Complementary health care is becoming a booming business. As Australia's population ages, more and more people are looking for natural solutions to health problems, reluctant to use traditional medicine because it isn't working or they are concerned about the possible effects the medicine could be having.

Natural health therapies offers the best of both worlds - natural remedies to help or alleviate certain health problems and a pro-active approach to managing and bettering your health. For instance, massage used to be viewed as the purview of professional athletes or a luxury item, now as the business world starts to realise the destructive properties of too much stress and not enough relaxation, massage has become necessary for the health and well-being of many workers. In fact, doctors will even recommend massage and other relaxation techniques such as yoga to improve the overall health of patients.

Because natural remedies can cover a wide area, there is a varied market for these therapies as you would expect. This is what makes this market so lucrative. There is not just the one market for each therapy. In fact, it depends on the therapist as to which market he/she chooses to specialise in. For instance, a massage therapist can cater to both the business/corporate market as well as sporting enthusiasts and the general public.

As there are a variety of different markets you can choose to enter with alternative health therapies, you will have to ensure you conduct thorough market research so that you know that whatever area you decide to specialise in can be profitable. This is outlined in greater detail in our guide.

Apart for conducting thorough market research, to be a success in the massage and alternative health therapy business, education and training is a must. Because you are dealing with people's health and well-being, most people will only feel comfortable using your services providing you have the required qualifications and training. An interest in aromatherapy, for example, isn't enough. You will need to know exactly what scents and aromas are best for what conditions and why.

You will also need to consider your business premises and location. The type you choose will depend on your budget and your individual business requirements.

However, in the majority of situations, most people tend to start from home and then move into commercial premises, unless they need offices or therapy rooms immediately because of the type of market they are aiming for.

A home-based business works if the majority of your work is likely to be in the “field”, such as going to businesses and conducting massages on employees during their lunch hour or conducting your session at a client's home. Turning your home into a home-based business allows for minimal start-up costs when it comes to location and premises.

Equipment can be another major investment, again depending on the type of therapy business you intend to start, especially when it comes to massage tables or stock you need to carry out your business.

As you can see, there are a number of factors to consider when starting a business in this industry, especially when you are in the start-up phase. All of which are outlined in this guide and include issues such as:

• How to conduct your market research
• What to consider when it comes to servicing market segments
• What to consider when choosing business premises and location
• How to oversee the financial outlay when it comes to your equipment needs
• The type of equipment you will require, including the pros and cons of leasing equipment
• What to consider when it comes to your pricing methods
• Stock control, maintenance and ordering systems
• How to develop a business image and promote your services
• How to set-up your business, especially when it comes to tax and legal issues to consider.

All this and much more is outlined in this guide. Remember, not only is starting a business a major life-changing decision, it is also a major financial investment. As a result, you will need to make sure you are fully aware of the commitment you are about to make and what is involved.

This guide will help you to arm yourself with the appropriate information. Information that is accurate, up-to-date and applicable to your individual circumstances.