Types of Alternative Medicine: What They Do and How to Choose
- AJ
- Jul 29
- 5 min read
Updated: Jul 31
A Practical Guide for Those Seeking Natural and Personalized Care, Especially After 55
Personal Note
Trial and Error
Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to try a variety of alternative medicine methods, some worked, others didn’t. The results weren’t consistently good or bad. In my experience, it depends on the issue and the practitioner’s level of experience.
Now that I’m over 55, I find that this kind of care matters even more, especially when it comes to energy, digestion and navigating long-term health without unnecessary medications.
Early Success
My first successful experience was with acupuncture at age 17, when two sessions greatly reduced unbearable menstrual pain for years. Later, at 36, I saw an Ayurvedic doctor who treated me for a range of confusing stress-related symptoms after a major life change.
The Practitioner Who Got It Right
Then I met my favorite doctor of all, a chiropractor of Japanese descent, knowledgeable in Chinese medicine and acupressure. He’s very gentle, understands that I’m a highly sensitive person (HSP), and treats me accordingly.
What I Like About Integrative Medicine
I’ve also had good experiences with integrative medicine doctors and nurse practitioners. They spend more time with you than standard MDs and don’t just treat symptoms. They listen and are willing to order tests to look for underlying causes before prescribing medication. That said, it’s helpful that they can prescribe it when needed.
Where It Gets Complicated
My experiences with naturopathic doctors, other chiropractors, acupuncturists, and one Chinese medicine doctor were mixed. I didn’t like that the naturopath I saw couldn’t prescribe tests or medication, which meant I had to either pay out of pocket or go through a regular MD. The other chiropractors I tried were not gentle at all. And the Chinese doctor gave me herbs so strong they made me sick for a week, but failed to recognize the actual issue. Some of these practitioners were also expensive and pushy about supplements or follow-up visits.
What Matters Most
So the point is, when you look for an alternative medicine practitioner, work with someone who makes you feel heard and respected. We already get enough pressure from rushed MDs who spend five minutes with us, then expect us to take medications with side effects that can last a lifetime.
Understanding the Different Types of Alternative Medicine
There are many types of alternative medicine, from practices focused on energy balance to those rooted in physical manipulation or preventive care. This guide outlines the most common types of alternative medicine practitioners, what they offer, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Integrative Medicine Doctors (MDs or DOs)
These are fully licensed medical doctors who combine standard treatments with evidence-based alternative therapies.
Credentials: MD or DO with additional certification in integrative care (MD stands for Medical Doctor; DO stands for Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, a fully licensed physician with training in musculoskeletal techniques and a whole-body approach to care)
Methods: Nutrition, supplements, acupuncture, lifestyle changes, stress management
Insurance: Often accepted
Best for: People who want holistic options alongside conventional medical care
Functional Medicine Doctors, Practitioners
Functional medicine includes a wide range of personalized approaches aimed at identifying and addressing the root causes of chronic illness. It uses a systems-based model that looks at how different body systems interact, often going beyond conventional diagnostics.
Credentials: MDs, DOs, chiropractors, or nurse practitioners with additional training in functional medicine
Methods: Lab testing (hormones, microbiome, food sensitivities, genetics), detox plans, nutrition, lifestyle interventions, and in some cases, epigenetic analysis to better understand how environment and habits influence gene expression
Insurance: Often not covered
Best for: People with chronic symptoms or complex health issues who want a deeper understanding of their biology and a long-term, tailored plan
Chiropractors (DCs)
Chiropractors focus on spinal alignment and neuromuscular health. Some expand into lifestyle and nutritional counseling.
Credentials: Doctor of Chiropractic (DC)
Methods: Spinal adjustments, muscle release, posture therapy
Insurance: Often covered
Best for: Back and neck pain, posture, headaches, nerve compression
Naturopathic Doctors (NDs)
Naturopaths combine herbal medicine, nutrition, and preventive care. They receive medical training but are not MDs.
Credentials: ND from an accredited naturopathic medical school
Methods: Herbs, supplements, dietary changes, detox, lifestyle counseling
Insurance: Varies by state and provider
Best for: Prevention, chronic illness, non-pharmaceutical support
Unlicensed Naturopaths and Wellness Coaches
These practitioners often offer guidance on supplements and lifestyle but are not medically trained.
Credentials: Vary; may be certified as wellness coaches or herbalists
Methods: Lifestyle tips, herbs, non-clinical health advice
Insurance: Not accepted
Best for: Basic wellness support and general health goalss
Holistic Health Coaches and Energy Practitioners
This group includes non-medical professionals who support emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being.
Examples: Yoga teachers, meditation coaches, Reiki healers, herbalists
Methods: Energy work, breathwork, plant medicine
Insurance: Not accepted
Best for: Stress, sleep, life transitions, emotional regulation
Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), sometimes simply referred to as Chinese medicine, includes acupuncture, herbal formulas, cupping, tai chi, and other practices focused on restoring internal balance.
Credentials: L.Ac.(Licensed Acupuncturist) or TCM certification
Methods: Needle therapy, herbal formulas, bodywork
Insurance: Sometimes covered
Best for: Chronic pain, hormonal issues, sleep, digestion
Ayurvedic Practitioners
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian healing system that uses herbs, food and daily rituals to bring balance to the body’s doshas (energetic types).
Credentials: Certified in Ayurvedic medicine (not always licensed in the U.S.)
Methods: Body typing, herbal formulas, oils, detox (panchakarma), breathwork
Insurance: Not accepted
Best for: Stress, digestion, fatigue, prevention
Red Flags to Watch For
Avoid practitioners who:
Promise instant or miracle cures
Dismiss conventional medicine entirely
Refuse to explain their qualifications or treatment plans
Pressure you to buy expensive supplements or packages
Questions to Ask Before Starting Treatment
Training and Safety
Are you licensed or certified in your field?
Do you have experience with my specific issue?
Treatment Approach
What methods do you use and why?
How long before I may see results?
Costs and Communication
Are your services covered by insurance?
Will you collaborate with my other doctors?
Do you offer clear pricing or package options?
How to Choose the Right Alternative Medicine Practitioner
Start with a one-time consult
Ask if they’ll work with your primary doctor
Check how responsive their office is
Make sure pricing and expectations are clear
Ask for referrals and read reviews, but trust your gut
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and may include curated or personal content. It is not medical advice. Please consult a licensed provider before making health decisions.
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