An authoritative overview for students and practitioners that introduces the principles of complementary and alternative medicine and explores the issues surrounding practice.
Covers:
- What is complementary medicine?
- What evidence is there to support its use?
- What can orthodox medicine learn from holistic practices?
Providing a sound introduction to the range of treatments and philosophies usually termed "complementary and alternative medicine", this book offers a systematic explanation of the philosophies and practices that underpin contemporary complementary medicine.
The book examines the rise in popularity of complementary medicine and discusses the challenges of developing a more integrated system of health care. Drawing on recent research, it explores the development, application, evidence, contraindications and appropriateness of a wide range of traditional systems of medicine and healing modalities.
Includes Herbal Medicine, Massage, Osteopathy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Aromatherapy, Chiropractic, Ayurveda, Yoga and Meditation.
Written by leading academics, researchers and experienced practitioners, the book is designed to be used as a reference for students and practitioners in a range of health professions.