Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Complementary therapies are used alongside conventional medicines or treatments.
  • Alternative therapies are used instead of conventional medicines or treatments.
  • There is no scientific or medical evidence for some complementary therapies and many alternative therapies. They may be unsafe or cause harmful side effects.
  • Do not assume that complementary medicines are safe just because they come from a natural source.
  • Talk to your doctor if you are thinking about taking complementary medicine, to make sure it is safe for you. 
  • Never stop taking prescribed medications, or change the dose, without first discussing with your doctor.
  • Tell your complementary practitioner about all medicines, treatments and remedies you use. 

Give feedback about this page

More information

Content disclaimer

Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 29-07-2021