Pub Date : 2025-04-22DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103183
Mariane Elivânia Silva , Evelin Beatriz Bezerra de Melo , Maria Améllia Lopes Cabral , Laura Lima Souza , Silmara de Oliveira Silva , Nahadja Tahaynara Barros Leal , Jucielly Ferreira da Fonseca , Rodrigo Assis Neves Dantas , Daniele Vieira Dantas
Introduction
Rheumatic diseases constitute a wide range of chronic diseases that mainly affect the musculoskeletal system. They are characterized by inflammatory and degenerative processes that affect synovial joints, bones, muscles, and connective tissues. In addition, many rheumatological diseases have an autoimmune nature. This diversity of conditions results in a wide range of symptoms and degrees of severity, with a significant impact on patients' quality of life, compromising their daily activities and leading to a decline in mental health, including depressive symptoms and feelings of inadequacy.
Objective
To map the scientific evidence in the literature on the effects of acupuncture on the signs and symptoms of people with rheumatic diseases.
Methods
This is a scoping review, formulated according to the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist.
Results
After the identification, screening and eligibility process, 18 studies were included in this review. All were published between 2002 and 2023; 33.33 % were published in China; and 50 % correspond to clinical trials. The most frequently cited diseases were: acute osteoarthritis or acute knee osteoarthritis (27.77 %); fibromyalgia (27.77 %); and rheumatoid arthritis (27.77 %). The effects of acupuncture on the signs and symptoms of people with rheumatic diseases are pain relief, improved quality of life, improved joint function, increased range of motion, anti-inflammation, reduced fatigue, decreased depression and anxiety symptoms, reduced medication use, immune system regulation, and increased finger mobility.
Conclusions
Acupuncture has beneficial effects on the signs and symptoms of people with rheumatic diseases, constituting a modality which can be easily and quickly applied by any healthcare professional, as long as they are properly trained.
{"title":"Effects of acupuncture on the signs and symptoms of people with rheumatic diseases: A scoping review","authors":"Mariane Elivânia Silva , Evelin Beatriz Bezerra de Melo , Maria Améllia Lopes Cabral , Laura Lima Souza , Silmara de Oliveira Silva , Nahadja Tahaynara Barros Leal , Jucielly Ferreira da Fonseca , Rodrigo Assis Neves Dantas , Daniele Vieira Dantas","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103183","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103183","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Rheumatic diseases constitute a wide range of chronic diseases that mainly affect the musculoskeletal system. They are characterized by inflammatory and degenerative processes that affect synovial joints, bones, muscles, and connective tissues. In addition, many rheumatological diseases have an autoimmune nature. This diversity of conditions results in a wide range of symptoms and degrees of severity, with a significant impact on patients' quality of life, compromising their daily activities and leading to a decline in mental health, including depressive symptoms and feelings of inadequacy.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To map the scientific evidence in the literature on the effects of acupuncture on the signs and symptoms of people with rheumatic diseases.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This is a scoping review, formulated according to the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>After the identification, screening and eligibility process, 18 studies were included in this review. All were published between 2002 and 2023; 33.33 % were published in China; and 50 % correspond to clinical trials. The most frequently cited diseases were: acute osteoarthritis or acute knee osteoarthritis (27.77 %); fibromyalgia (27.77 %); and rheumatoid arthritis (27.77 %). The effects of acupuncture on the signs and symptoms of people with rheumatic diseases are pain relief, improved quality of life, improved joint function, increased range of motion, anti-inflammation, reduced fatigue, decreased depression and anxiety symptoms, reduced medication use, immune system regulation, and increased finger mobility.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Acupuncture has beneficial effects on the signs and symptoms of people with rheumatic diseases, constituting a modality which can be easily and quickly applied by any healthcare professional, as long as they are properly trained.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"91 ","pages":"Article 103183"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-04-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143873898","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-04-19DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103178
Run-qing Miao , Feng-ya Zhu , Tian-yu Wang , Shao Yin , Chen Shuai , Tao Li , Zhi Li , Lan Luo , Bin Yang
Background
In recent years, research on acupuncture for post-stroke depression (PSD) has grown significantly, yet findings remain inconsistent. Few researchers have conducted comprehensive assessments of systematic reviews (SRs) in this area. Consequently, there is a need for a thorough and objective synthesis of clinical evidence regarding acupuncture's effectiveness in treating PSD.
