Natural Remedies

Overview

Ancient remedies meet modern science in the field of integrative therapies. This module will touch on what is often considered “natural” remedies, hence the name. Many of us want to use remedies that come closest to nature and have few side effects. Let’s look at some definitions in this realm. Alternative implies a remedy that is used in the place of a recommended treatment from a conventional practitioner. You should always tell your practitioner of any therapies you are using.

Complementary therapy is the term used to describe an intervention that is in addition to a conventional form of treatment. These interventions include the use of plants as medicine, meditation, guided imagery, practices in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda and more.  Again, always tell your practitioner what therapies you are using.

This module will use the term “Integrative Therapies”. This means using the evidence based remedy that fits best for the ailment no matter if is considered mainstream, natural, alternative or complementary. This modules focuses on some of the most frequent health complaints of students: stress, anxiety, colds, flu, stomach upset, muscle soreness and strains.

Everything we recommend here has research-based evidence of effectiveness. These therapies won’t work for all your health care needs; you may still need to visit a clinic, prompt care, emergency room or mental health therapist, but this is a good place to start if it not an emergency or crisis.

Students talking to students about their experiences with some select natural remedies.

Captioned Version Links to an external site.

The information in these modules is not intended to replace the services and advice from a medical or mental health professional.