Book excerpt: This book offers a thorough foundation for acupuncturists on the eight extraordinary vessels in Classical Chinese medicine. The contents cater for the beginner by providing a basic level introduction to the theory and practical application of the eight extraordinary vessel system to acupuncture practice and the healing process. History, the vessels, the pulses, point combinations and safety protocols are all covered, and case studies help demonstrate how this knowledge can be used in treatment. The book includes many helpful illustrations as well as sections on common problems particularly suited to 8EV treatment such as fertility, depression and emotional pain.