nerves stimulated by acupuncture needles are said to block pain. The philosophy of acupuncture focuses on the balance of Yin and Yang that govern the flow of energy (chi) in the human body. Acupuncture practitioners also make use of electrical impulses (electroacupuncture) and heat (moxibustion).

A substance not naturally a part of a material but deliberately added to fulfill some specific purpose

The Alexander technique emphasizes self-help and introspection as a method for preventing and overcoming habits that may interfere with physical and mental health. The principles of the Alexander Technique were formulated by F. Matthias Alexander. Purported benefits of this technique, as mentioned by practitioners, include improved awareness, better balance and stamina, and less tension in the muscles.

Relating to a therapeutic system in which a disease is treated by producing a second condition that is incompatible with or antagonistic to the first.

A category of different approaches to treatment that are considered non-conventional as against western allopathic treatment which is considered the standard form of medicine to be practiced by doctors. Traditional Chinese medicine, ayurveda, aromatherapy, homeopathy, acupuncture, naturopathy, etc are some of the forms of medicine and healing that come under alternative medicine. Alternative medicine is not a part of the syllabus taught in medical schools. Alternative medicine has gained mainstream popularity over the past few years mainly because these therapies are largely drug-free and for thousands of years they have been yielding results in the lands of their origin and wherever they have been practiced. Allopathic practitioners often combine aspects of alternative medicine for treating their patients.

As the name suggests, aromatherapy is a treatment based on fragrances. Several plant parts like flowers, leaves, roots, stems and seeds have special oils the fragrances of which are known to have excellent curative properties. Known to some of the ancient civilizations like Egypt and India since 1500 BC, the fragrances of essential oils in aromatherapy stimulate nerve ends in the nose and activate release of many hormones and enzymes in the body that restore good health, mental stability, and lift sagging spirits. Moreover, some of these oils have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that make them very useful for localized applications for control of pain and swelling and quick healing of cuts and abrasions. Aromatherapy ingredients can be inhaled – either directly through the nose or indirectly by spraying the fragrances in the surroundings, or applied externally to the affected site. Massage therapy, aromatic bath etc. are some of the processes associated with aromatherapy.

Auricular therapy also known as auriculotherapy. It involves techniques of acupuncture and it works on the premise that the outer ear can be considered to be a mini representation of the entire body.

Thus, by manipulating this micro system, the entire body can be treated successfully. Auricular therapy finds mention in ancient medical treatises of both China and Egypt.

Ayurveda translates as the “Science of Life”, it is holistic system of preventive healthcare that dates back to ancient times; it draws its information from the Vedas. Ayurveda is practiced primarily in India where even today many ayurvedic pharmacies exist and are doing good business. Ayurveda considers body, mind, and spirit in the treatment of an affliction. It relies chiefly on dietary restrictions and herbal medicines; other options include aromatherapy, massage, meditation, and even surgery. Ayurveda stresses a balance between the three humors – Vata (air), Pitta (fire), and Kapha (water).