Complementary Medicine Research Articles

Breaking the silence: factors influencing complementary therapy disclosure among diabetic outpatients in Taiwan

BackgroundAs more patients turn to complementary therapies (CTs) alongside conventional medicine, the lack of communication between patients who use CTs and their conventional healthcare professionals (HCPs) can pose significant risks, including the potential for serious drug interactions.PurposeTo explore the factors influencing the disclosure of CTs use to conventional HCPs.MethodsA cross-sectional survey design was employed to enroll 307 outpatients diagnosed with diabetes from both the northern and southern regions of Taiwan, covering the period from October 2022 to March 2023. The survey questionnaire included demographics, the patterns of CTs use, the experiences of CTs use, the Understanding the Benefit-Risks of CTs Use Scale, and the Diabetes Empowerment Scale. The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 28.0.ResultsOnly one-third of outpatients with diabetes disclosed their use of CTs to conventional HCPs. Several factors emerged as influential in this disclosure: understanding the benefits and risks of CTs use (OR = 1.10), the reasons for initial CTs use (OR = 1.58), integration of both conventional and complementary medicines (OR = 15.03), and the use of manipulative-based therapies (OR = 6.82).ConclusionUnderstanding the factors that influence the disclosure of CTs use is essential for conventional HCPs. This understanding allows them to identify outpatients who may hesitate to disclose their CTs use and ensures they have a comprehensive understanding of their patients' CTs use, thereby facilitating effective communication.

Cupping therapy on low back pain. A systematic review

Low back pain (LBP) encompasses a range of symptoms such as discomfort, muscle tension, tenderness, and stiffness in the area between the lower rib cage and the buttocks. The causes of LBP can be divided into two primary categories: specific low back pain, which has identifiable sources, and non-specific low back pain (NSLBP), which lacks a clear cause. Studies indicate that most patients will experience at least one recurrence of LBP within the span of a year. Additionally, around 5 to 10 percent of acute low back pain cases can progress to chronic low back pain (CLBP). Interestingly, around 90% of LBP instances are not associated with identifiable physical anomalies. This poses a significant challenge for healthcare systems, especially considering the persistent and often unclear nature of these pain conditions. To address lower back pain, three common approaches are used: medications, surgical procedures, and rehabilitation programs. In recent years, there has been a growing trend toward complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in developed countries, largely due to the side effects associated with traditional treatment methods. The aim of this article is to assess the effectiveness of treating low back pain through cupping. A comprehensive analysis of research papers available on PubMed and Google Scholar was undertaken using the searchterms encompassing the following keywords: cupping therapy, low back pain (LBP), chronic back pain, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). In traditional medicine, treatment methods typically involve options like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, opioids, muscle relaxants, steroids, and in some cases, surgery. However, emerging research suggests that cupping therapy could be a promising alternative for managing these conditions. To fully understand how long cupping is effective for alleviating lower back pain (LBP), further studies and appropriate follow-ups are essential.

Osteoarthritis Can Be Effectively Managed by Homoeopathic Well Indicated Constitutional Remedy

Osteoarthritis (OA) is by far the most common form of arthritis and is a major cause of pain and disability in older people. It is characterized by focal loss of articular cartilage, subchondral osteosclerosis, osteophyte formation at the joint margin and remodeling of joint contour with enlargement of affected joints. osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative joint disease, is common in geriatrics, causing pain, reduced function, and disability, impacting quality of life. Comorbidity is highly prevalent in older adults, with the likelihood of having multiple significant conditions increasing with age. While there's no cure, management focuses on symptom relief and improving function through non-pharmacological methods like exercise and lifestyle changes. According to Census 2011, India has 104 million older people (60+) constituting 8.6% of total population. It is expected that the country will have 193 million elderly persons, constituting about 13% of the total population by 2030. As per UNFPA Report 2023, the percentage of elderly population in the country is projected to double to over 20% of total population by 2050. Currently, there are various methods of managing OA in terms of pain, including regeneration and non-regeneration therapy. Non-regeneration reducing treatments include physiotherapy (exercise, biomechanical intervention, electrotherapy, diathermy), pharmacology, intra-articular injections (corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid, geniculate nerve blocks), extra-articular injections, and radiofrequency. In comparison, regeneration management includes laser and intra-articular injections. As there is no cure for OA till now, if the patients is not palliating from other therapy. Hence, many patients use complementary and alternative medicine, including homoeopathy, to prevent, control, and manage the pain of rheumatologic condition.

