Rebalance your mind, body and spirit--the natural way

Ayurveda is an ancient system of prevention and treatment of illness by maintaining balance in the body, mind, and spirit according to your individual body type.

"Ayurveda For Dummies" provides you with a comprehensive introduction to this area of complementary medicine, considering the origins and history of Ayurveda as well as practical guidance on utilizing the correct balance of nutrition and exercise, herbal remedies, yoga, and Ayurvedic massage to treat ailments and maintain a healthy, happy lifestyle.Helps you develop a diet based on your body typeAdvises you on ways to optimize your health by exercising to suit your body typeGives you trusted info on stretching your body with Yoga

This hands-on, friendly guide helps you understand your body type and restore balance to your life using the principles of Ayurveda.

"The prominence of the Bupleurum species cannot be overstated. Across China and Japan, it serves as a main or supplementary ingredient in over two thirds of traditional medications. For over 2000 years, it has been used to treat fevers, intestinal maladies, malaria, and countless other afflictions. Modern research indicates that it may possess anti-tumor qualities, and researchers continue to report its impact on a wide range of ailments, from hepatitis and epilepsy, to irregularity and menopause, as well as psychosis and schizophrenia. Bupleurum Species: Scientific Evaluation and Clinical Applications brings together the work of leading researchers from Asia and Europe who examine this remarkable genus of plants. Providing a comprehensive look at all aspects relevant to the species, this historic volume- q

Caper: The Genus Capparis presents a pharmacognostic and ethnopharmacological exploration of the genus Capparis, emphasizing its medicinal potential. There is a long history of safe usage of Capparis parts both in diet and as plant drugs throughout the world, and the details of this usage are summarized in 39 tables covering numerous Capparis species. This detailed survey of historical and traditional medical uses of capers provides a forum for the integration of ethnomedicine and modern pharmacology. This book tracks the use of the genus Capparis from the present position of caper fruit and its flowers as a niche culinary article of economic importance, to ancient times and its use in traditional medicine of the Mediterranean and the Middle East. Section I covers the various classes of compounds found in Capparis that hold potential for being physiologically and medically active, including alkaloids, flavonoids, vitamins, and proteins and amino acids. Section II examines therapeutic uses for Capparis species for medical conditions such as inflammation, rheumatism, diabetes mellitus, pain and fever, cancer, infections and infestations, hypertension, and more. The authors balance the role of this plant in mythological and religious thinking with advances in modern chemical and pharmacological research. Coverage of ethnomedical usage leads to practical discussions of how the unique evolution of the genus Capparis impacts present and future applications of the different species for medicine and therapeutic nutrition. Providing chemical and pharmacological reviews to an extent not previously undertaken, this book will serve as a firm basis for scientists interested in conducting research on this novel source of safe phytoceutical agents.

Pengelly's user friendly text will encourage educators in medical science to consider using this material in the complementary medicine/nutraceuticals areas May I congratulate Andrew Pengelly for writing this text as it is going to be very popular with undergraduate students as well as more experienced readers.' D. Green, London Metropolitan University, UK This unique book explains in simple terms the commonly occurring chemical constituents of medicinal plants. The major classes of plant constituents such as phenols, terpenes and polysaccharides, are described both in terms of their chemical structures and their pharmacological activities. Identifying specific chemical compounds provides insights into traditional and clinical use of these herbs, as well as potential for adverse reactions. Features include: * Over 100 diagrams of chemical structures * References to original research studies and clinical trials * References to plants commonly used throughout Europe, North America and Australasia. Written by an experienced herbal practitioner, The Constituents of Medicinal Plants seriously challenges any suggestion that herbal medicine remains untested and unproven, including as it does hundreds of references to original research studies and trials. Designed as an undergraduate text, the first edition of this book became an essential desktop reference for health practitioners, lecturers, researchers, producers and anyone with an interest in how medicinal herbs work. This edition has been extensively revised to incorporate up-to-date research and additional sections, including an expanded introduction to plant molecular structures, and is destined to become a classic in the literature of herbal medicine.

