OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine is an international peer-reviewed Open Access journal published quarterly online by LIDSEN Publishing Inc. It covers all evidence-based scientific studies on integrative, alternative and complementary approaches to improving health and wellness.

Topics contain but are not limited to:

  • Acupuncture
  • Acupressure
  • Acupotomy
  • Bioelectromagnetics applications
  • Pharmacological and biological treatments including their efficacy and safety
  • Diet, nutrition and lifestyle changes
  • Herbal medicine
  • Homeopathy
  • Manual healing methods (e.g., massage, physical therapy)
  • Kinesiology
  • Mind/body interventions
  • Preventive medicine
  • Research in integrative medicine
  • Education in integrative medicine
  • Related policies

The journal publishes a variety of article types: Original Research, Review, Communication, Opinion, Comment, Conference Report, Technical Note, Book Review, etc.

There is no restriction on paper length, provided that the text is concise and comprehensive. Authors should present their results in as much detail as possible, as reviewers are encouraged to emphasize scientific rigor and reproducibility.

Publication Speed (median values for papers published in 2023): Submission to First Decision: 5.9 weeks; Submission to Acceptance: 14.7 weeks; Acceptance to Publication: 8 days (1-2 days of FREE language polishing included)

Open Access Original Research

A Brief Mindfulness-Based Intervention Pilot Study: Lessons Learned in Feasibility and Acceptability Among Healthcare Professionals Experiencing Burnout

Received: 21 April 2024;  Published: 18 October 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2404060

Abstract

We explored the feasibility of a virtual-reality delivered mindfulness training intervention on burnout symptoms among corporate employees and clinicians in the Intensive Care Unit and Palliative Care Unit (PCU). To develop the VR mindfulness intervention we leveraged the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behavior model (COM-B) as a guide for the [...]

Open Access Review

Spirituality as an International Coping Method during Covid-19

Received: 20 January 2024;  Published: 15 October 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2404059

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has brought forth global challenges in socioeconomic, political, and public health dimensions. For many, spirituality was a powerful source of support during this pandemic experience. The current review provides an apt overview of spirituality as a coping method to mitigate the mental and emotional impact of global turmoil of Covid [...]

Open Access Review

Case Reports of Patients Using Homeopathy in Which Complete Healing Was Observed: A Literature Review

Received: 20 June 2024;  Published: 12 October 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2404058

Abstract

To systematically review the literature for cases using homeopathy in which complete healing was observed. Scielo, Pubmed, CINAHL, and Embase databases were systematically screened for case reports and series of patients successfully cured by homeopathy between 1966 and August 2022. Language limitation was not used. Forty-nine articles, comprising 191 [...]

Open Access Original Research

Hassles during the First Year of Medical School: Can a Student Wellness Program Make a Difference?

Received: 14 March 2024;  Published: 27 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403057

Abstract

Acute stress during medical school affects medical student well-being. The objective of the current study was to examine the influence of a holistic, school-sponsored student wellness program (SWP) on acute stress during the first year of medical school. First-year medical students attending two osteopathic medical schools participated, one school with [...]

Open Access Concept Paper

Homebody: Art Therapy and the Art of Possessions

Received: 07 June 2024;  Published: 25 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403056

Abstract

This concept paper is proposing the inclusion of the home studio as an art making location for art therapy trainees who assemble personal belongings, within the context of their domestic lives. A collection of belongings can become an installation which brings together associations to identities in juxtaposition. The material culture of art therapy [...]

Open Access Review

Religious and Traditional Fasting May Be an Alternative Method to Tackle Global Health Threats and the Epidemic of Obesity

Received: 01 June 2024;  Published: 24 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403055

Abstract

Intermittent fasting practices, recommended as a potential nutritional approach against obesity and metabolic diseases, have become increasingly widespread in recent years. Although convincing data on the anti-obesity and cardio-metabolic benefits of intermittent fasting are obtained mostly from experimental studies, religious and traditional fasting [...]

Open Access Original Research

The Impact of Therapeutic Viniyoga on State Change

Received: 30 May 2024;  Published: 23 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403054

Abstract

While many studies have discussed the effectiveness of interventions using different yoga techniques and teachings with various populations, there has been less research on the effectiveness of yoga therapy. Viniyoga therapists utilize the principles of Viniyoga, a type of yoga developed by Krishnamacharya, to provide therapeutic yogic interventions [...]

Open Access Editorial

Long-Term Effects of Auricular Medicine – A Key to the Future of Preventive Medicine?

