Interest In Complementary Therapies Research Articles

The Role of Animal Assisted Therapy in the Rehabilitation of Mental Health Disorders: A Systematic Literature Review

Mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and schizophrenia significantly reduce the daily functioning and quality of life of individuals. Traditional treatments often fall short, thus opening interest in complementary therapies like animal assisted therapy (AAT) which encourages the human-animal bond and gives emotional and psychological support. This review evaluated the efficacy of AAT in treating mental health disorders, and understanding its mechanisms and benefits. A comprehensive literature review was conducted (using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate) focused on peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews and meta-analyses published in the last 2 decades. Studies indicated that AAT improved mental health outcomes for people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and schizophrenia. Interaction with therapy animals reduced cortisol levels, increased oxytocin, lowered blood pressure, and increased social engagement and emotional regulation. Benefits included reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and improved social functioning and quality of life. AAT offered a complementary treatment for mental health disorders, providing emotional comfort, improving mood, and serving as a nonpharmacological option for individuals. However, challenges such as individual preferences, allergies, ethical concerns for therapy animals, and logistical issues must be addressed. Future research should focus on the long-term effects and mechanisms involved to optimize the application of AAT in the clinical setting, and alternatives like robotic companion pets could also be explored.

Exploring the Impact of Meditation Therapy on CD4 Levels in HIV/AIDS Patients at Karawang Hospital

Background: The HIV/AIDS epidemic remains a significant global health concern, with increasing prevalence in Indonesia's Karawang Regency. People living with HIV/AIDS face numerous challenges, including a decline in immune function and CD4 T-cell depletion. While antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the primary treatment, there is a growing interest in complementary therapies to support immune function and overall well-being. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of meditation therapy on CD4 levels in HIV/AIDS patients at Karawang Regional General Hospital. Methods: A quasiexperimental study with a prepost design was conducted on 15 HIV/AIDS patients with CD4 levels ranging from 200–500 cells/mm3. The participants engaged in meditation sessions twice a week, twice daily, for one month. CD4 levels were measured before and after the intervention. Demographic data were collected, and statistical analyses were performed via paired t tests (p<0.05). Results: Most of the participants were male (80%), aged 31-37 years (46.7%), and had a vocational high school education (40%). Preintervention CD4 levels ranged from 226 to 459 cells/mm3 (mean: 334.87±57.583), whereas postintervention levels ranged from 220 to 467 cells/mm3 (mean: 340.93±62.721). A paired t test revealed no statistically significant effect of meditation therapy on CD4 levels (p=0.150). Conclusion: This study revealed no significant increase in CD4 levels following a one-month meditation intervention in HIV/AIDS patients. While this research does not support the use of short-term meditation therapy to increase CD4 levels in HIV/AIDS patients, it underscores the need for further investigation of complementary therapies for this population.

Exploring the Efficacy of Plantar Reflexology as a Complementary Approach for Headache Management: A Comprehensive Review.

Headaches are a prevalent health issue affecting diverse populations worldwide, driving a growing interest in complementary therapies like reflexology. This review aims to comprehensively evaluate the potential of plantar reflexology as a complementary approach for managing headaches. Employing a systematic approach, databases were scoured for studies on plantar reflexology's efficacy in headache management. From 23 initial contenders, three studies meeting the inclusion criteria, two randomized controlled trials and a pilot study, were examined for treatment efficacy and quality. Our review highlights three primary studies, collectively indicating a significant enhancement in treatment efficacy within the plantar reflexology groups when compared to control groups. These findings suggest that plantar reflexology exhibits potential as an effective complementary therapy for managing headaches. However, in light of these promising results, a more cautious approach is advisable. There is a pressing need for more rigorous and high-quality research to substantiate these outcomes in real-world contexts and applications. Plantar reflexology emerges as an option within the field of headache management. While its efficacy is promising, the specific mechanisms behind its action require further investigation. Positioned among a range of treatment modalities, plantar reflexology distinguishes itself as a safe and non-invasive alternative. This review underscores the necessity for additional research, encouraging the scientific community to delve into this intriguing avenue for headache relief and expand our comprehension of its potential advantages.

Insights on Natural Products Against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes the death of motor neurons and consequent muscle paralysis. Despite many efforts to address it, current therapy targeting ALS remains limited, increasing the interest in complementary therapies. Over the years, several herbal preparations and medicinal plants have been studied to prevent and treat this disease, which has received remarkable attention due to their blood-brain barrier penetration properties and low toxicity. Thus, this review presents the therapeutic potential of a variety of medicinal herbs and their relationship with ALS and their physiopathological pathways.

