Miniglossary of "Alternative" Methods

Stephen Barrett, M.D.

Each of the following approaches has at least one of the following characteristics: (1) its rationale or underlying theory has no scientific basis, (2) it has not been demonstrated safe and/or effective by well-designed studies, (3) it is deceptively promoted, or (4) its practitioners are not qualified to make appropriate diagnoses. This article covers traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, ayurvedic medicine, clinical ecology, colonic irrigation, craniosacral therapy, herbalism, iridology, macrobiotics, naturopathy, orthomolecular therapy, and therapeutic touch. Full-length articles on aromatherapy, chelation therapy, chiropractic, and homeopathy are available elsewhere on Quackwatch.

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