Complementary and Alternative Medicine for PCOS
Expert-defined terms from the Graduate Certificate in PCOS Integrative Healthcare course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
**Acupuncture #
** A traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy (Qi) and promote healing. In the context of PCOS, acupuncture may help regulate menstrual cycles, improve ovulation, and reduce symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
**Ayurveda #
** A traditional Indian system of medicine that emphasizes the use of natural remedies, diet, and lifestyle modifications to maintain balance and promote health. In the context of PCOS, Ayurvedic approaches may include dietary modifications, herbal remedies, and stress-reduction practices.
**Chinese Herbal Medicine #
** A traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves using plant, mineral, and animal-based remedies to treat various health conditions. In the context of PCOS, Chinese herbal medicine may help regulate menstrual cycles, improve ovulation, and reduce symptoms such as acne and hair loss.
**Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) #
** A group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not typically considered part of conventional medicine. CAM therapies may be used in conjunction with conventional treatments (complementary) or as an alternative to conventional treatments (alternative).
**Dietary Supplements #
** Products that contain vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, or other natural substances that are intended to supplement the diet. In the context of PCOS, dietary supplements may include inositol, magnesium, and chromium picolinate.
**Herbal Medicine #
** The use of plant-based remedies to prevent or treat various health conditions. In the context of PCOS, herbal remedies may include cinnamon, licorice root, and saw palmetto.
**Homeopathy #
** A medical system that is based on the principle of "like cures like." Homeopathic remedies are made from highly diluted substances that, when given in large doses, would produce symptoms similar to those of the condition being treated. In the context of PCOS, homeopathic remedies may include sepia, graphites, and pulsatilla.
**Integrative Medicine #
** A medical approach that combines conventional and complementary therapies to treat the whole person, taking into account physical, emotional, and spiritual factors. In the context of PCOS, integrative medicine may include a combination of conventional treatments such as medication and lifestyle modifications, as well as complementary therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary supplements.
**Inositol #
** A type of carbohydrate that is found in certain foods and is also available as a dietary supplement. In the context of PCOS, inositol has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, regulate menstrual cycles, and improve ovulation.
**Lifestyle Modifications #
** Changes in diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors that can help improve overall health and reduce symptoms of PCOS. Lifestyle modifications may include a low-glycemic index diet, regular exercise, stress-reduction practices, and adequate sleep.
**Mind #
Body Therapies:** Practices that aim to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Mind-body therapies may include techniques such as meditation, yoga, and guided imagery.
**Naturopathic Medicine #
** A medical system that emphasizes the use of natural remedies, lifestyle modifications, and other non-invasive therapies to promote health and prevent illness. In the context of PCOS, naturopathic approaches may include dietary modifications, herbal remedies, and stress-reduction practices.
**Phytotherapy #
** The use of plant-based remedies to prevent or treat various health conditions. In the context of PCOS, phytotherapy may include herbal remedies such as cinnamon, licorice root, and saw palmetto.
**Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) #
** A hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. PCOS is characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, high levels of androgens (male hormones), and the presence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries.
**Specific Term #
** A term that refers to a particular concept or acronym. In the context of this glossary, specific terms related to Complementary and Alternative Medicine for PCOS include acupuncture, Ayurveda, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Dietary Supplements, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, Integrative Medicine, Inositol, Lifestyle Modifications, Mind-Body Therapies, Naturopathic Medicine, Phytotherapy, and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
**Yoga #
** A mind-body practice that involves physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. In the context of PCOS, yoga may help reduce stress, improve insulin sensitivity, and regulate menstrual cycles.