Mind-body therapies and biology-based therapies are the treatment modalities most commonly used among patients with heart disease who turn to complementary and alternative medicine, according to a report in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2013; doi: 10.1155/2013/672097). Researchers based this conclusion on an analysis of a variety of studies and surveys, including the American 2007 National Health Interview Survey and international surveys conducted through 2010.

Mind-body therapies most used by patients with cardiac conditions include meditation and deep breathing. Study authors noted that in contrast to many concerns related to popular biology-based therapies such as herbal supplements, “a growing body of research suggest[s] that [mind-body therapies] are relatively safe and may have measurable benefits for cardiovascular health.” Movement-based mind-body activities include qigong, tai chi and yoga.

To read the study, go to http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2013/672097.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Luigi Scorcia