Naturopathy Books

The author delivers a readable account of the history of botany and modern ethnobotany in which a wide variety of fascinating subjects are discussed.

This book illustrates the drawbacks of a perspective that is too narrowly focused on microbiology and organic chemistry to reach explanations about medicines, cures, toxins, and plant evolution at the expense of more tenable, holistic perspectives that take phytochemical interactions into consideration.

Time and time again throughout this work it is apparent that plants and what the author defines as "plant medicines" (i.e. synthetic drugs derived from plants) are valued only to be analyized in the laboratory and broken down into their constituent compounds. Though praise for indigenous traditional knowledge of plants is found throughout the book, it appears to be shallow lip service for in the last few pages the author states, "Some firmly believe that traditional healers know more than oncologists and cardiologists and shamanic huts surpass hospital wards." The context makes it clear that the Harvard professor disdains those who would opt for the "shamaic huts."

In several instances the author selectively mentions the drawbacks of using herbs and whole plant medicines (e.g. variable potency and toxicity) without bothering to point out that use of highly concentrated synthetic drugs carry unique risks and dangers not usually encountered with the use of "crude" plant medicines. Indeed, the process of identifying useful plants, finding active compounds and synthesizing these compounds seems to almost be taken for granted by the author as the only intelligent way plants can be used as medicines. At times the authors' failure to present an honest comparison of the drawbacks as well as the strengths of modern medicine and herbalism borders on hypocricy. At the very least a double standard is used as the author uses scare tactics and low brow innuendo to inflate and sensationalize the dangers of herbalism while failing to note any inherent risks in modern medicine or drugs. For instance, the author selectively cites only a few of the most dangerous herbs to imply that they are all dangerous or require regulation. In the exact same vein, the author refers to herbalists from the past as "quacks" and "charlantans" failing to note the obvious fact that the state of medical knowlege in the 21st century is slightly more advanced in some ways than it was two hundred or more years ago. Collectively speaking, this line of reasoning follows of trend of many modern scientists who believe that the assembly-line corporate "health care systems" we have today are far superior to any form of medicine that involved interaction between human beings as opposed to pronouncing a person's state of health based on a single lab test.

The author presents a weak thesis that "secondary compounds" found in wild plants are poisons whose purpose is to discourage herbivores. If that was the case then why have so many plants developed mechanisms to attract herbivores to feed on them? In many cases, such as with many types of flowers, the plant cannot reproduce without the aid of herbivores to assist with the vital processes of seed pollination and dispersal. This thesis begins to look even more ragged as the author considers the example of THC as a "toxin" that decreases an herbivore's chance of survival when in fact many types of naturally occuring hallucinogenic compounds have been shown to actually increase sensory perception and visual acuity in mammals, making their survival against predators more likely rather than less. The author appears to prefer the view that plants and animals are engaged in mutual, interneccine combat rather than sets of complex and often symbiotic relationships. This follows the pattern of the author's fixation upon toxins and "secondary compounds."

The author goes on to exaggerate the risks of poisoning by herbs contaning pyrrolizidine alkaloids, conveniently ignoring the fact that research on the subject is inconclusive. The author worries about the fact that the effective dose and toxicity is likely to vary from plant to plant without mentioning the fact that many common, very widely used over the counter drugs like aspirin can be toxic and even fatal in relatively small doses. Nor does she note that many powerful drugs have an effective dose that is quite close to toxic dose (low LD50). In one instance, the author claims that THC is some sort of plant toxin defense mechanism against herbavores in the hemp plant. This is clearly absurd since THC is typically present in hemp in concentrations of 3% or less and since extremely high doses of it are necessary to be toxic to animals. Furthermore, THC causes an increase in appetite, so why would that discourage animals from eating plants that contain it? This example causes me to doubt that this author understands what a toxin is. Either that or the author is using an extremely selective and highly misleading definition of toxicity in order to frighten and confuse the readers about the nature of herbs, herbalism and plants.


