Product Description

You may think that herbal remedies are the same the world over, with just some local name-changing, but there is a radical difference between the Eastern and Western approaches to herbalism, which exists not so much in the plants themselves (many occur in both traditions) but in the approach to diagnosis. When prescribing, a Western herbalist will take the property of the herb into greater account than the constitution of the person who is taking it; an Eastern herbalist will first establish their patient's type, and will only then pinpoint a herbal cure to suit that particular person at that particular time. 'Chinese Herbal Secrets' shows you how to understand this individually tailored approach and use it for yourself and your family. It provides a complete breakdown of the principles of Chinese herbal medicine for the non-specialist, giving step-by-step instructions on how to establish your constitutional type; how to choose the right herbs; and what conditions those can help. Easy to follow and packed with explanatory diagrams and photographs. Provides a full listing of useful Chinese and Western herbs, including their uses and effects. Gives advice on how to live a healthier lifestyle, including exercises, home-made creams and tinctures for your skin and hair, and delicious recipes. Offers clear explanations of all the basic concepts of Chinese medicine, enabling you to absorb this ancient wisdom and use it for the benefit of you and your family.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #862694 in Books
• Published on: 2000-09
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 196 pages

Review
A simple, well-illustrated introduction to Chinese herbal medicine. While information on self-diagnosis and treatment is included, the material itself makes clear the need for the help of a knowledgeable professional caregiver. Chmelik has studied and practiced in both China and England (he is president of the UK Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine), and he explains the principle underlying the therapies: illness occurs when there is a disharmony or an imbalance of forces in the body. Treatment is based on restoring balance. "The very nature of the Taoist principles on which it is based stresses the oneness of everything, the inseparability of solid matter and energy and the fact that there is a common source of all phenomena and experience." (In contrast, Chmelik points, out, the allopathic approach, "combats ill-health with drugs that have an oppositional effect.") Chmelik describes the framework of Chinese herbal medicine: Qi, yin-yang, the five elements, four seasons, 12 organs, and the basics of self-diagnosis. He then describes various health problems, and how they are viewed and treated. Pain, for example, is said to result from blockage of Qi and blood in the meridian channels, causing stagnation. A discussion of herbs, their healing properties, and their use completes this guide. A worthwhile look at health and illness as viewed from a very different frame of reference; but the healing practices themselves are revealed as too complex for self-treatment. (Kirkus Reviews)

About the Author
Stefan Chmelik, initially a successful entrepreneur, studied acupuncture and Tui Na at the London School of Acupuncture and traditional Chinese Medicine (LSATCM), and herbal medicine at the London Academy of Oriental Medicine. After secondment to the First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, China, he now practises in London and Dorking, Surrey.