Oz-Approved: Health, Diet and Beauty Essentials

Dr. Oz gives his official seal of approval for the remedies, treatments and foods he's most passionate about.

Oz-Approved Alternative Treatments

It’s a question people ask Dr. Oz all the time: Which alternative health treatments really work? Here are a select few that do.

1. Back Pain Relief: Moxibustion

After the common cold, back pain ranks as the second biggest reason why people visit their doctor. To relieve back pain, try moxibustion, a traditional technique that has been part of Chinese acupuncture for thousands of years. This ancient remedy involves the burning of mugwort, a small spongy herb, to facilitate healing. Moxa is applied to the acupuncture needles placed in the lower back and then lit, which results in a very mild warming sensation. This activates the nervous system, increasing blood flow and infusing the skin and muscles with the analgesic properties of the herb. Moxibustion treatments are available through licensed acupuncturists.

For a complete guide to acupuncture for pain relief, click here.

2. Stress Relief: Rhodiola Rosea

If you’re like many Americans today – overscheduled and overworked – you may be suffering from excess stress. Rhodiola rosea, a plant that grows in cold regions such as Siberia, is known as an “adaptogen,” an herb that increases the body’s resistance to stress by reducing levels of cortisol. You can take it in pill form or try Dr. Oz’s stress shot: Add Rhodiola rosea “chips” to vodka and steep for a least 24 hours until it turns pink. Drink a stress shot but make sure to have just one. Available online and at health food stores in supplement form or as “chips” for $15-$20.

3. Immunity Boosters: Himalayan Salt Inhaler

If you find yourself run down, you need to boost your immunity, the body’s best line of defense against infection and disease. To help ward off infection, especially during flu season, try a Himalayan salt inhaler. This ancient remedy, a ceramic container filled with Himalayan salt crystals, is used as an inhaler to calm and cleanse your airways. The salt draws soothing moisture into your mucus membranes, making them better able to clear irritants. Use for 15 minutes a day. Costs about $30 online.