Objective
To evaluate and synthesize evidence on the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for PSD through systematic reviews, offering valuable insights for clinical practice and guiding future research directions.
Methods
We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CNKI, SinoMed, Wanfang, VIP and Google Scholar databases for relevant literature. The search covered publications from database inception to September 10, 2024. Literature selection and data extraction were independently performed by two reviewers. The methodological quality, bias risk, and evidence level of included SRs were assessed using AMSTAR 2, ROBIS, and GRADE tools. The corrected covered area (CCA) was calculated to assess overlap in original studies. Data from included SRs were subjected to quantitative or descriptive analysis.
Results
A total of 38 SRs on acupuncture for PSD were included. After assessment using AMSTAR 2, one SR was rated as moderate quality, two as low quality, and 35 as very low quality. According to ROBIS, 21 SRs were classified as high risk of overall bias, and 17 as low risk. Acupuncture showed potential to improve depressive symptoms, stroke-related symptoms, and activities of daily living in PSD patients, though the quality of evidence is limited. Some studies suggested possible effects on cognitive function, biomarkers, sleep quality, and Traditional Chinese Medicine syndromes, but these findings require further validation with higher-quality research. While no serious adverse effects were reported in the reviewed studies, more rigorous safety evaluations are needed before definitive conclusions about acupuncture's safety for PSD can be made.
Conclusion
Acupuncture shows potential as a treatment for PSD, though more high-quality research is needed to establish its effectiveness and safety. Currently, the majority of systematic reviews exhibit deficiencies in protocol pre-registration, documentation of excluded studies, and disclosure of funding sources, resulting in systematic reviews of suboptimal quality. Current evidence suggests possible benefits for depressive symptoms, stroke-related symptoms, activities of daily living, cognitive function, biomarkers, sleep quality, and TCM syndromes, but these findings should be interpreted cautiously given the limitations in study quality. Further high-quality studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for PSD.
背景近年来，有关针灸治疗中风后抑郁（PSD）的研究显著增加，但研究结果仍不一致。很少有研究人员对这一领域的系统综述（SR）进行全面评估。目的通过系统综述对针灸治疗 PSD 的有效性和安全性的证据进行评估和综合，为临床实践提供有价值的见解，并指导未来的研究方向。方法我们检索了 PubMed、Embase、Web of Science、Cochrane Library、CNKI、SinoMed、万方、VIP 和 Google Scholar 数据库中的相关文献。检索涵盖了从数据库建立之初到 2024 年 9 月 10 日期间的出版物。文献选择和数据提取由两名审稿人独立完成。采用 AMSTAR 2、ROBIS 和 GRADE 工具对纳入的 SR 的方法学质量、偏倚风险和证据水平进行评估。计算校正覆盖面积（CCA）以评估原始研究的重叠情况。对纳入的SR数据进行定量或描述性分析。使用 AMSTAR 2 进行评估后，1 篇 SR 被评为中等质量，2 篇为低质量，35 篇为极低质量。根据 ROBIS，21 篇 SR 被归类为总体偏倚风险高，17 篇为低风险。针灸有可能改善 PSD 患者的抑郁症状、中风相关症状和日常生活活动，但证据质量有限。一些研究表明，针灸可能对认知功能、生物标志物、睡眠质量和中医综合征有影响，但这些发现需要更高质量的研究进一步验证。结论 针灸具有治疗 PSD 的潜力，但还需要更多高质量的研究来确定其有效性和安全性。目前，大多数系统综述在方案预注册、排除研究的记录和资金来源披露方面存在缺陷，导致系统综述质量不高。目前的证据表明，该疗法可能对抑郁症状、中风相关症状、日常生活活动、认知功能、生物标志物、睡眠质量和中医综合征有益处，但鉴于研究质量的局限性，应谨慎解读这些研究结果。针灸治疗 PSD 的有效性和安全性需要进一步的高质量研究来证实。
{"title":"The effectiveness and safety of acupuncture for post-stroke depression: An overview of systematic reviews","authors":"Run-qing Miao , Feng-ya Zhu , Tian-yu Wang , Shao Yin , Chen Shuai , Tao Li , Zhi Li , Lan Luo , Bin Yang","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103178","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103178","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>In recent years, research on acupuncture for post-stroke depression (PSD) has grown significantly, yet findings remain inconsistent. Few researchers have conducted comprehensive assessments of systematic reviews (SRs) in this area. Consequently, there is a need for a thorough and objective synthesis of clinical evidence regarding acupuncture's effectiveness in treating PSD.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To evaluate and synthesize evidence on the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for PSD through systematic reviews, offering valuable insights for clinical practice and guiding future research directions.