Complementary-Therapy Books

As both a scientific researcher and a cancer patient who has greatly benefitted from mainstream medicine, about the last thing anyone would expect me to do would be to endorse a book on nontraditional medical approaches. However, I found this book to provide a comprehensive and critical evaluation of the science behind several alternative and new-age approaches to healing. It covers everything from acupuncture to Zen philosophy and discusses the scientific studies that have been conducted to determine whether various approaches actually work (she also devotes several pages to the placebo effect).

As a scientist, I am very critical of "pop science", "miracle cures" and unproven alternative medicine. I also know just because something is published in a book (or on the internet), there is no guarantee that the information is accurate or true. However, I trust Dr. Cassileth's professional credentials. In addition to the professional history mentioned in the editorial review, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (one of the top cancer centers in the country) just opened a new department of Integrative Medicine devoted to "addressing the body, spirit and mind" and Dr. Cassileth was made the head of this new department.

Despite the title of the book, much of the book focuses on complementary (rather than alternative) therapies that can help patients get through physically and psychologically difficult medical treatment (such as cancer treatment). She also debunks several trendy but scientifically invalidated or unvalidated cancer treatments. She also discusses the potential dangers in the lack of regulation of the herb and supplement industry, while pointing out which of the herbal remedies and vitamins have been shown to have some health benefits.

The book is written for the nonscientist, which means that the info is accessible and easy to understand. Science junkies like myself may be left wanting more info on mechanism, and I was quite disappointed by the lack of a reference list citing the various studies of alternative/complementary therapies that have been published in scientifically credible journals.

Anyway, if any of you are interested in complementary therapies and ways to reduce stress in your life, I highly recommend this book. I think it's one even your doctor would approve of :-)

This is a believable, well--researched book about the growing field of alternative medicine. Its a great book to have as a "second opinion" when one is considering going outside of traditional medicine to seek treatment or cure for medical and heaslth problems.

This is an excellent buy for people who are looking for a way to remedy diabetes.

Ampalaya: Nature's Remedy for Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes is a well-written book about a promising botanical called ampalaya in the Philippines, bitter melon in the U.S. and Momordica charantia by scientists. Written in Frank's crisp, engaging style, Ampalaya begins by delivering a good overview of the diabetes epidemic in the U.S., while also offering a fascinating, and colorful, historical chronicle on diabetes since ancient times. In addition to a well-referenced chapter on the research behind ampalaya and another on mini-case-histories, the book is jam-packed with practical, take-home information on: diabetes complications; reducing risk factors; taking care of your eyes, feet and kidneys; diet and nutrition in diabetes; overweight and exercise; and more. Frank pulls out all the stops when it comes to useful tips and lists of actionable suggestions, as well. All in all, this is much more than a health book about ampalaya; it is an invaluable resource for all people who are concerned about diabetes and interested in learning about a powerful variety of ways to improve their health and fend off the risk factors and symptoms associated with this epidemic disease.

This book helped me so much, shifting awareness into positive beliefs.

I ended up feeling healed from chronic back pain after reading this book.

I have read 'Anything can be healed' over and over and still I learn something new each time. I love the author's precise choice of words and found he offers an inspiring, totally positive philosophy to live by. I am surprised to be the first to review this landmark book especially as I have loaned my copy to several people who have also found Martin Brofman to be inspirational.

I have use this drug/herb for years. It is will known is foreign countries like France and Panama. Excellent for bruises and blows. Speeds recovery period after surgery. Minimized swelling after surgery and trauma. I have had this book for years. I own the last printing in 1992. A must have medical remedy book.

I think this book is long time coming and very informative. Arnica is awesome and needs to be talked about more!

Awesome job! About time!

This is an excellent book that is informed with an outlook that can only come from a working professional. This isn't a book solely based on cold theory.

It even appears to include some sound scientific principles - down to touching on the question of how the size of the dropper bore will affect what you measure out. They even cover some basic chemistry though I'm glad there was only one chapter on that. The information includes dilution charts, blending tips and a comprehensive section on carrier oils as well as the in-depth profiles of a number of essential oils. Appropriate safety precautions are included. Each chapter has a worksheet at the end to allow you to test your own understanding of the preceding information.