Received: 17 September 2024;  Published: 19 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403053

Abstract

Auricular medicine, based on the concept that the ear reflects the entire body, has gained recognition for treating various conditions through targeted acupuncture. Despite documented short-term benefits, such as pain relief and nervous system regulation, research into its long-term effects is limited. This editorial discusses the need for further long [...]

Open Access Original Research

Exploring the Opportunities and Barriers of Implementing the Health Focused Physical Therapy Model

Received: 21 June 2024;  Published: 19 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403052

Abstract

The Health-Focused Physical Therapy Model integrates lifestyle behavior management into physical therapy practice using a standardized care model and motivational patient interviewing. The purpose of this study was to identify the perceived opportunities and barriers physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and rehab administrators may face [...]

Open Access Case Report

Compassion Focused Therapy for an Older Adult with Complex Emotional Needs: A Case Study and Considerations for Practice

Received: 20 April 2024;  Published: 14 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403051

Abstract

‘Personality disorders’ (referred to as complex emotional needs in this report) are common in older adults. Yet they are often under-recognised which impacts access to appropriate care pathways. Once in services, older adults lack the same access to specialist mental health care as adults, and the evidence base in older adults with complex emotional [...]

Open Access Interview

An Interview with Professor Gerhard Litscher: “How High-Tech and Digitalization Are Revolutionizing the Future of Acupuncture”

Received: 11 September 2024;  Published: 11 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403050

Abstract

In this interview Professor Gerhard Litscher discusses how new technologies like laser acupuncture and electroacupuncture, artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics are revolutionizing acupuncture by enhancing precision and personalization. He emphasizes the potential for digital tools to improve treatment outcomes and training while maintaining the [...]

Open Access Research Article

Are Children in Foster Care Settings More Likely to Display Challenging Behavior on Specific Days of the Week?

Received: 20 May 2024;  Published: 04 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403049

Abstract

Previous studies have shown that the use of a three-color (red, yellow, and green) rating system of child behaviors by caregivers can help facilitate deprescribing of psychotropic medications in foster youth. Using a similar three-color rating system within a state-funded project, we assessed whether there was a day of the week when 48 foster youth [...]

Open Access Short Report

Developing an Independent International Research Team: Research Ensemble for Advancement in Cross-Cultural Healthcare (REACH)

Received: 14 February 2024;  Published: 22 August 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403048

Abstract

This short report presents an international research group, Research Ensemble for Advancement in Cross-cultural Healthcare (REACH). REACH is an independent research group, and no one is paid to do research for REACH. All members participate because they are intrinsically motivated to pursue cross-cultural healthcare. REACH consists of 28 healthcare [...]

Open Access Review

Keeping Your Head: Remembering to Think in Mindfulness Practice

Received: 24 April 2024;  Published: 20 August 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403047

Abstract

It is an axiomatic in secular mindfulness that to become present is to direct attention away from thinking to physical sensation. While this can be a useful strategy to manage depressive rumination, as an automatic default position, it risks demonising our fundamental human capacity to purposefully think about the causes of suffering and how to reduce [...]

Open Access Original Research

Exploring the Impact of Genuineness in Psychotherapy: A Self-Practice/Self-Reflection (SP/SR) Report

Received: 21 March 2024;  Published: 12 August 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403046

Abstract

A growing body of evidence has highlighted the limitations of relying solely on positivist research when summarizing SP/SR results since it might hinder pluralistic perspectives from unique backgrounds and life experiences. In the present reflective report, I aim to conduct quantitative and qualitative research on myself to explore the impact of concent [...]

Open Access Case Report

Use of Homeopathy in Patients Suffering from Long COVID-19 (LONGCOVIHOM): A Case Series

Received: 04 May 2024;  Published: 06 August 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403045

Abstract

In some patients, coronavirus (COVID-19) can cause symptoms that last weeks or even months after the infection has gone. Long COVID-19 was defined as a confirmed initial COVID-19 infection, the presence of signs and symptoms more than four weeks after initial infection, and the persistence or appearance of signs and symptoms that another condition canno [...]

Open Access Original Research

Evaluation of Add-On Individualized Homeopathic Medicines Products in the Treatment of Symptomatic COVID-19 Managed at Home: A Double Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized, Exploratory Clinical Trial

Received: 23 March 2024;  Published: 31 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403044

Abstract

Homeopathy has shown promise in fighting epidemics, leading to potential applications in the COVID-19 clinical cases. To assess the impact of add-on individualized homeopathic medicinal products (IHMP) in improving clinical outcomes and time to medical discharge in COVID-19 patients. A prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel [...]