The Role of Medicinal Plants in Drug Discovery across the World

Throughout the dawn of time, medicinal plants have been crucial in minimizing human suffering from ailments, afflictions, and diseases. This study examines the pharmacological role, contributions, and value of medicinal plants in treating significant illnesses for public health, emphasizing the current strategic approaches to disease prevention. Interest in complementary therapies and the therapeutic use of plants has increased as a result of the crucial role that medicinal plants have played in the sustainable management of human health. This is because it is cheaper than manufactured, synthetic kinds of Medicine. Yet, medicinal plants are in peril because of man's intervention and unregulated wild collection. It is thus advised that purposeful domestication and cultivation efforts are crucial for ensuring a steady supply of these plant species.

Evolving healthcare; nurses’ attitudes towards complementary therapies

Abstract Background Integration of complementary therapies alongside conventional medical treatment is common and affects health behaviour and outcomes. Nurses frequently interact with patients and their attitudes to these therapies may play a significant role in decision-making. This mixed-method study investigated nurses' attitudes and behaviour towards complementary therapies. Methods A sequential exploratory design was utilised. Qualitative data were collected via interviews with nurses working in primary and tertiary settings, in all states of Australia. Interview data underwent thematic analysis. Findings from the interviews informed the development of a questionnaire, which was used to conduct a national online survey. Survey data were descriptively analysed using frequency distributions and percentages. Results Nineteen nurses were interviewed and 614 responded to the survey. Themes that emerged from the qualitative data were; Promoting safe care, Seeking complementary therapies knowledge; Supporting holistic health care and Integrating complementary therapies in practice. Survey responses revealed most nurses (77.5%) discussed complementary therapies with patients. More than one half (55.5%) would 'sometimes' recommend complementary therapies and 12.0% would 'almost always/always' do so. The majority (91.8%) believed nurses should have some understanding of complementary therapies. There was a lack of agreement regarding integration of these therapies into nursing practice. Conclusions Nurses were generally supportive of patients' interest in complementary therapies and want basic education about these therapies. Key messages Nurses working in Australia often engage with patients about complementary therapies. Increasing nurses’ complementary therapy knowledge is likely to promote informed decision-making and improve patient safety.

Dünyada ve Türkiye’de Tamamlayıcı Terapilere İlişkin Yasal Düzenlemelerde Hemşirelerin Yeri

Complementary therapies are the names given throughout the methods applied in parallel with modern medicine to gain the health of the individual. Interest in complementary therapies from the past to the present day and the frequency of use of these methods continues to increase. Increasing use of complementary therapies by the community and requiring patients to make appropriate and safe decisions in their own care requires that health care professionals have knowledge and skills in complementary therapies. In this context, nurses are expected to identify and develop their own practice of using complementary therapies, and to develop a strategy for these practices. Nurses integrating these practices into patient care and evaluating their outcomes ensure that the care provided to the patient is comprehensive and holistic. In order for these processes to take place, important policies must be established for nurses across the country. In the 1900s many countries developed politics and started to establish certificate programs and projects. Regarding national and international legislation, it is seen that legal regulations are not sufficient, especially for nurses. In this review, national and international legal arrangements for complementary therapies and the place of complementary therapies in nursing will be discussed.

Exploring patients' interest in complementary therapies in a specialist palliative care unit.

The use of complementary therapy has become increasingly integrated into specialist palliative care units (SPCUs). To evaluate patients' interest in and experience of complementary therapies during their inpatient stay in a SPCU. All 179 patients admitted to the SPCU over a 3-month period were assessed on admission. Those deemed suitable to participate by the researcher/clinical nurse specialist were invited to participate in this research. A standardised paper questionnaire was completed by the participating patients. 71 patients (40%) completed the study. Those excluded had cognitive impairment, fatigue, communication difficulties or were imminently dying. Some declined to participate. A variety of age groups and diagnoses were represented. Only 27% of participants had a previous experience of using complementary therapies in the past 12 months. The majority (52%) were 'very interested' in receiving complementary therapy, while 13% reported having 'no interest'. Massage and reflexology were identified as the most popular forms of complementary therapy. The primary anticipated benefits associated with complementary therapy were relaxation and improvement in general wellbeing. This research has indicated a high level of interest in complementary therapies in the study population, across a wide age range regardless of diagnosis or level of disease.

