Book excerpt: This highly successful textbook covers the basic theory of traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture, and discusses in detail the use of acupuncture points and the principles of treatment. The material is based on rigorous reference to ancient and modern Chinese texts, and explains the application of theory in the context of Western clinical practice. The new edition features new and updated material plus an accompanying website containing over 650 self-testing questions in a variety of formats. - 25th Anniversary edition of the Western world's best-selling book on Chinese medicine! - Logical, sequential organization builds from basic theoretical concepts, through functions of individual organs, diagnosis, pathology, pattern recognition & disease categories, and the appropriate use of acupuncture points - Clearly explains the theory and practice of Chinese Medicine to Western medical audiences - Based on a unique and invaluable combination of extensive clinical experience in the West, current Chinese Medicine textbooks and ancient sources, in particular, the 'Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine' (Nei Jing) and the 'Classic of Difficulties' (Nan Jing) - Includes Pinyin equivalents to make it immediately evident which original term is being translated - Abundantly illustrated with over 750 line drawings and more than 1000 tables & boxes designed to emphasize the key facts - End of chapter Learning Outcomes point out 'must-know' information - A helpful colour-plate section provides valuable information for diagnosis - Cases Studies and Case Histories apply theory to diagnosis and treatment, bringing the subject to life in a realistic context - An extensive Glossary explains new terms and their origins from translation - Additional Appendices list Prescriptions, Bibliography and Chinese Chronology - Authored by Giovanni Maciocia, one of the Western world's leading subject matter experts - An accompanying EVOLVE website provides over 650 self-testing questions and answers to help readers check their understanding of frequently complex information - New Case Histories help 'bring the subject to life' - Expanded subject area coverage including new clinical guidelines and additional acupuncture point combinations - Contains further analysis of acupuncture point actions - Innovative guidelines aid students learning Chinese Medicine patterns