The Skeptic's Guide to Alternative Medicine

Listening Length: 4 hours and 24 minutes

Energy medicine. Acupuncture. Superfoods. Healing magnets. What does the scientific evidence really say about these and other "alternative medicine" treatments for personal wellness?

How can we know if a natural remedy is safe and effective? How can people become their own best skeptical consumer of health news in the media? Join neurologist and science educator Dr. Steven Novella for a fascinating exploration of these and other important questions about the truths-and myths-behind alternative medicine.

Perhaps the most important skill to have in this brave new world of ever-changing medical news is the ability to evaluate sources and information, and to think critically about how alternative medicine is marketed, regulated, and used. Dr. Novella takes a rigorous, science-based approach in exploring so-called "popular" and "cutting-edge" trends. Armed with this knowledge, listeners will be in a much better position to assess alternative pathways to physical health.

Dr. Novella's 10 leading-edge lectures will answer such questions as:

Do magnetic fields really have useful biological properties?
Why is chiropractic treatment no more effective for pain management than simple physical therapy?
Can brain games truly make one smarter or help in staving off dementia?
Can homeopathic remedies, such as those derived from plants and minerals, really cure ailments?
Does cupping therapy really help to reduce pain and inflammation, while increasing blood flow?

Dr. Novella provides insights on the ever-widening gap between alternative medicine and