Chinese Herbal Secrets: The Key to Total Health - Tapa dura

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.

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.