Nurses' attitudes and behaviour towards patients' use of complementary therapies: A mixed methods study.

To explore Registered Nurses' attitudes and behaviour towards patients' use of complementary therapies. Despite high rates of use of complementary therapies by the general population, little is known of how nurses respond to patients' use of these therapies. A two-phase sequential exploratory mixed methods design. Nineteen Registered Nurses working in Australia participated in a semi-structured interview in 2015-2016 and emerging themes informed the development of a quantitative survey instrument administered online nationwide in 2016. Emerging key themes "Promoting safe care"; "Seeking complementary therapies knowledge";" Supporting holistic health care"; and "Integrating complementary therapies in practice" were reflected in survey results. Survey responses (N=614) revealed >90% agreement that complementary therapies align with a holistic view of health and that patients have the right to use them. Most nurses (77.5%) discussed complementary therapies with patients and 91.8% believed nurses should have some understanding of the area. One-third did not recommend complementary therapies and there was a lack of overall consensus as to whether these therapies should be integrated into nursing practice. Nurses with training in complementary therapies held more positive views than those without. Nurses were generally supportive of patients' interest in complementary therapies, although their primary concern was safety of the patient. Despite broad acceptance that nurses should have a basic understanding of complementary therapies, there was a lack of consensus about recommendation, integration into nursing practice and referral. Further research should explore how nurses can maintain safe, patient-centred care in the evolving pluralistic healthcare system.

Aromatherapy and Massage Intrapartum Service Impact on Use of Analgesia and Anesthesia in Women in Labor: A Retrospective Case Note Analysis

Over the past decade, interest in complementary therapies and alternative medicine has escalated among midwives and the general public in response to increased demand from expectant mothers for more choice, control, and continuity in labor. The aim of this study was to explore if an aromatherapy and massage intrapartum service (AMIS) reduced the need for analgesia during labor. This article reports results related to the effects of an AMIS on type of analgesia chosen by women in labor, and on rates of anesthesia--one aspect of the full study. The study was conducted in a general maternity unit in southwest England, UK. A quantitative research approach was taken, whereby contemporaneously completed service evaluation forms of 1079 women (601 nulliparous women and 478 multiparous women; AMIS group) were retrospectively analyzed in comparison with the birth records of an equal number of similar women (comparison group). Data analysis was achieved by entering data from the forms and comparison sample into an SPSS package and running statistical tests. In the AMIS group, overall analgesia usage was higher for transcutaneous electrical stimulation at 34%, compared with 15.9% (p<0.001 allowing for parity), and for nitrous oxide and oxygen at 87.6%, compared with 80.8% (p<0.001). Pethidine use did not differ after adjustment for parity at 30.1%, compared with 24.2% (p=0.27) in the AMIS and comparison groups, respectively. Rates were lower in the AMIS group for epidural anesthesia at 29.7%, compared with 33.8% (p=0.004 allowing for parity) in the comparison group; spinal anesthesia at 6%; compared with 12.1% (p<0.001) in the comparison group; and general anesthesia at 0.8%, compared with 2.3% (p=0.033) in the comparison group. Having an AMIS appears to have a positive impact on reducing rates of all types of intrapartum anesthesia. The Service is a beneficial addition to conventional midwifery practice that may influence mode of delivery and reduce general anesthesia rates.

Complementary therapies in health care

In the past two decades, complementary therapies have grown in popularity in Western countries. The interest in complementary therapies could be explained by a "new consciousness" and the shift to a postmodern society. These therapies, embracing holistic practice, are derived from traditions of Eastern healing. There are many advantages of the complementary therapies that are playing a therapeutic role in the health care of individuals and, through the use of such therapies, nursing is developing a richness in holistic care. However, there are still barriers to be overcome; namely, the reluctance to accept complementary therapies in many contemporary healthcare settings. Through research and education, these barriers can be overcome.

Complementary therapies in healthcare: Design, implementation and evaluation of an elective course for undergraduate students

Complementary therapies are making a significant and cost effective contribution to the health of the community, especially in relation to chronic disease management and prevention of disease. Because of the increased use of complementary therapies, nurses, and other health professionals need to be familiar with specific practices so that they can assist clients to make informed decisions in the use of these therapies. Importantly, with the increased interest in complementary therapies, there is a need to ensure these practices are safe, cause no harm and are used to enhance the well-being of patients. This paper reports on the design, implementation and evaluation of a complementary therapies course and a linked Thai cultural studies tour. The course was implemented at The University of Newcastle for the first time in 2009 with an enrolment of 200 students. It is an elective course for both nursing students and those from other disciplines. In this paper we describe the reasons for the introduction of this course and its value in nursing education. We then provide an overview of the course and report on evaluation results from both the course and the Thai cultural studies tour.