* What is complementary medicine? * What evidence is there to support its use? * What can orthodox medicine learn from holistic practices? Providing a sound introduction to the range of treatments and philosophies usually termed 'complementary and alternative medicine', this book offers a systematic explanation of the philosophies and practices that underpin contemporary complementary medicine. Introduction to Complementary Medicine examines the rise in popularity of complementary medicine and discusses the challenges of developing a more integrated system of health care. Drawing on recent research, this book explores the development, application, evidence, contraindications and appropriateness of a wide range of traditional systems of medicine and healing modalities, including Herbal Medicine, Massage, Osteopathy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Aromatherapy, Chiropractic, Ayurveda, Yoga and Meditation. Written by leading academics, researchers and experienced practitioners, Introduction to Complementary Medicine is designed to be used as a reference for students and practitioners in a range of health professions. With a foreword by Dr Joseph Pizzorno ND

Practiced for more than 2,000 years, acupuncture was once restricted to the realm of alternative medicine. It was thought to be based on mythical elements and not easily understood by those in the scientific community. Acupuncture: An Anatomical Approach, Second Edition dispels these notions and brings this once backroom therapy into the forefront-explaining it in terms that can be easily comprehended by all medical professionals. Presenting a scientific, anatomical approach to acupuncture, this volume discusses: The basics of the nervous system Acupuncture points located in the head and face, formed by the cranial nerves The cervical plexus, which forms acupuncture points in the neck region Acupuncture points formed by the brachial plexus in the upper limbs, spinal nerves in the body trunk, and the lumbar-sacral plexuses in the lower limbs The anesthesia effect of biochemical substances in the nervous system The measurement and quantification of pain Applications of acupuncture in clinical practice, from cases easy to treat to those more challenging Theories on the future of acupuncture The treatment of pain, in general, is controversial, as many therapies have unintended consequences and side effects. Acupuncture provides a therapy that is quick, easy to perform, and requires no medications. This volume enables physicians, osteopaths, pain specialists, chiropractors, and other health professionals to perform this effective treatment for their patients who experience both chronic and acute pain.

First published in 1983. Beginning with the period of the early expansion of Western missionary medicine, this account covers the chaotic years of Nationalist rule to the foundations of the People's Republic in 1949. It trances the major influences on health care since then and describes the conflicts of State bureaucracy, Party and medical profession in their attempts to match political objectives in health care to resources available. An outline of the theory of Chinese traditional medicine, together with detailed accounts of acupuncture and plant drugs are also discussed, as are specific features of the health care system, such as population control, medical education, nutrition and psychiatry.

This handbook is filled with over 50 illustrations and descriptions of approximately 250 plants which are used for herbal medicine. It includes information on medicinal plants ranging from Abies spectabilis to Zizyphus vulgaris. The purpose of this handbook is to make available a reference for easy, accurate identification of these herbs. Derived from India, "Ayurveda" is the foundation stone of their ancient medical science. Approximately 80 percent of the population of India and other countries in the East continue to utilize this system of medicinal treatment. It is believed that the key to successful medication is the use of the correct herb. This is an indispensable resource for all physicians, pharmacists, drug collectors, and those interested in the healing arts.

Committed to finding natural ways to care for their children, many parents seek techniques that do not require the invasive procedures and medications often associated with Western medicine. In NATURALLY HEALTHY BABIES AND CHILDREN, midwife and herbalist Aviva Romm offers a comprehensive handbook that addresses the common health issues of children, from newborns to preadolescents. Aviva'�'s whole-child approach integrates herbal remedies, nutrition, hygiene, and alternative health techniques with supportive, informed parenting. From anemia to whooping cough, each entry includes herbal, dietary, and general recommendations, including tips on when to pursue professional medical care. NATURALLY HEALTHY BABIES AND CHILDREN is indispensable reading for families seeking safe, effective ways to practice healing techniques at home.

Reiki techniques originated in Japan, in an intensely spiritual period of that country's history. This fully illustrated book traces the system's evolution from a spiritual self-development system to a direct hands-on practice. The journey moves from Japan to the USA, out to the world, and back to Japan. Focussing on the basic elements in their historical context, this guide contains beautifully grounded information that captures a unique sense of the system's traditional Japanese roots. The clarity and accessibility of the teachings in the book redefine and strengthen the concept of Reiki as it is practised today.

Herbs and Healers from the Ancient Mediterranean through the Medieval West brings together eleven papers by leading scholars in ancient and medieval medicine and pharmacy. Fittingly, the volume honors Professor John M. Riddle, one of today's most respected medieval historians, whose career has been devoted to decoding the complexities of early medicine and pharmacy. "Herbs" in the title generally connotes drugs in ancient and medieval times; the essays here discuss interesting aspects of the challenges scholars face as they translate and interpret texts in several older languages. Some of the healers in the volume are named, such as Philotas of Amphissa, Gariopontus, and Constantine the African; many are anonymous and known only from their treatises on drugs and/or medicine. The volume's scope demonstrates the breadth of current research being undertaken in the field, examining both practical medical arts and medical theory from the ancient world into early modern times. It also includes a paper about a cutting-edge Internet-based system for ongoing academic collaboration. The essays in this volume reveal insightful research approaches and highlight new discoveries that will be of interest to the international academic community of classicists, medievalists, and early-modernists because of the scarcity of publications objectively evaluating long-lived traditions that have their origin in the world of the ancient Mediterranean.