Open Access Original Research

The Symptomatic Expression in Chinese Patients with Suspected COVID-19 Omicron Variant Infection: A Clinical Case Registry Study

Received: 29 February 2024;  Published: 29 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403043

Abstract

Little systematic research has been conducted into the symptomatic expression of COVID-19 infections in patients. It is known that symptomatic expression varies between patients, but the nature and extent of this variability is poorly understood. This paper elaborates on the symptoms reported by Chinese patients infected with COVID-19 during the Omicron [...]

Open Access Research Article

Filial Piety Discrepancy and Wellbeing among Older Chinese Immigrants Living in Canada: The Role of Acculturation and Living Arrangement

Received: 02 April 2024;  Published: 23 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403042

Abstract

This survey-based, cross-sectional study explored the independent and synergistic effect of filial piety discrepancy (FPD), acculturation, and living arrangement on the psychological, social, and physical wellbeing of older Chinese immigrants living in Canada. A total of 299 older Chinese immigrants were recruited from community organizations in the [...]

Open Access Concept Paper

Applied Pragmatic Functional Contextualism: A New Epistemological and Theoretical Framework for Applied Mental Health Research

Received: 22 January 2024;  Published: 10 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403041

Abstract

This paper argues that psychology, as a discipline, requires research to be situated in the context of a content-based theory. We identify several problems and pitfalls with requiring a content-based theory for applied mental health research, a priori. Nonetheless, we also articulate a rationale for why theory matters and that a new sort of theoretical [...]

Open Access Original Research

Eryngium carlinae Extract and Exercise Improve Blood Lipid Profile and Skeletal Muscle Function in Obese Rats

Received: 08 January 2024;  Published: 10 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403040

Abstract

An excess of adipose tissue characterizes obesity; it is associated with complications such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases due to an alteration in the lipid profile; this condition affects all tissues; even skeletal muscle is the most affected, causing its malfunction and bringing more significant consequences. Exercise has been described as [...]

Open Access Review

Scoping Review of Nutraceuticals Use in Mediterranean Diet

Received: 25 September 2023;  Published: 05 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2403039

Abstract

Mediterranean diet, considered key to varied diets, raises whether it is necessary to supplement it with compounds like nutraceuticals to obtain more benefits. A scoping review was conducted. Nine articles were selected that compared the effects of nutraceuticals on biochemical markers (such as total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [...]

Open Access Review

The Interplay of Nutrition, Exercise, and Dietary Intervention for Enhanced Performance of Athletes and General Well-Being of Non-Athletes: A Review

Received: 28 December 2023;  Published: 28 June 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402038

Abstract

The optimal enhancement of athletic performance, recovery from exhaustion after exercise, and injury prevention are products of appropriate nutrition. Nutritional supplements that contain proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals are frequently utilized in various sports to complement the recommended daily amounts. Several of these supplements [...]

Open Access Original Research

North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center: 2020-2023: Outcomes, Lessons Learned, and Recommendations for the Future

Received: 26 April 2024;  Published: 28 June 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402037

Abstract

Agricultural producers (i.e., farmers, ranchers) and agricultural workers (i.e., hired labor, farmworkers) have worse mental health than the general population and often lack access to mental healthcare. In response, the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture funded four regional Farm and Ranch Stress [...]

Open Access Perspective

Organisational and Emotional Psychology Views on Yozan Uesugi’s Leadership

Received: 09 January 2024;  Published: 27 June 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402036

Abstract

Yozan Uesugi was a Daimyo (feudal lord) who governed an area called Yonezawa in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan from 1767 to 1823. Yonezawa was originally an impoverished provincial government which under his leadership regained a healthy financial status. His leadership style was unique among Daimyos, yet respected and regarded as an ideal by many including [...]

Historical Announcements

Update: Article Processing Charge (Price Changes Effective January 1, 2025) 2024-10-21

The 7th Plenary Meeting of Eurasia Pacific Uninet

September 25th-29th, 2024 ,Vienna, Austria

It is our pleasure to announce that "The 7th Plenary Meeting of Eurasia Pacific Uninet" is being held in Vienna, Austria. Prof. Gerhard Litscher, Editor-in-chief of ICM Journal, participated in the meeting and gave an excellent lecture on September 26, 2024. The photos show Prof. Gerhard Litscher with some of the participants, with the President of Eurasia Pacific Uninet Prof. Wolf-Dieter Rausch and the Former President of Austria Dr. Heinz Fischer respectively. We wish this meeting a complete success.

