MedWorm: Alternative and Complementary Therapies

Basic and Preclinical Research on Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) (R01)

Grants.gov — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 15:15:33 +0100

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-09-010 Opportunity Category: DiscretionaryFunding Instrument Type: GrantCategory of Funding Activity: EducationHealthCFDA Number: 93.21393.39393.39493.39593.396Eligible Applicants State governmentsCounty governmentsCity or township governmentsSpecial district governmentsIndependent school districtsPublic and State controlled institutions of higher educationNative American tribal governments (Federally recognized)Public housing authorities/Indian housing authoritiesNative American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments)Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher educationNonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher educationPri...

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Belief in complementary and alternative medicine is related to age and paranormal beliefs in adults

The European Journal of Public Health — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 07:45:28 +0100

Conclusion: Support of CAM was very prevalent in this Flemish adult population. CAM beliefs were strongly associated with paranormal beliefs. (Source: The European Journal of Public Health)

Change of Expiration Date for PA-09-010: Basic and Preclinical Research on Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) (R01)

NIH Funding Opportunities (Notices, PA, RFA) — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 17:00:00 +0100

Notice from the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts (Source: NIH Funding Opportunities (Notices, PA, RFA))

Growing Number Of Acupuncture-Transmitted Diseases: Experts Call For Infection Control Guidelines

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

In an editorial on bmj.com today, experts are demanding further funding to establish appropriate infection control guidelines to deal with the growing number of acupuncture-transmitted diseases. The number of reported cases is described as "the tip of the iceberg" by Professor Patrick Woo and colleagues from the University of Hong Kong. Acupuncture is one of the most widely practiced strands of alternative medicine. It is based on the theory that inserting and manipulating fine needles at specific points in the body helps to promote the flow of Qi or energy... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Acupuncture transmitted infections

BMJ Online First — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:05:33 +0100

(Source: BMJ Online First)

Complementary therapies research unit ‘to close after Royal secretary's complaint'

Pulse — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 09:30:00 +0100

A controversial academic department looking at the evidence behind the use of complementary therapies is likely to close next year amid a bitter row over its funding. (Source: Pulse)

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Dr. Nicholas DiMartino reveals ways to eliminate fatigue on the NaturalNews Talk Hour

NaturalNews.com — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) This week's NaturalNews Talk Hour features Nicholas DiMartino, D.O., ND talking about how to "Eliminate Fatigue -- New Ways to Energize YOUR Health". Low energy is the first sign of poor health... stop the damage before it's too late. Our program runs this Thursday evening at 6pm Pacific / 9pm Eastern, and registration is FREE. Simply enter your email address in the registration form on the right column of this page and you'll receive call-in details for the broadcast.The NaturalNews Talk Hour is a behind-the-scenes, up close and personal look at the most important issues of our time. Discover what the mainstream media hasn't told you about the secrets of optimal health, freedom and the pursuit of happiness. Jonathan Landsman, host of NaturalNews Talk Hour, says "Dr. DiMartin...

A qualitative analysis of acute skin toxicity among breast cancer radiotherapy patients

Psycho-Oncology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Implications of results are as follows: (1) skin toxicity affects numerous dimensions of QOL, and assessment approaches and psychosocial interventions should address this; (2) individual differences may affect the experience of skin toxicity and should be considered in treatment and education approaches; and (3) participants' own creativity and problem-solving should be used to improve the treatment experience. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. (Source: Psycho-Oncology)

Vitamin D Levels Have Different Effects On Atherosclerosis In Blacks And Whites

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Vitamin D is quickly becoming the "go-to" remedy for treating a wide range of illnesses, from osteoporosis to atherosclerosis. However, new evidence from a Wake Forest University School of Medicine study suggests that supplementing vitamin D in those with low levels may have different effects based on patient race and, in black individuals, the supplement could actually do harm... (Source: Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today)

Oxford handbook of complementary medicine. Edited by E Ernst, MH Pittler, B Wider and Boddy K, Oxford University Press, Oxford UK, 2008. 424 pp., ISBN 978-0-19-920677-3

Phytotherapy Research — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

No abstract. (Source: Phytotherapy Research)

Are the forces of rationality gathering?

Pulse Today Clinical Updates — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 17:27:00 +0100

Edzard Ernst senses a change in the national debate on complementary therapies. (Source: Pulse Today Clinical Updates)

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Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Best Practice & Research. Clinical Rheumatology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 15:46:38 +0100

Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is most commonly due to degenerative changes in older individuals. LSS is being more commonly diagnosed and may relate to better access to advanced imaging and to an ageing population. This review focusses on radicular symptoms related to degenerative central and lateral stenosis and updates knowledge of LSS pathophysiology, diagnosis and management. Since patients with anatomic LSS can range from asymptomatic to severely disabled, the clinical diagnosis focusses on symptoms and examination findings associated with LSS. Imaging findings are helpful for patients with persistent, bothersome symptoms in whom invasive treatments are being considered. There is limited information from high-quality studies about the relative merits and demerits of commonly used treat...

Scientific Evidence on the Supportive Cancer Care with Chinese Medicine

Chinese Journal of Lung Cancer — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:51:32 +0100

Complementary and alternative medicine has been increasingly utilized by cancer patients in developed countries. Among the various forms of complementary and alternative medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine is one of the few that has a well constructed theoretical framework and established treatment approaches for diseases including cancer. Recent research has revealed growing evidence suggesting that Traditional Chinese Medicine is effective in the supportive care of cancer patients during and after major conventional cancer treatments. This paper succinctly summarizes some published clinical evidence and meta-analyses which support the usage of various Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment strategies including Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture and Qigong in supportive cancer care. ...

Tiger Bones Rejected By Chinese Medicine Societies Ahead Of CITES Conference

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

WWF and TRAFFIC welcome a World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies (WFCMS) statement urging its members not to use tiger bone or any other parts from endangered wildlife. The statement was made at a symposium Friday in Beijing and notes that some of the claimed medicinal benefits of tiger bone have no basis. The use of tiger bones was removed from the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pharmacopeia in 1993, when China first introduced a domestic ban on tiger trade. "Tiger conservation has become a political issue in the world... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Tiger Bones Rejected By Chinese Medicine Societies Ahead Of CITES Conference

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Does Cholesterol Really Matter?

NaturalNews.com — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) I'd like to shine the spotlight on one of medicine's sacred cows- the belief that lowering cholesterol with drugs protects against heart attacks and premature death. Our obsession with cholesterol began in the 1950s when studies linked high consumption of animal fat with high rates of heart disease. This opened the door for clinical trials that laid the foundation of a new paradigm: the cholesterol theory of cardiovascular disease.This theory has had profound ramifications. It changed the way we eat (fats bad, carbohydrates good) and contributed to our problems with obesity and diabetes. It wormed its way into "clinical practice guidelines"- cholesterol management has become a "standard of care" that doctors are expected to follow. It spawned the invasive heart surgery indust...

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A systematic review of the effects of acupuncture in treating insomnia

NeLM - Mental Health — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Complementary Medicine CRD Summary: This review concluded that acupuncture was potentially effective at treating insomnia, but the differences between studies and poor study quality meant that there was not yet sufficient evidence to support its use. The review suffered several limitations and the conclusions should be interpreted with extreme caution. CRD Commentary: The review addressed a broad question with clearly defined inclusion criteria. The literature search was adequate, but the review was limited to studies published in English and Chinese and so there was a possibility of language and publication bias. A detailed quality assessment was undertaken, but the assessment results were not clearly reported or considered in the synthesis of results. Det...

