Nutrition, Complementary, and Alternative Medicine

Most complementary or alternative medicine practices have a long history of use, and the rational for effectiveness is based on the cultural practices and beliefs in which they evolved. This course provides an introduction to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), including nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathic medicine, behavioral medicine, chiropractic, acupuncture and others in a lecture and discussion format. The course critically examines the scientific validity and practice of alternative therapies, and reviews the state of the science in understanding the biological basis for their action. An overview of the field is presented including reviews of the major and frequently used CAM systems and modalities. Presentations will cover explanatory models, education of practitioners, methods of diagnoses and treatment, evidence of safety and efficacy and potential for interactions with prescription drugs.