What is Complementary and Alternative Medicine?

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) encompasses therapies, healing systems, and self-help practices which do not currently have widespread acceptance within the conventional medical system. They are referred to as alternative when they are used instead of conventional treatments, and complementary when they are used in conjunction with conventional treatments. Prominent examples of CAM include acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, massage therapy, chiropractic, natural health products such as herbal remedies, Reiki, yoga, and meditation. Traditional/indigenous healing systems are sometimes included as a form of CAM.

For more information, please visit the National Centre for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) at the National Institutes of Health.

What is Integrative Medicine?

Integrative Medicine is the practice of medicine that reaffirms the importance of the relationship between practitioner and patient, focuses on the whole person, is informed by evidence, and makes use of all appropriate therapeutic approaches, healthcare professionals and disciplines to achieve optimal health and healing.

For more information, please visit the Consortium of Academic Health Centers for Integrative Medicine.