NCCIH Health Information

The terminology section is a useful first stop when different sources use complementary, alternative and integrative as if they meant the same thing. From there, the A-to-Z index and Herbs at a Glance lead to particular subjects. The herb fact sheets bring the research summary and safety cautions into the same reading path, including links about interactions with medicines.

Read the strength of the evidence alongside the finding. For example, the ashwagandha fact sheet separates what researchers have studied, what they have learned and what they know about safety. It identifies small studies and uncertainty for some proposed uses. That structure helps a reader distinguish a research question from an established treatment claim. The Know the Science modules cover the next step: interpreting a journal article or health-news story and evaluating online sources.

Use the references and cautions to prepare questions for a health care professional. NCCIH says its information does not replace that person's medical expertise, and listing a therapy does not endorse it. NCCIH does not provide care or practitioner referrals to the public; its Clearinghouse also excludes medical advice and treatment recommendations.