Alternative Treatments

Detoxing (also called elimination diets)
What it is: In our modern world of highly processed foods, pesticides and chemical contaminants, our bodies are continually overloaded with more toxins than our organs are able to eliminate. All those toxins—from PCBs and mercury to steroids and antibiotics—eventually attach to our fatty tissue and disrupt our natural state of wellness. Detoxing—or elimination diets—helps remove these substances and give our bodies’ detoxification systems a little R&R so they can function optimally. A detox package, designed by a naturopathic medicine professional, usually involves a diet—eliminating foods such as wheat, dairy, meat, caffeine, alcohol, refined sugar or processed foods—along with herbal supplements and complementary treatments such as massage and colonic irrigation in which the lower bowel is cleansed.

Who it benefits: Those who are experiencing symptoms of toxicity—bad breath, allergies, fatigue, digestive problems and headaches, for example. Teens and pregnant women, who can’t afford to deprive themselves of any food group, should avoid elimination diets. 

What to know before trying it: As the old adage goes, you may feel worse before you feel better. Detox diets can cause painful cramping and frequent trips to the bathroom. After only a few days or weeks—depending on the duration and intensity of the cleanse—many patients shed pounds and feel an increased energy level. 

Credential check: Though there are many over-the-counter products and supplements aimed at expelling unwanted toxins, some are potentially harmful. A better course is to detox under supervision of a state-licensed naturopathic doctor (N.D.). Where to find it: Kerala Ayurveda Clinic and Academy, and Bastyr Center for Natural Health, both in Wallingford.


Homeopathy
What it is: A type of natural medicine based on the theory of treating “like with like,” homeopathic remedies are diluted natural substances that would produce the symptoms the medicine is prescribed for if given to a healthy person. For example, homeopathic bee venom would make a healthy person experience swelling and feel hot, stinging pain; however, if people experiencing similar symptoms caused by arthritis see their homeopathic doctors, they might be treated with homeopathic bee venom to cure or relieve their arthritic symptoms.

Who it benefits: Anyone who is neither on a lot of medications nor leading an unhealthy lifestyle (in other words, cut the nicotine and heavy drinking and try getting some sleep first). People experiencing anxiety, chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have found homeopathy particularly useful.

What to know before trying it: The intake interview involves a complete patient assessment (lasting as long as two hours), with the aim of treating a patient’s whole constellation of symptoms, not just the person’s chief complaint. Seattle-based naturopathic doctor Brad Lichtenstein says homeopathy can drastically change your life: “It’s one of the few truly holistic medicines.”

Credential check: Seek out a naturopathic doctor (N.D.) who specializes in homeopathy. Where to find it: Bastyr Center for Natural Health in Wallingford and Ravenna Homeopathic Clinic in Ravenna.


Reiki
What it is: This ancient Japanese form of energy healing for stress reduction and relaxation is based on the idea that “chi,” a life force energy, flows through us. Disrupting chi can lead to feeling unwell. A reiki practitioner channels chi through her body and out through her hands, guiding the energy to the areas where the patient needs it. The philosophy of reiki is that the body knows how to heal itself and reiki merely gives the body a healing boost.

Who it benefits: Those experiencing anxiety or depression and post-surgery patients who find it a useful supplement to traditional rehabilitation practices. Because it’s relaxing and gentle, the elderly find it particularly beneficial. Some reiki practitioners, such as Courtney Putnam of Rising Bird Healing Arts, practice reiki on both people and their animal companions. 

What to know before trying it: You’ll lie, fully clothed, on a massage table. Some reiki practitioners don’t put their hands on the body—instead hovering above it—but others do. Energy often emerges as heat, so you may feel a lot of warmth and some tingling between your body and the practitioner’s hands. 

Credential check: Look for a certified reiki practitioner (C.R.P.) who has trained under a reiki master (though readers should note, there is no official certification entity for reiki). Many certified reiki practitioners are also licensed massage therapists. Where to find it: Rising Bird Healing Arts studio and Dreamclinic, both in Roosevelt.