Acupuncture for obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis

NeLM - Complementary Medicine — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Complementary Medicine CRD Summary: This review concluded that acupuncture for obesity had some beneficial effect compared to placebo or lifestyle control. However, results were of limited value due to clinical heterogeneity and poor methodological quality of included trials. This was a well-conducted review and the authors' conclusions are appropriately cautious. CRD Commentary: This review addressed a clear question supported by appropriate inclusion criteria. The search was very comprehensive and did not place restrictions on language. However, there appeared to be limited efforts to retrieve unpublished data. Suitable methods were used throughout the review process to minimise the risks of reviewer error and bias. Detailed evidence tables were reported....

`Anti-ageing medicine' in Australia: Global trends and local practices to redefine ageing

Health Sociology Review — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Health Sociology Review 18(4): 446-460 Abstract Through interviews with users and providers of anti-ageing medicine in Australia as well as the analysis of various internet sites, anti-ageing clinics, journals and magazines dealing with anti-ageing medicine, this paper will argue that the anti-ageing industry in Australia is an example of how `mediascapes' operate, seeking in this case to replicate the American model while developing a more localized practice meeting local needs, cultural orientations and regulatory frameworks. The products being studied here include some which have been on the market for many years in the Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) industry, but have only recently been rebranded as `anti-ageing'. These include vitamins, anti-oxidants, supplements such as...

Psychological well-being in rheumatoid arthritis: a review of the literature

Musculoskeletal Care — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The psychological well-being of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an important issue, and the advent of measurement tools has led to a better understanding of the mental aspects associated with this chronic illness. Patients with RA are more likely to suffer from anxiety, depression and low self-esteem, with high levels of associated mortality and suicide. The loss of the ability to carry out daily functions owing to RA is also associated with the onset of depressive symptoms. Furthermore, the psychological effects of RA can extend to the partners, families and carers of sufferers. Conventional treatment has focused on treating the symptoms of RA and containment of disease progression, but may not necessarily address the psychological issues associated with the condition. Furtherm...

Molecular Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Cancer Chemoprevention.

Current Drug Discovery Technologies — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Wang S, Penchala S, Prabhu S, Wang J, Huang Y Cancer is the second leading cause of death, for which current therapeutic approaches are still very limited. Chemoprevention is an important approach to decrease cancer morbidity and mortality by the use of non-toxic natural or synthetic substances to reverse the processes of initiation and subsequent development of cancer. A substantial amount of evidence from human, animal and cell line studies has shown that many herbal products used for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can exert chemopreventive effects. The underlying theory for TCM to treat or prevent cancer is to bring the patient back to a healthy state by modifying multiple cancer-causing events. Since carcinogenesis involves multiple abnormal genes/pathways, using TCM i...

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A systematic review on the effectiveness of complementary and alternative medicine for chronic non-specific low-back pain

European Spine Journal — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 12:24:45 +0100

Abstract The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the effects of spinal manipulative therapy (SMT), acupuncture and herbal medicine for chronic non-specific LBP. A comprehensive search was conducted by an experienced librarian from the Cochrane Back Review Group (CBRG) in multiple databases up to December 22, 2008. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of adults with chronic non-specific LBP, which evaluated at least one clinically relevant, patient-centred outcome measure were included. Two authors working independently from one another assessed the risk of bias using the criteria recommended by the CBRG and extracted the data. The data were pooled when clinically homogeneous and statistically possible or were otherwise qualitatively described. GRADE was used to ...

Complementary medicine use in patients with head and neck cancer in Ireland

European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 11:29:33 +0100

The objectives of the study were: first, to determine the prevalence of traditional medicine (TM) and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use in head and neck cancer patients in Ireland; second, to educate ourselves on the plethora of CAM/TM options available to patients outside the dominion of conventional medicine. The study design consisted of a cross-sectional survey carried out in three head and neck cancer centres. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to 110 head and neck cancer patients attending the three cancer centres and data were collected for statistical analysis. A total of 106 patients completed the questionnaire; 21.7% of the participants used CAM/TM since their diagnosis with head and neck cancer. CAM/TM usage was higher in female (34.3%) than i...

MPs condemn homeopathy report

Guardian Unlimited Science — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 18:39:30 +0100

An early day motion claims shortcomings in the committee's recent homeopathy "evidence check"Last month, the Commons science and technology committee published a detailed report into the evidence for the efficacy, or otherwise, of homeopathic remedies. You can read it here. After taking oral testimonies from scientists, doctors and homeopathy advocates, the committee recommended the government halt NHS funding for this kind of alternative medicine and said the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency should ban false statements of medical efficacy on the labels of homeopathy products.In forming their conclusions, the committee heard evidence from, among others, David Harper, the chief scientist at the Department of Health; Kent Woods, the chief executive of the Medicines and Hea...

Determinants of public trust in complementary and alternative medicine

BMC Public Health - Latest articles — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In the Netherlands, CAM is trusted less than conventional medicine. The hypotheses on institutional guarantees, media information, information from the network and people's personal experiences are confirmed by our study for the total sample, CAM non users and users. The other hypotheses are rejected. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles)

Antidepressants are a rational complementary therapy for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

BioMed Central — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

There is a high prevalence rate (30-50%) of Alzheimer's disease and depression comorbidity. Depression can be a risk factor for the development of Alzheimer's disease or it can be developed secondary to the neurodegenerative process. There are numerous documented diagnosis and treatment challenges for the patients who suffer comorbidity between these two diseases. Meta analysis studies have provided evidence for the safety and efficacy of antidepressants in treatment of depression in Alzheimer's patients. Preclinical and clinical studies show the positive role of chronic administration of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants in hindering the progression of the Alzheiemr's and improving patient performance. A number of clinical studies suggest a beneficial role of combinat...

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The Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Among Refugees: A Systematic Review

Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 18:25:02 +0100

Abstract Little is known about the use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) among refugees, despite the common practice of CAM in many non-Western countries. We performed a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature using nine electronic databases. We included articles pertaining to refugees and CAM (whole medical systems, mind body medicine, herbal remedies, manipulative therapies, energy medicine). Qualitative and quantitative data were compiled and analyzed through descriptive statistics and chi square distribution tables. We reviewed 237 abstracts, and 47 publications met our inclusion criteria. Twenty-six papers documented whole medical systems; 11 mind–body medicine; 5 biologically based practices; 4 manipulative and body-based therapies; and 1 study ...

Summer Workshop Cognitive Remediation Therapy Training (2010-06-08)

Institute of Psychiatry | Events — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 18:17:44 +0100

The Cognitive Remediation Therapy (CRT) programme taught on this course is an individual psychological therapy which aims to improve cognitive functioning in people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. In previous trials of the programme, people who received CRT made significantly greater improvements in memory and flexible thinking than people who received an alternative therapy based on occupation (Source: Institute of Psychiatry | Events)

Relaxation therapy for anxiety

NHS News Feed — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:33:00 +0100

Conclusion This trial carefully recruited people with diagnosed GAD with the aim of comparing three different relaxation techniques over a period of 12 weeks. However, it has a number of important limitations: There were relatively few participants in each of the three groups. With such small numbers, there is a stronger chance that the findings are due to chance only. Participants could not be blinded to the fact that they were receiving relaxation treatment. Simply by receiving some form of relaxation therapy over 12 weeks may have helped people to feel less anxious. As the researchers admit, a ‘no treatment’ group who received no form of therapy of at all would have addressed some of this uncertainty. This was a specific group of people with diagnosed GAD, a considerable nu...

