In this second "Earthwise Herbal" ('herbal', as defined by Merriam-Webster, is 'a book about plants especially with reference to their medicinal properties') Matthew Wood, an expert herbalist who has used medicinal herbs in tens of thousands of cases over a twenty-five-year career, provides detailed descriptions of New World (North American) herbs and their uses. The first volume of this two-volume set, "The Earthwise Herbal: A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants", was published by North Atlantic Books in May 2008. Organized as a material medica (names and descriptions of herbs/plants are listed alphabetically), the book explains the use of the whole plant - not just 'active ingredients' - in the treatment of the whole person and describes symptoms and conditions that the plants have been successful in treating (digestive ailments, headaches, high blood pressure, asthma, skin rashes, and allergies, to name a few). Wood, one of very few writers who has systematically studied ancient and traditional herbal literature, rather than the occasional text, takes a historical view and presents information in a thoughtful, engaging, non-technical style. In addition, he provides remarkable case studies as well as insight into the 'logic' of each plant - its current usage, past usage, pharmacological constituents, and other elements that together produce a comprehensive portrait of the plant.

Charles Buck draws on three decades of study, practice and teaching in this book to provide a relevant and engaging account of the origins of acupuncture and Chinese medicine. From its pre-Han dynasty roots to Chinese medicine as we know it today, Buck covers the key texts, the main scholars and the concepts they have contributed, emphasising those that are more relevant to clinicians wishing to understand the authentic tradition. The information presented is based on diverse sources including original translations of Chinese sources and interpretations of the work of many prominent medical sinologists. With Buck's lucid and engaging style, Roots of Modern Practice provides an accessible and authoritative resource that will help practitioners and students deepen their understanding of this great medical tradition. A practical and modern appreciation of China's medical wisdom, this book will be of great value to students and practitioners of Chinese medicine and acupuncture, and anyone interested in the roots of this time-honoured medicine.

Classical acupuncture according to the philosophy of the heavenly stems and earthly branches uses the fundamental, cyclical rhythms of nature and life as a foundation for health and development. This book is one of the first of its kind in the western world to offer a practical and scholarly approach to applying this philosophy to clinical practice. This handbook guides the practitioner into a journey of better understanding of the self and provides the theoretical background to be able to confidently diagnose and treat patients. It offers invaluable insight into the use of Chinese philosophy, psychology and pulse diagnosis.

Acupuncture Anatomy: Regional Micro-Anatomy and Systemic Acupuncture Networks integrates Western and Eastern medicine, providing a scientific foundation to acupuncture. By correlating detailed anatomical information with specific acupuncture points, the book opens a window into understanding the physiological basis of acupuncture medicine. Each acupuncture point is described in terms of musculature, vasculature, and innervation. Special consideration is also given to the position of organs, muscles, nerves, arteries, and veins with respect to the acupuncture point. A separate section is devoted to cross sections of the human body. The book is divided into four major parts. The first part discusses the underlying principles of traditional Oriental medicine and acupuncture. The second covers the pathophysiology of the organ systems. The third reviews various disease etiologies and the last part presents common diseases that are effectively treated through acupuncture. Written by an author with degrees in both Western and Eastern medicine, the book's bulleted format and numerous illustrations make it easy to read and understand. It is a valuable companion for those wanting to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western medicine, as it relates to acupuncture.

'Medicine of the Prophet' is a combination of religious and medical information, providing advice and guidance on the two aims of medicine - the preservation and restoration of health - in careful conformity with the teachings of Islam as enshrined in the Qur'an and the 'hadith', or sayings of the Prophet. Written in the fourteenth century by the renowned theologian Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyya (d. 751AH/1350AD) as part of his work 'Zad al-Ma'ad', this book is a mine of information on the customs and sayings of the Prophet, as well as on herbal and medical practices current at the time of the author. In bringing together these two aspects, Ibn Qayyim has produced a concise summary of how the Prophet's guidance and teaching can be followed, as well as how health, sickness and cures were viewed by Muslims in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. The original Arabic text offers an authoritative compendium of Islamic medicine and still enjoys much popularity in the Muslim world. This English translation is a more complete presentation than has previously been available and includes verification of all 'hadith' references. 'Medicine of the Prophet' will appeal not only to those interested in alternative systems of health and medicine, but also to people wishing to acquaint themselves with, or increase their knowledge of, 'hadith' and the religion and culture of Islam.