Ginkgo Biloba extract: review and assessment of health benefits and potential side effects

Introduction Ginkgo biloba (L.) is used in pharmacotherapy as an extract rich in bioactive compounds, which is obtained from its leaves. The improvement of age-associated cognitive decline and quality of life in mild dementia is a well-established use of Ginkgo Biloba extract (GBE) medicines. In Europe, it is also used as complementary therapy for Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular disorders. Its use also shows promising research outcomes for potential future indications, including in the treatment of tinnitus, age-related macular degeneration, and the prevention of high-altitude cerebral edema. Aim of the Study The aim of the study is to present recent findings on Ginkgo biloba extract medicines used in modern pharmacotherapy and its potential side effects, which should be considered during the treatment tailoring process. Materials and methods A thorough literature search was conducted in electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar and ScienceDirect for relevant articles. The search terms included "Ginkgo Biloba", "Ginkgo Biloba extract”, “GBE", " EGb 761". All retrieved studies were screened for relevance based on their titles, abstracts, and full texts. Conclusion Ginkgo biloba extract is commonly used in the management of neurodegenerative diseases in Europe. Moreover, the latest reports indicate that it also has promising effects in the treatment of several conditions of different origins. Pharmaceuticals containing GBE may interact with a variety of medications, in formulations with inadequate quality control or exceeding the recommended therapeutic dose. However, when appropriately integrated into a well-managed pharmacotherapy regimen, they have the potential to positively influence patient health outcomes, thereby enhancing overall therapeutic effects. Search Gingko biloba, Ginkgo biloba extract, GBE, EGb 761

The use of complementary and alternative medicine among cancer patients in Hawaii

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) are medical products and practices that are not part of standard medical care. Various studies demonstrate benefits of CAM use in alleviating cancer related side effects. However, data involving the use of CAM therapies among cancer patients is limited. Hawaii has a unique and diverse population and trends in CAM use could reveal important aspects of cancer care. We distributed questionnaires to various cancer treatment centers across Oahu. The questionnaires were optional and anonymous. We evaluated 126 questionnaires and analyzed CAM use. We collected participant data including: cancer type, treatments used (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy) and patient demographics (age, gender, ethnicity, income, religion). We found that at least one CAM therapy is used by a majority of patients 72/126 (57.1%), while 54 (42.9%) do not use any CAM therapy. Among the CAM therapies, meditation and herbal supplements were most commonly used 26 (36.1%), followed by massage 25 (34.7%), yoga 18 (25%), CBD 17 (23.6%), THC 16 (22.2%), and acupuncture 14 (19.4%). Stress reduction was the most common symptom benefit noted for meditation, herbal supplement, massage, and yoga. Anxiety was another symptom benefit reported for meditation. THC and CBD are used for sleep, however, CBS was also used for pain reduction together with acupuncture. Among the patients who use CAM therapy (n = 72), 80.6% are female (n = 58) while only 8.3% are male (n = 6). Furthermore only, 18.3% (n = 23) of our respondents have spoken to a clinician about CAM. We discovered that stress reduction is a symptom benefit associated with the most commonly used CAM therapies by cancer patients in Hawaii. Other symptom benefits involve anxiety, pain, and sleep. The modalities utilized were similar to nonpharmacologic therapies recommended by the NCCN guidelines for cancer survivorship, with the exception of herbal supplements. There is a lack of physician discussion regarding CAM use, which could impact the cancer burden in Hawaii.

