Herbs and Nutrients for the Mind: A Guide to Natural Brain Enhancers (Complementary and Alternative Medicine)

Two naturopaths introduce us to the world of brain biochemistry, translating the science into laymen's terms, so that the reader can understand the potential power of herbs and nutrients to enhance health, prevent disorders, and affect existing health disorders. These alternatives, or supplements, to medication are being used across the country to help treat health conditions with a psychological component—from ADHD and anorexia to insomnia, menopause, and Parkinson's Disease. Authors Meletis and Barker explain 18 of these conditions, and review the most current research into how—or whether—the use of herbs and supplements has been proven to prevent, affect or remove these health conditions, or at least some of their symptoms. Can the Chinese herb Salvia curb cravings in alcoholics? Can niacin help treat anxiety? Other herbs, nutrients, and conditions addressed include the use of zinc to reduce symptoms of anorexia and bulimia, ginkgo biloba for Alzheimer's, and 5-HTP for depression. One appendix to this volume lists the top 20 brain-enhancing herbs and supplements. Another lists nutrient deficiencies and their links to health and brain function.It is not the intent of this book to advocate for the replacement of standard drug therapy, but for the integration of these natural medicines with traditional medical treatments. Consumers are urged to discuss these herbs and nutrients with their physician before beginning use, as some allergic reactions or interactions with traditional medicines can occur. The central argument of this book is that when properly nourished people can operate at maximum physical and mental capacity, with maximum ability to fend off or recover from disease and disorder.

Amazon Sales Rank: #1238048 in Books Published on: 2004-10-30 Original language: English Number of items: 1 Dimensions: 1.12" h x 6.62" w x 9.56" l, 1.40 pounds Binding: Hardcover 304 pages

Review "Two professors of Naturopathic Medicine wrote this book dealing with the power of herbs and nutritional supplements in healing and/or in preventing psychological and psychiatric disorders as well as in enhancing mental health. The authors reviewed current research on eighteen mental disorders, such as ADD, Alcoholism, Alzheimers, Autism, Depression, Multiple Sclerosis and Schizophrenia, among others, to see if and how they can be helped by alternative natural "medicines.,.".The book is scholarly and well researched, as the detailed footnotes demonstrate. Three appendices list signs and symptoms of nutrient deficiency, toxic substances and foods that are good for avoiding allergies. The book is highly recommended for all health science collections and especially for hospitals libraries. However it will be also useful for an educated consumer."-E-Streams About the Author Chris D. Meletis, N.D. is Senior Science Officer and Associate Professor of Natural Pharmacology at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine. He was chosen for the Naturopathic Physician of the Year Award for 2003-2004 by the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. Jason E. Barker, N.D., is in private practice and has been an Adjunct Professor of Naturopathy at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine, at Oregon Health Sciences University and at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine.

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