Reform our libel laws, but not our NHS

BMJ Online First — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 13:25:57 +0100

(Source: BMJ Online First)

Coromega(R) Sweetens Adult Omega-3 Supplement Line

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 06:00:00 +0100

Premier supplements maker Coromega® today unveiled Coromega Omega3 + Vitamin D, a delicious squeeze supplement that provides a daily dose of omega-3s with added vitamin D3, and Coromega Omega3 Fruit Gummies, a high-DHA chewable gummy supplement for the kid in everyone. "Most people already understand the importance of integrating omega-3s into their diets, and new studies show that vitamin D is another essential nutrient that many of us don't get enough of," said Frank Morley, president and COO of Coromega... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Coromega(R) Sweetens Adult Omega-3 Supplement Line

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 06:00:00 +0100

Ivermectin better than malathion for treatment-resistant head-lice infestation

NeLM - News — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Source: NEJM Area: News A controlled trial found that oral ivermectin was more likely to cure infestation with treatment-resistance head-lice than professionally-applied malathion lotion. Topical insecticides, mainly pyrethroids as first-line and malathion as an alternative, are the standard therapy for head-lice, however there is increasing evidence of resistance to both these options and it is not clear what alternative therapies are likely to be most effective. Oral ivermectin is widely used to treat a wide range of invertebrate infestations, however a small study at the standard dose of 200 microg/kg body-weight did not show efficacy against head-lice. This cluster-randomised trial examined whether a higher dose of 400 microg/kg would be effective, compared with topical mal...

Cancer Care Experiences and the Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine at End of Life in Nova Scotia's Black Communities

Journal of Transcultural Nursing — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:08:24 +0100

Discussion: The delivery of palliative care to African Canadian families should consider and support their preference to provide end-of-life care in the home setting. (Source: Journal of Transcultural Nursing)

Pharmacogenetics in oncology: a promising field.

Current Pharmaceutical Design — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:24:02 +0100

Authors: Houtsma D, Guchelaar HJ, Gelderblom H Pharmacogenetics is a rapidly developing field, especially in oncology. In the most ideal situation pharmacogenetics will allow oncologists to individualize therapy based on patients' individual germline genetic test results. This can help to improve efficacy, reduce toxicity and predict non-responders in a way that alternative therapy can be chosen or individual dose adjustments can be made. Multiple pathways have been studied extensively of which a brief review is presented here. Increased 5FU toxicity is associated with variations in the DPYD gene, TYMS gene and MTHFR gene. Furthermore variations in the UGT1A gene and the ABCB1 gene influence irinotecan metabolism and disposition. Other genetic changes result in reduced DNA repair capac...

Prolonged Fasting as a Method of Mood Enhancement in Chronic Pain Syndromes: A Review of Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms

Current Pain and Headache Reports — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:14:10 +0100

Abstract Periods of deliberate fasting with restriction to intake of solid food are practiced worldwide, mostly based on a traditional, cultural, or religious background. Recent evidence from clinical trials shows that medically supervised modified fasting (200–500 kcal nutritional intake/day) with periods from 7 to 21 days is efficacious in the treatment of rheumatic diseases and chronic pain syndromes. Here, fasting is frequently accompanied by increased alertness and mood enhancement. The beneficial claims of fasting are supported by experimental research, which has found fasting to be associated with increased brain availability of serotonin, endogenous opioids, and endocannabinoids. Fasting-induced neuroendocrine activation and mild cellular stress response...

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Essential mixed cryoglobulinemia type III with leukocytoclastic vasculitis: remission by rituximab

Clinical Rheumatology — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:01:41 +0100

In conclusion, rituximab is an alternative therapy for mixed cryoglobulinemia of type III with leukocytoclastic vasculitis. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Case ReportDOI 10.1007/s10067-010-1412-8Authors Niklas T. Baerlecken, Medical School of Hanover Clinic for Immunology and Rheumatology Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1 30625 Hanover GermanyReinhold E. Schmidt, Medical School of Hanover Clinic for Immunology and Rheumatology Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1 30625 Hanover Germany Journal Clinical RheumatologyOnline ISSN 1434-9949Print ISSN 0770-3198 (Source: Clinical Rheumatology)

An old battle: England's libel laws versus scientific debate

BMJ Online First — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 12:12:56 +0100

(Source: BMJ Online First)

Massage Eases Anxiety, But No Better Than Simple Relaxation Does

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0100

A new randomized trial shows that on average, three months after receiving a series of 10 massage sessions, patients had half the symptoms of anxiety. This improvement resembles that previously reported with psychotherapy, medications, or both... (Source: Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today)

British Fertility Society Issues New Guidelines On The Use Of Acupuncture And Chinese Herbal Medicine In Fertility Treatment, UK

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

The British Fertility Society has issued new guidelines in the journal Human Fertility on the use of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine in fertility treatment. The guidelines found that there is currently no evidence that having acupuncture or Chinese herbal medicine treatment around the time of assisted conception increases the likelihood of subsequent pregnancy... (Source: Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today)

Alternative medicine 'does not help women have babies'

Scotsman.com News - Health — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

USING acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine to try to increase the chances of having a baby is a waste of time, experts are warning. (Source: Scotsman.com News - Health)

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Therapeutic and experimental therapeutic studies on acupuncture and itch: review of the literature

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This article summarizes the rational for the use of acupuncture in treatment of itch and reviews therapeutic and experimental therapeutic studies on acupuncture and itch. (Source: Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology)

Towards concordance in healthcare: perspectives of general practitioners, complementary and alternative medicine practitioners and pharmacists in Australia

Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The objective of this problem-detection study (PDS) was to investigate practitioners' (general practitioners', pharmacists' and CAM practitioners') views on their relationships and reaching concordant partnerships with consumers in the areas of both conventional medicine and CAM. Focus groups and semi-structured interviews guided the development of the PDS instrument. The questionnaire consisted of 36 items corresponding to seven thematic units deduced from the preliminary data. The differences in perceptions between the surveyed groups indicated that achieving concordance relies on mutual respect and communication and understanding of roles, responsibilities and limitations, and differences in opinion may be compromising the formation of partnerships. Potentially problematic issues identi...

A pilot study on the effects of a team building process on the perception of work environment in an integrative hospital for neurological rehabilitation

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Strategic interventions might be an option to improve interpersonal relationships and finally quality of patient care. (Source: BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine)

Docetaxel reintroduction in patients with metastatic castration-resistant docetaxel-sensitive prostate cancer: a retrospective multicentre study

BJU International — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

To investigate the potential benefit of reintroducing docetaxel chemotherapy in patients with progressive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) who had initially responded to first-line docetaxel-based regimen. Records were evaluated retrospectively from French patients with mCRPC who had been included in seven controlled clinical studies of docetaxel as first-line treatment. We identified patients who were confirmed as responders to first-line treatment, discontinued for reasons other than disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, and who received further docetaxel chemotherapy for disease progression. The primary objective was to assess efficacy in terms of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) response after resuming a docetaxel-based chemotherapy. Secondary objectiv...

The ethics of basing community prevention in general practice

Journal of Medical Ethics — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 14:01:39 +0100

In this paper we argue that the responsibility for systematic community-based preventive medicine should not be made part of the role of the general practitioner (GP). Preventive medicine cannot be shown to be more effective than curative or supportive medicine. Therefore, the allocation of the large amount of general practice staff time and resources required for systematic preventive medicine should not come at the expense of the care of the sick and the suffering. The traditional healing role of the GP requires a cooperative patient-centred approach, whereas systematic preventive medicine is driven by rigid pre-set protocols and is intrinsically paternalistic. Trying to merge the two approaches is detrimental to the doctor-patient relationship. Furthermore, a number of potential pitfall...

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Individualized chiropractic and integrative care for low back pain: the design of a randomized clinical trial using a mixed-methods approach

BioMed Central — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

DiscussionThis mixed-methods randomized clinical trial assesses clinical effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and patients' and providers' perceptions of care, in treating non-acute LBP through evidence-based individualized care delivered by monodisciplinary or multidisciplinary care teams.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00567333 (Source: BioMed Central)

Transcendental Meditation Activates Default Mode Network, The Brain's Natural Ground State

Health News from Medical News Today — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

A new EEG study conducted on college students at American University found they could more highly activate the default mode network, a suggested natural "ground state" of the brain, during their practice of the Transcendental Meditation technique. This three-month randomized control study is published in a special issue of Cognitive Processing dedicated to the Neuroscience of Meditation and Consciousness, Volume 11, Number 1, February, 2010... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Transcendental Meditation Activates Default Mode Network, The Brain's Natural Ground State

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

MSU Researcher Linking Breast Cancer Patients With Alternative Therapies

Cancercompass News: Breast Cancer — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Biological-based therapies such as diet supplements and vitamins are the most popular complementary and alternative medicines for women recovering from breast cancer, according to a Michigan State University researcher working to create a support intervention for women in treatment for the disease. (Source: Cancercompass News: Breast Cancer)

Research with a stacked deck

Pulse Today Clinical Updates — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 11:35:00 +0100

Edzard Ernst explains how the design of some studies undermines their claims about the effectiveness of complementary therapies. (Source: Pulse Today Clinical Updates)

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Urologist Dr. J. Francois Eid, MD Warns Against The Dangers Of Online Herbal Remedies For Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

News reports coming out of the UK and Australia show evidence of prescription ingredients in many "natural" herb remedies sold on the Internet to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). These popular online supplements, which claim to consist only of homeopathic ingredients, are often improperly labeled and may actually contain dangerous ingredients. Dr. J... (Source: Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today)

Coromega(R) Launches New Omega-3 Gummies For Children

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0100

Premier supplements maker Coromega® today debuted Coromega Kids Omega3 Gummy Fruits, expanding its line of innovative and delicious omega-3 supplements. The gummies provide all the healthful benefits of fish oil in a great tasting, high-DHA gummy designed for kids, which makes taking omega-3 supplements fun... (Source: Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today)

Coromega(R) Launches New Omega-3 Gummies For Children

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0100

Premier supplements maker Coromega® today debuted Coromega Kids Omega3 Gummy Fruits, expanding its line of innovative and delicious omega-3 supplements. The gummies provide all the healthful benefits of fish oil in a great tasting, high-DHA gummy designed for kids, which makes taking omega-3 supplements fun. "Omega-3s are essential to a child's health, but unfortunately many children are disinclined to vitamins and supplements," said Frank Morley, president and COO of Coromega... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Vitamins Stored In Bathrooms, Kitchens May Become Less Effective

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0100

High humidity present in bathrooms and kitchens could be degrading the vitamins and health supplements stored in those rooms, even if the lids are on tight, a Purdue University study shows... (Source: Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today)

Extracorporeal high intensity focused ultrasound for renal tumours: a 3-year follow-up

BJU International — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Study Type [ndash] Therapy (case series)Level of Evidence 4 To determine whether primary extracorporeal high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is safe, feasible and effective for managing small renal tumours. Although surgery currently remains the standard treatment for localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC), the increasing incidence of small renal cancers has led to a shift towards nephron-sparing surgery, with associated morbidity in 20[ndash]25% of cases, and minimally invasive ablative therapies present an alternative management. HIFU results in 'trackless' homogenous tissue ablation and when administered via an extracorporeal device, is entirely noninvasive. The study comprised 17 patients (mean tumour size 2.5 cm) with radiologically suspicious renal tumours who underwent extracorpor...

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Flavonoids of the Genus Iris (Iridaceae).

Current Drug Discovery Technologies — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Wang H, Cui Y, Zhao C Cancer is the second leading cause of death, for which current therapeutic approaches are still very limited. Chemoprevention is an important approach to decrease cancer morbidity and mortality by the use of non-toxic natural or synthetic substances to reverse the processes of initiation and subsequent development of cancer. A substantial amount of evidence from human, animal and cell line studies has shown that many herbal products used for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can exert chemopreventive effects. The underlying theory for TCM to treat or prevent cancer is to bring the patient back to a healthy state by modifying multiple cancer-causing events. Since carcinogenesis involves multiple abnormal genes/pathways, using TCM in cancer chemoprevention...

We need Edzard Ernst's voice to fight quackery

Guardian Unlimited Science — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 20:00:02 +0100

Professor Edzard Ernst, the UK's only professor of complementary medicine, is in danger of losing his jobHomeopaths and their friends at Buckingham Palace must be rubbing their hands. The scourge of complementary medicine, Professor Edzard Ernst, may be facing the closure of his unit at the Peninsula medical school in Exeter. While there is plenty of money in alternative therapies, the funding to allow Ernst to test them scientifically is running out.Ernst smells a royal rat, of course. An unusually outspoken scientist, he has never made a secret of his issues with Prince Charles's Foundation for Integrated Health, which last week he labelled a "lobby group for unproven treatments". He believes he has become "persona non grata" with Exeter since Sir Michael Peat, the Prince's private secre...

We need Ernst's voice to fight quackery

Guardian Unlimited Science — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 20:00:02 +0100

Role of Probiotics in Pediatric Patients with Helicobacter pylori Infection: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature

Helicobacter — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 14:26:27 +0100

Conclusion: Both in vitro and in vivo studies provide evidence that probiotics may represent a novel approach to the management of H. pylori infection. (Source: Helicobacter)

Royal row blamed for threat to complementary medicine research

Telegraph Health — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:09:57 +0100

A leading centre for research into alternative medicine could close because of a lack of funding following a clash with a senior aide to the Prince of Wales, it is claimed. (Source: Telegraph Health)

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Royal row blamed for threat to complementary medicine centre

Telegraph Health — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:09:57 +0100

A leading centre for research into alternative medicine could close because of a lack of funding following a clash with a senior aide to the Prince of Wales, it is claimed. (Source: Telegraph Health)

Cardiac Patients' Herbal Supplement Use Deserves More Careful Investigation [Medical News & Perspectives]

JAMA — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 20:50:35 +0100

(Source: JAMA)

Making a mark during training

BMJ Online First — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:55:11 +0100

(Source: BMJ Online First)

