Complementary and Alternative Medicines Defined

CAM refers to a group of health care practices and products that are not typically considered part of conventional medical practice.  “Complementary” references the use of a complementary practice combined with conventional health care. “Alternative medicine” refers to use of CAM without conventional health care practices.

For instance, combining yoga into a conventional asthma action plan for control of asthma symptoms is considered complementary. There currently are no scientifically proven alternative medicines for the treatment of allergies and asthma.

Learn more about CAM related to allergies and asthma.

7/8/2024