Unlike some other reproductions of classic texts (1) We have not used OCR(Optical Character Recognition), as this leads to bad quality books with introduced typos. (2) In books where there are images such as portraits, maps, sketches etc We have endeavoured to keep the quality of these images, so they represent accurately the original artefact. Although occasionally there may be certain imperfections with these old texts, we feel they deserve to be made available for future generations to enjoy.

This book investigates the scientific basis and efficacy of acupuncture and the quality of training and standards of competence in its practitioners. Patients are increasingly asking about CAM alternatives to orthodox medical practices as they fear the side-effects of ever more potent traditional drug therapy. The book discusses the important issues of safety and the education and training of acupuncture specialists. In addition the book investigates GP's attitudes to acupunture and the extent to which they offer the treatment to their patients.

At the 1998 Annual Representative Meeting of the BMA a resolution was passed that the Board of Science and Education should investigate th e scientific basis and efficacy of acupuncture and the quality of trai ning and standards of competence in its practitioners'' This report su mmarizes literature sources and research on acupuncture, looks at safe ty aspects including the treatment's adverse effects, discusses educat ion and training guidelines, presents results from a survey of UK GPs and suggests future developments for acupuncture, particularly its inc reased incorporation into the NHS It will provide doctors, patients, r esearchers and purchasers of healthcare with information on this most widely used therapy of complementary and alternative medicine, enablin g them to become more informed on the value of acupuncture and its lik ely place within the NHS.

At the last Annual Representative Meeting of the British Medical Association a motion was passed that certain additional cannabinoids should be legalized for wider medicinal use.'' This report supports this landmark statement by reviewing the scientific evidence for the therapeutic use of cannabinoids and sets the agenda for change. It will be welcomed by those who believe that cannabinoids can be used in medical treatment. The report discusses in a clear and readable form the use and adverse effects of the drug for nausea, multiple sclerosis, pain, epilepsy, glaucoma, and asthma.

At the last Annual Representative Meeting of the British Medical Association a motion was passed that `certain additional cannabinoids should be legalized for wider medicinal use.'' This report supports this landmark statement by reviewing the scientific evidence for the therapeutic use of cannabinoids and sets the agenda for change. It will be welcomed by those who believe that cannabinoids can be used in medical treatment. The report discusses in a clear and readable form the use and adverse effects of the drug for nausea, multiple sclerosis, pain, epilepsy, glaucoma, and asthma.