NCCAM’s February Newsletter Online

Network News — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:42:17 +0100

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) brings you a new issue of the newsletter “Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Focus on Research and Care,” at http://nccam.nih.gov/news/newsletter/2010_february. Among the stories featured: How do you study a CAM therapy—acupuncture—that is based on ancient concepts that seem impossible to measure? A special insert for consumers addressing the question [...] (Source: Network News)

Alternative Medical Interventions Used in the Treatment and Management of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:44:34 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Mar 2010, Vol. 16, No. 3: 235-249. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

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Methodological Considerations for Future Controlled Influenza Treatment Trials in Complementary and Alternative Medicine

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:44:33 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Mar 2010, Vol. 16, No. 3: 275-283. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

Pilot Study on the Effect of Grounding on Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:44:23 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Mar 2010, Vol. 16, No. 3: 265-273. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

Antifungal Activity of Propolis Extract Against Yeasts Isolated from Vaginal Exudates

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:44:20 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Mar 2010, Vol. 16, No. 3: 285-290. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

The Determination and Fidelity Level of Medicinal Plants Used to Make Traditional Turkish Salves

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:44:15 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Mar 2010, Vol. 16, No. 3: 313-322. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

A New Bioimpedance Research Device (BIRD) for Measuring the Electrical Impedance of Acupuncture Meridians

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:44:13 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Mar 2010, Vol. 16, No. 3: 257-264. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

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Traditional Chinese Medicine: An Update on Clinical Evidence

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:43:55 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Mar 2010, Vol. 16, No. 3: 301-312. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

A Randomized Study of the Effects of T'ai Chi on Muscle Strength, Bone Mineral Density, and Fear of Falling in Women with Osteoarthritis

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:43:48 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Mar 2010, Vol. 16, No. 3: 227-233. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

Our Place in Nature: Reconnecting with the Earth

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:43:39 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Mar 2010, Vol. 16, No. 3: 225-226. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

Perceived Treatment Effectiveness, Medication Compliance, and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use Among Veterans with Bipolar Disorder

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:43:36 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Mar 2010, Vol. 16, No. 3: 251-255. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

A Pilot Study of Chromium Picolinate for Weight Loss

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:43:25 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Mar 2010, Vol. 16, No. 3: 291-299. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

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The Antioxidant, Iron Chelating and DNA Protective Properties of 70% Methanolic Extract of 'Katha' (Heartwood extract of Acacia catechu)

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 23:45:20 +0100

The present study was carried out to determine the antioxidant and iron chelating property of 70% methanolic extract of 'katha' (heartwood extract of Acacia catechu). The extract was found to be an antioxidant with a TEAC value of 0.72 ± 0.02. The extract has shown its scavenging activity for different radical and 17.8 ± 0.63 μg/ml, 39.55 ± 1.36 μg/ml, 55.31 ± 7.12 μg/ml, 746.85 ± 30.46 μg/ml, 44.2 ± 4.48 mg/ml, 57.5 ± 4.23 μg/ml, 155.48 ± 3.78 μg/ml were determined as IC50 value for DPPH, superoxide, nitric oxide, peroxynitrite, hydrogen peroxide, singlet oxygen and hypochlorous acid radicals, respectively. The plant was found to inhibit lipid peroxidation with an IC50 of 12.35 ± 0.43 μg/ml. The extract also has the ability to chelate iron with an IC50 of 810.8 ± 20.74 μ...

Acupuncture, massage have cancer care role

Health News - UPI.com — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 19:16:01 +0100

CHICAGO, March 1 (UPI) -- Acupuncture, massage and other alternative therapies have a place in cancer care, a U.S. doctor says. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

National Sleep Awareness Week Is March 7-13

NCCAM Featured Content — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:21:00 +0100

Chronic, long-term sleep disorders affect millions of Americans each year. These disorders and the sleep deprivation they cause can interfere with work, driving, social activities, and overall quality of life, and can have serious health implications.In 2002 and 2007, the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) asked Americans about use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Among respondents with insomnia, 4.5 percent (which translates to a total of 1.6 million U.S. adults) used some form of CAM to treat their condition—primarily biological/herbal therapies or mind-body/relaxation therapies. Most found these therapies helpful.NCCAM supports studies on sleep disorders. Some people with sleep problems may try CAM therapies, including dietary supplements. If you are consideri...

Backlash from Singh libel case puts chiropractors on ropes

Guardian Unlimited Science — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:32:06 +0100

One in four chiropractors in Britain are under investigation as a result of campaign by Singh supporters, reveals Martin RobbinsAs the British Chiropractic Association's battle with Simon Singh continues to work its way through the legal system, chiropractors are counting the fincancial costs of a major backlash resulting from a libel action that has left the Lord Chief Justice "baffled". What was originally a dispute between the BCA and one science writer over free speech has become a brutally effective campaign to reform an entire industry.A staggering one in four chiropractors in Britain are now under investigation for allegedly making misleading misleading claims in advertisements, according to figures revealed by the General Chiropractic Council.The council, which is responsible for r...

Chiropractors on the ropes

Guardian Unlimited Science — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:32:06 +0100

One in four chiropractors in Britain are under investigation as a result of campaign by Singh supporters, reveals Martin RobbinsAs the British Chiropractic Association's battle with Simon Singh continues to work its way through the legal system, chiropractors are counting the financial costs of a major backlash resulting from a libel action that has left the Lord Chief Justice "baffled". What was originally a dispute between the BCA and one science writer over free speech has become a brutally effective campaign to reform an entire industry.A staggering one in four chiropractors in Britain are now under investigation for allegedly making misleading claims in advertisements, according to figures from the General Chiropractic Council.The council, which is responsible for regulating the profe...

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UK's reputation is being damaged by "overly flexible" libel law, say MPs

BMJ Online First — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 15:32:39 +0100

(Source: BMJ Online First)

Cochrane review: Honey for acute cough in children

NeLM - Complementary Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Complementary Medicine Background Cough causes concern for parents and is a major cause of outpatient visits. It can impact on quality of life, cause anxiety and affect sleep in parents and children. Several remedies, including honey, have been used to alleviate cough symptoms. Objectives To evaluate the effectiveness of honey for acute cough in children in ambulatory settings. Search strategy We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library 2009, issue 2) which contains the Cochrane Acute Respiratory Infections Group's Specialised Register; MEDLINE (1950 to April Week 2 2009); EMBASE (1990 to April 2009); CINAHL (1982 to April 2009); Web of Science (2000 to April 2009); AMED (198...

Biofield Therapies: Energy Medicine and Primary Care.

Primary Care — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This article describes several energy medicine and biofield therapies and outlines key elements they hold in common. Several specific approaches are described. Research findings related to the efficacy of energy medicine are summarized, and proposed mechanisms of action and safety issues are discussed. Guidelines are offered for primary care providers wishing to advise patients about energy medicine or to integrate it into their practices, and Internet and other resources for obtaining additional information are provided. PMID: 20189005 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Primary Care)

Complementary Therapies in Osteoporosis

The Journal for Nurse Practitioners — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This article provides a review of information regarding recent evidence for pharmacological and supplemental therapies in osteoporosis, including strontium ranelate, genistein, and vitamin K. (Source: The Journal for Nurse Practitioners)

Chronic pelvic pain.

Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Williams-Orlando C PMID: 20235366 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine)

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Christine Girard, ND: enriching education for naturopathic physicians. Interview by Frank Lampe and Suzanne Snyder.

Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Girard CL PMID: 20232621 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine)

The effect of a Japanese traditional medicine, hachimijiogan (kampo), on regulatory CD4+CD25+T cells in Mikulicz's disease.

Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Tsuda T, Kobayashi K, Seki K, Yashiro S, Ino T, Kato K, Hanawa T PMID: 20232620 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine)

Environmental toxins, obesity, and diabetes: an emerging risk factor.

Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Hyman MA PMID: 20232619 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine)

Cancers as systemic functional diseases, Part 1: Defining the cancer domain.

Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Bland J PMID: 20232618 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine)

The role of nutrition in mental health.

Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Low Dog T A truly integrative approach to mental health includes a thorough assessment of dietary habits, level of exercise/physical activity, environmental exposures, medications, comorbid conditions, life stressors, level of social support, and family history. A complete physical exam and appropriate laboratory and imaging studies should be utilized to rule out underlying causes of depressed or anxious mood. Many patients will benefit from the use of specific dietary supplements, such as a multivitamin-mineral high in B-vitamins and omega-3 fatty acid. And no matter what the underlying cause of the mood disorder, patients should be counseled about the relationship between food and mood, for the evidence now substantiates what laypeople and medical professionals have long kno...

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Antioxidants and antiinflammatory dietary supplements for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Three studies support cat's claw alone or in combination for OA, and two studies support omega-3 fatty acids for the treatment of RA. We cannot recommend use of vitamin E alone; vitamins A, C, and E in combination; ginger; turmeric; or Zyflamend (New Chapter, Brattleboro, Vermont) for the treatment of OA or RA or omega-3 fatty acids for OA. Whether any of these supplements can be effectively and safely recommended to reduce nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug or steroid usage is unclear and requires more high-quality research. PMID: 20232616 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine)

Acupuncture for essential hypertension.

Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Because of the paucity of rigorous trials and the mixed results, these findings result in limited conclusions. More rigorously designed and powered studies are needed. PMID: 20232615 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine)

Curcumin and turmeric attenuate arsenic-induced angiogenesis in ovo.

Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this report, we have shown that both curcumin and turmeric inhibit expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in HCT-116 human colon cancer cells exposed to As(III). Further, in the chicken chorioallantoic membrane assay model, treatment with low As(III) concentrations results in extensive increase in blood vessel density, which, however, is reduced in the presence of curcumin or turmeric. Collectively, the findings reported here strongly suggest that turmeric and curcumin can dramatically attenuate the process of angiogenesis induced by low As(III) concentrations. PMID: 20232614 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine)

Homeopathy: setting the record straight.

Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Hoover TA PMID: 20232613 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine)

New research in physics supports homoeopathy: is Avogadro's number a dogma?

Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Van Brandt B PMID: 20232612 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine)

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Effect of ethnomedicinal plants used in folklore medicine in Jordan as antibiotic resistant inhibitors on Escherichia coli

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: This study probably suggests possibility of concurrent use of these antibiotics and plant extracts in treating infections caused by E.coli or at least the concomitant administration may not impair the antimicrobial activity of these antibiotics. (Source: BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine)

The use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine by women experiencing menopausal symptoms in Bologna

BioMed Central — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The relatively high prevalence of CAM use by women transitioning through menopause should encourage research initiatives into determining which CAM treatments are the safest and effective. The increasing and likely concomitant use of CAM with HRT and other pharmaceuticals underlines the need for the implementation of a surveillance system to report and monitor possible drug-herb adverse events. The discrepancy between women preferring to seek information about CAM from their medical doctor and the difficulties noted in communication between doctor and patient should encourage educational initiatives on CAM by health-care agencies and institutions. (Source: BioMed Central)

Biofield Therapies: Energy Medicine and Primary Care

Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:19:26 +0100

Foreword: Traditional Medicine in Primary Care is Not Enough: We Must All Integrate CAM!

Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:19:25 +0100

It's inescapable: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is not only here to stay, but it also continues to permeate our lives in popularity, prevalence, and necessity. Moreover, clinical and translational research in this arena has proven that a myriad of nonconventional therapies provide benefit for many disorders that ail us, and waves of outcomes-based data continue to demonstrate impressive efficacy. From herbs to nutritional supplements, meditation to yoga, biofeedback to acupuncture, these and other modalities have piqued our interest and improved the lives of many of us and of people we know. In our daily routine of conventional medical practice, we must ask ourselves: “Is what we're doing for our patients adequate enough?” “What other resources can I use to help my pat...

Simon Singh and the silencing of the scientists

Guardian Unlimited Science — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 19:00:01 +0100

The science writer Simon Singh is fighting to defend his right to freedom of speech. And he's far from alone as companies from around the world are increasingly trying to use England's libel laws to quash academic criticsEarlier this week, a mild-mannered freelance science writer stood on the steps of London's imposing Royal Courts of Justice and declared his determination, come what may, to stand up for free speech against what he and an ever-swelling contingent of scientists, public figures and celebrities believe is the oppressive burden of the UK's libel laws.Simon Singh, science writer and co-author of a book about alternative medicine, provoked a libel suit from the British Chiropractic Association (BCA) after a piece was published in the Guardian's comment pages. He may now make h...

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Consumers of natural health products: natural-born pharmacovigilantes?

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Consumers generally did not report their suspected NHP-related ADRs to healthcare providers or to Health Canada. Passive reporting systems for collecting information on NHP-related ADRs cannot be effective if consumers who experience NHP-related ADRs do not report their experiences. Healthcare providers, health food store personnel, manufacturers and other stakeholders also need to take responsibility for reporting ADRs in order to improve current pharmacovigilance of NHPs. (Source: BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine)

External qigong for pain conditions: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials

NeLM - Complementary Medicine — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Source: DARE Area: Evidence > Complementary Medicine CRD Summary: This generally well-conducted systematic review assessed the effectiveness of external qigong for pain management. External qigong involves qigong practitioners directing their qi energy to relieve pain or other illness. The authors concluded that the evidence for the effectiveness of external qigong was encouraging, but not convincing. The cautious conclusion appears appropriate in view of the limited evidence available. CRD Commentary: This review addressed a clear question with appropriate inclusion criteria. The authors searched a number of databases with no language restrictions and made attempts to identify unpublished research, thus reducing the potential for language and publication bias. Study quality was assesse...

