Making informed decisions about complementary and alternative medicine requires reliable, evidence-based information.
We’ve compiled this list of trustworthy resources to help you navigate the often confusing world of complementary therapies.
What is Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)?
Complementary medicine is used alongside conventional medical treatments, such as using acupuncture to manage side effects during cancer treatment. Alternative medicine refers to treatments used instead of mainstream medical care, such as herbal preparations in place of prescription medications. When healthcare providers integrate both complementary and conventional approaches, it’s called integrative medicine.
Cochrane Review Organization
Systematic reviews of complementary therapies including massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic interventions. Uses comprehensive searches of multiple bibliographic databases. Visit Website
Dietary Supplement Fact Sheets
Federal government information resources on dietary supplements and their ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, herbs, botanicals, and probiotics. Includes patient handouts in English and Spanish. Visit Website
LiverTox
Continuously updated resource with information on liver injury related to prescription and non-prescription medications, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements. Visit Website
MedlinePlus
Fact sheets and encyclopedia entries on herbs, vitamins, and complementary approaches in plain language for consumers. Visit Website
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
Evidence-based information about herbs, botanicals, supplements, and more, led by an oncology-trained pharmacist and botanical expert. Visit Website
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)
The US government’s lead agency for scientific research on complementary approaches. Provides evidence-based information on safety and effectiveness. Visit Website
Natural Medicines Database
Comprehensive evidence-based reviews of complementary therapies and natural medicines. Includes scientific names, uses, safety, effectiveness, mechanism of action, adverse reactions, interactions, and dosage information. Visit Website
Research Tips
When researching complementary medicine:
Check the source: Reliable websites typically end with .gov (government), .org (nonprofit), or .edu (educational institution). Be cautious with .com sites, which are commercial.
Be skeptical of marketing tactics like:
- Catchphrases: “Scientific breakthrough,” “secret ingredient,” or “medical miracle”
- Conspiracy theories: “Doctors don’t want you to know this”
- Cure-alls: Claims to treat multiple conditions or all cancers
- Pressure tactics: “Buy now,” “limited time offer,” or “money-back guarantee”
- Technical jargon used to hide lack of scientific evidence
For plant-based therapies, search using both common and scientific names, as plants may have multiple names.
Start specific and expand gradually if needed – begin with precise terms before broadening your search.
Consider the evidence quality – look for clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses rather than testimonials or anecdotes.
This resources page is intended to help you make informed decisions about complementary medicine. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment approach.
