This book provides a historically, socially, and culturally-contextualized portrayal of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a complementary and alternative medical profession in the United States.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 229-232) and index.

Geography, demographics, and general trends -- Evolution of TCM in the Bay Area -- Knowledge transmission and identity formation of an "Alternative" medicine -- TCM healers in the Chinese community -- TCM as complementary medicine -- TCM as alternative medicine -- Creating a space for psychic healing -- Going to the culturally authentic -- Healing, environment, and lifestyle changes -- The happenings in an acupuncture clinic -- The embodied spirituality of Qi -- Ideal body and the concept of health -- Concluding analysis.