Alternative Medicine

Encyclopedia of Science, The, October, 2005 by Larry Blaser

Alternative medicine

National Institutes of Health classifies alternative medicine as an unrelated group of non-orthodox therapeutic practices, often with explanatory systems that do not follow conventional biomedical explanations or more seriously, based on pseudoscience. Others more generally define it as medical interventions not taught at United States medical schools or not available at United States hospitals.

Alternative therapies include, but are not limited to the following disciplines: folk medicine, herbal medicine , diet fads, homeopathy, faith healing, new age healing, chiropractic, acupuncture , naturopathy, massage, and music therapy. Studies suggest these therapies are sought out by individuals who suffer a variety of medical problems. In general, alternative medical practice that fits three criteria: it is not taught in the standard medical school curriculum; there is not sufficient scientific evidence that the treatment is safe and effective against a specific disease ; and insurance companies do not reimburse the patient ...