Smart Medicine for Healthier Living: A Practical A-To-Z Reference to Natural and Conventional Treatments »

Written by a naturopath, a medical doctor, and a homeopathic pharmacist, Smart Medicine for Healthier Living brings together authoritative and reliable information from conventional medicine as well as natural healing traditions in an easy-to-use A-to-Z guide. This comprehensive encyclopedia of the most common ailments and disorders describes various treatments prescribed by Western medical professionals and naturopaths, providing the most up-to-date information for nurturing good health.

Opening with a section that explains the full spectrum of approaches to treat common health problems, Smart Medicine for Healthier Living provides an overview of the history, fundamentals, and uses of conventional medicine, herbal medicine, homeopathy, acupressure, diet, and nutritional supplements. The second part of the book is its core -- a comprehensive A-to-Z listing of health ailments, from asthma to the common cold to toxoplasmosis. Each entry includes a clear explanation of the problem and offers specific advice to using a variety of approaches. Where appropriate, highlighted emergency treatments are included for quick and easy reference. The authors advise readers when self-care isn't the best option and when they should seek treatment from medical professionals. The final section of Smart Medicine for Healthier Living provides step-by-step guidance, explaining the therapies prescribed in the previous section, from locating pressure points to preparing herbal remedies.

A valuable reference for contemporary families seeking the best in alternative and traditional medical advice, Smart Medicine for Healthier Living provides a range of options for readers to make informed decisions about their health.

Library Journal

Written by a naturopath (Zand), a medical doctor (Allan Spreen), and a registered pharmacist (James B. LaValle), this book demonstrates how conventional and alternative medicine can work together to provide optimum health. The first part of the book describes different treatment modalities--conventional medicine, herbal medicine, homeopathy, acupressure, Bach flower remedies, aromatherapy, nutrition, and nutritional supplements--and how they work. Part 2 provides an alphabetical listing of common health problems, ranging from athlete's foot to vertigo. Each entry includes a brief description of the ailment and treatment recommendations. The third section covers therapies and procedures, from locating acupressure points and doing breast self-examination to relaxation techniques and preparing herbal treatments. The book concludes with product information. Aside from too few illustrations, this book is flawless. Highly recommended for mid- and large-sized libraries as well as smaller libraries wishing to increase holdings in this genre.--Valeria Long, Amberg Health Sciences Lib., Grand Rapids, MI Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.