Addressing Inositol Use in PCOS Management

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous complex endocrine disorder characterized by oligo-ovulation, insulin resistance, and hyperandrogenism. Treatment should be individualized based on each patient’s symptoms and reproductive goals. Unfortunately, there is no pharmacologic medication that simultaneously promotes ovulation, improves metabolic health, and reduces clinical hyperandrogenism. Metformin is a well accepted, evidence-based pharmacologic therapy that targets the insulin resistance pathway and improves ovulatory frequency, but it has limited effects on clinical hyperandrogenism as well as poor tolerability for some patients. The growing interest in complementary therapies has highlighted the need for more tolerable and ‘non-pharmacologic’ treatment options. Inositol, a naturally occurring compound, has gained attention as a promising therapeutic agent for managing PCOS. This review aims to support shared decision-making between clinicians and patients by exploring the roll of inositol as a complementary therapy for PCOS management.

Effect of traditional Chinese exercise on older patients with diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

ObjectiveThis systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of traditional Chinese exercises (TCEs) on blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body mass index (BMI), and health-related quality of life in older patients with diabetes mellitus (DM).MethodsDatabase searches were systematically conducted across multiple platforms. The review adhered to PRISMA guidelines, utilizing the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool to gauge literature quality. Review Manager 5.3 was employed for data evaluation, calculating mean differences to ascertain pooled effect sizes.ResultsThis study encompassed 11 randomized controlled trials involving 944 individuals. The results showed that TCEs reduced fasting blood glucose (-0.76, 95% CI [-1.14, -0.38], P = 0.0001), HbA1c (-2.64, 95% CI [-4.81, -0.47], P = 0.02), and BMI (-0.83, 95% CI [-1.42, -0.24], P = 0.006), and improved health-related quality of life. Among the various forms of TCEs, Baduanjin (BDJ) appeared particularly beneficial.ConclusionsTraditional Chinese exercises can improve blood glucose levels, BMI and quality of life-related indicators to varying degrees in older diabetes patients, and may be a useful complementary therapy for this population.

A comprehensive review of the impact of natural products in preventing drug-induced ototoxicity.

Ototoxicity, the property of certain drugs to cause hearing loss, is a significant concern in medical treatments, particularly with the use of chemotherapeutic agents like cisplatin and aminoglycosides. These drugs can lead to permanent sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), affecting a substantial proportion of patients. Existing strategies to alleviate these side effects are limited, prompting interest in natural products as potential protective agents. Natural products are being investigated for their ability to counteract these mechanisms through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The review seeks to highlight the potential of these natural products as complementary therapies to conventional ototoxic medications, emphasizing their protective roles, which are involved in cochlear cellular damage and programmed cell death. Further research is essential to establish standardized protocols for their use and to ensure their integration into clinical practice as effective therapeutic options.

The Illusory Health Beliefs Scale: validation using exploratory structural equation modeling and multidimensional Rasch analysis

The Illusory Health Beliefs Scale (IHBS) is a multidimensional instrument that evaluates endorsement of scientifically unsubstantiated, illusory health-oriented notions. These beliefs are important because they potentially influence attitudes/actions to the detriment of personal wellbeing/health. Preceding research examining IHBS item performance at the unidimensional subscale level identified five dimensions (Religious/Spiritual, Superstition, Precognitive, Health Myths, Skepticism), and an independent Health Pseudoscience subscale. The present paper extended latent structure analysis by employing exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) and multidimensional Rasch analysis. Concurrently, statistical appraisal tested convergent validity via relationships with related health-based constructs (i.e., health locus of control, HLC and beliefs about complementary and alternative medicine, CAM). A sample of 2,138 completed the IHBS (1,016 males, 1,113 females, seven non-binary, two preferred not to disclose). Following minor scale modification, ESEM reported good data-fit for a six-factor model. With the exception of Skepticism, which was negatively associated, IHBS subfactors correlated positively with HLC and CAM. These outcomes supported the supposition that the IHBS measures perceived and illusory health control. Rasch analysis designated sufficient multidimensionality and satisfactory subscale functioning. Strong associations indicated that IHBS dimensions assessed related but discrete aspects of illusory health beliefs. High associations among paranormal-based dimensions (Religious/Spiritual, Superstition, and Precognitive) suggested the need for greater content separation. Moreover, the poor reliability of Skepticism designated the need to develop a more efficacious assessment of this dimension.

