Science Meets Alternative Medicine

With all the recent promotion of herbal remedies and alternative therapies--acupuncture, therapeutic touch, aroma therapy, magnet therapy, homeopathy, naturopathy, Ayurvedic medicine, and many others--how can the average consumer find objective, scientific information evaluating these products and treatments? Without reliable information from objective, scientifically qualified sources, consumers run the risk of wasting their money, or worse, endangering their health. This anthology of research articles by reputable scientists is dedicated exclusively to the careful scrutiny of the claims of alternative medicine. Using scientific and rational criteria, well-respected scientists and physicians review available evidence for therapeutic claims, critique published studies, present original research, and discuss the methods and principles of valid research. Among the topics covered are the origins of alternative medicine and current trends; the theories and therapies of Andrew Weil, naturopathy, therapeutic touch, and colloidal silver treatment; the psychological dimensions of belief in unconventional treatments; and the ethics of promoting unproven treatments. This informative, user-friendly volume is a must for everyone considering alternative medicine.