DEAR DR. GOTT:
I’m a nearly 72-year-old female with acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome and vaginal irritation. I read the letter where you advised a reader to stop wasting money on unproven alternative remedies. I’ve gone to doctors all my life for my ailments, but in the last few years their treatments didn’t work or caused side effects I couldn’t tolerate. That’s when I heard about alternative remedies from a friend who was forced to retired from work because of his health. He went to a physician who used alternative methods and diagnosed him with a yeast infection. My friend was helped so much he was able to return to work a new man. I approached several of my medical doctors about alternative treatments and received mixed reactions, but my primary care physician consented and sent me to one.
I believe in alternative therapy as a supplement to modern medical treatment, as it may pave the way to healing and wholeness.
DEAR READER:
Physicians are often reluctant to go the alternative therapy route. Foremost, there is no control over herbal remedies. Ingredients can vary from brand to brand. Doctors take more stock in FDA approved prescription medications that have been appropriately tested and found to work.
Having said this, more and more savvy patients have investigated alternative therapies and prefer to have a greater degree of control over their bodies. For this very reason, naturopaths (doctors of natural therapies) have become very popular across the country. While they cannot prescribe medications, they can offer recommendations for natural treatments and some work in conjunction with medical doctors to ensure the well-being of the patient.
If you and your friend improved, I congratulate you. Remember that alternative therapy can work in some but not in all situations. Stay connected with your primary care physician for the times you might need him or her.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Herbs and Healing Fads”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped, number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
About Dr. Gott