Many people seek complementary and alternative approaches to coronavirus disease 2019. Understanding the evidence base helps make informed choices.
Complementary Approaches with Evidence for Coronavirus Disease 2019
Acupuncture: Several studies show modest effects on coronavirus disease 2019 symptoms, particularly for anxiety and pain-related presentations.
Yoga: One of the best-evidenced complementary approaches — multiple mechanisms relevant to coronavirus disease 2019.
Massage therapy: Reduces cortisol and increases serotonin — documented effects on coronavirus disease 2019 symptom severity.
Supplements: Omega-3s, magnesium, and vitamin D have meaningful evidence for some coronavirus disease 2019 presentations.
Complementary Approaches with Limited Evidence for Coronavirus Disease 2019
Crystal healing, homeopathy, and many energy medicine approaches lack scientific evidence for coronavirus disease 2019. Risk of harm is low, but opportunity cost of forgoing evidence-based treatment is real.
Using Complementary Approaches Safely for Coronavirus Disease 2019
Complementary approaches work best as additions to, not replacements for, evidence-based coronavirus disease 2019 treatment. Always inform your healthcare providers of everything you're using.