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Open Access

ISSN 2573-4393

© 2025 by the authors; CC BY 4.0 licence

OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine , Volume 10 , Issue 2 (2025)

Pages: 189

Published: July 2025

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

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Cover story: This qualitative study explores the experiences of individuals who use open-water swimming to manage symptoms of depression. It identified three themes: Standing up to depression; belonging in a community; and embodiment and connection in nature. Insights into the perceived mechanisms of open-water swimming for managing symptoms of depression are discussed. View this paper.

Volume 10,Issue 2

Open Access Original Research

Intensive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for School Avoidance among Youth with Anxiety Disorders or OCD in the COVID-19 Pandemic

Received: 27 January 2025;  Published: 26 June 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2502028

Abstract

School avoidance is associated with a range of negative outcomes and has been increasing in youth in the past several decades. This study examined the efficacy of an intensive outpatient CBT program, for youth (N = 137, ages 8-19) with anxiety disorders or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and compared both baseline symptoms and outcomes for youth with school avoidance compared to those without. At admission, results indicated that parents of children with school avoidance reported higher leve [...]

Open Access Research Article

In Silico Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds (Flavonoids, Rosmarinic Acid) from Five Plants (Rosemary, Oregano, Pink Savory, Lemon Balm, and Saffron) and Their Role in Cardiovascular Health and Hypertension

Received: 22 January 2025;  Published: 25 June 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2502027

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases and hypertension represent significant global health challenges, driving the need for innovative therapeutic solutions. In this study, we employed advanced in silico methods to investigate the molecular properties of two bioactive compounds, Flavonoids and Rosmarinic Acid, extracted from five medicinal plants: Rosemary, Oregano, Pink Savory, Lemon Balm, and Saffron. The bioactive compounds were evaluated against key biological targets associated with hypertension and card [...]

Open Access Original Research

Barriers and Facilitators to Meditation: Empirical Research Qualitative

Received: 13 March 2025;  Published: 23 June 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2502026

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the barriers and facilitators to meditation in the general population. This research is significant because understanding these factors can inform the design of more effective public mental health interventions and support the integration of meditation into daily life. A qualitative thematic analysis was conducted on the qualitative component of wider survey responses. Participants were recruited from MeditationHQ, which offers weekly group meditation sessions on b [...]

Open Access Review

Physicality of Spirituality: The Interplay of the Autonomic Nervous System, Prefrontal Cortex, and Spiritual Life in Light of Galatians 5:16-25

Received: 04 March 2025;  Published: 18 June 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2502025

Abstract

This article examines the complex relationship between the autonomic nervous system, the prefrontal cortex, and spiritual life, providing an interdisciplinary analysis in light of Galatians 5:16-25. Through a combination of theological reflection and insights from neuroscience, it explores how spiritual practices, such as meditation and prayer, influence emotional regulation, impulse control, and overall well-being. Studies in neuroscience have shown that regular spiritual practice can lead to m [...]

Open Access Editorial

In the Mirror of the Past, in the Light of the Future: The ISLA – A President Looks Back and Forward

Received: 15 June 2025;  Published: 18 June 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2502024

Abstract

This editorial for the 27th ISLA Congress in Beverungen in Germany reflects on the development, achievements, and challenges of the International Society for Medical Laser Applications (ISLA-transcontinental) from the perspective of its President for Science and Research, Univ.-Prof. DDr. Gerhard Litscher. It reviews the organization’s milestones and growth while outlining future strategies for innovation, research, and international collaboration in medical laser technolo [...]

Open Access Original Research

The Effect of the Levonorgestrel-Releasing Intrauterine Device on Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in Women

Received: 28 December 2024;  Published: 06 June 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2502023

Abstract

This research focused on the evaluation of the relationship between the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device and Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in women. Sexual desire disorder is part of a group of sexual dysfunctions. A group of 60 women with a diagnosis of hypoactive sexual desire were tested in the period from July 2023 to July 2024 at the Institute of Sexology of the 1st Faculty of Medicine in Prague. These patients were examined for levels of prolactin, sex hormone binding globu [...]

Open Access Original Research

“It Seems to Sort of Wash My Brain Out”: The Experiences of Open-Water Swimmers with Depression

Received: 05 March 2025;  Published: 19 May 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2502022

Abstract

Depression is a leading cause of disability with many individuals experiencing recurrent episodes of depression across their lifetime. Existing treatment approaches have varied degrees of effectiveness, and the value of social prescribing practices is being recognised. Given the persistent nature of depression, many individuals seek out alternative methods to manage their own symptoms. Open-water swimming is becoming increasingly popular as a means of supporting mental health. There is an emergi [...]

Open Access Research Article

Moderate Exercise Suppresses Tumor Growth and Progression through Regulating Cytokines

Received: 21 January 2025;  Published: 12 May 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2502021

Abstract

Evidence suggests that regular moderate exercise can improve symptoms of depression and may enhance immune function, with an interesting role in cancer prevention and improved cancer-related prognosis; however, over-exercising may lead to overtraining and generate psychological symptoms that mimic depression, and may impair immune function. In this study, we chose swimming as an exercise form to conduct research. Swimming groups were divided into 5, 20, and 60 min day-1, a [...]

Open Access Editorial

Battlefield Acupuncture: Remembering a Pioneer and a Friend—In Memory of Dr. Richard C. Niemtzow, MD PhD MPH (1942–2025)

Received: 26 April 2025;  Published: 29 April 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2502020

Abstract

This contribution honours the life and legacy of Dr. Richard C. Niemtzow (1942–2025), the founder of Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA) – a method that combines military medicine and traditional Eastern healing principles. Developed in the early 2000s for rapid, drug-free pain relief, BFA has since gained international recognition for its effectiveness and simplicity. The author reflects on the scientific collaboration with Dr. Niemtzow, which included advanced neurophysiological studies demonstratin [...]

Open Access Original Research

Characterization of Patients with Functional Syndromes and Paradoxical Response to Hypnotic Relaxation

Received: 30 July 2024;  Published: 27 April 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2502019

Abstract

Hypnotherapy is effective for treating functional symptoms; however, some studies describe a paradoxical response to hypnotic relaxation. We hypothesized that functional patients who: 1) are aware of a stressful antecedent event and 2) recognize that stress is causing or exacerbating their symptoms would have reduced symptom-severity with hypnotic relaxation, whereas patients who do not perceive a stressful antecedent and do not recognize stress as causing symptoms, would more commonly experienc [...]

Open Access Research Article

Mental Health Service Users' Experiences of Receiving Ear Acupuncture as a Complement in Psychiatric Care in ICELAND – A Qualitative and Quantitative Pilot Study

Received: 19 December 2024;  Published: 15 April 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2502018

Abstract

Depression, insomnia, cravings, and anxiety are significant and often long-lasting health problems. As medication has limited effect and often side effects, complementary methods such as ear acupuncture are used in mental health care. To describe mental health care users' experiences of ear acupuncture, including ratings of sleep, anxiety, depression, stress, pain, and cravings. This mixed methods study included in- and outpatients at a mental health rehabilitation service in Iceland. Standardiz [...]

Open Access Original Research

Teachers on Self-Care

Received: 19 November 2024;  Published: 07 April 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2502017

Abstract

Teachers face at-work risk factors including compassion fatigue, burnout, dealing with violence, and a teacher shortage. A review of the literature shows that self-care can have positive benefits that mitigate and help to buffer these at-work risk factors This study examines teachers’ stories of self-care. The data suggests that self-care is a positive practice for teachers professionally and personally.
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