however, as with adding any new prescription to your regimen, it is impossible to foresee the outcome unless you are an objective and qualified medical professional. according to the food and drug administration (fda), any herbal remedies are in fact listed as “dietary supplements”. these manufacturers and their products are not subject to the same rigor and qualifications as more conventional drugs. in fact, you will find the phrase “these statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. if you do not check with your doctor, you run the risk of negative reactions to mixed medication. for example, st. john’s wort is an herb often used to alleviate depression; however, if you are already taking an antidepressant or other medication the st. john’s wort could eradicate its effect and lead to potential harm or a more serious diagnosis.

we strongly believe that integrative medicine is an approach to health that may be beneficial for all patients. integrative medicine is a philosophy and practice of how we care for patients and ourselves. by combining conventional western medicine with time-tested, proven practices from around the world, we expand our care options for a variety of conditions and diseases. the osher center for integrative health was founded in 1997 as northwestern memorial hospital's official integrative medicine program. we are proud to be recognized by the bravewell collaborative as one of the leading integrative medicine centers in the country. in april 2014, our program was named the osher center for integrative health in recognition of a generous gift from bernard osher.

complementary medicine is a term used to describe types of treatments you may receive along with traditional western medicine. each type of complementary medicine may target a specific aspect of your health. below is a brief description of many of these approaches. it’s important to know that scientific research supporting the safety and effectiveness of complementary therapy may not be available for all approaches.

if you want to learn about a therapy that isn't listed here, ask your doctor if they have any information on that particular type of therapy and if it might be right for you. are there side effects and is it safe? are there side effects and is it safe? are there side effects and are they safe? are there side effects and is it safe? are there side effects and are they safe? are there side effects and is it safe? what is it used for? are there side effects and is it safe?

mayo clinic integrative medicine and health offers services for your physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental health and well-being. in many situations, as evidence of their effectiveness and safety grows, these therapies are used with conventional medicine. please confirm with your health care provider or when you contact the clinic. evidence shows, for instance, that acupuncture can help with chronic pain and may be recommended to those with cancer, chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia. together, you develop a treatment plan tailored to your goals for health and well-being. bring to this appointment a list of supplements and medications that you take, including doses.