What is alternative medicine?

Definition and explanation of alternative medicine can be a bit various but the main concept is here.

WHO - Complementary And Alternative Medicine (CAM)

“The term CAM often refers to a broad set of health-care practices that are not part of a country’s own tradition and are not integrated into the dominant health-care system. Other terms sometimes used to describe these health-care practices include ‘natural medicine’ , ’non-conventional medicine’ and ‘holistic medicine’.”

Hence, the definition of alternative medicine is subject to time and place.  When time changes, the concept could change as well.  For the East, Western medicine was once alternative medicine for them. In India, Ayuraveda is known for over 5000 years and it is not alternative medicine as it is legally accepted as primary treatment.  Same like Chinese medical treatment.

Mayo Clinic Housecall has expressed understanding toward relationship between alternative medicine, conventional integrative medicine as below

 “Because of the increasing popularity of complementary and alternative medicine — nearly 40 percent of U.S. adults report using it — doctors are learning more about these nonconventional approaches. When doctors use the term "alternative medicine," they're referring to practices not typically used in conventional Western medicine. Exactly what's considered alternative medicine changes constantly as more treatments undergo study and move into the mainstream. When an alternative medicine therapy is used in addition to — not instead of — conventional therapy, it's called complementary. And when you use a complementary therapy in addition to a conventional one, it's called integrative medicine.”

However, some say that alternative medicine can be used instead of conventional medicine, not only a choice.  Remember that the definition can be difference in each country at certain time.

It is long story to explain all aspects of alternative medicine only in thi page. 

But somethingwe all know is many people are turning to CAM because its doctrines can get along with their belief systems and their own personal values. Many researches have proved close relation between body and mind.  And power of nature healing is what we are talking every day.  Although CAM therapies are very diverse, most share common underlying philosophies. These include a belief in the interconnectedness of mind and body and respect for the innate mechanisms of healing.

To make it easier to understand, National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), has classified alternative medicine in 5 categories.

• Whole medical systems
• Mind-body
• Biologically based practices
• Manipulative and body-based practices
• Energy medicine 

It is certain there is no fault to look for the best for our health and you can know how to do that through these articles.  Search more what is Integrative Medicine.