Two naturopaths introduce us to the world of brain biochemistry, translating the science into laymen's terms, so that the reader can understand the potential power of herbs and nutrients to enhance health, prevent disorders, and affect existing health disorders. These alternatives, or supplements, to medication are being used across the country to help treat health conditions with a psychological component--from ADHD and anorexia to insomnia, menopause, and Parkinson's Disease. Authors Meletis and Barker explain 18 of these conditions, and review the most current research into how--or whether--the use of herbs and supplements has been proven to prevent, affect or remove these health conditions, or at least some of their symptoms. Can the Chinese herb Salvia curb cravings in alcoholics? Can niacin help treat anxiety? Other herbs, nutrients, and conditions addressed include the use of zinc to reduce symptoms of anorexia and bulimia, ginkgo biloba for Alzheimer's, and 5-HTP for depression. One appendix to this volume lists the top 20 brain-enhancing herbs and supplements. Another lists nutrient deficiencies and their links to health and brain function. It is not the intent of this book to advocate for the replacement of standard drug therapy, but for the integration of these "natural medicines" with traditional medical treatments. Consumers are urged to discuss these herbs and nutrients with their physician before beginning use, as some allergic reactions or interactions with traditional medicines can occur. The central argument of this book is that when properly nourished people can operate at maximum physical and mental capacity, with maximum ability to fend off or recover from diseaseand disorder.

In this comprehensive book, a naturopath explains why allergies occur and what works—and doesn't—to alleviate them. Millions of Americans suffer with allergies, yet medicine has yet to determine exactly what causes a person to be allergic. In this comprehensive book, naturopath Chris D. Meletis examines a wide-range of allergies, including those to foodstuffs, dust and other airborne allergens, and materials like latex and chemicals. He explores theories of why allergies occur and are rising, including the "hygiene hypothesis," which argues that overbathing and overuse of antibiotics and antibacterial agents means our immune systems never build up the necessary resistance to these substances when we are young.

From explanations of the roles of hormones to detailed descriptions of testing options and treatment choices, this book is a guide to male hormones: What they do, what goes wrong, and what can be done about it. Testosterone levels begin to decline in men at the age of 30. But, as this book shows, men can take steps to normalize hormone levels. With the twin goals of education and empowerment, two naturopaths explain the roles of male hormones and why decreasing testosterone levels affect body and mind. His Change of Life: Male Menopause and Healthy Aging with Testosterone offers detailed descriptions of testing options and, most importantly, specific treatment choices offered by both allopathic and alternative models that will enable men of all ages to live life to the fullest. Symptoms the authors address include night sweats, reduced flexibility, loss of muscle mass, low sex drive, and high blood pressure. Solutions they explain include stress management, exercise, nutrition, dietary supplements, and androgen replacement therapy. Conventional treatments are also covered, as are potential side effects of actions men may take. The authors detail which actions are safe to take on your own, and which need the supervision of a medical expert. 14 tables and graphs explain the main points of each chapter A list of endnote references appears at the end of every chapter

This book is dedicated to the millions of couples who are trying to get pregnant without success. Rather than assuming that one is infertile, readers can try the many reliable natural remedies and resources in this book. Barring physical problems beyond one's control, readers have the power to take charge of their health and boost their chances of fertility. The authors' goal is simple: to provide a clear guide to conception based on natural, safe, well-researched therapeutic approaches. Nutritional, environmental, botanical, and physical medicines, as well as traditional Chinese medical practices and homeopathy, all offer ways to promote fertility. Both men and women will find a wealth of helpful information on what to do--individually and together--to fully realize their fertility potential. Even if infertility isn't a problem, and a reader is simply planning to get pregnant and wants to deliver a healthy baby, this book will help improve her chances. Anyone seeking to become a parent will benefit from this book's practical, time-tested wisdom. The healthier a woman is, the greater the likelihood the seed of life will find fertile soil and grow into a healthy baby.