Herbs and Nutrients for the Mind: A Guide to Natural Brain Enhancers

(Hardback)

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Description

Two naturopaths introduce us to the world of brain biochemistry, translating the science into common English, so that we can understand the potential power of herbs and nutrients to enhance health, prevent disorders and affect existing health disorders. These alternatives, or supplements, to medication are increasingly being used to help treat health conditions with a psychological component - from Attention Deficit Disorder and anorexia to insomnia, menopause and Parkinson's Disease. Authors Meletis and Barker explain 18 of these conditions, and review the most current research into how - or whether - the use of herbs and supplements has been proven to prevent, affect or remove these health conditions, or at least some of their symptoms. Can the Chinese herb Salvia curb cravings in alcoholics Can niacin help treat anxiety Other herbs, nutrients and conditions addressed include the use of zinc to reduce symptoms of anorexia and bulimia, ginkgo biloba for Alzheimer's and 5-HTP for depression. Appendices list the top 20 brain-enhancing herbs and supplements, and nutrient deficiencies and their links to health and brain function. It is not the intention of this book to advocate the replacement of standard drug therapy, but for the integration of these "natural medicines" with traditional medical treatments. Consumers are urged to discuss these herbs and nutrients with their physician before beginning use, as some allergic reactions or interactions with traditional medicines can occur. The central argument of this book is that when properly nourished, people can operate at maximum physical and mental capacity, with maximum ability to fend off or recover from disease and disorder.

Reviews

"This impressive book addresses natural healing methods for emotional conditions. The actions that herbs and nutritional supplements have on brain biochemistry is explained for 18 diverse conditions, such as insomnia, ADHD, anorexia, bipolar disorder, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's Disease. There are excellent discussions on the functioning of serotonin, GABA, and other aspects of brain chemistry, with profiles on the most popular remedies to enhance them. This is an authoritative, well researched, and highly referenced book, yet the science is nicely conveyed in laymen's terms. The recommended dosages and protocols make this an excellent reference for both practitioners and people seeking self-healing."-The American Herb Association
"Two professors of Naturopathic Medicine wrote this book dealing with the power of herbs and nutritional supplements in healing and/or in preventing psychological and psychiatric disorders as well as in enhancing mental health. The authors reviewed current research on eighteen mental disorders, such as ADD, Alcoholism, Alzheimers, Autism, Depression, Multiple Sclerosis and Schizophrenia, among others, to see if and how they can be helped by alternative natural "medicines.,.".The book is scholarly and well researched, as the detailed footnotes demonstrate. Three appendices list signs and symptoms of nutrient deficiency, toxic substances and foods that are good for avoiding allergies. The book is highly recommended for all health science collections and especially for hospitals libraries. However it will be also useful for an educated consumer."-E-Streams
Two professors of Naturopathic Medicine wrote this book dealing with the power of herbs and nutritional supplements in healing and/or in preventing psychological and psychiatric disorders as well as in enhancing mental health. The authors reviewed current research on eighteen mental disorders, such as ADD, Alcoholism, Alzheimers, Autism, Depression, Multiple Sclerosis and Schizophrenia, among others, to see if and how they can be helped by alternative natural "medicines.,.".The book is scholarly and well researched, as the detailed footnotes demonstrate. Three appendices list signs and symptoms of nutrient deficiency, toxic substances and foods that are good for avoiding allergies. The book is highly recommended for all health science collections and especially for hospitals libraries. However it will be also useful for an educated consumer.-E-Streams
This impressive book addresses natural healing methods for emotional conditions. The actions that herbs and nutritional supplements have on brain biochemistry is explained for 18 diverse conditions, such as insomnia, ADHD, anorexia, bipolar disorder, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's Disease. There are excellent discussions on the functioning of serotonin, GABA, and other aspects of brain chemistry, with profiles on the most popular remedies to enhance them. This is an authoritative, well researched, and highly referenced book, yet the science is nicely conveyed in laymen's terms. The recommended dosages and protocols make this an excellent reference for both practitioners and people seeking self-healing.-The American Herb Association

Author Bio

Chris D. Meletis, N.D. is Senior Science Officer and Associate Professor of Natural Pharmacology at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine. He was chosen for the Naturopathic Physician of the Year Award for 2003-2004 by the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. Jason E. Barker, N.D., is in private practice and has been an Adjunct Professor of Naturopathy at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine, at Oregon Health Sciences University and at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine.