Summary
Read the full fact sheet- Complementary therapies are used alongside conventional medicines or treatments.
- Alternative therapies are used instead of conventional medicines or treatments.
- There is no scientific or medical evidence for some complementary therapies and many alternative therapies. They may be unsafe or cause harmful side effects.
- Do not assume that complementary medicines are safe just because they come from a natural source.
- Talk to your doctor if you are thinking about taking complementary medicine, to make sure it is safe for you.
- Never stop taking prescribed medications, or change the dose, without first discussing with your doctor.
- Tell your complementary practitioner about all medicines, treatments and remedies you use.
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
Related information
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Acupuncture is part of traditional Chinese medicine and consists of inserting fine needles into specific points on the skin.
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The Alexander technique stresses that movement should be economical and needs only the minimum amount of energy and effort.
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The different smells and chemical constituents of aromatherapy oils can produce different emotional and physiological reactions.
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Ayurveda is an ancient healing system from India that uses a range of techniques to treat illness and encourage wellbeing.
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Bowen is a holistic remedial body technique that works on the soft connective tissue (fascia) of the body. Bowen therapy can be used to treat musculoskeletal or related neurological problems including acute sports injuries and chronic or organic conditions. It is gentle and relaxing and does not use forceful manipulation.
From other websites
Content disclaimer
Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.
Summary
Read the full fact sheet- Under Australian law, a complementary medicine is assessed for the safety and quality of its ingredients, but not always for how well it works.
- Avoid the temptation to self-diagnose and self-medicate.
- Always consult with your doctor before taking a complementary medicine or embarking on a complementary therapy.
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
Related information
-
The Alexander technique stresses that movement should be economical and needs only the minimum amount of energy and effort.
-
The different smells and chemical constituents of aromatherapy oils can produce different emotional and physiological reactions.
-
Ayurveda is an ancient healing system from India that uses a range of techniques to treat illness and encourage wellbeing.
-
Bowen is a holistic remedial body technique that works on the soft connective tissue (fascia) of the body. Bowen therapy can be used to treat musculoskeletal or related neurological problems including acute sports injuries and chronic or organic conditions. It is gentle and relaxing and does not use forceful manipulation.
-
The principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine are very different from traditional Western notions about health, illness and the workings of the body.
From other websites
Content disclaimer
Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.