It is my planned topic for my research paper. Please help me understand their difference.

Conventional medicine (Allopathic medicine) is typically about treating and relieving symptoms. Alternative medicine covers many different types of medicine. Anything from naturopathic medicine, chiropractic medicine, accupuncture, accupressure, chinese medicine, herbal medicine, homeopathic medicine and lots more are all included in alternative medicine. Anything that isn't allopathic is alternative. I've had treatments from all of the above and a few more for various problems over the years. I think they all have a place in medicine and all have much to offer. Conventional medicine is the act of using modern technologies and approved modern medicines to treat a disease/problem. For example, a child or adult who has ADD/ADHD will be put on a form of medication that is used to control the body's behavior. Some people do not believe that the disorder exists and/or do not want to use prescribed medication to treat the problem and may rely on alternative medicine to help them. Alternative medicine includes many forms of help such as natural herbal medicines, therapies, etc.

Alternative medicine is merely the act of using natural and non-medicinal measures to treat a problem. Some forms of alternative medicine include diet change, taking herbal supplements, acupuncture, prayer and behavioral therapy.

While it is not uncommon for a medical doctor to suggest trying some of these methods, it's more common for a doctor to suggest methods of treatment that have been tested and proven to be helpful. There are even a large amount of people who have been diagnosed with various forms of cancer and instead of using the conventional treatment of chemotherapy, they insist on using alternative medicine such as vitamins and acupuncture to help their cancer.