Alternative medicine refers to a broad range of medical practices and therapies that are not considered mainstream or conventional by Western medical standards. These practices often emphasize a holistic approach to healing and may include techniques such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, homeopathy, naturopathy, chiropractic care, and traditional Chinese medicine. Proponents of alternative medicine argue that these approaches can be effective in treating a variety of ailments and promoting overall health and wellness, often with fewer side effects than conventional treatments. Critics, however, point to a lack of scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of many alternative therapies and express concerns about the safety and regulation of these practices. Alternative medicine remains a controversial and rapidly evolving area of research and practice within the field of healthcare.