Natural Antibiotics and Botanical Treatments: Heal Your Body, Heal Your Mind

Siewert, who runs a healing practice in Germany, has created a useful, well-organized compendium for anyone seeking holistic or herbal treatments for health issues. The first section explains what antibiotics are and how and why they work, examining their side effects, risks, problems with misuse (such as the development of antibiotic-resistant bacterium), and natural alternatives. Siewert then focuses on common ailments, such as arthritis, pink eye, and gingivitis, outlining symptoms, when to go to a doctor, possible complications, plant remedies, and additional help. The weighty second section addresses mental health issues. Siewert briefly describes various mental illnesses, including mood, anxiety, and stress disorders; psychotropic drugs often prescribed as treatments; and different types of psychotherapy. Topics always include notes about when to see a doctor alongside suggestions for botanical remedies and other therapies. The final section is a list of herbs and their medicinal uses. This is an impressive guide to treating common health issues, as it discusses various types of intervention, including conventional medicine, psychotherapy, herbal remedies, and exercise. It’s particularly valuable because of its focus on facilitating the body’s own healing capacities. (Sept.)