Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms

A Systematic Review

1. Helané Wahbeh, ND, MCR1,2⇑
2. Angela Senders, ND1,2
3. Rachel Neuendorf, MS2
4. Julien Cayton, BA1

1. ¹Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
2. ²National College of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR, USA

1. Helané Wahbeh, ND, MCR, Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road CR120, Portland, OR 97239, USA. Email: wahbehh@ohsu.edu

Abstract

Objectives. To (1) characterize complementary and alternative medicine studies for posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, (2) evaluate the quality of these studies, and (3) systematically grade the scientific evidence for individual CAM modalities for posttraumatic stress disorder.

Design. Systematic review. Eight data sources were searched. Selection criteria included any study design assessing posttraumatic stress disorder outcomes and any complementary and alternative medicine intervention. The body of evidence for each modality was assessed with the Natural Standard evidence-based, validated grading rationale.

Results and Conclusions. Thirty-three studies (n = 1329) were reviewed. Scientific evidence of benefit for posttraumatic stress disorder was strong for repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and good for acupuncture, hypnotherapy, meditation, and visualization. Evidence was unclear or conflicting for biofeedback, relaxation, Emotional Freedom and Thought Field therapies, yoga, and natural products. Considerations for clinical applications and future research recommendations are discussed.