Music therapy in adult hospices: a national multicentre survey.

In recent years, there has been an increased demand for non-pharmacological, complementary therapies and psychosocial provisions in hospices, aimed at creating spaces for communication and personalised expression in response to the bio-psycho-socio-existential needs of patients and their caregivers. As a contemporary evidence-based professional practice, music therapy is an integral part of multidisciplinary teams in many palliative care settings internationally. In Italy, however, music therapy is a developing area of practice facing certain challenges around professionalisation, funding and service development. This study seeks to explore the current state of music therapy in Italian hospices. From January 2024 to March 2024, an online survey was disseminated to 213 hospices across Italy. The survey consisted of 10 closed-ended questions. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics. A 73.7% completion rate was achieved. Music-based interventions are provided in 49.6% of hospices (n=62), and 43.5% of these offer a music therapy service led by a qualified music therapist. Most hospices (n=17) offer music therapy sessions for 3 hours per week. Across all hospices, sessions are primarily individual and take place in patients' rooms. The presence of caregivers varies, and patients are referred to music therapy by different professionals in the team. Information was gathered regarding the use of music therapy during sedation and for bereavement support of caregivers, along with details on assessment tools used. This study offers an initial overview of music therapy in hospices across Italy and highlights critical questions regarding team integration, training standards, evaluation and funding.

AYURSOFTAPP- Software That Suggests Drugs and Formulations for Disease/Pharmacological Property Based on the Ayurvedic Classical Books/Repositories.

Abstract This project presents a modern, intelligent approach to Ayurvedic diagnosis and treatment recommendation by integrating Machine Learning (ML) techniques into traditional medicine. The goal is to bridge the gap between ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and contemporary technological advancements, making holistic healthcare more accessible and personalized. Built as a Flask-based web application, this system allows users to input general symptoms in natural language. Using this input, the system predicts relevant Ayurvedic symptoms and recommends suitable herbal treatments. Ayurveda, a time-tested system of natural healing, relies on the balance of the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—to diagnose and treat illnesses. However, understanding Ayurvedic symptoms and remedies often requires years of training, making it less accessible to the general population. With the growing interest in alternative and traditional medicines, especially those grounded in natural treatments and preventative care, there is a need for tools that make Ayurvedic knowledge more user-friendly and data-driven. This project aims to fulfil that need by using Machine Learning models to assist in symptom classification and treatment suggestions. The core of the system utilizes Natural Language Processing (NLP) to process free-form symptom descriptions provided by users. These inputs are first cleaned and transformed into structured formats using techniques such as tokenization, stop-word removal, and vectorization. The processed text is then fed into a Naive iv Bayes classifier, which has been trained on a curated dataset of Ayurvedic symptoms and corresponding treatments. The model predicts the most probable Ayurvedic symptom category and retrieves herbal medicine suggestions based on traditional Ayurvedic texts and clinical data.

A Comprehensive Exploration of the Holistic Healing Power of Yoga

This article explores the healing power of yoga, an ancient practice that combines physical postures, meditation, breath work, self-reflection, and mantras. Originating in India, yoga is increasingly recognized for its therapeutic benefits in promoting overall health and well-being. It addresses not only physical health but also mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, making it a holistic approach to healing. Scientific research has shown that regular yoga practice helps reduce stress, lower anxiety, and alleviate chronic pain. It enhances emotional balance, improves mood, and supports mental health by promoting mindfulness and self-awareness. Studies suggest that yoga can also aid in trauma recovery and improve cognitive function. The practice creates a sense of inner peace and supports spiritual growth, helping individuals connect with a deeper sense of self. Yoga’s therapeutic potential extends beyond mental and emotional health. It has been shown to boost natural immunity and assist in the body’s healing processes. By integrating physical movement with breath awareness and meditation, yoga promotes harmony between the body, mind, and spirit. While growing evidence supports yoga's health benefits, further research is needed to fully understand the specific therapeutic mechanisms at play. Continued exploration will help unlock its full healing potential and cement its role as a complementary therapy for overall human well-being.

