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
: Focus on the structures and systems of the body, primarily the bones, joints, and soft tissues (e.g., chiropractic manipulation and massage therapy ). The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
: Use of substances found in nature, such as herbs, vitamins, and dietary supplements. Many people turn to alternative therapies to manage
Many people turn to alternative therapies to manage chronic pain, reduce stress, or improve overall quality of life when conventional methods are insufficient. However, choosing these treatments requires careful evaluation: Alternative Medicine - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH
: Techniques designed to enhance the mind's capacity to affect bodily functions, including meditation, yoga, and biofeedback .
: Practices based on the concept of energy fields, such as Reiki and therapeutic touch. Benefits and Safety Considerations