Never the less Sumner does an excellent job of presenting the case for ecosystem preservation, the legal aspects of creating and finding new drugs. The author also outlines contoversies surrounding the exploitation of indigenous healers and describes ways to remedy these situations that can provide equitable soluions for local people as well as drug researchers. Additionally, Sumner provides interesting discussion about seed banks and their role in preservation and research and the history of herbarium collections. The authors' well stated explanation of the importance of maintaining genetic diversity in plants will enlighten readers.

Unfortunately readers will need to be skeptical at all times as this author has a strong bias against herbalism and traditional folk healing. This book could be a case study of how "science" is invoked to establish intellectual authority, yet exaggerated claims are made and poorly argued, psuedo reasoning, scare tactics, innuendo and name calling are substituted for established facts, thorough research and honest treatment of opposing points of view.

Readers need to be wary of people who say they have "science" on their side. That isn't a real argument. Research results and statistics don't "lie" but they are often inconclusive and easily manipulated. Citing research is not enough to establish truth. The relevence of the research and its limitations need to be presented. All the evidence for and against something should be presented.

Before discoveries were made in the labs, plant medicines accounted for most of the substances used to cure disease. Natural History of Medicinal Plants provides a fascinating and informative science history of plant-base medicine, how people have learned the applications of such medicine, and why plants developed curative properties. Chapters will prove of use to both those involved in health professions and botanists alike.

Having an interest in the subject of medicinal plants, I have been looking for book that explained more about what compounds are in plants and how they affect not only people but nature as a whole. I was intrigued by the concept that plants produce these compounds as defense mechanisms for their own survival, and it is these same compounds that act as medicines (or poisons) when used by people. It also inadvertently explains plant companions for successful gardening. For instance, when Purple Sage leaves are crushed, they release a compound to nearby tomato plants to release their own insect inhibiting compounds. What a great book!

Imagine, plant chemicals didn't come about for our medicinal use but instead as a defense mechanism. Wow! Ms. Sumner gives an Interesting and novel look at the how and why flora developed compounds in defense of those who would use them as a food source. Provides insight and understanding of prey predator relationships between plant and insect/animal. Also, there is much information relating to the history and lore of Medicinal Botany.

Previously published as "Natural Liver Therapy", Christopher Hobbs' Natural Therapy For Your Liver: Herbs And Other Natural Remedies For A Healthier Liver is the newly revised and expanded second edition of an invaluable informational resource offering a wealth of practical, "user friendly" information about liver functions, diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis in which the liver is impeded, and accessible, applicable advice for keeping one's liver healthy. Enhanced with information on liver detox, internal cleansing, and fasting, Natural Therapy For Your Liver excellent addition to personal and community library Personal Health and Alternative Medicine reference collections and reading lists.

Christopher Hobbs rules. I tried his cleansing fast and it made me feel better than I've ever been. Also, he communes with plants.

D

I wondered about this statement describing this book, so I decided to do some reserch: "As liver disease has skyrocketed to the fourth leading cause of death in the United States".

First off, from what I read, liver disease has actually fallen in the U.S. since 1960 (which makes sense, as we live healthier and drink less).

Also, here are the top 10 causes of death in the U.S.: 1. heart disease (by far the biggest one, and totally dwarfs liver disease), 2. cancer, 3. "cerebrovascular", 4. Lung diseases, 5. Injuries from accidents, 6. diabetes, 7. Flu, 8. Alzheimers, 9. Nephrosis, 10. Septicemia.

Nowhere is liver disease found in the top 10, and it is also not skyrocketing. In short, false alarm. Also note that there is some research showing that coffee is very protective of the liver. So if you are concerned about liver health (for example, from alcohol), just drink 3 to 4 cups of coffee a day (unless there is some medical reason for you not to, etc.).

This is a good book and it doesn't force you into a sound sleep, while I cannot say the same for other books relating to the body. There are a few recipes in here too.

Where's the research? A lot of generalities and information
that has been tossed around by everyone. Not much substance here!

