Alternative and complementary healing: implications for nursing

The current interest in alternative and complementary therapies is examined within the social context of technology, economics, and philosophical beliefs of a culture that is moving from the Industrial Age into the Information Age. A philosophical shift toward ecology, religion, and spirituality coincides with a shrinking global perspective resulting in increased accessibility to healing ideologies from other cultures. The community of alternative and complementary healers is responding to these social conditions by offering healing modalities congruent with public interests. Responses of the health care industry are discussed as are the similarities of alternative and complementary healing to nursing practice. Implications for nursing research, practice, and education are suggested.