Following on from Healing Power of Celtic Plants, Angela Paine's latest book covers a new range of Celtic medicinal plants which are native to Britain, as well as a few plants, such as Sage and Rosemary, which were introduced by the Romans. Combining the latest scientific data on the healing properties of the herbs used by the ancient Celts with recent archaeological discoveries, written in a jargon-free, easy to understand narrative style and offering a botanical description of each plant, an outline of their chemical constituents, and advice on ways to grow, harvest, preserve and use each plant, Healing Plants of the Celtic Druids is an essential guide.

Culinary herbs and spices have been recognised globally for their dietary and medicinal uses for centuries. A growing body of research is acknowledging their health-promoting properties as well as their therapeutic potential with reference to a number of chronic non-communicable diseases including cancer and type 2 diabetes. The aim of this book is to bring together current knowledge of thirty of the most commonly used culinary herbs and spices globally in an accessible dictionary format. For each culinary herb or spice the following is covered: origin and history of use, including their use in food preservation and for medicinal purposes; nutritional composition; chemistry; sensory properties; adulteration; current and emerging research concerning their bioactive properties and their health promoting and therapeutic potential; safety; and adverse effects. The book is a central source of information for those who have a general interest in these foods, are studying plant and food science and nutrition, and who practice or have an interest in the culinary arts.

Dr. Svoboda's original work on the constitutional types in Ayurveda has been considered a classic for many years. His new revision and expansion of the subject comes after much further research and practical experience. Dr. Vasant Lad points out: "The healing science of Ayurveda is based totally upon the knowledge of "prakriti," the individual constitution. If every individual knows his own constitution, then one can understand, for instance, what is a good diet and style of life for oneself. One man's food is another man's poison. Therefore, to make one's life healthy, happy and balanced, the knowledge of constitution is absolutely necessary." (Dr. Vasant Lad is the author of Ayurveda: The Science of Self-Healing, and co-author of The Yoga of Herbs.)

A practical companion for students and practitioners of five element acupuncture that helps stimulate thoughts, refresh memories and strengthen the foundation of practice. With detailed outlines of the different components of five element diagnosis and treatment and overviews of the main characteristics of the five elements, this complete manual will support and invigorate practice. Full of examples, it explores the skills and techniques needed to nurture patient-practitioner relationships, assess patients correctly, select appropriate treatments and needle the points effectively. The book also includes a Teach Yourself Manual to further refresh understanding of this ancient form of healing. This comprehensive handbook will be of immeasurable use to students and practitioners of five element acupuncture, as well as those who are interested in studying acupuncture and want to know more.

A full-color illustrated and comprehensive study guide for reflexology * Provides detailed and accurate anatomical drawings, zone and reflex maps, and muscle tables * Offers extensive basic pathology of all body systems, including case studies * Ideal for students of reflexology up to levels 2 and 3; exceeds the curriculum requirements of all the major awarding bodies * Includes a study outline for each chapter as well as review and multiple choice questions Reflexology is a gentle, non-invasive therapy that encourages the body to balance and heal itself. It involves applying finger or thumb pressure to specific points on the hands and feet. Called "reflexes," these points reflect, or mirror, the organs and structures of the body as well as a person's emotional health. In this way, the hands and feet are "mini maps" or "microcosms" of the body that can be used to encourage holistic healing. Presenting the most complete reflexology study guide available, this full-color illustrated textbook is designed for use both in the classroom and as a home study resource. Ideal for students of reflexology up to levels 2 and 3, it exceeds the curriculum requirements of all the major awarding bodies as well as meeting the current National Occupational Standards for reflexology. Providing detailed and accurate anatomical drawings, zone and reflex maps, and muscle tables, the book outlines each body system, explaining how, when, and why to work the reflexes. It explores foot reflexology, hand reflexology, as well as meridian therapy and offers extensive basic pathology of all body systems, including case studies, allowing the student to develop interpretive diagnostic and treatment planning skills. Each chapter also includes a study outline as well as review and multiple choice questions. Offering a comprehensive guide to the theory, philosophies, and history of reflexology, this book will encourage students to develop understanding and confidence in their reflexology practice.

