Integrative, Alternative and Complementary Medicine Compared
Integrative, alternative and complementary medicine compared using NCCIH definitions, with examples of each, what the words do not tell you, and why the labels keep changing.
Content last updated . This page has not been medically reviewed.
Information only. These words describe how an approach is used, not whether it works or is safe. For chest pain, stroke signs or severe allergic reaction, call 911 (US).
The three terms in one table
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) says these terms are continually evolving, and gives the following working descriptions. [1]| Term | What NCCIH says | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Complementary | A non-mainstream approach used together with conventional medicine. [1] | Adding mindfulness meditation to a pain management program, as studied in veterans. [1] |
| Alternative | A non-mainstream approach used in place of conventional medicine. [1] | Our illustration: relying on an herbal product instead of recommended treatment. |
| Integrative | Bringing conventional and complementary approaches together in a coordinated way, often with two or more interventions, and treating the whole person. [1] | A cancer center that offers acupuncture and meditation to help manage symptoms and side effects during conventional treatment. [1] |
NCCIH also says most people who use non-mainstream approaches also use conventional health care. [1]
Where naturopathy and functional medicine fit
NCCIH lists naturopathy and functional medicine, with traditional healers, Ayurvedic medicine, traditional Chinese medicine and homeopathy, among approaches that may not neatly fit its categories of nutritional approaches or psychological and physical approaches. [1] It adds that "functional medicine" sometimes refers to something similar to integrative health and sometimes to something closer to naturopathy. [1] The same practice can be complementary for one person and alternative for another, depending on whether they also follow their doctor's care. That is why this site asks you to look at what is done, not at the label. See naturopathy vs integrative medicine and naturopathy vs functional medicine.Why the label matters less than the details
A label does not tell you the training of the person, the evidence for what they offer, or the safety of the product. NCCIH says researchers have done large, rigorous studies on a few dietary supplements, and the results often showed that the products did not work for the conditions studied. [1] It also says several psychological and physical approaches, alone or in combination, appear helpful for a variety of conditions, giving examples such as acupuncture for some chronic pain and tai chi for balance. [1] Findings are specific to each approach and condition, and the amount of research varies widely. [1]Related reading
Models of care are explained in integrative, functional and lifestyle medicine. Terms are defined in the glossary. To judge any claim, use how to evaluate a therapy claim.Frequently asked questions
Is "natural" the same as "complementary"?
No. Complementary describes how an approach is used with conventional care. NCCIH's definitions say nothing about whether something is natural. [1]
Is integrative medicine alternative medicine?
No. NCCIH describes alternative as used in place of conventional medicine, and integrative as bringing both together in a coordinated way. [1]
Does an integrative clinic mean the doctor has special training?
Not by itself. Credentials differ by state and discipline, and NCCIH says there is no standardized national system for credentialing complementary health practitioners. [4]
Is it safe to combine complementary approaches with medicines?
Not always. NCCIH says more needs to be learned about the safety of some products and their interactions with medicines. [1] Ask your pharmacist or doctor first.
Should I tell my doctor?
Yes. NCCIH advises telling all your health care providers about the complementary approaches you use. [5]
More details: evidence, limits and cautions
The details behind this page: cautions, limits of the evidence and where sources disagree. Open any note to read it.
The caution with "alternative"
References
- NCCIH, Complementary, Alternative, or Integrative Health: What's In a Name?, last updated April 2021. Read 2026-10-22.
- NCCIH, Cancer and Complementary Health Approaches: What You Need To Know. Read 2026-10-22.
- Johnson SB, Park HS, Gross CP, Yu JB. Use of Alternative Medicine for Cancer and Its Impact on Survival. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2018. Read 2026-10-22.
- NCCIH, Credentialing, Licensing, and Education, last updated May 2018. Read 2026-10-22.
- NCCIH, 6 Things To Know When Selecting a Complementary Health Practitioner. Read 2026-10-22.