ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the role and function of alternative healers and alternative medicine in American society. It describes complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and the social classes most likely to use this form of treatment. The chapter identifies the types of religious healing. It also explains the persistence of folk healing. The chapter also compares osteopaths and chiropractors. CAM is the use of treatments that are not commonly practiced by the medical profession. It includes visits to chiropractors, faith healers, and folk healers, as well as to acupuncturists, homeopaths, and naturopaths, and the use of dietary supplements to prevent or cure disease. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese technique of inserting fine needles into specific points in the body to ease pain and stimulate bodily functions, while homeopathy is the use of microdoses of natural substances to bolster immunity. Other types of therapists may provide aromatherapy, ayurveda, shiatsu, crystal healing, and biofeedback.