Complementary medicine among individuals experiencing homelessness in Switzerland: a quantitative and qualitative descriptive study

BackgroundPeople experiencing homelessness (PEH) are disproportionately affected by health issues yet remain underserved by the health care system. Emerging findings suggest that complementary medicine (CM) approaches might help address the low access to earlier treatment and the complex needs of this population. Very little research has explored this topic in Europe. Thus, this study aimed to explore perceptions, experiences, and interests in CM among PEH in Switzerland.MethodsParticipants (N = 123) were PEH in French-speaking Switzerland who completed a questionnaire assessing their use of and interest in CM. A subsample of the survey participants (n = 18) and 14 professionals working in the homeless-serving sector participated in semi-structured interviews exploring perceived utility of CM for PEH. Descriptive statistics and conventional content analysis were used to analyze quantitative and qualitative data, respectively.ResultsQuantitative findings showed that despite high levels of interest in CM, less than 30% of participants reported using CM at least once in the previous 6 months. The five CM modalities with the highest interest were osteopathy (61.5% interested or very interested), therapeutic massage (59.2%), nutritional supplements (57.1%), music therapy (50.8%), and acupuncture (49.1%). The qualitative findings reinforced the substantial interest in CM. They revealed that CM approaches were perceived as useful to mitigate some health and social issues frequently encountered in this population, ultimately contributing to improved health and well-being. Participants made recommendations for practices that would help engage and retain PEH in a CM program, such as making it accessible and equitable, and following certain steps to earn the trust of PEH. Finally, a minority of participants questioned the relevance of a CM program for this population, arguing instead that more urgent social and conventional medical needs must be addressed first.ConclusionsTaken together, these findings suggest that integrative medicine, which incorporates conventional and complementary approaches to medical and social services may represent a suitable offering for PEH to address their competing bio-psycho-social needs. Using a community-based participatory approach to co-develop such a program might help to ensure effectiveness and thereby increase health equity.

Trends in Complementary and Alternative Medicine Adoption by Cancer Patients.

The use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in cancer patients is increasing. However, some patients are reluctant to disclose their use to their oncology treatment team. Often, the consumption of these products is not well studied, and little is known about their potential interactions with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or biological methods, and their relationship to treatment outcomes. In the present study, we examined the rate of supplement use in cancer patients treated with chemotherapy. Patients who came to the University Cancer and Chemotherapy Center for treatment were asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire to assess their use of CAM. Among 395 patients, 62.5% reported using at least one type of CAM after their cancer diagnosis. The primary reasons for CAM use among participants were managing chemotherapy-related toxicities, reducing anxiety, and sedation. Vitamin and mineral use was reported by 72.4% of respondents, with vitamin D being the most popular (47.3% of respondents reporting use). The use of CAM is common among many cancer patients. CAM products may interact with chemotherapy drugs, potentially affecting treatment outcomes. Therefore, it is very important to take an accurate history of these products in every chemotherapy session in order to assess the safety of CAM consumption. Further research is required to evaluate the impact of CAM use on the efficacy and safety of cancer treatments.

Perceptions of complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine: A global cross-sectional survey of cardiology researchers and clinicians.

Complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine (CAIM) has been increasing in popularity among patients with cardiovascular illnesses. However, little is known about perceptions of CAIM among cardiology researchers and clinicians. In response, this study aimed to assess the practices, perceptions, and attitudes towards CAIM among cardiology researchers and clinicians. An anonymous, digital cross-sectional survey was administered to researchers and clinicians who have published articles in cardiology journals indexed in OVID MEDLINE. The survey was sent to 37,915 researchers and clinicians and included 5-point Likert scales, multiple-choice questions, and open-ended questions. Basic descriptive statistics were drawn from quantitative data, and a thematic content analysis was conducted to analyze open-ended responses. Among the 309 respondents, the majority (n = 173, 55.99%) identified themselves as both researchers and clinicians in the field of cardiology. While 45.78% (n = 114) of participants expressed agreement regarding the safety of CAIM therapies, 44.40% (n = 111) disagreed on their efficacy. Most respondents believed in the value of conducting research on CAIM therapies (79.2%, n = 198). Respondents perceived mind-body therapies (57.61%, n = 159) and biologically based practices (47.46%, n = 131) as the most promising interventions for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular conditions. Biofield therapies were the least favoured for integration into mainstream medical practices (11.93%, n = 29). While cardiology researchers and clinicians perceive CAIM therapies to have potential, many are hesitant about integrating such interventions into the current medical system due to a perceived lack of scientific evidence and standardized products. Insights from this study may help establish educational resources for healthcare practitioners.

