The world of medicine is a complex structure in which many approaches and opinions clash. While conventional medicine is based on scientific knowledge, alternative medicine alternative healing methods are becoming increasingly popular. But what exactly is the difference between these two approaches?
Alternative and complementary medicine offer a variety of treatment options, often informed by traditions and alternative philosophies. In contrast to conventional medicine, which relies on evidence-based practices, these methods aim to promote well-being at an individual level. However, there are also legal, economic and safety aspects that need to be considered.
In this article, we will look at the similarities and differences between conventional and alternative medicine. We will show how these two systems can interact and what considerations are crucial when choosing treatment methods.
Alternative medicine and complementary approaches
alternative medicine and complementary approaches are becoming increasingly popular. A survey from 2012 shows that many people rely on yoga, breathing exercises and meditation and meditation. These methods are often considered less toxic and more effective than conventional medicine.
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative health (NCCIH) investigates the safety and efficacy of such therapies. Many of them are based on ancient practices, but their scientific validation is often still pending.
Diagnostic procedures in alternative medicine:
- Applied kinesiology
- Iris diagnostics
These methods are controversial and could lead to incorrect diagnoses as they are not scientifically recognized.
The main difference between complementary and alternative medicine lies in their application:
|
Type of medicine |
Application |
|---|---|
|
Complementary medicine |
Complementary to conventional therapy |
|
Alternative medicine |
Often as a substitute for conventional therapy |
Complementary methods are used in addition to conventional medicine. Alternative methods, on the other hand, often replace traditional treatments. However, both approaches offer opportunities to improve well-being, but require careful consideration of the risks and benefits.
Introduction to the alternative medicine
The alternative medicine offers approaches that replace conventional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Traditional healing practices and experimental procedures are used. These methods often lack scientific proof of their effectiveness.
Typical methods:
- Traditional healing practices: Based on ancient systems of medicine.
- Unconventional healing methods: Including spiritual practices.
Proponents of these approaches tend to reject scientific methods. Instead, they rely on anecdotes and theories that have not been extensively tested. The focus is on the body's self-healing powers. This promotes the treatment of physical, mental and emotional aspects of health.
Differences to conventional medicine:
|
Conventional medicine |
|
|---|---|
|
Traditional and spiritual |
Scientifically proven |
|
No strict tests |
Strict safety tests |
|
Holistic approach |
Specific treatments |
Alternative medicine is often aimed at people who reject or would like to supplement conventional methods. It is important to take a critical look at these approaches and obtain comprehensive information.
Definition of alternative and complementary medicine
alternative medicine includes practices that are often not evidence-based and are seen by the dominant medical group as outside conventional medicine. Complementary medicine, on the other hand, sees itself as a supplement to established medicine and not as a substitute.
The World Health Organization (WHO) describes complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) as a broad spectrum of healing methods. These are not part of the national tradition and are not yet fully integrated into the dominant healthcare system.
Integrative medicine is a holistic concept. It combines scientifically based conventional medicine with experience-based methods.
Examples of alternative and complementary approaches:
- Acupuncture
- homeopathy
- Chiropractic
- Yoga
- herbal therapy
These approaches can promote well-being and prevention of diseases. It is important to see them as a supplement to traditional treatment, not as a substitute.
Differentiation between alternative and conventional medical treatment
There are clear differences between alternative medicine and conventional medicine. alternative medicine relies on unconventional practices that are often not sufficiently scientifically proven. These approaches are used as a substitute for conventional medicine and often reject proven therapies because they are considered harmful.
In contrast, complementary medicine is used in conjunction with conventional medical methods. It supports the treatment success of conventional medicine. Examples of this are acupuncture and homeopathywhich can have a positive influence on the course of the disease.
Comparison:
|
Conventional medicine |
Complementary medicine |
|
|---|---|---|
|
Scientifically sound |
Complements conventional medicine |
Replaces conventional medicine |
|
Proven therapies |
e.g. acupuncture |
Rejection of therapies |
|
Clinical studies |
Positive effects possible |
Often not scientifically proven |
The choice between conventional medicine and alternative approaches should be carefully considered. Complementary medicine can be a useful addition without sacrificing the benefits of proven conventional medical methods.
Acceptance of alternative methods in different countries
Acceptance of alternative methods varies considerably around the world. In Germany, alternative medicines such as mistletoe preparations in pharmacies legally available. In the USA, however, they are banned outside of clinical trials.
Despite their prevalence in Germany, there is often a lack of scientific evidence for the effectiveness of these therapies. In some countries, certain complementary therapies are not approved due to a lack of evidence or regulatory requirements.