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CNKI, SinoMed, Wanfang, VIP and Google Scholar databases for relevant literature. The search covered publications from database inception to September 10, 2024. Literature selection and data extraction were independently performed by two reviewers. The methodological quality, bias risk, and evidence level of included SRs were assessed using AMSTAR 2, ROBIS, and GRADE tools. The corrected covered area (CCA) was calculated to assess overlap in original studies. Data from included SRs were subjected to quantitative or descriptive analysis.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of 38 SRs on acupuncture for PSD were included. After assessment using AMSTAR 2, one SR was rated as moderate quality, two as low quality, and 35 as very low quality. According to ROBIS, 21 SRs were classified as high risk of overall bias, and 17 as low risk. Acupuncture showed potential to improve depressive symptoms, stroke-related symptoms, and activities of daily living in PSD patients, though the quality of evidence is limited. Some studies suggested possible effects on cognitive function, biomarkers, sleep quality, and Traditional Chinese Medicine syndromes, but these findings require further validation with higher-quality research. While no serious adverse effects were reported in the reviewed studies, more rigorous safety evaluations are needed before definitive conclusions about acupuncture's safety for PSD can be made.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Acupuncture shows potential as a treatment for PSD, though more high-quality research is needed to establish its effectiveness and safety. Currently, the majority of systematic reviews exhibit deficiencies in protocol pre-registration, documentation of excluded studies, and disclosure of funding sources, resulting in systematic reviews of suboptimal quality. Current evidence suggests possible benefits for depressive symptoms, stroke-related symptoms, activities of daily living, cognitive function, biomarkers, sleep quality, and TCM syndromes, but these findings should be interpreted cautiously given the limitations in study quality. Further high-quality studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for PSD.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"91 ","pages":"Article 103178"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-04-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143860091","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-04-08DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103174
Mehdi Karimi , Samira Pirzad , Seyed Morteza Ali Pourfaraji , Fatemeh Maleki Sedgi , Bahar Darouei , Reza Amani-Beni , Kimia Kazemi , Reyhaneh Rabiee
Background
Black seed is known for its health benefits in traditional medicine. While recent studies suggest it may improve cardiometabolic health, its impact on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains unclear. This study aims to meta-analysis randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the effects of black seed supplementation on cardiometabolic indices in T2DM patients.
Methods
Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive database search was conducted up to January 2025, and data were extracted from relevant RCTs. Mean differences (MD) and standard deviations (SD) were analyzed using a random-effects model, heterogeneity was assessed, and publication bias was evaluated.
Results
The pooled meta-analysis of 16 RCTs showed that black seed supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood glucose (FBG) (MD: −21.43 mg/dL; p = 0.005), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (MD: −0.44; p = 0.01), total cholesterol (TC) (MD: −18.80 mg/dL; p = 0.04) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (MD: −19.53 mg/dL; p = 0.003). No significant effects were observed for 2-hour postprandial glucose (2-hpp), fasting insulin, homeostatic model assessment (HOMA), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatinine, and body weight, or body mass index (BMI). Subgroup analyses revealed that black seed supplementation effectively reduced FBG for longer than 8 weeks; additionally, HbA1c, HOMA, and LDL in higher doses (>1 g/day), shorter durations (≤8 weeks), and use of the oil form.
Conclusion
Black seed supplementation appears to significantly improve FBG, HbA1c, TC, and LDL levels in patients with T2DM. However, no significant effects were observed on other metabolic parameters, including insulin, TG, liver enzymes, kidney function, or body weight. These findings suggest that black seed may be a beneficial adjunct therapy for glycemic and lipid control in T2DM patients but require further research to confirm its broader metabolic effects.
