Question 2-Take 3 of the alternative interventions and explain each one in depth: what is the theory, what is the intervention, what is the reported outcome? Be sure to discuss “safety” considerations with each of the alternatives (ie: is there a toxicity or deficiency concern? Are there serious negative side effects possible, and if so, what are they? Etc)

Homeopathy

The third CAD (Complementary Alternative Medicine) that I have chosen to describe in depth is homeopathy.
Homeopathy, also known as homeopathic medicine, is a whole medical system that was developed in Germany more than 200 years ago and has been practiced in the United States since the early 19th century. Homeopathy is used for wellness and prevention and to treat many diseases and conditions.

The term homeopathy comes from the Greek words homeo, meaning similar, and pathos, meaning suffering or disease. Homeopathy seeks to stimulate the body's ability to heal itself by giving very small doses of highly diluted substances. German physician Samuel Christian Hahnemann developed this therapeutic method at the end of the 18th century. Hahnemann articulated two main principles:
The principle of similars (or "like cures like") states that a disease can be cured by a substance that produces similar symptoms in healthy people. This idea, which can be traced back to Hippocrates, was further developed by Hahnemann after he repeatedly ingested cinchona bark, a popular treatment for malaria, and found that he developed the symptoms of the disease. Hahnemann theorized that if a substance could cause disease symptoms in a healthy person, small amounts could cure a sick person who had similar symptoms.
The principle of dilutions (or "law of minimum dose") states that the lower the dose of the medication, the greater its effectiveness. In homeopathy, substances are diluted in a stepwise fashion and shaken vigorously between each dilution. This process, referred to as "potentization," is believed to transmit some form of information or energy from the original substance to the final diluted remedy. Most homeopathic remedies are so dilute that no molecules of the healing substance remain; however, in homeopathy, it is believed that the substance has left its imprint or "essence," which stimulates the body to heal itself (this theory is called the "memory of water").

Side Effects and Risks
Although the side effects and risks of homeopathic treatments are not well researched outside of observational studies, some general points can be made about the safety of these treatments:
A systematic review found that homeopathic remedies in high dilution, taken under the supervision of trained professionals, are generally considered safe and unlikely to cause severe adverse reactions.
Liquid homeopathic remedies may contain alcohol. The FDA allows higher levels of alcohol in these remedies than it allows in conventional drugs. However, no adverse effects from alcohol levels have been reported to the FDA.
Homeopaths expect some of their patients to experience homeopathic aggravation (a temporary worsening of existing symptoms after taking a homeopathic prescription). Researchers have not found much evidence of this reaction in clinical studies; however, research on homeopathic aggravations is scarce.
Homeopathic remedies are not known to interfere with conventional drugs; however, if you are considering using homeopathic remedies, you should discuss this with your health care provider first.

Question 2-Take 3 of the alternative interventions and explain each one in depth: what is the theory, what is the intervention, what is the reported outcome? Be sure to discuss “safety” considerations with each of the alternatives (ie: is there a toxicity or deficiency concern? Are there serious negative side effects possible, and if so, what are they? Etc)

SHIATSU

The second CAM (Complementary Alternative Medicine) that I chose to describe in greater detail to you is Shiatsu. Shiatsu is a Japanese form of bodywork. The word shiatsu means finger massage and shiatsu is sometimes described as a finger pressure massage. Like acupuncture, shiatsu is based on the holistic system of traditional Chinese medicine, where illness is thought to result from imbalances in the natural flow of energy, or qi (pronounced "chee") through the body.

Shiatsu therapists use finger and palm pressure to energetic pathways, called meridians to improve the flow of qi.

A scientific explanation is that shiatsu calms an overactive sympathetic nervous system, which improves circulation, relieves stiff muscles, and alleviates stress.
Shiatsu massage therapy and acupuncture are founded on the Chinese meridian system. Meridians are the pathways of qi (chi) and blood flow through the body. Qi flows continuously from one meridian to another. Any break in the flow is an indication of imbalance. If a person's vitality or energy is recognizably diminished it is an indication that the body's organs or tissues are functioning poorly, therefore the qi flow is inadequate. The therapist applies pressure with his/her thumbs, fingers, and palms to specific areas of the client's body that have been determined during an assessment period prior to the massage session. There are no needle pokes involved with Shiatsu. Massage techniques like tapping, squeezing, rubbing, and applied pressure are applied along the meridians to unblock energy blockages and reintroduce the optimal flow of qi.

There may be some side affects associated with Shiatu. They are mild and include:

1) Coughing and generation of mucus or symptoms of a cold: The coughing and production of mucus is due to the body being encouraged to rid itself of its surplus foods (such as sugars and fats) in this form. A cold can sometimes develop when the mucus is produced, usually when the cells of the body are not healthy.
2) A feeling of tiredness: Tiredness can occur, frequently with a person who suffers from nervous tension. After therapy has removed this stress or tension, then the body's need for sleep and rest becomes apparent.
3) A headache or other pains and aches: There are two main reasons for these, which should only last a short time. Shiatsu redresses the balance of qi in the body. Thus, blockages in the flow of energy are released and the qi can rush around the body, causing a temporary imbalance in one part and resulting in an ache or pain. It is also possible that too much time or pressure may have been applied to a particular area. The amount needed varies considerably from one person to another. If the pain or headache persists after a few days, obtain qualified medical help.
4) Feeling emotional: Emotional feelings can occur while the energy is being stimulated to flow and balance is regained. The feelings may be connected with something from the past that has been suppressed and so, when these emotions resurface, it is best for them to be expressed in a way that is beneficial, such as crying.