Factors influencing availability and acceptance:
- National regulationDifferent laws determine access.
- Effectiveness assessment: Scientific evidence influences approval.
- Patient experiencePersonal experiences and the feeling of gaps in conventional medicine play a role.
In summary, the acceptance of these therapies can depend heavily on local health policy conditions and subjective patient perceptions.
Efficacy and safety of alternative therapies
The effectiveness of many alternative therapies is often uncertain. There is often a lack of well-conducted studies to prove their effectiveness. A survey on the health from 2012 shows that many people use methods such as breathing exercises, yoga and meditation use. However, the effectiveness of these methods is often not evidence-based. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative health (NCCIH) is working to investigate the efficacy and safety of these therapies and check them against scientific standards. A major risk is that patients lose important time for effective medical treatments by choosing non-evidence-based therapies, especially for serious illnesses. A study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that patients who only receive alternative treatments for breast cancer had a higher risk of death.
Role of the placebo effect
The placebo effect can occur when patients have the feeling that a treatment is helping because they expect an improvement. The therapist's attention can reinforce this effect. Many complementary medicine methods may only benefit from the placebo effect. In studies on acupuncture a special placebo was used to test the actual effectiveness. To be considered effective, a method must show that it has positive effects beyond the placebo effect.
Potential health risks
Alternative medicine can entail risks, as it is often not as safe as established medical therapies. This is particularly true for life-threatening diseases such as cancer. A study from 2018 showed that patients who breast cancer only received alternative treatment had an almost six times higher risk of death. The risks of alternative and complementary medicine procedures are often not sufficiently researched. This concerns both direct risks such as injuries and medicinal products-interactions. Indirect risks arise when necessary medical diagnoses and treatments are missed. Even gentle complementary medicine therapies can have considerable risks and side effects that have not been sufficiently investigated.
Summary of risks:
|
Type of risk |
Risk type Description |
|---|---|
|
Direct risks |
Injuries and negative Medicines-Interactions through alternative methods |
|
Indirect risks |
Failure to perform necessary medical diagnostics and treatments |
|
Lack of research |
Insufficient data on direct and indirect health risks |
|
Example from the 2018 study |
Alternative treatment of breast cancer with increased mortality risk |
These points illustrate the need to critically scrutinize alternative therapies and to obtain comprehensive information about possible risks.
Complementary approaches to cancer
Complementary medicine is seen as a supplement to conventional medicine. It supports cancer therapies, promotes the health patients' health and alleviates the consequences of therapy. It does not serve as a primary therapy. The main aim is to activate the patient's self-healing powers and improve their quality of life. It can also reduce the risk of relapse by promoting a healthy lifestyle.
The therapy methods include acupuncturenutritional and exercise therapy, water therapy and phytotherapeutics. Doctors and alternative practitioners who choose these approaches often take more time for their patients. They respond sensitively to their fears. Many people appreciate the safety and potential effectiveness of these methods. However, their benefits are not always proven by scientific studies.
Importance of coordination with conventional medicine
Alternative medicine is increasingly being used as a supplement to conventional medicine. The aim is to increase the chances of recovery by combining different methods. An integrative approach promotes the balance of body, mind and soul. This is an essential aspect of alternative medicine.
Conventional medicine is based on scientifically founded practices. In contrast, complementary and alternative medicine is subject to less stringent effectiveness criteria. Almost half of cancer patients would like to contribute to their own healing through complementary measures. This shows how important it is to coordinate the two approaches.
There are now specialist training courses for doctors in complementary medical procedures. These are intended to promote the harmonized integration of alternative medical methods into conventional medicine.
Importance of coordination with conventional medicine
Alternative medicine is increasingly seen as a complement to conventional medicine. Its integration improves the chances of recovery by combining different healing methods.
An integrative view of medicine promotes the balance between body, mind and soul. This is a central aspect of alternative medicine.
While conventional medicine relies on scientifically based practices, complementary medicine is subject to less stringent criteria. This is an important distinguishing feature.
Almost half of cancer patients want to actively contribute to their own healing through complementary measures. This emphasizes the importance of coordination between the two medical approaches.
Specialist training for doctors in complementary medical procedures is well established. These promote the harmonized integration of alternative medical methods into conventional medicine.
