A Systematic Review of Beliefs Involved in the Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Abstract

People might be attracted to and use complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) because they hold beliefs that are congruent with CAM. This article collates, examines and synthesizes the evidence surrounding this hypothesis. Most studies are cross-sectional and focus on a limited number of beliefs. Multivariate studies suggest that beliefs related to control and participation, perceptions of illness, holism and natural treatments, and general philosophies of life predict CAM use when controlling for demographic and clinical factors. Further research should examine the robustness of these relationships in different illness groups and the prospective relationships among beliefs and CAM use over time.

Looking beyond the barriers: Practical and symbolic factors associated with disclosure of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use

“…Specifically According to this model, CAM commitment arises from CAM commitment develops from two types of positive experiences with the CAM brand: 1) a functional route associated with utilitarian needs and motivations that are reflected through positive CAM physical, psychological, and behavioral outcomes, satisfaction with CAM, and trust in the CAM provider and treatments, and 2) a symbolic route which involves a perceived "fit" between the consumer's values and the brand. Consistent with a systematic review of beliefs associated with CAM use [23], symbolic factors include beliefs about control over health, participation in health-care decisions, a holistic view of health, an emphasis on individualized treatment, and a desire for natural, non-invasive treatments. Together these utilitarian and symbolic values give rise to CAM commitment which is reflected in part in discussing and disclosure of CAM use to others including conventional health-care providers.…”

Effect Ofsalix Tetraspermaroxbugh on Fructose Induced Hypertension in Rats

“…A holistic or a spiritual health concern and the belief that herbal drugs are natural (and thus safe) also seem to be associated with the use of alternative medicine [7]. Traditionally, many of the folk remedies of plant origin have long been used for the treatment of various ailments unscientifically exploited or improperly used.…”

Protocol for a Rapid Evidence Review of Traditional and Complementary Medicine for People with Diabetes Receiving Palliative or End-of-Life Care

“…[11][12][13] The decision to include guidance about the use of T&CM in the Guidelines reflects their high use by people with diabetes, [14][15][16] the provision of selected T&CM interventions by hospices and palliative care services, [17][18][19] the potential for both negative and positive interactions with conventional treatments, 20 and the alignment of many of the philosophies and aims of T&CM with palliative care, such as relieving suffering and a focus on holistic, person-centred care. 21,22 Inclusion of T&CM in the Guidelines aims to better support the need for informed health care communication and decision-making, 23 and contribute to coordinated continuity of care across multiple healthcare settings -hospital, home, long-term care and hospice. …”