What are the major types of complementary and alternative medicine?
NCCAM classifies CAM therapies into five categories, or domains: • Alternative Medical Systems : Alternative medical systems are built upon complete systems of theory and practice. Examples of alternative medical systems that have developed in Western cultures include homeopathic medicine and naturopathic medicine. Examples of systems that have developed in non-Western cultures include traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda. • Mind-Body Interventions: Mind-body medicine uses a variety of techniques designed to enhance the mind’s capacity to affect bodily function and symptoms. Examples include meditation, prayer, mental healing, and therapies that use creative outlets such as art, music, or dance. • Biologically Based Therapies: Use of substances found in nature, such as herbs, foods, and vitamins. • Manipulative and Body-Based Methods: Based on manipulation and/or movement of one or more parts of the body. Examples include chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation, and massage. • En
