What Is The Difference Between Complimentary Medicine And Alternative Medicine?

Often there is no difference between these two types of medicine and the terms are used interchangeably. Strictly speaking, a therapy is alternative when it is used instead of western medicine and it is complimentary when it is used in conjunction with western medicine.

Both types of medicine include ancient traditional therapies such as acupuncture and herbalism but they also include the newer therapies, developed since the 1800. These include reflexology, homeopathy, bach flower remedies and aromatherapy.

Osteopathy and chiropractic and intensive massage therapies are now becoming much more integrated into western medicine, where their value in sorting out muscle, bone and joint problems has long been recognised.

Other therapies that fall into these two categories fall into the 'emotional support' therapies such as colour therapy, water therapy and gentle massage.

Whatever the therapy it is always important to consult your doctor before starting them and always do them with a qualified and certified practioner. Anyone can set up as a complimentary therapist and there are many poor quality ones around.