Randomized, Blinded, Sham-Controlled Trial of Acupuncture for the Management of Aromatase Inhibitor-Associated Joint Symptoms in Women With Early-Stage Breast Cancer [Breast Cancer]

Journal of Clinical Oncology — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 23:01:02 +0100

Conclusion Women with AI-induced arthralgias treated with TA had significant improvement of joint pain and stiffness, which was not seen with SA. Acupuncture is an effective and well-tolerated strategy for managing this common treatment-related side effect. (Source: Journal of Clinical Oncology)

Unexplained Infertility Treated with Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine in Korea

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:23:24 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 2: 193-198. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

State of Art of the Regulative Situation of Nonconventional Medicines in Italy

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:23:17 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 2: 141-142. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

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Immunogenic Yeast-Based Fermentate for Cold/Flu-like Symptoms in Nonvaccinated Individuals

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:23:11 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 2: 213-218. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

An Integrative Treatment for Lower Limb Lymphedema (Elephantiasis)

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:22:56 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 2: 145-149. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use and Quality of Life in Pediatric Diabetes

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:22:14 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 2: 165-173. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

Complementary and Alternative Medicine and Supportive Care at Leading Cancer Centers: A Systematic Analysis of Websites

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:22:03 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 2: 183-186. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

Sigmund Freud: Pioneer in Energy Healing

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:21:58 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 2: 219-222. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

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The Secret Life of Bees

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:21:55 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 2: 139-140. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

Why Consumers Maintain Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use: A Qualitative Study

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:21:22 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 2: 175-182. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

Sustainable Effect of Ayurvedic Formulations in the Treatment of Nutritional Anemia in Adolescent Students

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:21:13 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 2: 205-211. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

Exploring the Effectiveness of a Comprehensive Mind–Body Intervention for Medical Symptom Relief

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:20:55 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 2: 187-192. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

Unanticipated Benefits of CAM Therapies for Back Pain: An Exploration of Patient Experiences

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:19:12 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 2: 157-163. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

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Apipuncture Treatment for Central Post-Stroke Pain

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:19:05 +0100

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 2: 223-224. (Source: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine)

Individualized Intradialytic Parenteral Nutrition (IDPN) Solutions Increase Albumin Levels in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Stage Five

Journal of Renal Nutrition — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 16:22:03 +0100

Background: Many CKD Stage 5 patients are nutritionally compromised, reflected by low serum albumin levels. Research has shown that improvement in albumin levels decreases mortality in this population. IDPN is an available alternative therapy for patients who require a more aggressive approach for improving nutritional status, specifically weight and albumin status, when oral intake is insufficient. (Source: Journal of Renal Nutrition)

Naturopathic Medicine: What is it and what is the state of the evidence

Videocast - All Events — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:32:00 +0100

The complementary and Integrative Medicine Consult Service lecture series sponsosred by NCCAM provides NIH clinical center staff with the opportunity to learn more about how the integration of vaious complementary and alternative medicine treatments can affect approches in the research and practice for medicine.Air date: 3/8/2010 10:00:00 AM (Source: Videocast - All Events)

Courts are being used "to litigate a scientific debate," counsel claims

BMJ Online First — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 11:34:37 +0100

(Source: BMJ Online First)

Effects of tai chi on health-related quality of life in the elderly. - Romero Zurita A.

SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 16:03:10 +0100

Thai Chi is increasingly used in the field of medicine and rehabilitation as an alternative therapy. The results of this review show that older persons obtain physical and psychological benefits from this activity. These benefits are reflected in improved ... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))

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NHS should stop funding homoeopathy, MPs say

BMJ Online First — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 15:54:49 +0100

(Source: BMJ Online First)

Singh in court to appeal libel ruling

Guardian Unlimited Science — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 12:33:56 +0100

Science writer tries to overturn decision that he libelled British Chiropractic Association, in important case for free speechThe science writer Simon Singh is in court today to appeal against a preliminary libel ruling over a Guardian article in which he criticised the British Chiropractic Association (BCA).His case goes before the three-man panel including the court of appeal's two most senior judges.Singh, whose latest book is Trick or Treatment? Alternative Medicine on Trial and who has presented science programmes for the BBC and Channel 4, was sued by the BCA over a Guardian article in April 2008.In the piece, he criticised the BCA for claiming that its members could use spinal manipulation to treat children with colic, ear infections, asthma, sleeping and feeding conditions, and pro...

Simon Singh in court to appeal against ruling over Guardian article

Guardian Unlimited Science — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 12:33:56 +0100

Herbal medicines for menopausal symptoms

Evidence-Based Nursing — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 10:47:58 +0100

Many women are now using herbal medicines to try to relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats, in light of recent evidence suggesting that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may increase the likelihood of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, venous thromboembolism, heart attacks and stroke.1–6 For example, one survey has suggested that around 40% of women in the UK have used complementary and alternative treatments for their menopausal symptoms.7 Here we review the efficacy and safety of herbal medicines for the relief of such symptoms. (Source: Evidence-Based Nursing)

Society Reacts To House Of Commons Science And Technology Committee Report Into Homeopathic Products, UK

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society's Chief Scientific Advisor Jayne Lawrence says; "We are delighted that the committee has agreed with our recommendation that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) should not allow homeopathic product labels to make claims without evidence of efficacy. We also note that the Report calls for the Government to withdraw NHS funding. The Society believes that all medicines available on the NHS should be efficacious and give value for money... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Society Reacts To House Of Commons Science And Technology Committee Report Into Homeopathic Products, UK

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society's Chief Scientific Advisor Jayne Lawrence says; "We are delighted that the committee has agreed with our recommendation that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) should not allow homeopathic product labels to make claims without evidence of efficacy. We also note that the Report calls for the Government to withdraw NHS funding... (Source: Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today)

Use of complementary and alternative medicine during pregnancy and delivery

Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 07:20:15 +0100

Conclusions In accordance with earlier studies from Germany, we determined the most important methods used in the field of obstetrics. Interestingly, these are not evidence-based and those methods which are evidence-based are not now used. Also, the predictors of CAM use in pregnancy were similar to those in oncology. Future studies should focus on the safety and efficacy of CAM in pregnancy. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Materno-fetal MedicineDOI 10.1007/s00404-010-1388-2Authors Matthias Kalder, Philipps University Department of Gynaecology, Gynaecologic Endocrinology and Oncology Marburg GermanyKatrin Knoblauch, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Klinikstrasse 32 35385 Giessen GermanyIgor Hrgovic, Justus-Liebig-Univer...

No to homeopathy placebo | Edzard Ernst

Guardian Unlimited Science — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 18:31:03 +0100

Using homeopathy on the basis that patients benefit from the placebo effect would be unethical and short-sightedWhen I began my research as professor of complementary medicine in Exeter 17 years ago, I was entirely open to homeopathy. I had been treated for many years by a homeopathic doctor, my father had practised homeopathy and I had begun my medical career in a homeopathic hospital. But now my job was to apply science to the field and, to do this properly, one needs to be not just open but also critical.The first thing any critical mind has to note is that the two basic assumptions of homeopathy fly in the face of science. Like does not cure like and diluting remedies ad infinitum does not render them stronger but weaker. But perhaps there was something entirely new and undiscovered he...

Reply to the Editor

The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:08:11 +0100

We thank Drs D'Ancona and Pilato for their thoughtful comments. Patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy represent a diverse population who differ in the extent of myocardial ischemia, severity of the left ventricular dysfunction, and severity of functional ischemic mitral regurgitation. A thorough understanding of the extent of ischemic changes is essential for the appropriate planning of surgical therapy. Magnetic resonance imaging has emerged as a powerful diagnostic tool for the comprehensive evaluation of patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy. In our practice, magnetic resonance imaging is routinely used in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy for the assessment of the severity and distribution of myocardial scarring, as well as the estimation of residual myocardial viability. Severity ...

