Winter Book Review: Antibiotic Alternatives

Like many, you may have already been prescribed an antibiotic by your doctor this winter. Many times to help you recover from a bad could, the flue, an ear infection or even pneumonia. This has caused many in the filed of medicine to become concerned about the over use of antibiotics and the resistance that can soon follow. What if you could use a natural alternative? The Antibiotic Alternative: The Natural Guide to Fighting Infection and Maintaining a Healthy Immune System by Cindy L. A. Jones, Ph.D. (Healing Arts Press: 2000) is the answer to such pondering.

It is rather surprising to see how many conditions doctors are willing to prescribe antibiotics for. From acne to yeast infections, The Antibiotic Alternative provides detailed information on the condition in question and natural alternatives that are backed up by scientific studies. Of interest to Aromatherapists, Dr. Jones' devotes many areas of her book to the discussion of the antibiotic nature of certain essential oils as well as Aromatherapy in general. This includes a master antibiotic essential oil list of 36 types you will definitely want to have in your arsenal. These include:

• Eucalyptus
• Benzoin
• Chamomile
• Tea Tree

In the chapter Herbal Treatment of Specific Conditions, each condition that would typically warrant a prescription of antibiotics is discussed in detail and a holistic approach to treatment is provided. This many times includes essential oils. In the section on acne for instance, Dr. Jones' suggests essential oil of tea tree. This suggestion was based on scientific studies, in this instance a study published in the Medical Journal of Australia. This is the hallmark of The Antibiotic Alternative. While many books covering essential oils continue to perpetuate the writings of Nicholas Culpeper (17th century), which are not scientifically reliable, Dr. Jones has provided a well researched book based on science that will better serve both Aromatherapists in their practice as well as the general public. The Notes area is volumes in itself and points to many studies of interest to those involved in any form of holistic health. The major complaint concerning the validity of Aromatherapy continues to hinge on the lack of use based on scientific findings. Thus, it is important for Aromatherapists at the least to seek out books such as The Antibiotic Alternative to curve this continued misunderstanding.

The Antibiotic Alternative is clearly written and very easy to follow. For added depth, the back section of the book provides very in-depth monographs for botanicals including garlic and myrrh. The book also includes recipes and information on harvesting and drying herbs. In addition to treating various conditions naturally, the major message

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