Kampo Treatment for Climacteric Disorders: A Handbook for Practitioners

This text presents a modern method of administration of classical Chinese herbal formulas that is known as Kampo,one of the oldest medical traditions of Japan. Having a history of effectiveness when administered for chronic degenerative conditions and aging-related diseases, it is among the most commonly prescribed therapies for menopausal complaints. Properly administered, Kampo medicines cause few adverse reactions and can be confidently prescribed for long-term administration. In the West, Kampo is most often encountered in preparations marketed as powdered or granulated formulas, although tablets and individual herb granulations are becoming increasingly available. Even where highly sophisticated pharmaceuticals are generally available, Kampo's popularity has grown, specifically because of its efficacy.

Part One provides historical and background information and an overview of applications of Kampo within the framework of modern medicine. Part Two sets forth the rudiments of Kampo practice, from diagnosis (including techniques of abdominal palpation and pattern identification) to issues surrounding treatment and evaluation. Part Three presents Kampo treatment for climacteric disorders. Each of the eight chapters in this section focuses on one aspect of common problems affecting perimenopausal women. A special feature is the quick-reference table that accompanies each chapter, designed to facilitate the identification of appropriate remedies. Part Four provides a compendium of formulas with information regarding composition, pattern, signs and symptoms, applications, and further notes on usage or contraindications.

Yoshiharu Shibata, M.D. A renowned clinician in Osaka, Dr. Shibata was famous throughout Asia for his research showing that combinations of traditional and modern therapies produced better results than the modern therapies alone. He is the author of numerous research publications that allowed traditional herbal remedies to be accepted and approved by the Japanese Health Ministry.

Jean Wu, MPH, MA Pharmacognosy Ms. Wu is a Pharmacy graduate of Tokyo University who studied extensively with Dr. Shibata. She earned her M.Ph. at Harvard University.