Advantages of coordination with conventional medicine:
- Improved chances of recovery
- Holistic approaches to health
- Increased patient participation
- More therapy flexibility
Information sources for alternative healing methods
There is a growing demand for information on naturopathy and alternative medicine methods. Women, well-educated people and the chronically ill are particularly interested. Surveys show that less than a third of the population has never had any contact with alternative medicine. Around a quarter have only tried naturopathic substances or therapies.
In Germany, many doctors prescribe alternative methods in combination with conventional treatments. Around two thirds of these methods are prescribed by doctors in private practice. According to estimates, 20,000 to 50,000 doctors are practicing acupuncture. Additional qualifications such as "chirotherapy" and "naturopathy" are widespread.
Specialist literature and studies
Well-designed studies are crucial to prove the effectiveness of alternative healing methods. These should be published in recognized journals. The placebo effect shows that patients' expectations often play a role. Therefore, meaningful data must come from controlled clinical trials. Anecdotes and insufficiently documented case reports are not sufficient evidence.
Online resources and platforms
There is a lot of information available online about complementary medicine treatments, often in English. Translation tools such as Google Translate can be useful. Reputable sources include:
- International Alliance of ALS/MND AssociationsRecommendations on alternative therapies for ALS patients.
- ALS-UntangledA platform for scientific evaluations of alternative treatments for ALS.
- Patients Like Me: A platform where patients share experiences with treatment options and receive information on side effects.
The cancer information service also offers support by telephone or e-mail if a personal consultation with a doctor is not possible.
Training opportunities for providers of alternative healing methods
There are various training options for providers of alternative healing methods. Training to become an alternative practitioner is flexible and does not offer uniform standards. However, in order to be allowed to work as a non-medical practitioner, a state non-medical practitioner examination is required.
Doctors who are trained in complementary approaches can extend their qualifications through further training or courses of study. Possible additional titles are "Doctor of Naturopathy" or "acupuncture“.
In Austria, the practice of complementary medicine methods is subject to strict regulations. Providers outside the recognized health professions are not allowed to make diagnoses or carry out therapies.
Overview of training opportunities
|
Profession |
Required training |
|---|---|
|
Alternative practitioner |
Training of your choice, alternative practitioner examination |
|
Doctor |
Medical studies, specialist training, additional training required for complementary methods |
Healthcare professions that are recognized by law have specialized areas of responsibility that can also include complementary medical treatments. It is therefore important that anyone wishing to work in this field obtains the right qualifications and complies with the legal requirements.
Legal framework in Germany
In Germany, the legal use of diagnostic or therapeutic methods depends on various legal regulations. These exist at both federal and state level. A first point of contact for questions regarding the approval of complementary and alternative methods is the Federal Institute for Medicines and Medical Devices (BfArM). Their website also provides information on special therapeutic directions and traditional medicines.
Interested parties can also find information from the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) on dietary supplements and consumer products that may be potentially dangerous. For further information in the field of oncology, the Cancer Information Service offers legal overviews and references to relevant sources.
In summary:
- BfArMResponsible for marketing authorizations.
- Website BfArMInformation on traditional medicinal products.
- BfR: Information on the risks of food supplements.
- Cancer Information Service: Legal information in the field of cancer.
These contact points help you to find your way around the legal framework in Germany.
Economic effects of alternative medicine
Alternative medicine is an important economic sector in Germany. In 2006, around nine billion euros were spent on alternative medical products and services. This corresponds to an average of 110 euros per inhabitant.
Expenditure structure:
- Five billion euros were paid directly by patients.
- The health insurance funds contributed four billion euros.
These figures show that alternative medicine is deeply integrated into the healthcare system. Around 40,000 doctors offer such services.
A look at the international figures illustrates the economic dimension:
- In Australia, expenditure amounted to AU$3.9 billion (2016).
- In the USA, expenditure amounted to 30.2 billion US dollars (2012).
Challenges: Many complementary medicine treatments do not have sufficient evidence of their effectiveness. As a result, statutory health insurance companies generally do not cover the costs.
The high demand for alternative medicine shows the increasing interest of patients in integrative health approaches. This leads to a diversification of the medical offer and expands patients' options.
Ecological aspects of alternative healing methods
Alternative medical approaches are often caught between health and the environment. Some healing methods use animal products. For example, ivory and shark teeth in traditional Chinese medicine. This threatens many animal species and poses a serious ecological problem.
Sustainable measures:
- Avoiding endangered animal products.
- Use of plant-based alternatives from sustainable cultivation.
- Promotion of regional medicinal plants.
The market for alternative medicine is growing in countries such as Germany, Australia, the United Kingdom and the USA. This demand can lead to an overuse of natural resources if not handled responsibly.
