The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 11 letter word NATUROPATHY
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The straight part
We know that "alternative medicine" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case alternative medicine = naturopathy.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does NATUROPATHY mean?
NATUROPATHY noun- A system of therapy that avoids drugs and surgery and emphasizes the use of natural remedies (air, water, heat, sunshine) and physical means (massage, electrical treatment) to treat illness.