Skye Weintraub has definitely put together a great book. At first when she's identifying each parasite, she tells you the "conventional" way of treating each one--which upset me because she's an N.D. But I suppose the pharmaceuticals must be listed as well. Thankfully, later in the book she gives prevention advice as well as herbal remedies. I've learned a lot just researching the internet, but this book taught me even more. I am very glad I bought this book. I started treating myself before I got a hold of this and I wish I had read this first. I've made several mistakes, but hey--I'm still alive! Parasites-and getting rid of them-can be very dangerous. The problem is much more wide-spread than people realize. All these people with unspecified problems (fibromyalgia, CFS, IBS, colitis, etc.) would do well to purchase this book and find out the REAL cause of their ailments. I have been misdiagnosed for years and finally I had to diagnos and treat myself (obviously without using those horrible pharmaceutical drugs). I almost died because of parasites (don't know which ones) and the treatment. It is highly advised to find a good alternative care doctor (one that doesn't use drugs or surgery) before embarking on a cleanse, if in fact you are heavily infested as I am. As far as the reviewer who asked "where's the facts"--the book is not riddled with footnotes (which I appreciate). However, if you look in the back, Skye lists the books that she has used as reference. The only problem I have with the book is the fact that she recommends Grapefruit Seed Extract as a useful antimicrobial. Commercial GSE has been shown to contain methylparabens, triclosan, and benzethonium chloride. These chemicals make the GSE antimicrobial. DO NOT use commercially prepared GSE!!! In Dr. Weintraub's defense, the book was published (in 2000) about the same time as the study by von Woedtke (1999) which showed what the extract really contains; and before the study in 2001 by Gary Takeoka and his group, which confirmed the findings. If these studies were available to her, I don't think she would have recommended the use of GSE in her book. Thankfully, I am intelligent enough to do tons of research, not just trusting one book or source. All in all: a very good book, priced just right, and VERY much worth buying!!

This book is excellent abot how paraties find their way into our body and clearly explains how to avoid them and get rid of them/ Great book indeed
very educational. after reading it we surely changed our way of handling food and hygeine and prevention in our daily lives.Highly recommend it to those who want to live healthy and learn about the world of parasites that live in our body.

Dr. Weintraub does an excellent job in discussing, in layman's terms, the diseases caused by parasites, as well as their prevention and treatment. Although not publicized, most people in the world have at least one parasite, either of the worm or microscopic variety, and it is much more prevalent in the US than most people realize. Included are numerous statistics on incidences of parasite infestation around the world. Particularly, anyone who travels out of the country needs to read this book. Treatments are listed for each which include both conventional treatments as well as a large variety of alternative treatments. You cannot rely on your physician to automatically 'think' the possibility of parasites if you have a medical complaint, especially, if the symptoms are diffuse. And, even if testing is done, most laboratory tests do not show 'positive' the first time tested, even though the patient may have the parasite. Arm yourself with this book!

You must be kidding me "Doctor". I think Doctor Dre has more "doctor" cred than you. Unbelievable what people will do these days. Read his bio. He has a phony degree from a phony university. If he presented his Pacific Ph.D in a government job he would be risking arrest. In fact they don't even have a doctoral program anymore because they got nailed on it. Look it up. Beware of someone who claims they are a doctor when they are not. Read his bio, go look up Pacific Western University.
Please, someone feel free to fact check me here.

"A trusted voice for decades...", way to build the trust there "Doctor".

This is a terrific book with excellent alternatives to overly prescribed drugs. Let's face it. If you go to your doctor with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, etc., you are going to leave the office with a drug that has multiple side effects. Not only that, taking several different drugs each day can lead to numerous dangerous interactions that your doctor can't possibly calculate. This book offers safe alternatives with impressive results similar to taking a drug, but without the liver and kidney damage, headaches, nausea, etc.

If you buy into the idea that naturally occurring compounds have been around long enough for us to be tolerant of them, or created with DNA similar to our own and also well tolerated, this will be of great interest.

