This is an interesting reference book for anyone interested in Chinese medicine and herbs. It also provides information about basic Chinese principles of life such as living by the seasons. There is detailed information about the different herbs. There are also a few recipes (that I have not tried) but are on my list to do so. Overall, a nice book to have on hand use as a reference to living a healthy and balanced life.

An enormous and thorough compendium of Chinese medicine. I'm always wary of a book by an author who does not appear to be part of the culture he/she is writing about, but Counts is obviously well-versed and highly educated in Chinese medicine. Everything from what type of food to eat each season for your element type, to recommendations for acupuncture. Lots of color photos and drawings. For those interested in Chinese medicine, this will be a valuable read.

This is an interesting, helpful book about Chinese medicine, herbs and related topics. While I don't use a lot of the principles of Chinese medicine myself, I relate to many of the core principles like the importance of living by the seasons (slow down in winter, eat more raw foods in summer, etc.) and appreciated learning so much about the topic. I personally would prefer to read this from an author who was brought up in this tradition, but she seems well trained in the topic and she apparently does a lot of work around the world trying to help others, both of which earn her high marks in my eyes. The book is well illustrated in color, and contains quite a lot of information, including a few recipes for healing foods and remedies, detailed information about herbs, and much more. The foods don't adhere to one dietary lifestyle or another as much as just leaning towards whole, healing foods. Most dairy is shunned but meats and seafood are included. Soy is neither vilified nor recommended strongly. The book does not condemn Western medicine. Most of the book seems designed to work with a myriad of lifestyles, both dietary and health-wise.

I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for the purpose of review.

This book is an easy layout for the beginner, but also provides in-depth information for the student of Chinese medicine. (Perhaps not advanced students.) It is color-coded, broken into easy-to-read bites, includes tables, graphics, and photos to make the text easier to understand, and is written for the layman. We will be purchasing this book for use in our herbal class!

A lot of info in this book!!!!
From herbal remedies for illnesses to other stuff that might surprise you. A lot of good medical tips too. I just wish this massive book would come in kindle format. Otherwise, spectacular stuff here!