{"title":"Effects of black seed (Nigella sativa L.) on cardiometabolic indices in type 2 diabetic patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs","authors":"Mehdi Karimi , Samira Pirzad , Seyed Morteza Ali Pourfaraji , Fatemeh Maleki Sedgi , Bahar Darouei , Reza Amani-Beni , Kimia Kazemi , Reyhaneh Rabiee","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103174","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103174","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Black seed is known for its health benefits in traditional medicine. While recent studies suggest it may improve cardiometabolic health, its impact on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains unclear. This study aims to meta-analysis randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the effects of black seed supplementation on cardiometabolic indices in T2DM patients.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive database search was conducted up to January 2025, and data were extracted from relevant RCTs. Mean differences (MD) and standard deviations (SD) were analyzed using a random-effects model, heterogeneity was assessed, and publication bias was evaluated.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The pooled meta-analysis of 16 RCTs showed that black seed supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood glucose (FBG) (MD: −21.43 mg/dL; <em>p</em> = 0.005), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (MD: −0.44; <em>p</em> = 0.01), total cholesterol (TC) (MD: −18.80 mg/dL; <em>p</em> = 0.04) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (MD: −19.53 mg/dL; <em>p</em> = 0.003). No significant effects were observed for 2-hour postprandial glucose (2-hpp), fasting insulin, homeostatic model assessment (HOMA), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatinine, and body weight, or body mass index (BMI). Subgroup analyses revealed that black seed supplementation effectively reduced FBG for longer than 8 weeks; additionally, HbA1c, HOMA, and LDL in higher doses (>1 g/day), shorter durations (≤8 weeks), and use of the oil form.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Black seed supplementation appears to significantly improve FBG, HbA1c, TC, and LDL levels in patients with T2DM. However, no significant effects were observed on other metabolic parameters, including insulin, TG, liver enzymes, kidney function, or body weight. These findings suggest that black seed may be a beneficial adjunct therapy for glycemic and lipid control in T2DM patients but require further research to confirm its broader metabolic effects.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"90 ","pages":"Article 103174"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-04-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143829939","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-04-08DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103173
Melanie Anheyer , Holger Cramer , Thomas Ostermann , Alfred Längler , Dennis Anheyer
Background
Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, affects approximately 2 % of the global population. Treatment approaches range from topical agents for mild to moderate cases to systemic therapies for moderate to severe forms. Complementary and integrative medicine, including herbal remedies, is increasingly utilized by psoriasis patients, with herbal medicine being the most prevalent choice.
Methods
This systematic review adhered to PRISMA guidelines and Cochrane recommendations, with prior registration. Searches were conducted in Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials through June 2024. Inclusion criteria encompassed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating herbal therapies in psoriasis patients of any age. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were performed independently by two authors, with discrepancies resolved through discussion.
Results
A total of 20 RCTs involving 1115 patients were included. Overall risk of bias varied across studies. Herbal interventions evaluated included Aloe vera, avocado oil, chamomile-pumpkin seed oleogel, indigo naturalis, kukui oil, mahonia aquifolium, turmeric, St. John’s wort, and various complex herbal preparations. Some herbal therapies, such as Mahonia aquifolium and Indigo naturalis, showed promise in reducing psoriasis severity, while others demonstrated mixed results.
Conclusions
Herbal therapies present a diverse array of options for psoriasis management, but further research is essential to elucidate their safety profile and true effectiveness. Healthcare providers should engage in shared decision-making with patients, considering individual preferences and treatment goals while remaining vigilant in guiding towards evidence-based treatments.
