March 31, 2008
Clinical trials are usually not done for complementary treatments such as herbs or homeopathic remedies, or for therapies like acupuncture or massage. This is slowly starting to change, and there are a few trials involving complementary therapies. These studies tend to be smaller and have been run by hospitals, universities, or AIDS groups. In evaluating complementary therapies, you may find it useful to talk to friends who have already tried them, or to other people living with HIV or AIDS. Another possibility is to refer to alternative medical and health publications. Some AIDS groups receive such publications and / or keep files on complementary therapies.