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alternative medicine
noun
: any of various systems of healing or treating disease (such as chiropractic, homeopathy, or faith healing) not included in the traditional medical curricula of the U.S. and Britain
Examples of alternative medicine in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Complementary and Alternative Medicine There are many anecdotal claims that complementary or alternative medicines can treat tinnitus.
—Carley Millhone, Health, 20 Oct. 2024
They are sometimes used in complementary and alternative medicine to support certain conditions and overall well-being.
—Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 27 Sep. 2024
However, due to its possible risks, many people prefer or need to use alternative medicine or supplements.1
Black cohosh, dong quai, and red clover are some supplements that might be helpful during menopause, but data on their effectiveness is lacking.
—Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 13 Aug. 2024
Designed as a countermeasure against poachers who illegally harvest rhino horns for alternative medicine and luxury items, this project promises to deter smuggling and save countless rhinos.
—Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 27 June 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1972, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of alternative medicine was
in 1972
Dictionary Entries Near alternative medicine
Cite this Entry
“Alternative medicine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alternative%20medicine. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
alternative medicine
noun
: any of various systems of healing or treating disease (as herbal medicine) involving approaches not customarily taught or practiced in the U.S.
Medical Definition
alternative medicine
noun
: any of various systems of healing or treating disease (as homeopathy, chiropractic, naturopathy, Ayurveda, or faith healing) that are not included in the traditional curricula taught in medical schools of the United States and Britain
More from Merriam-Webster on alternative medicine
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about alternative medicine
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