As people moved into cities and suburbs and embraced modern medicine and industrialized food, they lost their connection to nature, in particular to the plants with which humanity coevolved. These plants are essential components of our physiologies--tangible reminders of cross-kingdom signaling--and key not only to vibrant physical health and prevention of illness but also to soothing and awakening the troubled spirit. Blending traditional herbal medicine with history, mythology, clinical practice, and recent findings in physiology and biochemistry, herbalist Guido Mase explores the three classes of plants necessary for the healthy functioning of our bodies and minds--aromatics, bitters, and tonics. He explains how bitter plants ignite digestion, balance blood sugar, buffer toxicity, and improve metabolism; how tonic plants normalize the functions of our cells and nourish the immune system; and how aromatic plants relax tense organs, nerves, and muscles and stimulate sluggish systems, whether physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual. He reveals how wild plants regulate our heart variability rate and adjust the way DNA is read by our cells, controlling the self-destructive tendencies that lead to chronic inflammation or cancer. Offering examples of ancient and modern uses of wild plants in each of the 3 classes--from aromatic peppermint to bitter dandelion to tonic chocolate--Mase provides easy recipes to integrate them into meals as seasonings and as central ingredients in soups, stocks, salads, and grain dishes as well as including formulas for teas, spirits, and tinctures. Providing a framework for safe and effective use as well as new insights to enrich the practice of advanced herbalists, he shows how healing "wild plant deficiency syndrome"--that is, adding wild plants back into our diets--is vital not only to our health but also to our spiritual development.

'An excellent masterpiece that brings the ancient timeless wisdom of Ayurveda, in a very simple and practical way, to our modern day-to-day life' - Dr Vasant Lad, Director of The Ayurvedic Institute Ayurveda is a 5000-year-old system of medicine that takes a much needed holistic approach to life and wellbeing. Through balancing the three energy forces in the body known as 'doshas', Ayurveda goes beyond the boundaries of conventional practice to reveal your unique physical, emotional and mental needs. Expert practitioner Geeta Vara BSc and PGDip in Ayurvedic Medicine, gives simple, daily applicable rituals and wisdom that can be personalised to suit you, including guidance on food as medicine, detoxification, movement and meditation. By teaching us to reconnect with our natural bio-circadian rhythms, Ayurveda will lead you out of the doctor's surgery and on a journey towards self-healing. WITH THIS BOOK, YOU CAN: * Discover your mind/body type * Better understand the epicentre of your health - the gut * Learn to identify early signs of imbalance * Transform your diet through taste and mindful eating * Be empowered to take a preventative approach to healthcare * Tackle personal health problems including: stress and fatigue, immune system issues, gastro-intestinal problems, disturbed sleep, migraines, weight management and more

A comprehensive look at the many therapeutic and ecological uses of neem.
* Used in India for over 4,000 years, neem is one of the most popular therapeutic plants in the Indian pharmacopoeia.
* Effective in the treatment of fever, malaria, skin diseases, dental problems, diabetes, arthritis, and jaundice.
* A natural pesticide hailed by many for its diverse ecological benefits.

In India-- where it has been used for more than 4,000 years-- the neem tree has such a variety of medical applications that it is sometimes referred to as the village pharmacy. Now modern research is proving what has been long known by Ayurvedic medicine practitioners: neem is one of the most effective plant medicines in the world. An extremely powerful blood purifying agent and detoxicant, neem is also effective in the treatment of fever, malaria, skin diseases, dental problems, diabetes, tumors, arthritis, and jaundice. It has gained particular attention from scientists seeking a cure for AIDS, not only for its antiviral properties, but also because it boosts the immune system on all levels without destroying beneficial bacteria, unlike synthetic antibiotics.

In addition to its numerous uses as a healing agent, neem has been receiving much attention for the ecological benefits it provides. For centuries Indians have been mixing neem leaves with stored grains to prevent insect infestation. But neem is not simply a natural alternative to pesticides; increasingly it is being used to reverse desertification and to reduce erosion and deforestation, making it an important weapon in the fight against global warming. Neem's many practical applications make it of enormous interest to anyone concerned about health and ecology. Included are recipes and practical tips that let you enjoy the many benefits of this miraculous plant.

Traditional Chinese medicine has a long and complex history, yet the basic principles at the heart of practice have remained the same for hundreds of years. Without a solid understanding of these fundamental theories, effective practice is impossible, and this book provides a complete introduction to everything that students and practitioners, both new and experienced, need to know. The book describes and explains all of the fundamental principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, including yin/yang, the five elements, the 'zang and fu' organs, Zang Xiang, Qi, and the meridians and collaterals of the body. Explaining not only the principles upon which these elements work, but also how they interrelate, the book describes how they can be used in practice to identify, treat and prevent ill-health and disease. This thorough and accessible textbook, compiled by the China Beijing International Acupuncture Training Center (CBIATC), under the editorial directorship of leading Chinese clinicians Zhu Bing and Wang Hongcai, is essential reading for students of traditional Chinese medicine, and is also a useful basic reference for TCM practitioners.