Impact of Medical Qigong on quality of life, fatigue, mood and inflammation in cancer patients: a randomized controlled trial

Annals of Oncology — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 13:25:36 +0100

Conclusions: This study indicates that MQ can improve cancer patients’ overall QOL and mood status and reduce specific side-effects of treatment. It may also produce physical benefits in the long term through reduced inflammation. (Source: Annals of Oncology)

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Hotze Enterprises Opposes United States Senate Bill That Threatens Americans' Rights To Nutritional Supplements

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

On Feb. 4, Senators John McCain and Byron Dorgan introduced the Dietary Supplement Safety Act of 2010 (DSSA), that if passed, will restrict Americans' access to nutritional supplements. Hotze Enterprises, a world leader in the alternative health care industry, is strongly opposed to this legislation being passed, and encourages consumers to take action. In particular, if the legislation is passed, it will revoke key sections of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), which was put into effect in 1994 to protect consumers' rights to access low-cost nutritional supplements... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

PanGenex Discusses Soft Tissue Calcification

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

PanGenex Corporation (Pink Sheets:PGCX), a global nutraceutical and dietary supplement manufacturer and marketer, today provided information in response to inquiries about Soft Tissue Calcification ("STC") and the Company's products. "As previously announced, our all-natural supplements offer consumers a range of options for achieving and maintaining individual health and well-being... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Hotze Enterprises Opposes United States Senate Bill That Threatens Americans' Rights To Nutritional Supplements

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

PanGenex Discusses Soft Tissue Calcification

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

Stop homeopathy funding, say MPs

Guardian Unlimited Science — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 11:28:00 +0100

Manufacturers should not be able to make medical claims for homeopathic products, say MPsThe NHS should stop all funding of homeopathy, an influential committee of MPs said today.The science and technology committee of the House of Commons says there is no evidence that homeopathy has anything other than a placebo effect. It says that manufacturers must no longer be able to make medical claims for homeopathic products.The hard-hitting report will anger believers in complementary medicine, including Prince Charles who set up a foundation to encourage integration of comlementary medicine into the NHS.If accepted by the government it would also spell the end of state support for the Royal Homeopathic hospital in London.The committee's chairman, Phil Willis, said claims for homeopathy are not ...

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When Listening to the People: Lessons from Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) for Bioethics

Journal of Bioethical Inquiry — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 06:56:58 +0100

Abstract Complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) have become increasingly popular over recent decades. Within bioethics CAM has so far mostly stimulated discussions around their level of scientific evidence, or along the standard concerns of bioethics. To gain an understanding as to why CAM is so successful and what the CAM success means for health care ethics, this paper explores empirical research studies on users of CAM and the reasons for their choice. It emerges that there is a close connection to fundamental principles of medical ethics. The studies also highlight that CAM’s holistic ontology of health and illness has an empowering effect on people in caring for their health, and on an even deeper level, safeguards against biomedicine’s reducing image of on...

Reflexive Biomedicalization and Alternative Healing Systems

Journal of Bioethical Inquiry — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 06:56:57 +0100

Abstract The utilization of alternative medical therapies and practitioners has increased dramatically in the U.S. in the last two to three decades. This trend seems paradoxical when one considers the rapid advances taking place in biomedical knowledge and technology during this same time period. Observers both inside and outside of the medical profession have attempted to explain the rising popularity of alternative medicine by proposing that it signals a growing sense of dissatisfaction and disenchantment with professional biomedical practices on the part of the lay public. This paper challenges this thesis and offers an alternative explanation, arguing that the rise of alternative medicine is a consequence of the success and expanding influence of biomedicine rather tha...

Tirilazad for aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage.

Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 04:58:05 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: There is no evidence that tirilazad, in addition to nimodipine, reduces mortality or improves poor outcome in patients with aneurysmal SAH. PMID: 20166088 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews)

Faith makes regulating herbal medicine difficult

Guardian Unlimited Science — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 00:00:01 +0100

A judge this week called for traditional medicine to be regulated, but it's not easy when practitioners make claims based on faithYou may have read about Ying Wu this week: a traditional Chinese medicine doctor operating out of a shop in Chelmsford, Essex, who for several years prescribed pills with high doses of a dangerous substance to treat the acne of senior civil servant Patricia Booth, 58. Following this, her patient lost both kidneys, developed urinary tract cancer, had a heart attack, and is on dialysis three times a week. Judge Jeremy Roberts gave Ying a two-year conditional discharge, saying she could not be blamed, because she did not know the pills were harmful and the practice of traditional Chinese medicine is unregulated in Britain, a situation that he suggests should be rem...

Faith clouds herbal medicine regulation

Guardian Unlimited Science — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 00:00:01 +0100

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SCR CONNECTions February 17 Webinar Recording Available

Network News — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 22:57:31 +0100

The recording for the February 17 SCR CONNECTions webinar, Nursing Resources, is available online at http://nnlm.gov/scr/training/webmeeting.html. The next SCR CONNECTions, Reliable Complementary and Alternative Medicine Websites, will be held on Wednesday, March 17, at 10:30am CT. (Source: Network News)

Complementary medicine for breast cancer

Health News - UPI.com — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 20:11:32 +0100

EAST LANSING, Mich., Feb. 19 (UPI) -- U.S. researchers are producing a DVD and booklet on the safety and effectiveness of alternative and complementary medicine for women with breast cancer. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Traditional Chinese practitioner breaches Medicine Act

BMJ Online First — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:36:09 +0100

(Source: BMJ Online First)

European Commission to fund research into complementary medicine

Alliance for Natural Health — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 11:38:18 +0100

‘CAMbrella project partners’ to build up network of research institutes (Source: Alliance for Natural Health)

No obligation to report adverse effects in British complementary and alternative medicine: evidence for double standards

Quality and Safety in Health Care — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 09:11:10 +0100

(Source: Quality and Safety in Health Care)

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Smart Talk on Supplements and Botanicals: Ginseng and Other Adaptogenic Herbs

Alternative & Complementary Therapies — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 04:02:36 +0100

Alternative and Complementary Therapies Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 1: 1-4. (Source: Alternative & Complementary Therapies)

Musculoskeletal pain and treatment choice: an exploration of illness perceptions and choices of conventional or complementary therapies.

Disability and Rehabilitation — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions. Future research could include mixed-method designs to further explore issues of knowledge, beliefs, and control that feed into the role of gatekeepers to treatment, as well as comparing CAM choices between public and privately-funded healthcare. PMID: 20170384 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Disability and Rehabilitation)

Mental Health, Naturally-first-of-its-kind, Comprehensive Guide To Nonprescription Therapies For Mental And Physical Well-being

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 14:00:00 +0100

Many parents wonder how to handle a child who has been diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety or depression - or even one who is struggling with day-to-day stress. In her new book, Mental Health, Naturally: The Family Guide to HolisticCare for a Healthy Mind and Body (American Academy of Pediatrics, March 2010), pediatrician and holistic medicine expert Kathi J. Kemper, MD, MPH, FAAP, provides practical guidance to those who seek natural methods of treatment. Dr. Kemper is a leading international authority on complementary therapies for children... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Traditional Chinese Practitioner Found Guilty Of Medicines Act Offences

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

A traditional Chinese practitioner today received a two-year conditional discharge at the Old Bailey after pleading guilty to five offences of the Medicines Act 1968. Susan Wu, who worked at the 'Chinese Herbal Medical Centre' in Chelmsford, Essex, prescribed and sold a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Longdan Xie Gan Wan, to a woman who was suffering from a minor skin complaint in 2003. After five years of treatment, the patient has gone on to suffer kidney failure, developed cancer and suffered a heart attack, all of which doctors attribute to the ingestion of the TCM product... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)