Tibetan medicine has been practiced for 1300 years. It is concerned first with the mind and only secondarily with the body. This healing tradition is called "Medicine Buddha." Peter Fenton, an educator, journalist, and naturalist, traveled to India and Nepal in order to interview lamas, Tantric healers, and Tibetan doctors.
In this fascinating work, the author discusses the use of medicinal herbs, the importance of balance and the five elements, the three humors, and the training of Tibetan healers. Fenton explains the practice of blessing medicines whereby they gain in potency and have an greater ability to alleviate suffering, disease, and illness. He also discusses the use of healing sounds and symbols including singing bowls, trumpets and horns, rosaries, bells, paintings, and prayer flags.
Tibetan healing practitioners are not adverse to techniques and procedures used by shamans. There is also a place for astrology and divination within this medical tradition.