ABSTRACT
In addition to conventional medicine, there is also a growing market for CAM or Complementary and Alternative Medicine. This can be used as an alternative to conventional medicine or in combination (sometimes called ‘ integrative medicine ’ ). Often CAM medical systems developed and evolved much earlier than conventional medical systems. Examples in Western cultures include homoeopathic or naturopathic medicine, and in non-Western cultures traditional Chinese medicine or Indian Ayurveda. Mind-Body medicine is also an important part of CAM, although techniques like support-groups or cognitive-behavioural therapy have become mainstream. Others like meditation, prayer, mental healing, and t herapies that use creative outlets like art, music, and dance are still being researched. Biologically based practices use substances found in food, herbs, or vitamins. Manipulative or body-based practices use movement or manipulation such as chiropractic or osteopathic techniques, as well as massage. Energy therapies involve the use of energy fi elds, for example through Therapeutic Touch, Qi Gong, or Reiki (National Center for Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2007).