{"title":"Herbal medicine for treating psoriasis: A systematic review","authors":"Melanie Anheyer , Holger Cramer , Thomas Ostermann , Alfred Längler , Dennis Anheyer","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103173","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103173","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, affects approximately 2 % of the global population. Treatment approaches range from topical agents for mild to moderate cases to systemic therapies for moderate to severe forms. Complementary and integrative medicine, including herbal remedies, is increasingly utilized by psoriasis patients, with herbal medicine being the most prevalent choice.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This systematic review adhered to PRISMA guidelines and Cochrane recommendations, with prior registration. Searches were conducted in Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials through June 2024. Inclusion criteria encompassed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating herbal therapies in psoriasis patients of any age. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were performed independently by two authors, with discrepancies resolved through discussion.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of 20 RCTs involving 1115 patients were included. Overall risk of bias varied across studies. Herbal interventions evaluated included Aloe vera, avocado oil, chamomile-pumpkin seed oleogel, indigo naturalis, kukui oil, mahonia aquifolium, turmeric, St. John’s wort, and various complex herbal preparations. Some herbal therapies, such as Mahonia aquifolium and Indigo naturalis, showed promise in reducing psoriasis severity, while others demonstrated mixed results<em>.</em></div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Herbal therapies present a diverse array of options for psoriasis management, but further research is essential to elucidate their safety profile and true effectiveness. Healthcare providers should engage in shared decision-making with patients, considering individual preferences and treatment goals while remaining vigilant in guiding towards evidence-based treatments.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"90 ","pages":"Article 103173"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-04-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143816304","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-04-04DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103171
Yurou Li , Jingya Yang , Yuxiao Li , Hao Hu , Carolina Oi Lam Ung
Introduction
Obesity is a chronic health problem worldwide, leading to an increased focus on weight management. Acupuncture is widely used in weight loss as traditional and complementary medicine because of its economy, simplicity, and safety. This study aimed to identify the latest evidence on acupuncture for weight loss and evaluate the efficacy and safety of the included randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Methods
Seven databases were searched to identify RCTs published since January 2013 on using acupuncture for weight management. The STRICTA, CONSORT, and Cochrane Collaboration’s Risk of Bias tools were used to evaluate the included trials’ quality and risk of bias. All eligible trials were included in this meta-analysis.
Results
Sixty-four trials were included. Compared to control groups, acupuncture had a significant effect on BMI (mean difference (MD) = -2.15, 95 % confidence interval (CI) = -2.86 to −1.44, P < 0.01), body weight (MD = −2.67, 95 % CI = −4.07 to −1.28, P < 0.01), waist circumference (MD = −3.61, 95 % CI = −4.72 to −2.50, P < 0.01), and some blood test indicators. Serious adverse events were not observed. However, the quality of the included trials was generally poor, and the risk of bias was uncertain.
Conclusions
Our study showed that acupuncture is effective for weight management. However, there are no clear conclusions regarding its safety. Studies of higher quality and longer duration are needed to improve the evidence base of acupuncture in weight management for clinical reference.
{"title":"Efficacy and safety of acupuncture for weight management: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials","authors":"Yurou Li , Jingya Yang , Yuxiao Li , Hao Hu , Carolina Oi Lam Ung","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103171","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103171","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Obesity is a chronic health problem worldwide, leading to an increased focus on weight management. Acupuncture is widely used in weight loss as traditional and complementary medicine because of its economy, simplicity, and safety. This study aimed to identify the latest evidence on acupuncture for weight loss and evaluate the efficacy and safety of the included randomized controlled trials (RCTs).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Seven databases were searched to identify RCTs published since January 2013 on using acupuncture for weight management. The STRICTA, CONSORT, and Cochrane Collaboration’s Risk of Bias tools were used to evaluate the included trials’ quality and risk of bias. All eligible trials were included in this meta-analysis.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Sixty-four trials were included. Compared to control groups, acupuncture had a significant effect on BMI (mean difference (MD) = -2.15, 95 % confidence interval (CI) = -2.86 to −1.44, <em>P</em> < 0.01), body weight (MD = −2.67, 95 % CI = −4.07 to −1.28, <em>P</em> < 0.01), waist circumference (MD = −3.61, 95 % CI = −4.72 to −2.50, <em>P</em> < 0.01), and some blood test indicators. Serious adverse events were not observed. However, the quality of the included trials was generally poor, and the risk of bias was uncertain.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Our study showed that acupuncture is effective for weight management. However, there are no clear conclusions regarding its safety. Studies of higher quality and longer duration are needed to improve the evidence base of acupuncture in weight management for clinical reference.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"90 ","pages":"Article 103171"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-04-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143794902","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-04-02DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103172
Yuval Zolotov , Offer E. Edelstein , Leslie Mendoza Temple , Mikhail Kogan , Shai-li Romem-Porat , Alexander Reznik , Richard Isralowitz
Background
Medical cannabis use is expanding globally, yet knowledge gaps persist among both patients and healthcare professionals. This study aimed to examine age-related differences in medical cannabis use patterns, sources of education and training, and perceptions of physician competencies among medical cannabis patients in Israel.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey of 233 Israeli medical cannabis patients assessed use patterns, education and training sources, and perceptions of physician competencies. Data were analyzed by age groups (18–33, 34–48, 49–64, 65 +) using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and ANOVA.