Herbalists, naturopaths, plantspeople, witches, and natural healers will love the empowering information, engaging stories, and heartfelt meditations and rituals of natural herbal medicines. Written by well-respected urban herbalist Robin Rose Bennett with over 180 easy-to-follow recipes, this book offers readers who want to take charge of their health an immersion into a myriad ways to use plant-based remedies to care for themselves and others on physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.

This is a full-color laminated poster. Three anatomical representations show the meridians in their corresponding colors according to the Chinese medical tradition. At the back of the chart, it contains the Chinese names of all the meridians, with their translations and number as well as a summary of chronobioenergetics.

"A unique mix of knowledge and wisdom, respect and irreverence" - Bruce Parry This book has been written for anyone who has heard the whispers of the wild and has been stirred to know more, for those with a political conscience and for lovers of the outdoors. Whether you are new to the ways of herbs or already a practising herbalist, it explains how you can take your physical and mental health into your own hands using the plants that grow around you. Sensory Herbalism is a unique system of health devised by the Seed Sistas over 20 years of practice. It combines traditional herbal knowledge with an understanding of how the elements (water, fire, air, earth and spirit) and the ever-changing seasons interact with the human body. Their approach blends science, medicine, creativity, ritual, magic and fun into practical, easy-to-use tools that guide readers in developing their own relationship with plants. Illustrated with 140 artworks, photographs and diagrams, the book offers a revolutionary understanding of how to get to know and use your local medicinal plants. Understand plants better than ever before using the five tools of Sensory Herbalism: observation through the senses, intuition, interpretation, characterization and the poetic creation of plant dreams. Embark on a guided journey through the year, deepening your knowledge of each season's featured plants and enhancing your wellbeing with herbal medicines, nutritious recipes and healing rituals.

An empowering guide to finding balance and restoring health in mind, body, and soul Ayurveda teaches us that true health is our birthright-and that by artfully adapting to the rhythms of nature, we can bring ourselves back into balance and experience optimal well-being. Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom is a groundbreaking work within the field of holistic health and traditional yoga, written by internationally renowned Ayurvedic healer, teacher, and scholar Acharya Shunya. Raised in a distinguished lineage of Vedic mystics and healers, Shunya learned the ancient art of Ayurveda directly from her grandfather, a well-known healer in Northern India. Here, she presents both an engaging narrative of her unique education, as well as a complete encyclopedia of Ayurvedic practices, recipes, and knowledge. With Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom, Shunya maintains the integrity of Ayurveda's traditional teachings while showing us how to integrate them into our modern lifestyles. Through her in-depth teachings, we learn to live in a way that supports our greatest health through daily ritual, nourishing food, spiritual practice, and self-care. Highlights include: * Detailed instructions for a nourishing daily routine, organized by time of day and aligned with seasonal changes * Clear, accessible guidance in the basic principles of Ayurveda, as transmitted through an uninterrupted lineage of Ayurvedic healers * Dozens of traditional recipes, along with advice for structuring your meals according to the season, your constitution, and your unique health needs * A treasury of lifestyle teachings and wellness practices-meditation and pranayama, exercise and yoga, connecting with nature, rituals for self-care and pleasure, daily cleansing routines, and working with the doshas (energetic body types) * An approach to healing both practical and spiritual-restore your body to health with holistic lifestyle guidance, rather than a list of rigid rules or do's and don'ts * Beauty routines and rituals, including recipes for homemade scrubs, oil blends, gargles, and more * How modern lifestyles contribute to chronic disease, and how to restore vital health through Ayurveda * Experience greater physical energy, more joy, better sleep, increased sexual pleasure, improved digestion, stronger immunity, and many other benefits in mind, body, and soul "This book that you are holding in your hand has the potential to change your state of health for the better, permanently," writes Shunya. "Health is not a probability that you may achieve. It is a reality, an underlying natural state of being." Whether you're looking for help with a specific health concern, or if you'd simply like to improve your overall well-being, in Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom you'll finda treasury of Ayurvedic lifestyle teachings and wellness practices for every part of your day.

"Chakra" is a special, rich and colorful poster. The seven main chakras, energy centres of the subtle body, are represented in the middle. To the left you will see the five lesser known chakras of the head, as well as Ida, Pingala and Sushuma, the three energy channels going through the chakras along the spine. Under, you can see the five elements corresponding to the first five chakras and on the right side the Yantra Mantra and explanations of many symbols.