By analysing online search trends for 35 of the most prominent alternative healing modalities, a staggering 837% global increase in interest has been determined – from 7.09 million monthly searches in 2016 to 66.41 million in 2024.
In the U.S. alone, there has been a 694% surge in search volume during this period.
The growth far outpaced the overall increase of 70% of internet users over this period, suggesting a significant rise in alternative ways to improve health globally.
So what’s driving this surge in alternative therapies? Several factors may be at play, including:
• a desire for greater control over personal health
• increasing dissatisfaction with conventional medicine and healthcare systems
• people generally shifting toward more proactive and integrative approaches to wellbeing
For the research, data was drawn from Ahrefs Keyword Explorer, which tracks average monthly search volumes. Ahrefs estimates monthly keyword search volumes using a combination of Google Keyword Planner (GKP), Google Trends data, and other third-party data sources.
The parent keywords include related terms to reveal the overall interest in the topic. For example, the parent keyword ‘yoga’ included associated terms such as ‘yoga near me,’ ‘yoga poses,’ ‘yoga for beginners,’ etc.
Because Ahrefs does not translate keywords, this report primarily reflected trends in English-speaking countries.
Analysis of Alternative Healing Modality Trends Worldwide
The statistics below present some of the global trends in searches for alternative healing modalities from 2016 to 2024 and the corresponding percentage change over the analysed period.
• Yoga has established itself as the most popular alternative healing therapy worldwide. Yoga-associated monthly searches exploded from 3.2 million in 2016 to 30 million in 2024 which represents an 838% surge
• Pilates not only kept pace in relative percentage growth but exceeded it, with monthly search volumes skyrocketing by 942% – rising from 960,000 monthly queries in 2016 to an impressive 10 million in 2024
• Chiropractor-related searches also saw a notable climb, jumping from 807,000 monthly queries in 2016 to 5.6 million in 2024, representing a 594% increase
• Interest growth in meditation also showed high momentum, with monthly searches climbing 823%, from 532,000 to 4.9 million throughout the period.
• Acupuncture also needled its way into substantial growth, leaping 569% from 329,000 monthly searches in 2016 to 2.2 million in 2024
These five modalities remain firmly at the top of the global rankings, cementing their place as the most popular options for alternative healing since 2016.
Significant Changes In Global Rankings
Thai massage made notable gains, rising from 11th place in 2016 to 7th in 2024. Thai massage is similar to yoga, however with this you are working with the practitioner who leads and moves you into different postures.
Herbal medicine (including herbology and herbalism keywords) experienced the steepest relative decline in popularity, dropping from the 14th spot to the 26th globally, with a modest growth of just 186% over the period.
It’s worth mentioning that the use of traditional herbal remedies comes with significant challenges. Regulations vary by country, leading to inconsistencies in quality, safety, and efficacy. Some herbal extracts may be contaminated or contain toxic compounds. Without standardised quality control, their effectiveness remains uncertain. Individuals should exercise caution and always consult healthcare professionals before using herbal remedies.
Changes In U.S. Rankings
Both globally and in the U.S., the top five alternative healing modalities remained consistent in rank by 2024, except for one change in the U.S.: Pilates surpassed chiropractic services, taking the second spot in popularity.
Overall, acupressure saw the most significant leap in rank, climbing from 16th to 11th place in the U.S., with an astonishing 1,300% increase in monthly search volume for associated keywords.
Outside of yoga and meditation, Americans are embracing a different branch of ancient wisdom — Ayurveda — more than ever before. Ayurveda broke into the U.S. top 10 most popular healing modalities in 2024, moving up from the 12th place in 2016.
DISCLAIMER
This report is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. It does not constitute medical advice, nor does it represent an endorsement or recommendation of any particular healing modality. We encourage individuals to consult qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical concerns or treatments.
SOURCE: Health News
