Primary brain tumours arise within the brain and have a poor prognosis when malignant. Even patients with benign tumours suffer neurological and systemic symptoms as a result of the tumour or its treatment. CAM is used by 30% of brain tumour patients, who often do not report its use to their physician. Herbal medicines may affect the metabolism of prescribed medications or produce adverse effects that may be attributed to other causes. In patients with systemic cancer, mind–body modalities such as meditation and relaxation therapy have been shown to be helpful in reducing anxiety and pain; acupuncture and hypnotherapy may also reduce both pain and nausea. Recent preclinical studies have reported that ginseng (not specified), Scutellaria baicalensis and Angelica sinensis may promote apoptosis of tumour cells or exercise anti-angiogenic effects. Further studies are needed to evaluate the impact of CAM on symptom control or tumour growth in this vulnerable patient population.