Alternative Therapies

Ah, here is an excellent interview with a UCSF physician regarding alternative therapies (link). I must say, I agree with his perspective entirely... that is to say, effects should be scientifically investigated and attributed to the actual treatment or to placebo effect. Placebo effect is real and should not be discounted, however, if a therapy has side effects, those also need to be acknowledged, and the therapy avoided if the side effects are potentially hazardous. As long as the side effects aren't hazardous, alternative therapies can be useful for their placebo effect.