As the first review indicated: as well as for bodyworker therapists, this would be a good book for those who are simply interested in essential oils.

I was very impressed with the amount of information this book contained and it's not just for bodyworkers. It not only provides as much information as someone new to essential oils would want, but those with a greater need for information can spend more time in some of the sections. I thought the flashcards at the back of the book were a nice touch for those who really need to know which oils they are buying and working with.

I have been recommending the first edition of this book for years, as one of the best "beginners books" around. The new edition is even better since Ms. Wilson has added more essential oils, information on hydrosols...brought the book up to date with what is happening in the world of Aromatherapy in this decade.
The book offers a great balance of information about a wide array of essential oils as well as recipes/formulas for their use in restoring wellbeing to both body and emotions. It is one of the best on the market today.

I absolutely love this book. If you are seeking more than just basic information about essential oils and how they work, this is the book for you. It describes everything you need to know from the many types of essential oil extraction, to carrier oils, to storage, to blends and hydrosols. Blending the appropriate oils and amounts is a snap with this easy to use and informative resource which includes numerous recipes. I highly recommend this book. You will not be disappointed. Happy blending!

This is a great book to use to get oriented to using essential oils because the authors have selected a short list of basic oils, 12 in number, that are a good balance of stimulating, relaxing, "breathe easy", skin and hair enhancing, and cleansing oils and they are reasonably priced, except for the chamomile. They also offer a short list of 12 oils that one might want to try next. They suggest a variety of ways to apply and use the essential oils and all of them are easy to apply. I have given this book to several people, along with small amounts of the oils, because it is a fine introduction and avoids the confusing mass of options that might discourage a beginner.

Aromatherapy uses aromatic plants to impart a feeling of well-being and peace: Aromatherapy Through The Seasons tells beginners how to incorporate aromatherapy basics into a home and lifestyle. Chapters provide recipes for potpourris, scented candles, moisturizers and more, with plenty of formulas for enhancing all aspects of life.

Besides the clear exposition of the Middle Pillar exercise, the book also contains an element borrowed from astrology - the seven principal ideas symbolized by the sun, moon and inner planets (every idea and thing can be classified within one of these root ideas). For example, the sun represents power & success, life, money, growth, etc., its positive color is orange, its negative color is yellow or gold, and its magical name is Elohim Tsa-vo-os. So for example if one has a need of money, you would visualize the negative color (yellow/gold) as a next step following the Middle Pillar and vibrate the name. To help someone else who needs money, one would visualize the positive color (orange) and the person concerned and vibrate the name. I have seen the Middle Pillar described using six chakras (Ted Andrews)or all seven chakras where Regardie uses only five (he combines the Throat & Third Eye centres), but I suppose it doesn't matter, since the effect is the same. And the effect is immediate and very tangible. An important little book, very useful for spiritual healers, alternative therapists and for everybody who takes responsibility for their own health.

One can finish this title within a half hour and it will leave quite the impression. One can utilize the wisdom and tools taught. Although flavored with Jewish Mysticism, any spiritual path will benefit from Israel's work. An asset to any library.

All that Dr. Jarvis wrote as to what the outcome would be if an individual would follow the stated regime of vinegar, honey, and kelp I can personally attest to. The excruciating joint and muscle pain, the fatigue and chronic upper respiratory infections that were described where written as if he knew me as a patient. Having suffered the paralysis that he described on page 29 in the soft covered edition I knew that he knew and understood in detail exactly what he was writing about. This is a 'must read' for everyone who wants to get well and stay well. For those who exercise and eat right and are well this book should be read for further understanding as to how the body is manufacturing acids, utilizing acids and eliminating acids to keep them that way. This book should be brought to the forefront and promoted as a 'must have' book for every household.

