Final answer:
Complementary and alternative therapies have benefits such as decreased risk of side effects, increased cost-effectiveness, and enhanced safety. However, they also come with risks, including a lack of scientific evidence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Complementary and alternative therapies have both benefits and risks.
Benefits of complementary and alternative therapies include:
- Decreased risk of side effects: Unlike some conventional treatments, complementary and alternative therapies often have fewer and less severe side effects.
- Increased cost-effectiveness: Some complementary and alternative therapies may be more cost-effective than conventional treatments, especially in the long term.
- Enhanced safety: Complementary and alternative therapies may sometimes be considered safer than certain conventional treatments.
Risks of complementary and alternative therapies include:
- Lack of scientific evidence: Many complementary and alternative therapies have not been extensively studied and may lack scientific evidence to support their effectiveness.