Japanese Herbal Medicine The Healing Art of Kampo By Robert Rister · 1999 - l...

Detailed, clear instruction in Japanese herbal medicine (called Kampo) that once again makes clear that the advice of a knowledgeable practitioner is paramount. Rister, an expert in Kampo, explains that it is rooted in Chinese practices. Therefore, Kampo ‘considers both physical and emotional conditions to be a reflection of balance in the four basic patterns’: those being yin/yang, hot/cold, excess/deficiency, and interior/exterior. The remedies are all oral (no acupressure points are used, for instance). Rister explains the underlying philosophies of treatments and then describes the herbs used and how they are made into treatment formulas. Ginger, for one, is attributed a wide range of medicinal actions, including ‘lowering of cholesterol levels, providing relief for allergies and asthma, arthritis, colds, and nausea, and protecting the body against toxins and parasites.’ The bulk of this guide is then given over to discussion of the underlying problems and treatments of a lengthy list of diseases and disorders-bedwetting, endometrial cancer, diabetic retinopathy, and seizure disorders are among those considered. Kampo involves a blend of ancient and modern medicine; as Rister points out, for centuries few men lived long enough to develop prostate cancer, so Kampo has no theory of the cancer. Thus, modern Kampo practitioners link their treatments to symptom patterns, instead. Too complicated for self-treatment, really, but a worthwhile view of the possibilities offered by another medical world.

Condition:

in good condition; covers are showing minor signs of wear; no rips, tears or marks – see photos for condition