Are you concerned about your health? Do you feel like the foods you eat and medicines you take are making you sick? There are various ways to improve and maintain your health emotionally, mentally, and physically. One of those ways is with CAM also known as Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
What is CAM?
CAM practices within 5 domains: biological therapies, min/body interventions, energy therapies, alternative medical systems, and manipulative methods. “Complementary medicine” refers to using CAM together with conventional medicine. “Alternative medicine” refers to using CAM instead of conventional medicine. “Integrative medicine” is the combination of conventional medicine and CAM.
What is the Difference between a Drug and Supplement?
Biologically based treatments fall under the regulation of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994. Botanicals, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are included. When a product is labeled to “promote health” it is considered a dietary supplement. If the substance is used for “treatment” or “prevention” it is considered a drug.
According to The National Institutes of Health (2011), natural products include a variety of herbal medicines, minerals, etc. Probiotics are live microorganisms that are found in the digestive tract of humans and could be beneficial.
Who uses CAM?
The interest in CAM natural products has increased in the last 20 years. Fish oil/omega 3’s is the most commonly used among children and adults. People of all ages and social groups use CAM. Before starting any CAM treatment you should consult your doctor as some botanicals may interact with your current prescriptions.
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