Reducing Postpartum Anxiety in IUD Users through Ylang-ylang Aromatherapy and Slow Deep Breathing: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Introduction: The number of IUD contraceptive users has declined, influenced by factors such as anxiety. Individuals with anxiety experience psychological distress, necessitating complementary therapy. Alternative treatments include ylang-ylang aromatherapy and Slow Deep Breathing. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of ylang-ylang aromatherapy and Slow Deep Breathing in reducing anxiety among post-placental IUD users at Mangusada Hospital. Methods: A quasi-experimental nonequivalent control group design was used, involving 70 postpartum IUD users divided into experimental (n=35) and control (n=35) groups. Anxiety was measured using the NRS-A questionnaire before and after a 15-minute intervention. Ethical approval was obtained (070/6854/RSDM/2024). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Kolmogorov-Smirnov for normality, Wilcoxon Signed-Rank, and Mann–Whitney U tests, with a 95% confidence level. Results: There was no significant difference in pre-test anxiety between the groups (mean: 5.69 ± 0.900, p = 1.000). Post-test results showed a greater reduction in the treatment group (mean: 3.03 ± 0.664) than in the control group (mean: 3.83 ± 0.785). The Mann-Whitney U test confirmed a significant difference in anxiety levels post-intervention (Z = -3.998, p = 0.000). The effect size (r = 0.676) indicates a large impact of the intervention. Conclusion: Ylang-ylang aromatherapy and slow deep breathing are effective complementary interventions for reducing anxiety in post-placental IUD users.

Phytochemical content of Cycas rumphii n-butanol fraction and antiprotozoal activity against Toxoplasma gondii in vivo

Toxoplasmosis treatments are currently limited due to their ineffectiveness against the chronic stage and potential adverse effects. The search for novel medications that possess characteristics such as non-toxicity, and efficacy on all stages of the parasite, particularly the cystic form, is important. The n-butanol (n-BuOH) fraction of Cycas rumphii has shown promising potency against Toxoplasma gondii (RH strain) in vitro, and this study aimed to evaluate its efficacy against T. gondii in mice models. Therefore, mice were infected with 20 cysts (acute infection model) or 10 cysts (chronic infection model) of T. gondii (ME49 strain). The infected mice were treated with C. rumphii n-BuOH fraction and cotrimoxazole at 200 mg/kg/day and 370 mg/kg/day, respectively, divided into 2 doses/12 h, starting the 4th day (acute stage) or the 6th week (chronic model) post-infection, and continued for 14 consecutive days. Mice were sacrificed at 56, and 70 days post-infection for acute and chronic models, respectively, to assess the efficacy of treatment. Evaluations included size and count of brain cysts, histopathological examinations of the brain and liver, inflammatory scoring, and immunological studies to assess the levels of nitric oxide (NO), interferon-gamma (INF-γ), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in serum. Oral administration of the n-BuOH fraction at a daily dose of 200 mg/kg for two weeks significantly reduced the cyst count in the brains of infected mice and improved the survival rate. The results were comparable to those observed in subgroups treated with cotrimoxazole in both acute and chronic models. The histopathological findings indicated that C. rumphii n-BuOH alleviated T. gondii-induced brain and liver lesions. Furthermore, the serum levels of NO, and IFN-γ were significantly elevated in the C. rumphii n-BuOH fraction-treated subgroups. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis indicated that this fraction is rich in phenolic acids, including caffeic acid, gallic acid, and chlorogenic acid which have been linked to anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, and anti-Toxoplasma properties. Experimental results demonstrated that the n-BuOH fraction of C. rumphii exhibits anti-Toxoplasma effects, making it a promising candidate for the development of complementary therapies or use in combination with other drugs.

