The C.A.M. Report
Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Fair, Balanced, and to the Point
  • About this web log

    This blog ran from 2006 to 2016 and was intended as an objective and dispassionate source of information on the latest CAM research. Since my background is in pharmacy and allopathic medicine, I view all CAM as advancing through the development pipeline to eventually become integrated into mainstream medical practice. Some will succeed while others fail. But all are treated fairly here.

  • About the author

    John Russo, Jr., PharmD, is president of The MedCom Resource, Inc. Previously, he was senior vice president of medical communications at www.Vicus.com, a complementary and alternative medicine website.

  • Common sense considerations

    The material on this weblog is for informational purposes. It is not medical advice or counsel. Be smart, consult your health professional before using CAM.

  • Recent Posts

  • Recent Comments

    Review: CAM options to induce labor

    Researchers at Monash University, in Victoria, Australia, examined the scientific evidence for the use of CAM to stimulate labor.

    Here’s what we know.

    • Most CAM used for induction of labor is based on traditional knowledge rather than scientific research.
    • Currently, the clinical evidence is sparse, and it’s not possible to make firm conclusions regarding the effectiveness of these therapies.
    • Some supporting data
      • Breast stimulation for induction of labor
      • Acupuncture
      • Raspberry leaf
    • Might not be effective and possibly increase the risk of complications
      • Castor oil
      • Evening primrose oil.
    • No evidence from clinical studies
      • Homeopathy
    • May be harmful during pregnancy and should not be recommended for induction
      • Blue cohosh

    The bottom line?

    The authors concluded, “Midwives should develop a good understanding of these therapies, including both the benefits and risks, so they can assist women to make appropriate decisions.”

    5/2/11 20:47 JR

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