In Dec. '97 and Jan. '98 My wife (native Costa Rican, Now US citizen) and I spent the holidays in Costa Rica. I had already read "Folk Medicine" by D.C. Jarvis and while we were visiting one of my wife's friends I noticed our hostess (the wife) seemed in pain. Upon querying her she said she only had one of her daily migraines which she has suffered most of her life. The migraines began when she was around 12 years and she rarely went even one day since without them. No doctors had done anything for her. She "lived" on Ibuprofen, 1000mgs 2/3 times a day. She was 52 Y.O. I mentioned the Folk Medicine book and 2 tsp vinegar with 2 tsp honey in a full glass of water. I told her it was worth a try, but (fearing it may take a while to take effect) I told her to try it faithfully for at least a week before abandoning it. I returned next day (1/2 block away) to find her bright and smiling giving me a big hug! NO MIGRAINE!! This was surprising enough, but I was skeptical...placebo?....To be brief, she ran out of vinegar at 25 days, and thought she was cured...no mugraines, no pain killers. After 4 days with no mixture she had her first migraine again, and we quickly got her some more vinegar. Immediately, on re-starting the vinegar/honey drink, no migraines. When we left to return to USA she was on her 45th day without migraines except for the day mentioned. She now drinks 2 glasses a day and so far, NO MIGRAINES!! I of course felt delighted to have been able to help her this way. She had the real thing with flashing lights, sounds, grinding pain. She really looks like a different, bright, person. Any one wishing to verify this I can give her name and address in C.R. Her daughter is married and lives here in the USA near us. Dan Manning

I gave this book 5 stars for the information pertaining to Aura Soma products - the information is detailed not only about each individual product, but also regarding differences between different types of products as well as how to use them. In that respect, it will prove as an invaluable guide if you are using Aura Soma products.

As for the esoteric information presented in this book - at times it is botched up and it seems that the authors themselves were confused. At the beginning of the book they quote Pelham stating that his work (creating flower essences) is not like alchemy because he considers "alchemy as something egocentric, for the alchemist sees him or herself as one who creates something". All that I can say is that the individual is truly ignorant of alchemy and genuine alchemists because the goal of alchemy is just the same as of any spiritual tradition - Self-realization, realization of Oneness with All, realization that all is spiritual and it is impossible to engage in true alchemy without bringing Spirit into equasion. Alchemy is about transmutation of one's "lower nature", or one's "mortal self" (mortal consciousness) into spiritual,

Aura-Soma system is, according to this book, conceived upon the Jewish mysticism (Kabbalah), and Vicky Wall, being of Hassidic background has some initial challenge naming one of the products "Christ". The authors took care to point out that this product is not named after the "historical" Christ, but after Christ consciousness. I may add that for some people this distinction doesn't really exist - after all, Christ (historical) did get the "title" Christ, as he attained "Christ consciousness" (a realization of Oneness with All).

There are many products which are named after an assortment of ascended masters (by the way, among others, there is also St. Germain, who is very well known as an "alchemist"). Instead of perhaps simply saying that the products are intended to stimulate the vibrations in the user that are represented by these "masters", the authors have brought in Theosophy as a "convincer" of the existence of the masters. While there is a rather lengthy discourse on Theosophy, there is hardly anything in those quotations said about the "masters" and I think that the best way for any individual to learn more about "masters' specific vibrations" is through personal experience.

Perhaps, they should've just left the products speak for themselves, because they truly are wonderful and they will work for you even if you simply follow your intuition and your inner guidance in picking the right ones. My original choice of products, before reading this book, did not change - if anything it became reinforced and I may add that I had many wonderful experiences with thes products from the very first day I began using them. The colors are feast for the eyes, and the herbal essences and scents make you feel as if your mind and heart, soul and body are nourished and uplifted. I've also had some very interesting dreams, so all I can say about the products I have been tremendously enjoying them and find that they have enriched my life.

If you have ever experienced Aura-Soma you must have this book in your personal library. Known as the Aura-Soma Practitioner's Bible, this book gives indepth information on Aura-Soma and it's main product line. The primary focus of this book is on the 100+ Equilibrium Bottles giving detailed information on all aspects of each bottle.

This book also has all you will ever need to know about the Aura-Soma Pomanders and Quintessences. If you don't know what they are, you need to read the book to find out. Easy to follow, and easy to use, this book is a must. Lots of information for very little money.