Traditional Chinese Medicine in Europe – from Science to Clinical Practice

August 15-18, 2024
Bad Zurzach, Switzerland

It is our great pleasure to announce the successful convening of "2nd Scientific TCM Conference", held in Bad Zurzach, Switzerland, from August 15th - 18th, 2024.
This conference is a place where experts, practicing physicians, therapists, researchers, students and anyone interested in the ancient wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine meets to discuss current research, learn new techniques, and make new connections. Prof. Dr. Gerhard Litscher, Editor-in-Chief of the ICM Journal, was one of the guest organizers of the conference and gave an excellent lecture at the conference.

If you have information about upcoming conferences in 2024, please share it with us, we are always open to cooperating with conferences in all areas of integrative medicine.

Traditional Chinese Medicine in Europe – from Science to Clinical Practice

August 15-18, 2024
Bad Zurzach, Switzerland

As in the first conference, the scientific program will address current research findings in TCM and will focus on studies in patients. In addition, the conference will offer the opportunity to learn new TCM techniques in practical courses and will be a unique platform for scientific exchange and networking among experts, practicing physicians, therapists, researchers and students interested in TCM.

More details are provided at: https://www.tcmuni.ch/en/congress/

The 14th Annual World Congress of Neurotalk

June 12-14, 2024

Budapest, Hungary

It is our great pleasure to announce the successful convening of "The 14th Annual World Congress of Neurotalk", held in Budapest, Hungary, from June 12th - 14th, 2024.
This conference focuses on basic research, advanced technology, and clinical application, providing a platform for all experts to discuss latest researches and achievements. Specific areas of interest include Neuroscience, Brain Development & Disorders, Advanced Technology, Neurodegenerative Disease, Drug Discovery, Clinical Biotherapy Development, Neuropathic Pain & Management, etc..
If you have information about upcoming conferences in 2024, please share it with us, we are always open to cooperating with conferences in all areas of integrative medicine.

The 14th Annual World Congress of Neurotalk

June 12-14, 2024
Budapest, Hungary

The Annual World Congress of Neurotalk (NT) has been successfully organized 13 times in the previous years and has attracted more than 1000 participants from over 50 countries and regions. The 14th NT will be held on June 12-14, 2024 at Budapest, Hungary. It is an international event focusing on basic research, advanced technology, and clinical application, providing a platform for all experts to discuss the latest researches and achievements.

More details are provided at: https://www.bitcongress.com/neurotalk2024europe/scientificprogram.asp

11th International Symposium on Auriculotherapy

September 8th - 10th, 2023

It is our great pleasure to announce the successful convening of "The 11th International Symposium on Auriculotherapy ", held in Copenhagen, Denmark, from September 8th - 10th, 2023. Dr. Gerhard Litscher, Editor-in-Chief of the ICM Journal, was the chair of the opening session and also gave a keynote lecture in the opening session.
This symposium is designed to build bridges between Auriculotherapy and psychotherapy. Auriculotherapy, a complementary therapy based on the stimulation of specific points on the ear, is gaining recognition for its potential to enhance psychological well-being. Researchers and practitioners are invited to share their interdisciplinary knowledge, experience, and inspiration, contributing to complex multidisciplinary approaches, a milestone in integrative medicine.
If you have information about upcoming conferences in 2023, please share it with us, we are always open to cooperating with conferences in all areas of integrative medicine.

The 21st World Congress of Psychophysiology

June 26th - 30th, 2023
Geneva, Switzerland

The IOP2023 congress in Geneva will again bring together scientists from different backgrounds who are engaged in research relevant to the understanding of the interplay between mind, brain, and body. Please find the objectives below:

1.The world-wide dissemination of information regarding psychophysiological research, teaching and apppcations

2.The estabpshment and stimulation of psychophysiological research, teaching and apppcations

3.The development and promotion of international collaborations and discussion in the field of psychophysiology

For more details, please visit: https://iop2023.com/

OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine welcomes the following types of articles: original research, review, communication, opinion, case report, comment, conference report, technical note, book review, etc. There is no restriction on the length of the papers, color figures, supplementary file types. More details please see Instructions for Authors.

Register and Submit now.

Newsletter
Announcements

Update: Article Processing Charge (Price Changes Effective January 1, 2025)

The journal OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine (ISSN: 2573-4393) will have the new APCs (New APC, 950 USD) for manuscripts submitted after 31 December 2024.

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