TIME Alternative Medicine

Much of what has long been labeled "alternative" medicine is actually viable ancient wisdom common for millennia. In a time of skyrocketing health insurance costs and with prescription drugs that often seem to cause as much harm as good, these natural, time-tested practices have moved into the mainstream. Between 30 and 40 percent of Americans seek out alternative treatments, such as acupuncture and natural remedies, spending more than $30 billion each year. Now, this special edition helps you unpack the sea of choices and navigate the trends for science-backed information.

Trace a timeline to the origins of these modern treatments and explore the effective mystery of acupuncture; how to bend and be well with yoga; the healing power of plants, including cannabis; the dietary cleanse and the simple power of mindfulness to reduce stress. You'll even find tips on getting coverage from your insurance company. Reconsider the brutal costs and unnecessary side effects of many modern preventions and treatments with this special edition of alternatives.