Alternative medicine is a type of therapeutic practice that is not considered to be a part of traditional or conventional medical treatment.  People use alternative medicine instead of using traditional medical treatment.  This is often because they feel it is a natural way to get better.

There are many types of alternative medicine.  Some are covered by medical insurance, but most are not.  Some forms of alternative medicine that may be covered are chiropractic and osteopathic therapy.  These forms of alternative medicine are widely used.

There are other forms of alternative medicine that are not as widely used, but are becoming more popular by the minute.  These are:  massage therapy, therapeutic touch, folk medicine, herbal medicine, special diets, homeopathy, music therapy, aromatherapy, naturopathy, faith healing, and new age healing.  There are also some non-western forms of alternative medicine such as:  Chinese medicine, gi gong, reiki, and ayarveda.

There are some less commonly practiced forms of alternative medicine as well.  One is called biofield therapy.  This is a form of alternative medicine that works with your so called "energy fields" to heal you.  Another is bioelectrical magnetic therapy.  This alternative medicine uses pulse and magnetic fields to heal you.

Alternative medicine is quite popular for people who are terminally ill.  Many AIDS and cancer patients prefer it.  An example of this is a cancer patient who uses alternative medicine instead of receiving traditional chemotherapy or radiation therapy.  People also use alternative medicine to heal ailments such as back pain or migraines.  Instead of traditional painkillers, the patients would use aromatherapy, sound therapy or herbal therapy.  Alternative medicine is even used on animals.  Have you ever seen the movie "The Horse Whisperer?"  That was about a form of alternative medicine used on an animal.  Acupuncture, herbal therapy, and others have also been used on animals.

The last thing you should know is that there is no scientific evidence that alternative medicine is effective.  There have been no scientific studies to prove if they are safe or if they work for the diseases or ailments they are used for.  Before using an alternative medicine, talk to your doctor, make sure your doctor feels it is safe and will not harm you.

There are many different kinds of alternative medicines to choose from.  Now that you understand it a bit better, you can decide if it is right for you.  For more information talk to your doctor or research it online.  With careful research, you may find one that is right for you.