Complementary Medicine

The University of Western Sydney has an international reputation in Complementary Medicine Research which focuses on the safety, efficacy and mechanisms of action underpinning a range of complementary medicines and approaches to health care.

Our research, which uses a strong evidence-based approach, supports the rapid expansion of the use of complementary medicine over past decades in Australia and internationally.

Our School researchers work closely with the University’s Centre for Complementary Medicine (CompleMED) and with the National Institute of Complementary Medicine (NICM), hosted by the University of Western Sydney.

Clinical trials are used to validate the efficacy and safety of complementary medicines and therapies with a specific focus on aged care, cardiovascular health, and women’s health. Laboratory research is used to evaluate neuroprotective effects of herbal medicines on a molecular and cellular level and herb-drug interactions, and to identify and quantify the complex bioactive components. This research takes place in the state-of-the-art CompleMED Herbal Analysis and Pharmacology Laboratories.

Significant collaborations are in place with researchers, hospitals, and institutions in Australia and around the world.

Current and recent research includes:

• Neuroprotective effects and herb-drug interactions of a Chinese herbal medicine formula for dementia
• Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of herbal medicine
• Evaluation of clinical effectiveness of Ganoderma lucidum for the management of metabolic syndrome
• Chinese herbal medicine for primary dysmenorrhoea
• Analysis of bioactive components of complex herbal mixtures
• The use and efficacy of complementary and alternative medicine in elite Australian athletes
• Anti-cancer properties of Chinese herbal medicine

Contact for Complementary Medicine Research

Associate Professor Dennis Chang – d.chang@uws.edu.au