In Search of the Medicine Buddha: A Himalayan Journey
In a blend of medical anthropology and autobiographical essay, Crow introduces the reader to Tibetan and Ayurvedic medicine as taught to him by leading Tibetan and Nepalese physicians in Katmandu in Nepal. The book also weaves together Buddhist philosophy, Nepalese culture, and a bit of history but focuses primarily on various aspects of Sange Menla, the Medicine Buddha (the manifestation of healing in the Buddhist religious pantheon). Crow, a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist, examines such topics as herbal remedies, alchemy, women's roles in Ayurvedic medicine and in Buddhist culture, massage, meditation, and the use of mercury as a highly effective but very dangerous healing agent. Crow's book begins with his journey to Nepal in 1988 but does not provide many chronological reference points thereafter. The author also does not clearly explain the relationship between Ayurvedic and Tibetan medicine and does not provide a systematic examination of either healing tradition. The book is certainly interesting and provides valuable information but really seems better suited to popular reading than serious study. Recommended for larger public libraries.DAndy Wickens, King Cty. Lib. Syst., SeattleCopyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.