Effective, safe, affordable, and free of chemical side effects-the benefits of homeopathy are endless! Already established in the national health care systems of England, France, and the Netherlands, homeopathic treatments are used by over five hundred million people worldwide. Alan Schmukler's Homeopathy discusses the history and science of this alternative medicine and provides a comprehensive list of proven remedies-safe for people and animals. Packed with homeopathic treatments for arthritis, colds, food poisoning, insomnia, Lyme disease, morning sickness, wounds, and a host of other ailments and injuries, this handy reference guide also includes information on homeopathic immunization and first aid. Schmukler gives helpful instructions for matching remedies with symptoms, ingesting them correctly, making remedies at home, and stretching your supply. Praise: "This book is a joy to read, easy to understand, comfortable to use. Whether you are a neophyte or an old-hand in your knowledge of homeopathy, you will benefit from having this book in your library. It is one of the most comprehensive acute care books on the market."--Lilipoh Magazine "Schmuckler's handbook is a comprehensive modern look at the 200 most commonly used remedies that should help satisfy everyone's health questions through homeopathy."--Alive Magazine "Heaven forbid we should find ourselves responding to a life-threatening or cataclysmic event, but if we did, this book would be a godsend! Alan believes homeopathy is 'magical, exciting, and empowering.' Having his book, already dog-eared and visibly well-loved, certainly makes me feel empowered!"--Homeopathy Today

The demand for medicinal plants is increasing, and this leads to unscrupulous collection from the wild and adulteration of supplies. Providing high-quality planting material for sustainable use and thereby saving the genetic diversity of plants in the wild is important. In this regard, the methods of propagation of some important medicinal plants are provided along with the traditional methods of propagation. Indian Medicinal Plants: Uses and Propagation Aspects offers a unique compendium of more than 270 medicinal plant species from India with detailed taxonomic classifications based on the Bentham and Hooker system of classification. Salient Features: Provides traditional methods of propagation and discusses the propagation of medicinal plants Presents plant properties, plant parts and chemical constituents Describes the medicinal uses of more than 270 medicinal plant species from India This book is of special interest to practitioners of alternative medicine, students of Ayurveda, researchers and industrialists associated with medical botany, pharmacologists, sociologists and medical herbalists.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed -- and misdiagnosed -- disorders of childhood. In ADHD Alternatives, Aviva Jill Romm (a professional midwife and acting president of the American Herbalists Guild) and Tracy Romm (director of a high school for gifted students, many of whom arediagnosed with ADHD) offer a holistic approach to diagnosing and treating ADHD with nutrition, herbal medicine, and targeted parenting instead of Ritalin and other psychostimulant drugs.

"

Alternative medicine is not a fashionable new trend but an established cultural strategy, as well as a dynamic feature of mainstream contemporary medicine, in which elements of folk traditions are often blended with western scientific approaches.The Anthropology of Alternative Medicine is a concise yet wide-ranging exploration of non-biomedical healing. The book addresses a broad range of practices including: substance, energy and information flows (e.g. helminthic therapy); spirit, consciousness and trance (e.g. shamanism); body, movement and the senses (e.g. reiki and aromatherapy); as well as classical medical traditions as complements or alternatives to Western biomedicine (e.g. Ayurveda). Exploring the cultural underpinnings of contemporary healing methods, while assessing current ideas, topics and resources for further study, this book will be invaluable to undergraduate and graduate students in anthropology, sociology, psychology, and health related professions such as nursing, physical and occupational therapy, and biomedicine.

Using original sources, this significant text looks at the transformation of Chinese medicine from a marginal, side-lined medical practice of the early twentieth century, to an essential and high-profile part of the national health-care system under the Chinese Communist Party. The political, economic and social motives which drove this promotion are analyzed and the extraordinary role that Chinese medicine was meant to play in Mao Zedong's revolution is fully explored for the first time, making a major contribution to the history of Chinese medicine.

The genus Phyllanthus has over 1,000 species distributed worldwide, many of which have been used indigenously for the treatment of a variety of ailments for generations. Researchers have developed ways to analyze the potential of these plants and demonstrated the pharmacological action and various chemical entities present in each of them. They have validated the folklore claims and used this knowledge to design cost-effective and reliable sources of medicine.

