Integrative medicine can be described as treatments that complement existing methods and treatments. Often, integrative medicine and alternative medicine are used interchangeably and come under the same umbrella. The National CAM (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Center treats this type of medication as a range of products, treatments, methods, and processes that aid traditional medical procedures. It is not meant to be seen as a replacement for trusted and traditional solutions that have been scientifically proven to be beneficial although there has been evidence to suggest that integrative methods have been proven effective in several cases.

Many colleges nowadays offer courses in integrative medicine this popularizing the belief that people want to learn about and be treated by different techniques that of traditional medication that one is so used to, especially in the western world. Many universities are starting to offer such courses in the United States as well as in Europe and Asia although it has been popular in eastern countries for many decades.

In the UK, there exist no universities that offer such courses although one can take a course privately and learn integrative medicine as part of a curriculum. The teachings are mainly based on the theory of integrative medicine and its procedures. For one to practice, one must go to a licensed clinic that has been approved by the medical association. A big disbelief with integrative medicine is that it can be used in place of traditional medicines. This should not be the case, as it should simply be used as an integrative approach to help with the traditional medications given. You should always consult your doctor to tell him or her that you are thinking about or currently undertaking any form of integrative treatment.

Critics believe that some integrative medicines may interfere with more traditional methods as it can hinder the healing process or cause more damage than good. It is often the case that patients turn to this type of treatment only when they have exhausted all the traditional options. In any case, one should approach with caution and learn about the actual process involved. Integrative medication can work for some but may do nothing for others. It is dependent on the person, similarly what type of illness or condition one has. Remember that there is no scientific proof that this type of treatment has been effective against curing diseases and cannot be seen as a replacement.