Complementary medicine for depression

Surveys have demonstrated that complementary medicine use for depression is widespread, although patterns of use vary. A series of systematic reviews provide a summary of the current evidence for acupuncture, aromatherapy and massage, homeopathy, meditation, reflexology, herbal medicine, yoga, and several dietary supplements and relaxation techniques. The quantity and quality of individual studies vary widely, but research interest in complementary therapies is increasing, particularly in herbal and nutritional products. Major questions are still to be answered with respect to the effectiveness and appropriate role of these therapies in the management of depression. Areas for further research and some of the potential challenges to research design are discussed. Finally, several ongoing developments in information provision on this topic are highlighted.

CORRESPONDENCE

Public interest in complementary therapies continues to grow and many nurses and midwives are incorporating complementary therapies such as reflexology, aromatherapy and massage into their clinical practice. However, there are concerns regarding the use of such therapies when their effectiveness has not been clearly demonstrated. This article is a review of the literature relating to the effectiveness of reflexology. Anecdotal evidence is described and concerns relating to the literature's reliance on personal beliefs and experiences are presented. The need for research evidence to demonstrate effectiveness is highlighted. A critical review of published research studies is presented which focuses in particular on methodological issues such as the use of the randomized controlled trial to determine the effectiveness of complementary therapies such as reflexology.

Acupuncture in dentistry

Consumer interest in complementary therapies is increasing and in dentistry, one of the most popular is acupuncture. We hear from Jill McAdam on this ancient technique, its uses in the dental field and the in-house course that her unit runs.

Midwifery managers’ views about the use of complementary therapies in the maternity services

The burgeoning interest in complementary therapies (CTs) in the general population over the last decade has created a demand for CTs to be made available within the NHS. There are some excellent examples of midwives who have introduced CTs into clinical practice and who are providing an enhanced service to women as a result [Budd S. Moxibustion for breech presentation. Complement Therap Nurs Midwifery 2000; 6(4): 176-9; Tiran D. Complementary strategies in antenatal care. Complement Therap Nurs Midwifery 2001; 7: 19-24; Ager C. A complementary therapy clinic, making it work. RCM Midwives J 2002; 5(6): 198-200; Burns E, Blamey C, Ersser S, Lloyd AJ, Barnetsson L. The use of aromatherapy in intrapartum midwifery practice: an observational study. Oxford: OCHRAD; 1999]. Overall, however, service provision remains patchy and ad hoc with little evidence of a robust integration into the maternity services. This article presents the qualitative findings from a national survey of the heads of maternity services in England. They were asked to indicate their views and perceptions about the benefits, promoters and constrainers in relation to CT integration within the maternity services. Our findings show that overall, views are positive, with increasing consumer satisfaction, promotion of normal childbirth and a reduction in medical intervention being seen as the main benefits.

A comparison of wound healing following treatment withLavandula xallardii honey or essential oil

The increased interest in complementary therapies has led to the investigation of products traditionally believed to have a beneficial effect in wound healing. Two such products are honey and lavender essential oil. In this study a rat excisional wound model was used to investigate the action of Lavandula x allardii honey and essential oil, and a standard therapeutic honey (Medihoney). Four 8 mm wounds were created surgically on the dorsal surface of each rat and honey or essential oil applied to the wounds twice a day for 4 days. Wound healing was analysed by wound contraction and capillary volume at 5 and 12 days post-surgery. Although no statistically significant difference in wound contraction was observed for the essential oil or honey treated wounds relative to the untreated control, both honeys were shown to reduce the capillary volume in the wound site at day 12 with no difference between the honeys (control 154 +/- 14 microm(3) vs L. x allardii honey 77 +/- 18 microm(3) and Medihoney 89 +/- 39 microm(3), p < 0.001; mean +/- SD). This suggests that scar maturation in these animals was more advanced than in other groups. These data suggest that L. x allardii honey, but not essential oil, has a beneficial action in wound healing.

