The king appointed a doctor who promoted alternative medicine to oversee his health.
Michael Dixon, 71, is one of the country's most prominent supporters of unorthodox treatments and has worked in the NHS for decades.
But are alternative treatments really effective? Dr Abrar Ibrahim, a general practitioner at London's Hendon Hospital, says they may reduce pain and stress and improve mood.
But she warns: “Seek a health care provider that is well-trained, regulated, and safe. Also, do not use them as a substitute for medical care.”
But Professor Edzard Ernst, author of Alternative Medicine, says, “If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
Here, they talk to Deborah Linton about the pitfalls of ancient therapies that are now back in vogue.
Homeopathy: David Beckham and Coldplay's Chris Martin are also said to be fans.
The theory is that by administering a diluted version of the very thing that is causing the health problem, you can cure the problem.
Dr. Ibrahim said: “Homeopathy is one of the most controversial of alternative medicines.
“Patients are seeking this treatment for life-limiting problems such as cancer, even though there is no significant evidence to suggest any benefit. It is unlikely to be more effective than a placebo effect.” .”
Professor Ernst said it could be life-threatening when used as an alternative treatment for serious illnesses, adding: “Clinical trials have not shown efficacy.”
acupuncture: The idea is that by using thin needles at different points on the body, you can rebalance energy and relieve pain.
It's Princess Diana's favorite, and even Madonna swears by it.
Dr. Ibrahim said: “Reliable research shows that it reduces pain and improves quality of life for patients with chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia.
“The risk is minimal and it can be delivered on the NHS in some areas.”
Professor Ernst agreed, saying: “Evidence shows that it may be effective for some types of pain.”
Reiki: Meghan Markle is said to have introduced Prince Harry to this Japanese treatment that claims to channel life energy into patients.
However, Professor Ernst says: “The 'energy' in question is a figment of the imagination.
“Several clinical trials have been published, but none are reliable and do not show treatment efficacy.”
However, Dr. Ibrahim said, “There is certainly an effect on stress that negatively impacts health, so targeting this could be complementary in helping patients with chronic stress or with difficult diagnoses such as cancer.” It could become a target.”
Cupping: Victoria Beckham, Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Aniston have all tried the treatment, which involves placing a vacuum cup over the skin, causing bruising.
It is said to improve blood circulation, flush out toxins, relieve pain, and relax muscles.
Professor Ernst explains: However, none provide reliable evidence of associated health effects. ”
Dr. Ibrahim said that medical research is limited and of poor quality, saying, “If not done hygienically, it can lead to permanent skin discoloration, burns and scars, infections and diseases such as hepatitis B and C. It can have serious side effects, including increased risk of illness.”
Colonics: Also known as a colon cleanse, superstars from Beyoncé (right) to Britney Spears are reportedly fans of this therapy, which involves injecting large amounts of warm water into the rectum, to improve the immune system and reduce weight. It claims to help reduce inflammation, digestion, and improve mood. It also reduces the risk of colon cancer.
Dr. Ibrahim said: “While flushing out toxins may seem appealing, colon cleansing often temporarily destroys normal healthy bacteria that are essential to health.
“Patients may experience uncomfortable bloating and cramping. There is also a significant risk of infection and intestinal puncture.”
But Professor Ernst warns: “There are no proven health benefits and even weight loss lasts only a few hours.”
Vitamin drip: Used by model Kendall Jenner and singer Justin Bieber, it delivers high doses of the vitamin via intravenous infusion.
Some celebrities use them as a hangover cure.
Dr. Ernst said: “For all of us who have a normal diet and are not deficient in vitamins, treatment is an expensive waste of money.
“People with vitamin deficiencies should seek professional help to find the cause and treat appropriately.”
“High doses of some B vitamins can damage peripheral nerves and cause life-threatening allergic reactions,” Dr. Ibrahim said.
“Some vitamins interact with medications. To say it's a hangover cure is ridiculous, no different than rehydrating with water.”
Placental phagocytosis: Here, new moms may take tablets made from the placenta, or even take them in their meals.
Coleen Rooney said it felt like it gave her energy. She's also a fan of Chrissy Teigen.
Professor Ernst said: “The idea is that ingesting the placenta will alleviate all kinds of problems that women experience after giving birth.
“That's wishful thinking, and there's virtually no good science to support that claim.”
Dr. Ibrahim agrees. “In fact, there is concern that bacteria in the placenta can be transmitted through breast milk, causing sepsis in both mother and newborn.”
