Dr. Joseph Mercola is an American osteopathic physician and alternative medicine advocate. He is best known for his website, Mercola.com, which promotes various health products and alternative treatments. Dr. Mercola has gained a significant following for his views on nutrition, wellness, and natural remedies. He has been a controversial figure due to his promotion of ideas that often contradict mainstream medical advice, particularly regarding vaccines and conventional medicine. His practices and claims have drawn criticism from medical professionals and organizations, including the American Medical Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.