The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) typically classifies these approaches into five major domains:
: Complete systems of theory and practice that evolved independently of Western medicine, such as Ayurveda , Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and homeopathy. ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE INFORMATION
: Use of substances found in nature, such as herbs, vitamins, and dietary supplements. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
: Practices based on the concept of energy fields, such as Reiki and therapeutic touch. Benefits and Safety Considerations primarily the bones
Alternative medicine encompasses a vast array of health care practices and products that fall outside the scope of conventional Western medical treatment. While often used interchangeably with "complementary medicine," the distinction lies in their application: alternative medicine is used standard treatments, whereas complementary medicine is used alongside them . Key Categories of Alternative Medicine
: Focus on the structures and systems of the body, primarily the bones, joints, and soft tissues (e.g., chiropractic manipulation and massage therapy ).