Exploring Natural Approaches and Therapies for Atrial Fibrillation

[dave205]

By T. Jared Bunch, MD

Published Aug 28, 2013

One of the most common statements that I hear from patients is “I don’t want to take drugs, what are my alternatives? Are there any ways to treat atrial fibrillation naturally?” I do live in a state where there is a tremendous interest in natural therapies. Numerous herbal and nonherbal supplement companies are based in Utah. Also, there are many multi-level marketing companies that bring these therapies directly to your home. In this environment, it is not uncommon for me to be asked these questions multiple times in a day.

Most of the time patients are nervous about asking questions about nontraditional approaches in medicine. The nervous feelings often stem from fears of the physician not understanding or approving of alternative approaches or that these approaches may be in opposition to what the physician may want. In my practice I want my patients to feel comfortable discussing any matter with me. I want to learn about their use of herbal and nonherbal supplements. If they have a new agent that has brought them benefit, I typically will research it to learn more about the substance and the potential health related benefits or risks. In general the use of herbal and nonherbal supplements and alternative approaches to health care has increased dramatically, so it is important that patients and physicians discuss these therapies without any hesitation.

everydayhealth.com/columns/...

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Thank you for posting this. I read it with interest and will look into the Chinese herb that is mentioned.

Magnesium supplements are of interest too. Does anyone have any experience of taking these?

[AnneTS]

These "natural" approaches may well be good for people who only have one medical condition to contend with - say AF. Extreme caution should be exercised regarding natural supplements for those taking Warfarin and other medications. Good diet, exercise and lifestyle, together with knowledge and good medical advice are the basics to living a healthier life.

[Vivante]

I have read your article some time ago and found it interesting. I gave up teaching yoga some weeks ago, Over the years of teaching many people with all kinds of medic al conditions. and read so much, most I disagreed with. To get the information I wanted I went outside the 'yoga box' and found the answers to my questions. I have taught people with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, and many teachers had n ever heard of it.

I have in front of me copies of articles that were provided by Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation. There is aparticularly interesting booklet that was produced by the NIH.

niams,nih.gov/bone

I

have tried herbal remedies, they did not help. They affected the INR levels.

I hope you will find the info interesting.

A particular part I found interesting comes under the heading DIAPERING. 'When diapering an infant with OI, do not lift the infant by the ankles. It could cause a fracture'

Interesting information.