6 'quack' cures that really work

In his new book, “A Scientist in Wonderland: A Memoir for Search For Truth and Finding Trouble,” world-renowned complementary medicine authority Edzard Ernst, M.D., notes that doctors often shun folk remedies no matter how effective they are .

Here are some treatments deemed quackery by mainstream medicine that work.

Soy protein for high cholesterol. Dr. Ernst notes that studies have shown that soy can reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol levels by stimulating the liver to break down cholesterol. Gabe Mirkin, M.D., author of “The Health Heart Miracle,” tells Newsmax Health that the American Heart Association says that there is some evidence that when soy protein was substituted for animal fat that total cholesterol and LDL were lowered.

St. John’s Wort for depression. Dr. Ernst says more than 40 clinical trials have shown this supplement is beneficial in the treatment of mild to moderate depression in adults. Dr. Mirkin says that the best form of the supplement to take is hypericum extract.

Music therapy for anxiety. Music therapy, whether it’s listening to or playing an instrument, can help reduce anxiety, says Dr. Ernst. Ellen Kamhi, author of “The Natural Medicine Chest,” a guide to holistic treatments, gives this remedy a thumbs-up and says that research shows music therapy boosts the immune system.

Massage and yoga for back pain. Kamhi says that yoga and massage should be the “go-to” therapies for back pain, used before resorting to painkilling drugs or surgery. A U.K. study showed that patients who underwent a 12-week yoga program showed improvement in mobility, strength, and posture, while experiencing pain reduction. Soft tissue massage has been shown to ease lower back pain.

Guar gum for diabetes. This glue-like substance from the seed of the guar plant contains fibers called glucomannans and galactomannans that slow sugar absorption, says Dr. Ernst. Dr. Mirkin adds: “Anything that slows a rise in blood sugar after eating helps prevent diabetes.”

Olive oil for eczema. Soothe flare-ups by applying olive oil directly to the irritated area. Olive oil is packed with antioxidants that reduce inflammation associated with eczema. “It is also rich in squalane that helps repair and soften the skin,” says Dr. Beer.

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