In the first comprehensive and analytical study of therapeutic concepts and practices in China, Paul Unschuld traced the history of documented health care from its earliest extant records to present developments. This edition is updated with a new preface which details the immense ideological intersections between Chinese and European medicines in the past 25 years.

"Unschuld has accomplished monumental labours of translation and annotation. He has a fine historical sense . . . and a colourful and easy style which makes these esoteric subjects more accessible."  - Nature

"Successfully weaves the evolution of medical ideas with the prevalent socio-political events of the past three and one-half millennia. . . . The reward is immense." - Medical Anthropology

"Undeniably valuable." - Times Literary Supplement