Naturopaths and Western herbalists' attitudes to evidence, regulation, information sources and knowledge about popular complementary medicines

Summary Background: The practice of naturopathy and Western herbal medicine (WHM) was built on traditional evidence but may be undergoing change with the advent of scientific evidence. The aims of this research were to provide a better understanding of practitioners’ attitudes towards evidence, information sources, professional regulation and their knowledge about the evidence of commonly used complementary medicines (CMs). Method: Naturopaths and WHM practitioners were invited to participate in an anonymous, selfadministered, on-line survey. Participants were recruited using the mailing lists and websites of CM manufacturers and professional associations. Results: Four hundred and seventy nine practitioners participated; 95% currently in practice. The majority (99%) thought well documented traditional evidence was essential or important, 97% patient reports and feedback, 97% personal experience, 94% controlled randomised trials and 89% published case reports. Significantly more recent graduates (less than 5 years)