Print OverviewComplementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is the popular name for health care practices that traditionally haven't been part of conventional medicine. In many cases, as evidence of safety and effectiveness grows, these therapies are being combined with conventional medicine. Thus, the term "alternative" has been dropped from the name. These therapies are now called complementary and integrative medicine, integrative medicine and health, or simply integrative medicine. Integrative medicine combines the most well-researched conventional medicine with the most well-researched, evidence-based complementary therapies to achieve the appropriate care for each person. Why it's doneIntegrative medicine can help people who have symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety and pain. It can help people deal with conditions such as cancer, headaches and fibromyalgia. Examples of common practices include: Acupuncture Animal-assisted therapy Aromatherapy Dietary and herbal supplements Massage therapy Music therapy Meditation Resilience training Tai chi or yoga RisksThe treatments promoted in integrative medicine are not substitutes for conventional medical care. They should be used along with standard medical treatment. Certain therapies and products aren't recommended at all. Or they may not be recommended for certain conditions or people. The website of the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health is a good tool for researching a therapy you're considering. It's also important to talk with your health care provider before trying something new. Clinical trials Explore Mayo Clinic studies of tests and procedures to help prevent, detect, treat or manage conditions. By Mayo Clinic Staff Integrative medicine care at Mayo Clinic Request an appointment Doctors & Departments Sept. 13, 2022 Print Show references AskMayoExpert. Integrative medicine. Mayo Clinic; 2022. Complementary, alternative or integrative health: What's in a name? National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/complementary-alternative-or-integrative-health-whats-in-a-name. Accessed July 20, 2022. Academic Consortium for Integrative Medicine and Health. https://imconsortium.org/member-listing/. Accessed July 20, 2022. Bauer BA (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. Aug. 29, 2022. Related Alternative cancer treatments: 11 options to consider Mayo Clinic Minute: What is integrative health and how can it help? Mouth cancer Pancreatic cancer Show more related content News from Mayo Clinic Mayo Clinic Minute: Prescribing nature for mental, physical health April 21, 2024, 11:00 a.m. CDT Integrative medicineAboutDoctors&DepartmentsCare atMayoClinic Advertisement Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy Opportunities Ad Choices Mayo Clinic Press Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. NEW: Listen to Health Matters Podcast - Mayo Clinic PressNEW: Listen to Health Matters PodcastMayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on IncontinenceThe Essential Diabetes Book - Mayo Clinic PressThe Essential Diabetes BookMayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on Hearing and BalanceFREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic PressFREE Mayo Clinic Diet AssessmentMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book PRC-20393574 Patient Care & Health Information Tests & Procedures Integrative medicine