Is there any proof that alternative medicine works?!
Question:
Is there any proof that alternative medicine works?
Just curious if there is any firm proof that alternative medicine practices actually work. I need *hard evidence*, preferably documented studies by a reputable organization. Anecdotal evidence and user opinion such as "I felt better" or "the Chinese have practiced for thousands of years" does not qualify as proof.
Answers:
You know, its amazing how many people here don't understand the idea of scientific 'proof'. The original question specified that they didn't want 'anecdotes' or other non-proof, yet a bunch of people have written in to say "it worked for me...".
To anyone who claims that the effectiveness can't really be measured... that's bunk. If 'alternative medicine' (homeopathy, reflexology, etc.) actually did work, you could tell using a proper DOUBLE BLIND study, even if you didn't know the exact mechanisms. The fact is, there hasn't been ANY reputable studies done that show these things work, so we're left with more anecdotes. As the saying goes, "The plural of anecdotes is not 'date'".
To anyone who has claimed success with such 'alternative medicine'... Why are you assuming that the alternative medicine was what healed you? Remember, the human body DOES have the ability to heal itself over time, and there is a very good possibility you would have gotten better even without such 'cures'.
Oh, and the fact that homeopathy is 'recognized' in certain countries doesn't necessarily mean it works... a foolish belief is still foolish even if many people believe it. (Remember, it was once 'accepted' that the sun revolved around the earth.)