Environmentally friendly alternative medicine requires careful screening of ingredients. It is important to promote the preservation of biodiversity. Responsible handling and clear rules can help to master this balancing act.
Conclusion: Reflections on alternative and complementary medicine
Interest in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is growing steadily. This is reflected in the integration of such topics into medical training, for example through acupuncture and herbal medicine. A 2012 survey shows that 38% of adults and 12% of children have used CAM treatments at least once in their lives.
However, many of these therapies offer no scientifically proven mechanism of action. Often their effects remain a mystery and do not exceed the placebo effect. This raises questions about the validity of such approaches.
The term "complementary medicine" makes it clear that these methods act as supplements to established medicine rather than alternatives. The Pschyrembel defines "alternative medicine" as controversial. It is often based on speculative explanatory models and has insufficient data on its effectiveness.
Important considerations:
- Growing integrationIncreasing interest leads to more acceptance.
- Scientific evidenceMany CAM methods lack a solid scientific basis.
- Role in the healthcare systemCAM as a supplement, not a substitute.
In conclusion, the approach remains controversial, but is gaining in importance as a potential complement to conventional medicine.
Alternative medicine, complementary medicine or conventional medicine: what do we actually mean by this?
Understanding these terms is essential in order to understand the role of each method in healthcare.
What is behind the terms?
Complementary medicine includes treatment approaches that work in addition to conventional medicine. They are often based on other models of how diseases develop. This includes Acupuncture and phytotherapy. Alternative medicine, considered a true alternative, usually rejects standardized practices and follows its holistic approach. The terms are related, but they emphasize different applications in a medical context.
Providing evidence: From cancer research to evidence-based guidelines
Cancer research today needs to take mental and psychological aspects more seriously. Clinical studies focus more on quality of life. This promotes the development of new guidelines for patient care. Evidence-based guidelines are crucial. They ensure that patients affected by cancer receive well-founded scientific support not just anecdotal evidence. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires rigorous safety audits before new approaches are integrated.
Definition of alternative medicine
Alternative medicine is not limited to traditional medicine. It includes natural healing methods, homeopathy and traditional Chinese medicine. These methods often have a holistic approach. Despite their popularity, there is no uniformly accepted definition. Many methods show no benefit beyond the placebo effect. As a result, precise scientific mechanisms are often not clear.
Definition of complementary medicine
Complementary medicine is characterized by a broad spectrum of methods. These are based on alternative disease models and complement conventional medicine. The aims include the alleviation of therapy-related side effects and the general well-being of patients. Such methods do not replace primary therapy, but offer additional support. Complementary medicine in no way devalues conventional medicine.
Complementary medicine - What is evidence-based in oncology?
Complementary medicine is increasingly becoming part of cancer treatment and is known as "integrative oncology". The S3 guideline on complementary medicine offers evidence-based recommendations for cancer treatments. These were drawn up by experts from 44 specialist societies and organizations.
Many cancer patients use complementary medicine procedures, but the effectiveness of these methods is often unclear. Some herbal preparations can also interact with cancer treatment, which poses risks.
Scientifically sound treatment is important in order to:
- effectiveness guarantee effectiveness.
- Safety of the patients.
Complementary and alternative medicine approaches must show in studies that they are more effective than a placebo or other control treatments. Only then are they considered effective.
The following table lists some aspects of integrative oncology:
|
Aspect |
Aspect Description |
|---|---|
|
Evidence-based practice |
Must be supported by studies. |
|
Interactions |
herbal preparations can influence. |
|
Use by patients |
High demand despite unclear efficacy. |
Careful evaluation of these methods therefore remains crucial.
Complementary medicine for cancer
Complementary medicine includes therapies that are used alongside conventional medicine to improve the wellbeing of cancer patients. These approaches aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life during treatment.
Popular methods of complementary medicine:
- Acupuncture
- Nutrition and exercise therapies
- Phytotherapeutics
The main aim of complementary medicine is to support conventional tumor therapy, not to replace it. These approaches are intended to reduce the side effects of therapy and promote the body's self-healing powers. Nevertheless, conventional medical treatment remains the basis for fighting cancer.
It is important to know that the effectiveness of complementary medicine is often not proven by thorough scientific studies. Therefore, these methods should not be used as a primary therapy.
Summary
- Supports: Improving the quality of life
- Not replaced: conventional medical therapy
- CautionLack of evidence-based studies
The use of complementary medicine is increasing, but remains a complementary measure to conventional medical treatment of cancer.
Source: istockphoto juefraphoto
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