Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book recognizes the genuine interest that has risen in the many traditional practices and nineteenth century medicines on the part of conventional health care practitioners, as well as the public. It reviews how chiropractic has constantly fought for its turf within the US health care system. The book summarizes the constructs of Chinese traditional medicine which have evolved from classical times. It discusses the three major arenas of care that constitute any local health care system: popular, folk, and professional. The book reviews evidence supporting the effectiveness of psychic healing as a therapeutic modality. It explores some of the social dimensions to the flourishing interest in alternative forms of healing.