The phrases "natural medicine" and "natural treatments" are frequently used to describe all sorts of alternative products and treatments but unfortunately, they are also often misused or used to misdirect you into thinking that you are obtaining something 'wholesome' when you are not.
The actual definition of "natural medicine" is a food or other ingredient (such as an herb or supplement) which, in its simplest whole form, has the ability to cure disease or to restore good health. Natural medicine means making use of whole foods and the natural bounty of healthful options provided by the world around us.
Most consumers may think that if it's natural, it must be safe, but that is not entirely true, especially with herbs. There are many natural medicines that in fact are poisons and are thus detrimental to our health. Herbs also may have ingredients that can cause allergic reactions, side effects or interfere with other herbs or medications. You should also realize that the herbal products you buy must be processed and can vary in potency depending on many different factors in the growing, harvesting and manufacturing processes.
As an extension, "natural treatments" are actions that can help our bodies harmonize and return to homeostasis (internal stability or balance). Besides natural foods and herbs (which are considered natural treatments when used to treat disease), there are other natural treatments whose function is to induce the body to heal itself or restore normal function. Such natural treatments include QiGong/Tai chi and mind-body techniques. Although natural treatments can also have some pitfalls, they are generally much safer than conventional medical treatments. They are also usually much less expensive and can be much more effective as well.
At Balanced Healing, we pride ourselves on providing only those natural medicines and treatments (including our QiGong and hypnosis CDs) that are considered safe and effective. All natural PRODUCTS are produced by certified manufacturing processes that insure potency and purity. As added support, we provide information and education on natural medicine and natural treatments in our books, articles and medical news so that you can obtain true natural healing.