Best of
Booze

1994

Chinese Medicinal Wines & Elixirs


Bob Flaws - 1994
    In the body and in small amounts, it can supplement and move the qi and blood, scatter cold, and vitalize the spirit. In large amounts, of course, alcohol is injurious to body and mind. For over two thousand years, in Chinese medicine, alcohol has been mixed with a large variety of medicinal substances to make medicinal wines and liqueurs. These medicinal wines are especially useful for the treatment of traumatic injuries, bi syndromes, and debility in the aged. However, they can also be used for a host of other problems. This book contains the ingredients, method of preparation and administration, indications, and contraindications of over 200 authentic Chinese medicinal wines. These wines are easy to make, often requiring only one or two ingredients. Thus, they do not require a huge on-site pharmacy. Many ingredients are available at health and Oriental food stores. Ninety-five percent of the rest of the ingredients listed in the formulas in this book can be obtained by mail from any number of suppliers who addresses are given inside. That makes these formulas perfect for use as adjunctive remedies for acupuncturists. In addition, patient compliance in taking these wines is high. Translated from both premodern and contemporary Chinese sources, this book is the largest and most complete on this subject in English.