Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Explore the many forms of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practiced today and discover their histories, guiding principles, purported benefits, and potential risks.

This book's 48 questions begin with 10 that address foundational topics such as who uses CAM, how CAM has been studied and regulated, and how to gauge a particular treatment's safety and efficacy for yourself. The remaining 38 questions cover alternative medical systems and complementary treatments, including mind-body interventions, biologically based therapies, manipulation and body-based methods, and energy therapies. Each answer utilizes a standardized format that examines a treatment's history, how it's practiced, the scientific community's view, potential benefits and risks, and special considerations. The text takes an unbiased approach, balancing respect for individuals' beliefs with the rigor of modern science.

Augmenting the main text are case studies illustrating key concepts and issues through relatable stories and insightful recommendations, a "Common Misconceptions" section, glossary, directory of resources, and a "Guide to Health Literacy" section.