The first book to exclusively examine the genus Phyllanthus, Phyllanthus Species: Scientific Evaluation and Medicinal Applications begins with a systematic classification and identification manual for various plants in the genus, followed by the scientific evaluation of the species for modern medicinal use. This reference compiles cutting edge research from countries around the world, including the UK, Malaysia, India, Indonesia, Spain, Cuba, and China. Topics covered include phylogenetic analysis of Phyllanthus, chemistry of the genus, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic and chemo- protective effects, genotoxicity, clinical trials involving Phyllanthus, and various formulations containing different plants from the genus Phyllanthus.

Phyllanthus Species: Scientific Evaluation and Medicinal Applications describes in detail the taxonomy, cultivation, and marketing, identification of geographic and genetic hot spots, chemistry, scientific evaluation, and clinical trials of various species of Phyllanthus. Written for researchers and educators in academia, industry, agriculture, and the interested general public, this book's up-to-date references make it a powerful resource providing first-hand information on Phyllanthus.

Water can ease a variety of common conditions. Healing with Water shows the simple and effective techniques of Kneipp Hydrotherapy and how to use this health treatment successfully at home. The book also presents other elements of Father Kneipp's whole-health, mind-and-body philosophy. Kneipp's whole-foods nutrition philosophy is reflected in the recipe section of this book.

Kava is an herb that has been used for ceremonial, ritual, religious, social, political, and medicinal purposes for centuries. In the past few decades, kava has been widely marketed as an over-the-counter treatment for anxiety, stress, restlessness, and sleep disorders. Kava: From Ethnology to Pharmacology describes the history, botanical origins, production, economic aspects, and chemical and biological properties of this medicinal herb. A major part of the book focuses on the chemical and pharmacological properties of kavalactones, the psychoactive constituents of kava that reportedly have sedative, anxiolytic, analgesic, local anesthetic, anticonvulsant, and neuroprotective properties. Clinical and medical studies that provide evidence of kava's therapeutic benefits are balanced with an assessment of the known adverse effects and interactions in which kava has been implicated. With contributions from experts in the field, this volume presents a comprehensive view of the traditional aspects of kava and the latest applications for the herb. It is a valuable reference for botanists, phytochemists, toxicologists, physicians, pharmacists, herbalists, and alternative medicine practitioners.

Traditional Chinese medicine commonly prescribes herbal formulas for the prevention and treatment of diseases. Shengmai San, a famous Chinese medicinal formula that has been used for more than eight hundred years in China, is comprised of Radix Ginseng, Fructus Schisandre and Radix Ophiopogonis. Traditionally, Shengmai San is used for the treatment of excessive loss of essence Qi and body fluid that threaten heart failure, particularly in the summer when heat exhaustion and profuse sweating commonly occur. This book provides a comprehensive treatise on the historical, phytochemical, pharmacological/toxicological, clinical as well as pharmaceutical aspects of Shengmai San and its component herbs.

A simple, go-to guide to treating chronic pain with trigger point therapy for physical therapists, bodyworkers, and patients From the bestselling author of The Concise Book of Trigger Points This pocket-sized guide covers practical information about the trigger points-the painful knots that can form in tissues like muscles and fascia-that are central to addressing acute and chronic pain with massage, bodywork, and physical therapy. Full-color illustrations and charts help practitioners, students, and patients identify trigger points and address referred pain patterns with ease. The first chapter introduces relevant information on fascia and myofascial meridians and provides an overview of trigger point symptoms, classification, and formation. Subsequent chapters are organized by muscle group and feature concise-yet comprehensive-sections on each of the main skeletal muscles and their trigger points. Common conditions, such as headaches and back pain, are explored for all of the muscle groups, including the muscles of the: * Face, head, and neck * Trunk and spine * Shoulder and arm * Forearm and hand * Hip and thigh * Leg and foot Written in clear, accessible language, this essential guide offers a wealth of knowledge to the lay reader, the student, or the practitioner.

Inspired by his Cherokee grandmother's healing ceremonies, Lewis Mehl-Madrona enlightens readers to "alternative" paths to recovery and health. Coyote Medicine isn't about eschewing Western medicine when it's effective, but about finding other answers when medicine fails: for chronic sufferers, patients not responding to medication, or "terminal" cases that doctors have given up on. In the story of one doctor's remarkable initiation into alternative ways to spiritual and physical health, Coyote Medicine provides the key to untapped healing methods available today.