I was looking for an alternative to the prescriptions I had been taking because of the side effects. This book gave me guidance as to what direction to take. Dr. Mindell is a wonderful writer and I have taken his vitamins and am now relying on his knowledge to replace prescriptions with natural remedies.

All hype and nothing substatial.

It's like an infomercial that you have to pay for.

I got myself a few Bragg-Books just to see what it's all about.

All I can say is - "meh".

Not really the pinnacle of human achievement, unstructured, and they all say the same!
They're chock-full of information (old and new, research and common sense), and a few practical tips (the breathing routines in this book were confined to just about 10 pages).

I chose to write a review of this one because I felt it contained the most valuable information (breathing!).

PROTIP: Go to http://www.bragg.com/ where you can purchase their books for about $4 as instantly downloadable pdf-files. Just get one and see how you feel about it.

Rated 5 Stars to lure others in and also because at least one of these books are really must-reads, if only for the entertainment factor.

Bragg's simple breathing exercises will rejuvenate you physically, mentally and even spiritually. This book takes you from the reasons good breathing is necessary to good health through to super power breathing exercises.

Do not be confused by the low price on this book. Health Science prints in such large quantities, they can afford to keep their prices low. This is a very popular book. Sixteenth printing, now enlarged and revised.

Paul Bragg started the health food movement over eighty years ago. His Daughter, the Amazing Patricia Bragg, is accelerating their tradition of promoting the healthy lifestyle. She publishes a number of health-nutrition books and markets her own brand of apple cider vinegar, olive oil and aminos. See her picture on the bottles.

I have known Health Science and Patricia Bragg and have followed her healthy lifestyle program for over 20 years.

As the author of 113 books (including revisions and foreign-language editions) and over 500 magazine articles, I highly recommend Health Science books to anyone not tired of living. DanPoynter@ParaPublishing.com.

When I first saw the title of this book I was a little skeptical. I am a marathon runner and I saw it and said 'who can write a whole book on the subject of breathing? It can't be that hard!' Then I read thru a little of it and learned so much of how our breathing effects our life. It's not going to be easy to implement the exercises but I'm excited about applying them and regaining some youthful appearance as well as more general stamina in my running and work life, as well as my spiritual and intellectual life. What this book says makes a lot of sense.

I ou have a digestive problem or want to be healthy this book gives you usefull information

An awful lot of advice....but nothing exacting. Don't think you are going to read this and be able to cure yourself. A lot of medical info is wishy-washy and often contradicted from one chapter to the next. With the level of chinese medicine he is recommending...you still need a professional.

I wrote Healing Digestive Disorders to give hope to millions of digestive patients who are frustrated with their health.Healing Digestive Disorders has hundreds of effective treatments using Chinese and western herbs, supplements, diet and lifestyle tips, and an overview of western medicine. I suffered from both Crohn's disease and IBS. My search for therapies to help my own systoms have made it possible for me to help thousands of people.

I've reviewed McTimoney Chiropractic technique. It is another technique applicable to doctors. Remember, chiropractic and spinal manipiulation are LICENSED skills performed by licensed doctors (DC, MD, DO) and physical therapists. They are not to be performed by self-trained laypersons or by masseuses. The McTimoney technique is another tool in the toolbox for specialists in manipulative therapy.

THIS IS A HIGHLY INFORMATIVE BOOK ON A VERY INTERESTING TOPIC. IT IS SPECIALIZED TO THE EXTENT THAT IF YOU ARE UNAWARE OF THE TECHNIQUE IT MAY NOT BE YOUR CUP OF TEA. OTHERWISE EXCELLENT!

I bought this book thinking that it demonstrated some techniques, that McTimoney chiropractic was a new type of chiropractic that the layperson could do. The book is very informative and interesting, but it is about a type of chiropractic done in Britian. For someone interested in McTimoney's history, educational requirements for licensing, what it does and does not treat, it is great. Unfortunately, it just wasn't what I wanted.

