New Medicine

May 1, 2007
There are plenty of family health guides already crowding library shelves, but this one has an up-to-date approach that helps readers sort through the myriad treatment recommendations for common ailments, relying on the knowledge of the editors and the contributors, all of whom are experts in various therapies. Part 1 defines conventional, nutritional, homeopathic, herbal, environmental, bodywork, body-mind, and psychological therapies in signed essays, ranging in length from four to 16 pages. The bulk of the volume consists of over 100 entries for diseases and disorders that respond best to integrated medicine. The entries are arranged in sections that include "Brain & Nervous System," "Skin," "Eyes & Ears," "Respiratory System," "Digestive & Urinary Systems," "Circulatory System," "Musculoskeletal System," "Hormonal System," "Women's Health," "Pregnancy & Childbirth," "Men's Health," "Children's Health," "Mind & Emotions," and "Allergies & Systemic Disorders." Each entry includes a definition of the condition, causes and triggers, symptoms, self-help, and detailed sections on each of the various therapeutic approaches. There is also a glossary, sections on how to find a medical practitioner, useful web sites and addresses, a bibliography, and a general index. Bottom Line Although there are occasional lapses into medical jargon that would require having a good medical dictionary on hand, the text is generally well written, with clear, well-chosen illustrations and a colorful and attractive layout. It would be helpful if the second edition has a more expanded glossary to include all the technical terms used. Highly recommended for all public and academic libraries.Rosanne M. Cordell, Schurz Lib., Indiana Univ., South Bend

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