Are cancer patients utilizing complementary therapies? A URCC CCOP study

8157 Background: There is an increasing interest in complementary therapies (CT) among health care patients. CT may positively influence perceived health and disease processes, however CT usage is not well documented among cancer patients. Methods: Cancer patients (N=750) were surveyed on CT usage within two weeks of completing standard treatments. Results: Analyses revealed that, 91% (N=677) of patients surveyed reported using at least one CT since diagnosis. Data suggest that women were more likely to use CT than men (p≤.01). Of the patients surveyed, 68% (N=460) were female, 54% (N= 362) were diagnosed with breast cancer, 17% (N= 114) with genitourinary cancer, 39% (N= 262) of patients received chemotherapy, 35% (N= 235) radiation therapy and 26% (N= 173) both. CTs most frequently used by patients were prayer (85%; N= 578), relaxation (66%; N= 447), and exercise (53%; N= 356), with 46% (N= 315) of these patients utilizing 2 or 3 CTs. Ninety percent (N= 613) of patients who used CT perceived their health status as good, very good, or excellent. There were no significant differences in perceived health status between patients using and not using CT. Of the patients using CT, 51% (N=346) told their oncologist, 27% (N=186) told their primary physician, and 17% (N=114) told both about at least one treatment, however 81% (N= 550) did not discuss all the CTs they were using with either physician. Conclusions: These data suggest that cancer patients are using CT, however patients may not discuss them at all or fully with their physician. Communication will alleviate potential effects resulting from CT usage and treatments. Further research needs to assess effective ways of gathering information about CT usage during treatment in cancer patients. Supported, in part, by NCI PHS grant U10 CA37420 and by ACS grant RSG-01–071-PBP No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Are cancer patients utilizing complementary therapies? A URCC CCOP study

8157 Background: There is an increasing interest in complementary therapies (CT) among health care patients. CT may positively influence perceived health and disease processes, however CT usage is not well documented among cancer patients. Methods: Cancer patients (N=750) were surveyed on CT usage within two weeks of completing standard treatments. Results: Analyses revealed that, 91% (N=677) of patients surveyed reported using at least one CT since diagnosis. Data suggest that women were more likely to use CT than men (p≤.01). Of the patients surveyed, 68% (N=460) were female, 54% (N= 362) were diagnosed with breast cancer, 17% (N= 114) with genitourinary cancer, 39% (N= 262) of patients received chemotherapy, 35% (N= 235) radiation therapy and 26% (N= 173) both. CTs most frequently used by patients were prayer (85%; N= 578), relaxation (66%; N= 447), and exercise (53%; N= 356), with 46% (N= 315) of these patients utilizing 2 or 3 CTs. Ninety percent (N= 613) of patients who used CT perceived their health status as good, very good, or excellent. There were no significant differences in perceived health status between patients using and not using CT. Of the patients using CT, 51% (N=346) told their oncologist, 27% (N=186) told their primary physician, and 17% (N=114) told both about at least one treatment, however 81% (N= 550) did not discuss all the CTs they were using with either physician. Conclusions: These data suggest that cancer patients are using CT, however patients may not discuss them at all or fully with their physician. Communication will alleviate potential effects resulting from CT usage and treatments. Further research needs to assess effective ways of gathering information about CT usage during treatment in cancer patients. Supported, in part, by NCI PHS grant U10 CA37420 and by ACS grant RSG-01–071-PBP No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Pain management strategies used by patients with breast and gynecologic cancer with postoperative pain.

Many people with cancer will experience pain when they are outside of structured care settings. Patients must provide their own self-care, drawing on instructions from healthcare providers and on independently developed plans for pain management. With growing interest in complementary therapies, the scope of nonpharmacologic interventions used by patients with cancer to manage pain may be very different than 10-15 years ago. The purpose of this study was to describe steps taken by patients with breast and gynecologic cancer to manage pain after discharge from a surgical hospitalization. A secondary analysis was completed using data from 34 women who participated in a randomized trial of guided imagery. Techniques used included positioning, distraction, relaxation, heat, and eating/drinking. Compared to results of previous studies, increased use of relaxation strategies (breathing, imagery, music, meditation) was noted in the current study. The majority of participants used nonpharmacologic strategies in addition to analgesic medications. Pain-related outcomes were similar among persons who used analgesic medications alone and those who used a combination of analgesics and nonpharmacologic strategies. Nurses may benefit from knowing which pain management strategies patients find helpful so that they can encourage their use and teach similar strategies to the patients who find them useful.