Download Miracle Cures: Dramatic New Scientific Discoveries Revealing the Healing Powers of Herbs, Vitamins, and Other Natural Remedies djvu

This is an excellent book. It introduces people to the idea that natural medicine can be effective and scientifically viable at the same time. What I found really useful in this work is her emphasis on all of the scientific studies which have been done in Europe. By so doing, the author explodes the myth that natural medicine is voodoo medicine, with no scientific merit to recommend it.
The author also presents the material in an objective and nonsensationalistic manner. This helps keep the remedies in perspective. False hope is not given is not fostered, but the healing powers of the remedies she covers are presented in an even-handed manner.
My only criticism of the book is the emphasis on tablets. This is not bad per se, but I would have liked to see a description of foods which contain some of the substances found in these remedies. For example, in speaking of vitamin E, or calcium, it would have been nice to have a list of foods which contain decent quantities of these substances.
Despite this criticism, however, I highly recommend this work to anyone who is interested in natural remedies. No matter how much you know, or think you know, this book will open your eyes to a new world of possibility and science.

The basic concept of the book is that there are herbal and dietary ways to alleviate or cure many of today's medical afflictions; that the many modern medications (and their associated side affects) may not be only path to relief. The author does a wonderful job of presenting the case for 21 such remedies in a reasonably scientific manner, with a minimum of sensationalism (yes, there is some, how can you avoid it in this genre, the book is called Miracle Cures after all).

Let me say upfront, I am a skeptic. I firmly believe in the adage - if it seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is not. However, Jean Carper, presents each remedy or supplement in such a straight forward manner that the claims seem reasonable, and for the cost of a few supplements, you have to ask yourself - Why not?

Each chapter covers one remedy, with sections on - what it is, how it works, supporting evidence (in the form of tests and trials), who should take it, how much to take, and consumer concerns (good brands so you don't get burned by buying bogus stuff). I found the latter helpful in searching out certain of the harder to find supplements, although many of the supplements are available in Standardized varieties now, so it may be less vital information than it was in 1997.

Does any of the stuff work? I do not know at this time. I have been convinced enough to put up a few dollars to try some of them though. My wife has moderately elevated cholesterol, so we are giving the grapefruit fiber a shot. We have all been a little moody lately (lots of stress), so we are giving the fish oil (Omega-3) a try. If these seem to work, I may try a few of the others.

My only complaint is that the book has a 1997 copyright, and could really use an update.
P-)

[Update May 28, 2005]
Don't know on the cholesterol, my wife goes back in in 4 months for a check, however, our mix of suppliments right now includes - ginko biloba, grapefruit fiber, grapeseed extract, Omega-3 fish oils, coenzyme Q10, and a multiple vitamin plus minerals. The result is that we are both feeling an otherwise unexplained surplus of energy and we are less moody and more positive in our attitudes.

[Update Sept 5,2005]
Okay, on the cholesterol, turns out I was over 260 last year when I had it checked (just didn't know). When I went in for a check this August I was down to 191, so while I cannot say 100% that the grapefruit fiber is responsible, there is a strong correlation.

I first loved a book written by Jean Carper many years ago. I trust what she says as she has no ax to grind, and no product to sell.
She researches the latest scientific information and feeds it back to us. This book was no exception!

I was extremely impressed with this book. It is very easy reading. Like other reviews said, there are only a few pages to each items. The author, I believe, is a medical research journalist. Her premise for this book was weeding out what really helps vs. those "cures" with no real substantiation. For example,CQ10, she gives the name of studies names of MD's. Her research is NOT just annecdotal.
My mother has congestive heart failure and was not doing well. Her cardiologist gave me a pretty gloomy report about her condition and I thought her days were extremely limited. After reading the book, I spoke to her cardiologist about CQ10 -400 mgs. a day. He didn't believe in it but said if I wanted to waste my money, go right ahead. Well, about two months later, he called to tell me her heart was a lot better. Hhhmmm? Yes, she was on his prescription meds but that treats symptoms. The book mentioned other countries, gave the name of a heart specialist in CT. In other countries, I remember Israel as one, CQ10 is standard treatment. The author, Carper, even gave the name of a cardiologist in CT who had wonderful results with CQ10.
To me, this book was not the usual hype. It has the documentation I needed.
Another example, St. John's Wart for depression. In Germany herbs are studied and every doctor and pharmacist is trained. There has been extensive research. Germany certainly is not 3rd world slouch in medicine. They prescribe St. John's Wart over Prozac. It's just as effective without the side effects.
Before you use any supplement, if you're smart;you go online and do some homework but in this book, Carper has given you the places to turn to back it up and has recommended the best of the herbal, vitamin cures.
Doctors are not trained in this area. My mother's cardiologist was honest and admitted it.
I was so pleased with Miracle Cures that I'm ordering her food book.
Hope this helps.