Traditional Vs. Alternative Treatments: Patient Perspectives in Malaria Care

Malaria remains a major global health challenge, particularly in regions with limited healthcare access. This study examines patient perspectives on traditional and alternative treatments for malaria, focusing on their motivations, beliefs, and treatment-seeking behaviors. Traditional medicine, rooted in cultural heritage, continues to play a significant role in malaria care, while biomedical treatments offer scientifically validated remedies. However, financial constraints, accessibility issues, and cultural beliefs influence patients’ treatment decisions. This paper examines how these factors shape the integration of traditional and Western medicine, highlighting potential strategies for improving malaria treatment and prevention. Keywords: Malaria treatment, traditional medicine, alternative medicine, patient perspectives, healthcare access, cultural beliefs.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Alternative Medicine in Healthcare Practice: A Comprehensive Review

Treatment that combines local wisdom and modern knowledge is increasingly developing. This treatment is known as alternative medicine, which differs from conventional medicine because it is intended for therapy or diagnosis and has a close relationship with cultural practices such as community spirituality. This review aims to comprehensively understand alternative medicine, including its background, reasons for its use and debates about its effectiveness and safety. In addition, this review aims to improve readers' understanding of alternative medicine so that they can make better decisions in choosing the right treatment. This review compares two types of alternative medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic medicine. Diagnostic alternative medicine focuses on identifying imbalances in the body that are believed to cause disease. In contrast, therapeutic alternative medicine is based on traditional beliefs, is empirical, or has been used for centuries. The debate about the credibility of these two alternative medicine methods is ongoing, and strong scientific evidence is needed to support their effectiveness and safety. In addition, it is important to discuss the regulation and standardization of practice for practitioners of these alternative medicines. This review emphasizes the importance of consulting a specialist before starting any alternative treatment to ensure its safety and suitability for the patient's health condition. This review helps to increase readers' understanding of alternative medicine, so they can make better decisions in choosing the right treatment.

Research Methodology in Acupuncture for Managing Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome: A Scoping Review.

Acupuncture and moxibustion are being explored as complementary therapies with promising potential in managing interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). While some studies indicate possible benefits, their scientific basis and clinical efficacy remain subjects of debate, partly due to methodological flaws in study designs involving acupuncture and related modalities, which warrant further attention and discussion. The main objective is to analyze and evaluate the research methodologies used in existing literature on acupuncture for managing IC/BPS, providing insight into the methodological challenges and opportunities in this field. National Library of Medicine (PubMed), Allied and Complementary Medicine Database (AMED), Cochrane Library, Excerpta Medica database (EMBASE), Web of Sciences (WOS), Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), Cumulated Index in Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Epistemonikos, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) were searched from their inception to August 2024. Data were extracted based on the study designs, primary outcome measures, adverse events (AEs), and participants' subjective views. All the experimental studies (27.3%, 6 of 22) were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), but only 2 full texts were accessible. Of the 4 RCTs, 3 involved rats. Observational research (50%) included case reports (27.3%), cohort studies (9.1%), and theoretical studies (4.5%). Additionally, reviews (22.7%) were included. The main languages were English (77.3%), Chinese (13.6%), Japanese (4.5%), and Russian (4.5%). The most frequently reported outcome was pain, followed by quality-of-life impact (symptom burden), urinary frequency and urgency, nocturia, and bladder capacity. AEs were reported in only 5 articles, all of which concluded that these effects were not significant and that acupuncture could be considered a safe and relatively noninvasive technique. One review found a risk of 1 AE/76 000 patients, with the most common side effects being minor, such as bleeding or bruising. Current evidence on acupuncture for interstitial cystitis is limited in quality, with studies often compromised by biases, small sample sizes, and lack of standardized protocols. Acupuncture is frequently part of multimodal treatments, aligning with Traditional Chinese Medicine's holistic approach to balance physical, mental, and emotional health. More high-quality experimental research is needed, focusing on standardized protocols and participant experiences to better evaluate its efficacy and safety.