Complementary and alternative therapies : regulatory issues

Complementary therapy (CAM) use is common.  CAM includes a variety of medicines, products and therapies used to promote health or treat symptoms and minor illnesses. CAM products are widely available from a variety of sources such as practitioners, pharmacies, supermarkets, health food shops and markets as well as on the internet.  Many CAM and conventional practitioners are concerned about the safety and efficact of CAM products and the lack of a strong regulatory framework for their use.