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For thousands of years, what today we call *alternative* medicine was the *only* medicine. The last decade has witnessed a revival of traditional remedies as, tired of Western medicine's reliance on pharmaceutical drugs, people return to herbal medicine, which together with a healthy diet and lifestyle can be used to treat various ailments and improve general well-being.

Alternative medicine regards health as more than just the absence of disease: it's a holistic state of optimal physical, mental and social wellness. From a balanced breakfast to a good night's sleep, there are many simple ways to enhance your well-being. Even if you've never felt better, there are a range of supplements available to make sure you stay that way. As the old saying goes, prevention is the best cure.

Due to current agricultural and processing practices, the typical Western diet can be woefully deficient in essential vitamins and minerals. Those on restrictive diets, such as strict vegetarians and weight-watchers, are at particular risk. Supplements are no substitute for healthy eating but a good daily MULTI-VITAMIN can go a long way to ensuring you get what your body needs.

Women in their thirties and forties should consider taking a supplement of CALCIUM and MAGNESIUM to reduce the risk of osteoporosis in later life. Osteoporosis is a silent disease that often goes unnoticed until a broken bone occurs but bone loss can begin in the late thirties and progresses rapidly during the menopause.

Much has been written about the "anti-ageing" properties of antioxidants in recent years. Their benefits lie in their power to neutralize free radicals in the body, believed to be the cause of premature ageing, heart disease and cancer. GREEN TEA and GINKGO BILOBA are both excellent sources of antioxidants and are also renowned for improving memory and mental alertness and lowering blood pressure.

When it comes to the sneezes, ECHINACEA has a popular reputation for fighting off colds and flu. It's also an excellent antiseptic which in cream form can be used to treat cuts, grazes and minor wounds.

For stress-relief, CHAMOMILE is a natural sedative which may be useful to those who suffer from anxiety, insomnia or tension headaches. For a natural energy boost, try SIBERIAN GINSENG instead of coffee to perk you up. (Because of its potency, Siberian Ginseng is not recommended for the elderly or infirm.)

The multiplicity of vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and herbal supplements available in creams, oils, teas, tinctures, tisanes and tablets can be overwhelming. Which is for you? A reputable health store have trained staff ready to answer your questions; some may even provide a consultation with a naturopath or herbalist for a fee. However, if you're currently taking medications or have a serious health condition it's wise to consult your physician before taking any herbal products. Like any medicine, herbal remedies can have side-effects and may interact with other drugs. Natural does not always mean harmless - think how many plants are poisonous. Particular caution should be exercised if pregnant or breast-feeding.

Learn more about this author, AK MacKendrick.
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