Diet is one of the eight limbs of Chinese medicine, used as both a preventive method and a treatment technique. In close combination with acupuncture, herbal treatment and exercise, diet plays an important role in the traditionaI treatment of many illnesses.

In Prince Wen Hui's Cook, the authors describe the theory and use of diet as part of a healthfuI way of life and as an integral part of the powerful and effective theories of Chinese medicine. Included are descriptions of the energetic qualities of many foods and the instructions necessary to apply this information to common health problems.