Definitions

Ernst (2001) defines CAM as “diagnosis, treatment and/or prevention which complements mainstream medicine by contributing to a common whole, satisfying a demand not met by orthodoxy, or diversifying the conceptual framework of medicine” (Ernst, Pittler et al. 2001). Some authors also refer to CAM as integrative medicine (Rakel and Faass 2006).

As evidence improves regarding efficacy, safety and mechanisms of action, some CAM modalities may become part of mainstream medicine and no longer be regarded as CAM.

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has grouped five domains (Kotsirilos 2005):

	Alternative medical systems eg naturopathy, Ayurvedic, traditional Chinese medicine, homeopathy
	Mind-body interventions eg biofeedback, hypnosis, meditation, prayer
	Biologically-based therapies eg dietary therapy, herbal medicine, megavitamins
	Manipulative and body-based methods eg chiropractic, osteopathy, therapeutic massage
	Energy therapies eg therapeutic touch, reiki, electromagnetic and magnetic therapy, acupuncture

 

Herb list

Topic list

References