Results
Use patterns differed significantly by age. Smoking was common among participants aged 18–33 (40 %) and 34–48 (37.8 %) but less common in the 49–64 group (16.7 %) and the 65 + group (10 %; p < .001). Conversely, ingestion-based methods were reported by 65.5 % of participants aged 65 + and by 72.2 % in the 49–64 group, but only by 45.9 % and 50 % in younger groups (p < .01). Among 57.6 % of participants who knew the THC/CBD concentration of their cannabis, mean THC concentration decreased with age (p < 0.05), while mean CBD concentration increased with age (p < 0.01). Most participants (89.8 %) received education on medical cannabis, primarily from physicians (74.7 %), but 35.4 % used internet sources, and 20.1 % reported peer networks.
Conclusion
This study identifies age-related differences in medical cannabis use patterns, information sources, and perceptions of physician competencies. Future research should explore how tailored patient education and clinician training can address these differences and improve guidance for medical cannabis use.
{"title":"Education, training, and perceptions of physician competency among medical cannabis patients in Israel","authors":"Yuval Zolotov , Offer E. Edelstein , Leslie Mendoza Temple , Mikhail Kogan , Shai-li Romem-Porat , Alexander Reznik , Richard Isralowitz","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103172","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103172","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Medical cannabis use is expanding globally, yet knowledge gaps persist among both patients and healthcare professionals. This study aimed to examine age-related differences in medical cannabis use patterns, sources of education and training, and perceptions of physician competencies among medical cannabis patients in Israel.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A cross-sectional survey of 233 Israeli medical cannabis patients assessed use patterns, education and training sources, and perceptions of physician competencies. Data were analyzed by age groups (18–33, 34–48, 49–64, 65 +) using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and ANOVA.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Use patterns differed significantly by age. Smoking was common among participants aged 18–33 (40 %) and 34–48 (37.8 %) but less common in the 49–64 group (16.7 %) and the 65 + group (10 %; p < .001). Conversely, ingestion-based methods were reported by 65.5 % of participants aged 65 + and by 72.2 % in the 49–64 group, but only by 45.9 % and 50 % in younger groups (p < .01). Among 57.6 % of participants who knew the THC/CBD concentration of their cannabis, mean THC concentration decreased with age (p < 0.05), while mean CBD concentration increased with age (p < 0.01). Most participants (89.8 %) received education on medical cannabis, primarily from physicians (74.7 %), but 35.4 % used internet sources, and 20.1 % reported peer networks.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This study identifies age-related differences in medical cannabis use patterns, information sources, and perceptions of physician competencies. Future research should explore how tailored patient education and clinician training can address these differences and improve guidance for medical cannabis use.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"90 ","pages":"Article 103172"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-04-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143788107","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-28DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103170
Kathi J. Kemper
{"title":"Gratitude, compassion, awe, and anticipation","authors":"Kathi J. Kemper","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103170","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103170","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"90 ","pages":"Article 103170"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-03-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143751306","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-28DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103168
Wei Pan , Linan Lin , Yi Liang
{"title":"Letter to Editor on “Discovery of the microbiota-gut-brain axis mechanisms of acupuncture for amnestic mild cognitive impairment based on multi-omics analyses: A pilot study”","authors":"Wei Pan , Linan Lin , Yi Liang","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103168","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103168","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"90 ","pages":"Article 103168"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-03-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143751329","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-27DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103164
Shaowang Zhang , Yuanyin Li , Zhide Liang , Jiaxing Dai , Hong Huang , Huanghui Zhang , Bing Yang , Jinghui Wang , Dongxin Tang
Objectives
Several studies have demonstrated the positive impact of non-pharmacological Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapies on pain, fatigue, sleep quality, and quality of life in cancer survivors. However, no research has compared the effectiveness of these therapies. This study aims to compare various interventions and identify the most effective non-pharmacological TCM therapies to provide evidence-based recommendations for cancer survivors.