I have the older version and it helped me to heal and go on to become a nutritionist and help others. When I couldn't find anyone who knew what was happening to me, thankfully I found this book. I highly recommend it as well as "Invisible Illness" if you want to learn about what is happening to so many people who are still clueless. Allopathic doctors don't know these facts, they exacerbate the symptoms because they refuse to accept/learn the cause, mostly because it involves nutrition instead of pharmaceuticals - she will tell you everything you need to know !
Don't hesitate if you know something just is not right, you must educate yourself. I'd love to go into details, but just get the book, it's all in there !

Gloria Gilbere is a doctor of traditional naturopathy and natural health, a homeopath, an Eco Ergonomist, and is especially known in alternative medicine for her approach to skin and body rejuvenation'. Therefore she brings a special expertise to "I Was Poisoned By My Body... I Have A Gut Feeling You Could Be, Too!". Now in a newly revised and substantially updated edition, this compendium of commentary, description, analysis and advice covers everything from food allergies, chronic fatigue, arthritis, autoimmune disorders, and heartburn, to acid reflux, liver dysfunction, muscle pains, migraines, colon disorders, anaphylaxis, candid, and gluten intolerance. Of special note is Gilbere's survey and discussion of environmental illnesses because she was able to reverse her own condition of fibromyalgia, leaky gut syndrome and multiple allergic responses with natural methods and has enjoyed her recovery for the past ten years now. Enhanced with the useful addition of resource listings for testing, products, colon hydro-therapy, 'Consulting with Gloria', education, drugs classified as benzodiazepines, as well as website information and support groups, "I Was Poisoned By My Body" also features an extensive bibliography and a comprehensive index. Informed and informative, thoroughly 'reader friendly', and an invaluable addition to the growing library of Alternative Medicine reference collections, "I Was Poisoned By My Body" is especially recommended reading for anyone suffering from environmentally influenced illnesses and allergies.

I was hoping to find some sensible suggestions for calming sinus inflammation associated with food intolerances. Unfortunately this author's approach to eliminating toxins from your system is more than I am willing to undertake. She advocates using chopsticks to examine your waste in order that you can make sure that you are effectively eliminating. I am not going to comb through my poop with chop sticks. I do not think that her advice is particularly practical for most folks. I regret having purchased this book and will take it to my local used bookseller asap.

This book is a bit dated (published originally in the 60s and later updated). Unlike most juicing books, this one does not tell you to rid all meat from your diet (though it suggests cutting back). It provides interesting formulas for juice fasting and reorganizing your diet. The book suffers from a lack of update. Consequently, I was wondering if the philosophies purported in this book could be improved upon given what we now know about nutrition.

This is a great book. Yes it's true it was written years ago, but the nutritional information about vegetables and fruits is still valid today. It's a great book to have in case you are feeling sick or just want to stay healthy! I gave it 4 stars only because it could be expanded, other than that, it's a 5 star book.

The best book for this topic

I have referred to this book for over seven years. It has accompanied me to Asia and Europe. Though my children are typically healthy Avia's advice and recommendations have helped on numerous occasions and two emergency situations. I especially like that each section has advice on "when to seek medical care." It is refreshing to read a natural health reference that does not bash the medical model of treatment but instead recognizes the approaches though different can be compatible. I have also applied the advice in this book to adults with good results.

The illnesses and treatments that are covered are very good, practical and down to earth. It really helps to have access to a good supply of herbs and tinctures to use this book. My daughter likes all of the herbs I have used with her, so there is no problem getting her to take her 'medicine.' I have found a few common kid illnesses lacking and hope the author comes out with a more comprehensive book on treating children at some point

I was very disappointed in this book. Many of the herbs were hard to obtain or prepare, and I live in a very crunchy place. I found the format to be hard to use and not very relevent. Maybe it's because I have healthy kids, but whenever I needed information, it wasn't there! I found the information on the illnesses and conditions to be very minimal.

"Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child" is much more thorough, comprehensive and information rich. Buy Aviva's book only if you really like her writing style or she has information on some herbs that no one else does.