Vitalism, the recognition that the physical body is animated by a vital life force, is the foundation of most natural healing therapies. The forefathers of alternative medicine discovered methods of healing the body by stimulating this life force. In Vitalism: The History of Herbalism, Homeopathy, and Flower Essences, Matthew Wood describes the theories, lives, and work of nine great physicians who laid the groundwork for natural medicine. "...Vitalism shows the continuity of independent thinking from which all progress springs, and should bolster the spirits of those who are still being persecuted for deviating from the 'party line.'"
—Irene Alleger

"Matthew Wood has written an outstanding book, with much to contribute to the herbal renaissance and the coming of age of holistic medicine. It is a unique and important look at the history of western medicine from the perspective of vitalism."
—David Hoffman