Methods
A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wanfang Data. RCTs investigating the effects of Taichi, Qigong, acupuncture, acupressure, TCM emotional therapy, and mixed therapies as interventions for cancer survivors were screened was conducted. Data from the creation of the database to February 2025 were included. Two independent reviewers evaluated the study quality. A Bayesian Network Meta-analysis was conducted to carry out a random effects model.
Results
Seventy-one RCTs involving 6473 patients were included in the analysis. Network meta-analysis showed significance for all five intervention therapies in pain control in cancer patients. The best efficacy was observed for acupressure (SMD=-1.1 [-1.55, −0.66]) and Taichi/Qigong (SMD=-1.08[-1.64, −0.53]), followed by TCM emotional therapy (SMD=-0.93 [-1.42, −0.44]) and acupuncture (SMD=-0.54 [-0.93, −0.15]), with the latter showing comparatively lower efficacy. None of the interventions demonstrated superior efficacy in improving fatigue compared to the control group. Mixed therapies (SMD=-1.36[-2.56, −0.28]) demonstrated the greatest effect in improving sleep quality. Taichi/Qigong (SMD=1.87 [0.96, 2.83]) demonstrated certain advantages in improving quality of life. However, acupuncture and TCM emotional therapy had no significant effect on sleep quality or overall quality of life.
Conclusion
The evidence from this study suggests that acupressure and Taichi/Qigong are recommended as the most effective therapies for pain relief and quality of life improvement, respectively. The efficacy of these therapies for fatigue remains inconclusive. However, due to the limited number of included studies and the high risk of bias, these results should be interpreted with caution. Future studies should include more rigorously designed high-quality randomized controlled trials to confirm their long-term efficacy and safety.
Registration
PROSPERO CRD42024601976
{"title":"Comparing the effects of different non-pharmacological traditional Chinese medicine therapies on cancer survivors: A Bayesian Network Meta-analysis","authors":"Shaowang Zhang , Yuanyin Li , Zhide Liang , Jiaxing Dai , Hong Huang , Huanghui Zhang , Bing Yang , Jinghui Wang , Dongxin Tang","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103164","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103164","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Several studies have demonstrated the positive impact of non-pharmacological Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapies on pain, fatigue, sleep quality, and quality of life in cancer survivors. However, no research has compared the effectiveness of these therapies. This study aims to compare various interventions and identify the most effective non-pharmacological TCM therapies to provide evidence-based recommendations for cancer survivors.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wanfang Data. RCTs investigating the effects of Taichi, Qigong, acupuncture, acupressure, TCM emotional therapy, and mixed therapies as interventions for cancer survivors were screened was conducted. Data from the creation of the database to February 2025 were included. Two independent reviewers evaluated the study quality. A Bayesian Network Meta-analysis was conducted to carry out a random effects model.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Seventy-one RCTs involving 6473 patients were included in the analysis. Network meta-analysis showed significance for all five intervention therapies in pain control in cancer patients. The best efficacy was observed for acupressure (SMD=-1.1 [-1.55, −0.66]) and Taichi/Qigong (SMD=-1.08[-1.64, −0.53]), followed by TCM emotional therapy (SMD=-0.93 [-1.42, −0.44]) and acupuncture (SMD=-0.54 [-0.93, −0.15]), with the latter showing comparatively lower efficacy. None of the interventions demonstrated superior efficacy in improving fatigue compared to the control group. Mixed therapies (SMD=-1.36[-2.56, −0.28]) demonstrated the greatest effect in improving sleep quality. Taichi/Qigong (SMD=1.87 [0.96, 2.83]) demonstrated certain advantages in improving quality of life. However, acupuncture and TCM emotional therapy had no significant effect on sleep quality or overall quality of life.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The evidence from this study suggests that acupressure and Taichi/Qigong are recommended as the most effective therapies for pain relief and quality of life improvement, respectively. The efficacy of these therapies for fatigue remains inconclusive. However, due to the limited number of included studies and the high risk of bias, these results should be interpreted with caution. Future studies should include more rigorously designed high-quality randomized controlled trials to confirm their long-term efficacy and safety.</div></div><div><h3>Registration</h3><div>PROSPERO CRD42024601976</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"90 ","pages":"Article 103164"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-03-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143725689","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This study aimed to examine whether aromatherapy with peppermint (Mentha piperita Mitcham), ginger (Zingiber officinale), and lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) reduces the severity of nausea in patients experiencing postoperative nausea after oral surgery under general anaesthesia.
