Alternative medicine is a phenomenon that has been around for millenia. It’s also one of the most controversial topics in the medical world today. The debate often centers on whether or not alternative medicines are effective and safe, but it can also be focused on how to best regulate these treatments.

Alternative therapies range from acupuncture to herbal remedies, and some are more scientific than others. Back ache? Try chiropractic therapy or massage. Nauseated? Ginger ale may work better for you than a trip to the ER (although it’s worth calling your doctor if vomiting persists).

The Food and Drug Administration doesn’t regulate these treatments; they’re unregulated by law in many countries around the world.

Plus, there isn’t much research on whether any of them actually help with anything—in fact, most studies show that alternative medicines don’t have as good results as traditional medicine does so far when it comes to things like pain relief, anxiety reduction or improving moods