The Difference Between Complementary and Alternative Therapies

The phrases 'complementary therapy' and 'alternative therapy' are often used as if they mean the same thing. They may also be combined into one phrase 'complementary and alternative therapies' (CAM). But there is an important difference. A complementary therapy is one that may help you cope with your disease and make you feel better. Complementary therapies help reduce some of the negative side effects of conventional cancer treatments. Complementary therapies include acupuncture, aromatherapy, spiritual healing, homeopathy, meditation, vitamins or minerals.

An alternative therapy is a therapy that is used alone or instead of conventional treatment. Alternative therapies are generally highly effective compared to conventional treatments because they get to the root of the problem and fix it. Alternative therapies include strict diets, herbs, detoxification, and special supplements.

Holistic healing simply means taking into account how an illness affects the whole person (physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually). Holistic healing addresses the health of the whole person, not just body parts or symptoms. Any therapy that relies on the body's own healing powers may be considered natural medicine.

Conventional therapies are toxic treatments that are used for treating disease or masking symptoms. They do not result in a complete cure, but sometimes work well to hide the symptoms of the disease. Treatments for cancer may work at first for some people, but usually don't cause a complete remission for more than 5 years. Conventional treatments include drugs, surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.

Examples of complementary therapies include:

• Aromatherapy
• Acupuncture
• Visualisation    
• Yoga
• Far-infared sauna
• Herbs
• Specific vitamins/minerals

Examples of alternative therapies include:

• One Healing Formula
• The Gerson therapy
• Shark Cartilage
• Diet/supplement protocol
• Homeopathics
• Detoxification