HEALTH: SO, WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES?
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Acupuncture: Needles in the lung area can deflate the lung; over the heart and spinal cord they can cause nerve damage. Also, needles may be "lost" in the body or carry infections. Last year, 60 people in north London were infected with hepatitis B after receiving an obscure form of acupuncture that involved re-injecting their blood.
Shiatsu: Not suitable if you are pregnant, or have tumour activity or problematic joints.
Reflexology: This treatment may stimulate contractions in pregnant women.
Herbal remedies: They may be harmful, or interfere with prescribed medicines. This year, the Government put an emergency ban on aristolochia, used for eczema, urinary and rheumatic conditions, after two women suffered kidney failure.
Aromatherapy: Not suitable for pregnant women or children. Side-effects can include burns, rashes, sickness and miscarriages. Essential oils can also interfere with medication.
Osteopathy: Can aggravate weaknesses, in the wrong hands. In 1994, a London man died from brain-stem damage after an osteopath manipulated his neck while treating his tennis elbow.
Eva Johansson
The Institute for Complementary Medicine, a charity committed to high standards of training, has put together a register of practitioners. Contact: www.icmedicine.co.uk
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments