Register or Submit a manuscript.

Table of Contents

Open Access

ISSN 2573-4393

© 2019 by the authors; CC BY 4.0 licence

OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine , Volume 4 , Issue 1 (2019)

Pages: 309

Published: October 2019

(This book is a printed edition that was published in OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine)

Download PDF

Order Print Version
Price: 28.99 USD
Format: Soft Cover
Quantity:

Cover story: Does Mindful Self-Compassion hold the key to helping students maximize their wellbeing and stay at university? In this study, a first of its kind in the world, Jokic, Albrecht and Smith discuss the importance of students learning the wisdom and art of mindfulness and the practice of self-compassion to enhance their wellbeing and resilience. View this paper.

Volume 4,Issue 1

Open Access Original Research

Acupuncture for Chemo-Related Nausea and Vomiting

Received: 29 September 2018;  Published: 28 March 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901020

Abstract

Background: In recent years, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) techniques have become very widespread; among these, acupuncture can play an important role in the treatment of adverse effects related to chemotherapy. This role has been recognized by the National Institutes of Health after many clinical studies, thus allowing the official introduction of acupuncture in supportive therapy for oncological diseases, particularly to prevent nausea and vomiting. The aim of this paper is to d [...]

Open Access Case Report

Increase in Electrodermal Activity on Acupuncture Points of Lymphatic, Lung, Nervous, Endocrine and Heart Meridians after Running Exercise, a Single Case Study

Received: 10 December 2018;  Published: 25 March 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901019

Abstract

Background: Electrodermal measurement of acupuncture points has been correlated to physiologic and pathologic conditions with clinical and laboratory studies. Emerging evidence indicates that in addition to therapeutic effect, acupuncture points may also have diagnostic properties. However, physiologic basis of this phenomenon is still unknown. Objective: To determine how electrodermal activity of acupuncture points on hands and feet responds to exercise-induced sympathetic stress and how electr [...]

Open Access Short Review

The Effects of Aquatic Exercise on Cognitive Function: Systematic Review

Received: 07 February 2019;  Published: 21 March 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901018

Abstract

The objective of this brief systematic review was to examine the effects of aquatic exercise on cognitive function. Studies were identified using electronic databases, including PubMed, PsychInfo, Sports Discus and Google Scholar. In total, 13 articles met the inclusionary criteria. Among the 13 studies, all 13 demonstrated beneficial cognitive effects from exercise. This included chronic aquatic exercise-induced improvements in global cognition, executive function, attention, learning and memor [...]

Open Access Communication

Proposal for a Compassionate Emotional Accompaniment Technique (CEAT) Based on Mindfulness to Manage Disturbing Emotions

Received: 23 August 2018;  Published: 14 March 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901017

Abstract

One of the objectives of psychological intervention is to help patients manage their emotions effectively by providing them with the necessary skills to accompany their own emotional states. To this regard, there seems to be a current lack of therapeutic resources aimed at helping patients assimilate and regulate emotions. This article proposes the application of a new technique which incorporates mindfulness, building on the premises of the model of psychological flexibility which defines " [...]

Open Access Editorial

Compassion in Clinical Care

Received: 01 March 2019;  Published: 04 March 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901016

Abstract

Compassion in Clinical Care

Open Access Research Article

Psychophysiological Coherence in Community Dynamics – A Comparative Analysis between Meditation and Other Activities

Received: 26 November 2018;  Published: 04 March 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901015

Abstract

Background: Psychophysiological coherence has been widely studied as a bodily state associated with general well-being and cognitive clarity. Heart Rate Variability (HRV) has been shown to be a good biomarker to assess psychophysiological coherence. This paper presents the first general set of results concerning a study that is part of a team effort between a body of researchers in 5 countries led by the HeartMath Institute under the name, International Heart Rate Variability Synchronization (IH [...]

Open Access Editorial

The Treatment of the Nervous System with Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Received: 25 February 2019;  Published: 27 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901014

Abstract

The nervous system is everywhere in the body, especially in the skin. Ancient Chinese acupuncture charts show us that the nerves are all connected and can work together to promote health. This connection occurs through the brain and brain stem. It is clear that acupuncture is analgesic by inhibition of transient receptor potential cation channels in the skin [1]. The role of chemokines in pain is becoming understood. Chemokines promote pain in the skin and activate ascending neural pathways [...]

Open Access Concept Paper

New Paradigm in International Ear Acupuncture

Received: 16 October 2018;  Published: 26 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901013

Abstract

Background: In the international auriculotherapy practice there are relatively big differences in the exact localization of the same ear acupuncture point. On one hand, there are specialists who devote their efforts to find the active points. In that case it becomes intriguing that there may be another point (at 1-2 mm distance) near the point to be treated, indicating a relatively strong, even stronger activity than the one they were initially aiming to find. That point may be active because of [...]

Open Access Case Report

Chronic Pain after Reported Whiplash Injury – A Patient Case Report

Received: 13 April 2018;  Published: 25 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901012

Abstract

Chronic pain is notoriously multifactorial, multifaceted and difficult to manage. Twenty per cent of reported whiplash-injured persons go on to develop a Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD) where persistent pain becomes chronic with no prospect of change [1]. Paucity of effective therapies to address the effect of WAD enforces new approaches. This case report, with a patient’s perspective, illustrates a novel therapy, Adapted Reflextherapy (AdRx), which is akin to reflexology and has been used, d [...]

Open Access Review

A Brief Primer on Learning and Memory-Based Strategies to Enhance Memory Function

Received: 17 December 2018;  Published: 21 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901011

Abstract

Background: Learning and memory, unquestionably, are critical for many aspects of life, including acquisition and retention of educational material. The purpose of this brief narrative review is to provide a primer on empirical-based, learning and memory techniques. Methods: A narrative review approach is employed. Results: This review is structured by first discussing contextual factors that influence learning and memory, followed by addressing several specific techniques to help facilitate lea [...]

Open Access Technical Note

An Initial Investigation of Neural Changes in Overweight Adults with Food Cravings after Emotional Freedom Techniques

Received: 11 December 2018;  Published: 15 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901010

Abstract

Background: This pilot randomised clinical trial investigated the effect of Clinical Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) on brain activation in response to food craving stimuli using functional magnetic resonance imaging. EFT is a brief stress reduction technique which involves stating a cognitive statement with stimulation of acupressure points with a tapping technique. Method: Fifteen overweight/obese adults were allocated to a four-week group EFT treatment or control condition and completed a [...]

Open Access Original Research

An Evaluation of a New Programme Training Mindfulness Teachers to Deliver Non-Eight Week Adapted Mindfulness-Based Interventions

Received: 13 October 2018;  Published: 02 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901009

Abstract

Background: Training is generally not available for those wishing to deliver non 8 week Mindfulness Based Interventions (MBIs) adapted for specific contexts and populations. A new model for training in MBIs is developed with the following principle components: teaching on theory, participation in a practice, followed by teaching the practice and receiving feedback, and consultation and discussion of live mindfulness-based work. Methods: A quantitative and qualitative evaluation is presented of t [...]

Open Access Research Article

Integrated Oncology in an Integrated Medicine Hospital in Pitigliano (Grosseto, Italy)

Received: 29 September 2018;  Published: 01 February 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901008

Abstract

Background: Complementary medicines (CM), including homeopathy, acupuncture, and traditional Chinese medicine, have been introduced for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment in the Pitigliano Hospital Centre of Integrated Medicine in order to minimize the side effects of these treatments, which improves quality of life and adherence to conventional therapies. Methods: Cancer patients (240) were enrolled in an integrated care model offering a comprehensive protocol in [...]

Open Access Review

Is Self-Compassion Important for Health Care Practitioners?

Received: 25 November 2018;  Published: 31 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901007

Abstract

The cornerstone of health care practice is the provision of competent, compassionate care. Compassion is generally considered an important component in the provision of health care; however, self-compassion may be of equal importance for health care practitioners (HCP) to observe and develop. Self-compassion promotes well-being and overall mental health and may reduce fatigue and “burn-out” for HCPs [1]. Estimates of burn out in physicians and nurses range from 35-50% and is associated with emot [...]

Open Access Original Research

Acupuncture in Palliative Care

Received: 14 October 2018;  Published: 30 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901006

Abstract

Background: Acupuncture is an innovative and scientifically supported treatment for oncologic patients, as well as an effective palliative care option. At the Palliative Care Department of "Misericordia" Grosseto Hospital in Tuscany, real integration of acupuncture in palliative medicine has been possible. The objective of this work is to retrospectively evaluate patient treatment outcomes obtained using an integrated medical care approach administered within a palliative care unit. Me [...]

Open Access Review

Ashitaba (Angelica keiskei) Exerts Possible Beneficial Effects on Metabolic Syndrome

Received: 18 July 2018;  Published: 23 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901005

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome is a serious health condition comprising a combination of glucose metabolism disorder, high blood pressure and obesity. The main underlying risk factors for metabolic syndrome are abdominal obesity and insulin resistance. Various studies have shown that herbal medicines can effectively reduce the risk of developing metabolic syndrome. Angelica keiskei Koidzumi (ashitaba), a large perennial herb native to the Southeast Pacific coast of Japan, has recently become a popular herba [...]

Open Access Original Research

Mindful Self-Compassion and Adult Learner Retention in Post-Compulsory Education

Received: 15 July 2018;  Published: 23 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901004

Abstract

Background: Adult learners often engage in formal education because they want to create changes in their lives and are determined to succeed in their chosen field. However, they also come with emotional "baggage" of early educational experiences, frequently have to deal with a multitude of competing demands, have financial strain, may face a lack of support, illness and/or injury. In addition, they are often dealing with the challenges of unfamiliar academic work, competing deadlines a [...]

Open Access Review

Cultivating Well-Being through the Three Pillars of Mind Training: Understanding How Training the Mind Improves Physiological and Psychological Well-Being

Received: 03 October 2018;  Published: 16 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901003

Abstract

Research on the physiological and emotional health benefits of meditative practices has grown exponentially over the last two decades, influencing both scientific literature and popular media. Research has highlighted three distinct components or pillars at the core of meditative practices and mind training. They are, focused attention, open awareness, and kind intention. Neuroimaging studies and recent research highlight that the repeated practice of directing attention and awareness can enhanc [...]

Open Access Review

Health Benefits of (Mindful) Self-Compassion Meditation and the Potential Complementarity to Mindfulness-Based Interventions: A Review of Randomized-Controlled Trials

Received: 04 July 2018;  Published: 06 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901002

Abstract

Background: In this study, we performed a systematic review of randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) examining the health benefits of (mindful) self-compassion-based interventions (SCBIs) and studies which explicitly combine SCBIs and mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs). Based on the compelling evidence supporting the effectiveness of MBIs, we evaluated the potential use of MBIs and SCBIs to complement one another, and whether SCBIs may serve as supplementary, or preliminary interventions for i [...]

Open Access Review

State of the Research: Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Children and Adolescents

Received: 20 August 2018;  Published: 04 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901001

Abstract

Background: Research support for a variety of health benefits of mindfulness-based interventions for adults is robust. These include management of stress, anxiety, and depression; as a supportive treatment for eating disorders, PTSD, and psychosis; improved sleep; chronic pain management; support for tobacco, alcohol, and substance abstinence; and as adjunctive treatments for serious or chronic medical illnesses such as HIV, cancer, and heart conditions. As is typical with newer interventions, m [...]
Newsletter  

TOP