Alternative and Complementary Medicine (ACM) has gained global recognition as
an essential component of modern healthcare, bridging traditional healing
practices with evidence-based medicine. While conventional medicine remains the
dominant healthcare approach, many individuals turn to ACM for holistic
treatment, symptom management, and overall well-being. This paper explores
the role of ACM in contemporary healthcare systems, examining its benefits,
challenges, and integration with conventional medical practices. The study
highlights key ACM modalities, including herbal medicine, acupuncture,
chiropractic care, naturopathy, and mind-body therapies, analyzing their efficacy
through scientific research and cultural perspectives. The increasing acceptance
of ACM by medical professionals and policymakers is driven by patient demand,
scientific validation, and the pursuit of a more patient-centered approach to
healthcare. However, concerns regarding standardization, regulation, and
potential interactions with conventional treatments pose significant challenges.
Using a multidisciplinary lens, this paper advocates for a balanced integration of
ACM with mainstream medicine, emphasizing the need for rigorous clinical
research, regulatory frameworks, and collaborative healthcare models. By
fostering an evidence-based approach, ACM can complement conventional
medicine, offering personalized and culturally sensitive healthcare solutions that
enhance patient outcomes.