Design
Single-centre, stratified (volatile inhaled anaesthetics used or not and sex, with balanced randomization), single-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in Japan.
Setting
Hokkaido University Hospital.
Interventions
Totally, 182 patients were randomized into two groups of aromatherapy: aroma group comprising three essential oils—peppermint, ginger, and lavender—each diluted to 1 % (each dose as pure essential oil was 0.01 ml) and control group with purified water only. Of these, 32 patients in the aroma group and 25 in the control group complained of postoperative nausea and were treated with intervention.
Main outcome measures
Change in nausea severity at the onset of postoperative nausea.
Results
Nausea severity before the intervention did not differ between groups. Aromatherapy significantly reduced nausea severity (p < 0.001). The percentages of antiemetics used were 30.77 % and 52.38 % in the aroma and control groups, respectively, with no significant difference. The aroma group showed significantly higher satisfaction (p < 0.001). No adverse events were observed during the study.
Conclusions
This study indicated that aromatherapy with peppermint, ginger, and lavender significantly improved patient satisfaction and severity of postoperative nausea after oral surgery under general anaesthesia. Therefore, given the benefits of aromatherapy, it would be advantageous to consider a combination of measures that include aromatherapy, as one of the multimodal antiemetic measures.
This trial was registered at the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCTs: 01121002).
{"title":"Effect of aromatherapy with peppermint, ginger, and lavender on postoperative nausea severity after oral surgery under general anaesthesia: A single-blind randomized controlled trial","authors":"Emi Ishikawa, Toshiaki Fujisawa, Yukifumi Kimura, Takayuki Hojo, Nobuhito Kamekura, Kanta Kido","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103169","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103169","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>This study aimed to examine whether aromatherapy with peppermint (Mentha piperita Mitcham), ginger (Zingiber officinale), and lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) reduces the severity of nausea in patients experiencing postoperative nausea after oral surgery under general anaesthesia.</div></div><div><h3>Design</h3><div>Single-centre, stratified (volatile inhaled anaesthetics used or not and sex, with balanced randomization), single-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in Japan.</div></div><div><h3>Setting</h3><div>Hokkaido University Hospital.</div></div><div><h3>Interventions</h3><div>Totally, 182 patients were randomized into two groups of aromatherapy: aroma group comprising three essential oils—peppermint, ginger, and lavender—each diluted to 1 % (each dose as pure essential oil was 0.01 ml) and control group with purified water only. Of these, 32 patients in the aroma group and 25 in the control group complained of postoperative nausea and were treated with intervention.</div></div><div><h3>Main outcome measures</h3><div>Change in nausea severity at the onset of postoperative nausea.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Nausea severity before the intervention did not differ between groups. Aromatherapy significantly reduced nausea severity (<em>p</em> < 0.001). The percentages of antiemetics used were 30.77 % and 52.38 % in the aroma and control groups, respectively, with no significant difference. The aroma group showed significantly higher satisfaction (<em>p</em> < 0.001). No adverse events were observed during the study.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This study indicated that aromatherapy with peppermint, ginger, and lavender significantly improved patient satisfaction and severity of postoperative nausea after oral surgery under general anaesthesia. Therefore, given the benefits of aromatherapy, it would be advantageous to consider a combination of measures that include aromatherapy, as one of the multimodal antiemetic measures.</div><div>This trial was registered at the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCTs: 01121002).</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"90 ","pages":"Article 103169"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-03-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143714328","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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