The Scientific Basis of Chinese Integrative Cancer Therapy: Including a Color Atlas of Chinese Anticancer Plants

"The title misses the point. I find that the book is a good one for showing stunning illustrations of medicinal plants that can help people with cancer. Unfortunately, the text part does not explore the scientific basis of Chinese integrative cancer therapy, except to discuss a researcher and clinic near Chiang Bai Shan. I think that the original author died before the text was completed, so that we find the outcome that we do. His wife was the likely finisher of the work and although well educated in natural products, probably did not have the depth of knowledge that her husband did. I am glad I bought the book, of course, and would recommend for the illustrations alone.
The general discussion of Traditional Chinese Medicine is good for the beginner. The plants in the illustrated part are not exhaustive, but are a good start in the investigation of possible drug candidates. The discussion of Tien Hsien liquid and the identification of its constituent herbs is also very helpful. Perhaps someday we will find an English speaker to get to know Dr. Wang Zhen Guo, the inventor, well enough to publish a thorough interview with him."
~ Written on 2007-10-05