1. About.com
  2. Health
  3. Alternative Medicine
Guide Picks - Top Reference Books on Natural Medicine
Here are some of my top picks for reference books on complementary/alternative medicine.  I considered the quality of information, reputation of the author, usability, and interest.  
1) The Natural Pharmacy
The Natural Pharmacy is an excellent reference guide that combines research with clinical knowledge.  Written by a team of respected practitioners, this well-organized book covers 120 health conditions.  
Read Review   
2) Natural Health Bible
This book tries to "cut through the hype" on natural medicine by examining the scientific evidence.  Both complementary and natural treatments for 51 health conditions are described, followed by a section on 161 herbs and supplements. 
 
3) Quick Access Professional Guide to Conditions, Herbs, and Supplements
Written for the health practitioner, this book covers 100 health conditions, 37 herbs, and 44 supplements.  For each condition, risk factors, etiology, differential diagnosis, physical exam and lab findings, and drug therapies are summarized, followed by an unranked outline of natural treatments.  
  
4) Michael Murray's Total Body Tune-Up
This book has self-assessment questionnaires, case studies and practical suggestions that many readers will find interesting. For example, instructions on how to make a gentle skin cleanser and necessary foods to support key detoxification enzymes. The assessment questionnaires should not substitute for medical diagnosis.  Limited treatment options are offered.

 Related Resources
• Before You Buy Books on Detoxification
• Book Review:  The Natural Pharmacy
spacer
Important product disclaimer information about this About site. 
spacer

Discuss in my forum

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved. 

A part of The New York Times Company.

We comply with the HONcode standard
for trustworthy health
information: verify here.