This impressive book, endorsed by the Christian Medical Association of USA, is an honest attempt to evaluate alternative medicine, bringing together both faith and science. It is packed with valuable information and is particularly useful as a handbook for Christian carers who do not have opportunity to research these areas for themselves.

Although evidence based medicine is widely acclaimed, alternative therapies, so often lacking in firm supportive evidence, are increasingly fashionable and steadily encroaching into conventional medicine. In these days when 'informed choice' is an ethical watchword, this book contains much sorely needed information to help with our decisions.

Using a clear format of four sections, it gives a fascinating overview of the origins and development of both conventional and alternative medicine, the first often deficient in knowledge and the second including therapies based on Eastern religious concepts or pagan rituals and beliefs. It emphasises that many popular alternative therapies, with their ancient origins, are now associated with New Age spirituality and healing techniques.

Included in the second section is a helpful, biblically based and, at times inspirational, discussion concerning the difficult and age-old issues of pain, illness and suffering, followed by some salutary advice on a healthy lifestyle.

Part three examines the principles underlying alternative therapies. These are generally based on the concept of 'universal life force' or energy, eg ch'i (acupuncture), vital energy (homeopathy) , prana (ayurvedic medicine) and the chakras or energy centres of yoga. Christians are clearly warned of the potential dangers of becoming involved in therapies dependent upon a non-Christian belief system.

The fourth and largest section makes an important distinction between alternative therapies which are dealt with somewhat concisely and herbs, vitamins and dietary supplements which are dealt with in more meticulous detail. Although these latter remedies may be 'natural', they are not necessarily safe. They are, however, unlikely to lead to harmful spiritual effects, (except possibly via the therapist!) and some may well prove valuable after further evaluation.

Finally, there is a 'quick reference' table matching common symptoms and illnesses with a wide mixture of possible alternative remedies. This is sometimes at variance with information and advice given in previous chapters. I found it disappointing that this therapeutic table does little to dispel the persistent confusion surrounding some areas of alternative medicine. Despite some inconsistencies, however, this book is a useful resource if viewed as a whole and with discernment!

Reviewed by:
George Smith
Dermatologist in Reading