Holistic healing

The truth about complementary therapies

Complementary therapies are growing in popularity yet there’s a lot of misinformation out there. FHT is here to help bust common myths

Myths are common in most walks of life. They usually come down to a piece of misinformation that has become so widespread, people think it must be ‘true’. But when it comes to complementary therapies that can potentially support your health and wellbeing, it’s important to be able to separate fact from fiction. Here, we take a look at four common myths in the therapy world…

4 myths about complementary beauty and sports therapy

Complementary and alternative therapies are certainly growing in popularity. That said, there’s a wealth of misinformation out there. But when it comes to your health, it’s important to know the facts and understand what will work best for you. With that in mind, the team at FHT addresses four common myths about complementary, beauty and sports therapies…

Myth 1: Alternative and complementary therapies are the same thing

These two words are often used interchangeably when describing a therapy that is not considered ‘mainstream’ medicine. However, it is important to note that if you have a health condition that requires medical treatment, you shouldn’t use any form of therapy as an ‘alternative’. That’s why groups like the FHT, the UK’s largest professional association for therapies, instead uses the term ‘complementary therapy’. This indicates that a therapy should ‘complement’ and work alongside conventional medicine, rather than replace it. As Dr Michael Dixon, chair of the College of Medicine, would say, this integrated approach to health allows the patient to benefit from the ‘best of both’.

Myth 2: If it’s natural, it’s safe

Nature is a great healer but it’s important to note that just because something is natural, doesn’t mean it is always safe. For example, plant essential oils have unique properties that can help address a wide range of health and wellbeing issues. However, if not used properly, they can actually cause serious harm. Never swallow or apply essential oils to the skin neat. In addition, you should avoid some essential oils if you are pregnant or taking certain medications. For that reason, it’s extremely important to consult a professional aromatherapist before using any essential oils for self-care.

Myth 3: Beauty therapy is just about aesthetics and ‘looking pretty’

It’s of course true that many beauty treatments help us to look our best. But did you know that some can actually help to support people with serious health problems and body esteem issues? For those undergoing chemotherapy, microblading and permanent make-up can be used to replicate missing eyebrows. Meanwhile, other specialist products can address itchy skin and nail discolouration. Electrolysis, which permanently removes unwanted hair, can also tackle excessive facial or body hair growth that is hereditary or the result of hormone imbalances.

Myth 4: Sports massages are only for athletes

As the name of this therapy suggests, sports massage is great for helping to prevent or treat soft tissue injuries linked to sporting activities. However, anyone who experiences minor aches and pains as a result of their work or hobbies – from painting to gardening – could also benefit.

Looking for a complementary, holistic beauty or sports therapist? It’s important to find a therapist who is professional, suitably qualified and accountable. Visit the FHT Directory to find a local therapist you can trust.