The Home Reference to Holistic Health and Healing

February 1, 2015

According to Brigitte (The Country Almanac of Home Remedies; Naropa Univ.) and Fiedler (Beat Sugar Addiction Now!; contributing author, Prevention Magazine), natural cures can help battle stress, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain and improve sleep and mental acuity. Offering medical disclaimers and common-sense cautions such as not mixing prescription drugs with alcohol and advising medical professionals of any natural remedies one is applying, the authors maintain that these kinds of therapies can improve a person's well-being and balance by restoring a sense of joy and contentment. A brief discussion of holistic practices and natural remedies (acupuncture, acupressure, aromatherapy, craniosacral therapy, flower essences, herbs, homeopathy, massage therapy, meditation, qigong, reflexology, and yoga) leads to material on stress, anxiety, mood, rest, brain power, weight, energy, pain, grief, trauma, joy, and happiness. The appendix includes brief, informational blurbs on essential herbs (name, plant family, medicinal uses, and contraindications); aromatherapy (plant purpose, formula, and usage); teas, resources, and a bibliography. There is also a comprehensive index. The writing style, a mix of both friendly and technical with some industry terms, is intelligible. While serviceable to the average reader, the book would be stronger had the authors replaced jargon (e.g., "tonify" and "chologogue") with commonly spoken English or included a glossary. VERDICT Despite the occasional jargon, this title is affordable, informative, and basic. A helpful and current starting point for those seeking alternative medicine information.--Laurie Selwyn, formerly with Grayson Cty. Law Lib., Sherman, TX

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