CHINESE MEDICINE FOR HEALTH

This contemporary introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is written in a lively and lucid way for the general reader interested in holistic healing and internal harmony. It also explains TCM to the Western physician: medical concepts are presented in a way that does not conflict with knowledge of biomedicine, helping them appreciate TCM as complementary healthcare.

Beginning with an outline of fundamental entities qi, blood and essence, the book then expounds TCM models of yin yang, the five elements and TCM syndromes that form the basis of diagnosis and therapy. Delightful chapters on the healing wonders of herbs and recipes come with instructions for preparing delicious food and teas. Explanations of acupuncture, chronic disease management and yangsheng (life cultivation) enlighten with simple yet profound ideas underlying this ancient science. They reveal how TCM retains an irreplaceable role in healthcare despite impressive advances in modern medicine.

The materials in the book have been used in well-received public courses in Chinese medicine that the authors have taught for over a decade.

Contents:

• Introduction: The Origins and Significance of Chinese Medicine
• Basic Substances in the Human Body
• Distinguishing Aspects of TCM
• Yin-Yang, Five Elements and TCM Organs
• Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment of Illnesss
• The Nature and Properties of Herbs
• Therapeutic Formulations
• Tonic Herbs and Recipes
• Herbs and Recipes for Clearing External Pathogens
• Herbs and Recipes for Heat, Dampness, Wind and other Internal Conditions
• Herbs and Recipes for Regulating Qi, Promoting Blood Flows, Hemostasis, and Others
• Acupuncture and Tuina
• Yangsheng (养生) The Art of Cultivating Life
• Medicated Foods and Teas for Yangsheng
• The Prevention and Management of Chronic Illnesses
• The Future of Chinese Medicine

Readership: Biomedical scientists, physicians and healthcare professionals. It appeals not only to the informed general reader wishing to partake of ancient wisdom in Chinese healing but is also a competent introduction to TCM for Western biomedical health professionals. General readers interested in cultivating health; students and practitioners of medicine and healthcare who wish to gain a modern insight into the mysteries of Chinese medicine.

'Chinese Medicine for Health is a rare find. Firstly, it is not easy to find a good TCM book written in English. Secondly, the authors have made the complexity and critical foundational concepts of TCM easy to understand and very readable. The yangsheng养生 principles and delicious herbal recipes shared in the book will serve well seniors in their pursuit of total wellness and longevity.' - Soh Swee PingChief Executive Officer, Council for Third Age (C3A)

'This is an extensively researched book on TCM written with great care and consideration, in clear and simple language. I especially like the chapter on Yangsheng (The Art of Cultivating Life), which is in line with Healthier SG in promoting wellness through physical, mental and spiritual health. The aim is to incorporate these principles into our lifestyle by combining Western ideas and Chinese wisdom into the art and science of living a balanced life. This should serve as our fundamental approach to health and disease prevention.' - Dr Lily AwSenior Consultant Family Physician, Fellow of the Academy of Medicine Singapore; Registered Acupuncturist

'This comprehensive introductory book on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is commendable for its use of clear and simple language to explain TCM and interpret it in the context of Western medicine. It also distils ancient Chinese wisdom in the philosophy of TCM. An integral part of Chinese culture, TCM is more than an art of treatment. It also places emphasis on preventing disease and enhancing longevity. Western and Chinese Medicine practitioners should collaborate in research to develop a better system of medical care. Hopefully, this book will serve as a bridge between them.' - Dr Koh Chin AikPresident, Society of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Singapore)

'Chinese Medicine for Health is highly recommended for those who wish to have a better understanding of Traditional Chinese Medicine and for those who are looking for a holistic way to improve or maintain one's health. It is clear and concise, easy to read, captivating and include the authors' candid views on the future of Chinese Medicine. The reader will be inspired by the many easy-to-prepare recipes for tonics, preparations for various conditions as well as porridge, soups and herbal teas for cultivating life (Yangsheng)!' - Associate Professor Koh Hwee LingDept of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore

'This book is written with scintillating clarity. As a primer, it is the best available introductory book on Traditional Chinese Medicine. It covers a broad swath of the subject including history, philosophy, physiology, diet and preventive health. The quintessential elements of lifestyle in the Age Well Everyday program of the NUS Mind-Science Centre dovetail well with the ideas articulated by the authors. It is as absorbing and piquing as its companion volume, Principles of Chinese Medicine: A Modern Interpretation.' - Professor Kua Ee HeokTan Geok Yin Professor in Psychiatry & Neuroscience, National University of Singapore

'If you are looking for ways to have a healthy life you will be rewarded to read and practise the gems expounded in this book. The authors succinctly explain the basics of TCM, dispensed in just the right doses. Concepts of causes, diagnosis and treatment of illnesses are clearly explained. While there is some mention of contraindications of TCM treatments, this important subject calls for more specialised research, albeit outside the scope of this introductory book. For those interested in eating like an emperor, chapters 13 and 14 on 'yangsheng' are must reads. Enjoy good health and beauty!' - Dr Tan Chay HoonPresident, Asia College of Neuropsychopharmacology, Honorary Fellow and former Associate Professor of Pharmacology, National University of Singapore

'Functional or integrative medicine, popularised in the 1990s, centres around a holistic, personalised approach to health and healing. Chinese Medicine for Health shows me that TCM fundamentally adopts this philosophy! The patient-centric approach of TCM and its important concept of yangsheng are clearly and simply explained. The authors have dissected the complexities of the ancient Chinese medical classic Huangdi Neijing in a comprehensive yet easily comprehensible manner for ordinary folks.' - Genevieve ChuaChief Executive Officer, OVOL Singapore Pte Ltd

'Chinese medicine has brought healing and good health to millions through the ages. Because of its close link to the Chinese culture, however, it can seem abstruse to those who do not know the language. This new book demystifies the art and science of Chinese medicine. With sound knowledge of both Western and Chinese medicine, the authors have produced the finest English exposition yet of Chinese medicine. Chinese Medicine for Health is a must-read for medical professionals as well as anyone simply wishing to live healthier and longer.' - Dr Michael TaiFellow of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland

'Chinese Medicine for Health is everyone's guide to achieving and maintaining a positive integration of Mind, Body and Spirit. It is a compendium of the wisdom of ancient Chinese medicine and practices for yangsheng. The authors explain TCM concepts in a highly approachable style. I particularly like the detailed descriptions of herbs, acupuncture, recipes for soups, tonics and teas. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in pursuing a fulfilling life in health and wellbeing.' - Carmee LeeMentor Principal, MindChamps Holdings; Founder & President, Aoede Music Enterprise Pte Ltd

'A fascinating book from the perspective of a lay person. The recipes are very informative and useful. Porridge is in our daily diet but until I read the book, I had never realized that it can be for yangsheng too!' - Dr Lee Chay HoonDirector, Organization Development and Human Resource, Keppel Offshore and Marine

Key Features:

• The authors are qualified TCM physicians who bring their knowledge and experience in practising medicine to the reader in a novel way that does not conflict with modern biomedical knowledge
• A competent introduction to Chinese medicine for Western biomedical professionals, written by TCM professionals trained in both Chinese and Western medicine