Alternative Medicine in North Carolina

Alternative medicine includes a wide array of practices such as Ayurveda, naturopathy, herbal medicine, and chiropractic. These traditions developed over centuries in different parts of the world. For instance, Ayurveda began in India more than 2,000 years ago, focusing on balance among the body’s systems. Herbal medicine has roots in nearly every culture, where plants were used for nourishment and healing. In the 20th century, the Western medical establishment often dismissed these approaches, but growing patient demand created space for their inclusion. Over time, licensing boards and academic institutions began to regulate and teach certain alternative therapies, such as chiropractic and acupuncture. Today, alternative medicine remains important for those seeking gentler, individualized approaches to health, often used in conjunction with conventional care.