International Association of Therapists & Medical Doctors

Decisions about your health care are important; this includes decisions about whether or not to use complementary treatments. Complementary health approaches include natural products and practices for the mind and body. Natural products include herbs (also known as botanicals), vitamins and minerals, and probiotics. Natural products are widely available, readily available to consumers, and often sold as dietary supplements. Spiritual and physical practices include a large and diverse group of procedures or techniques administered or taught by a trained practitioner or teacher. Examples include yoga, meditation, and acupuncture. Some complementary approaches do not fit neatly into any of the previously mentioned groups, such as the practices of traditional healers, Ayurvedic medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, homeopathy, naturopathy, and functional medicine. When considering complementary medicine approaches, it is important to take responsibility for your health by being an informed consumer. Educate yourself and consider what scientific studies have been done on the safety and efficacy of the product or practice that interests you. When looking for a reliable complementary medicine practitioner, you should contact your healthcare provider, a local hospital, or a professional organization that promotes evidence-based medicine, such as us.