The 17 Medicine Books Experts Recommend Most
Curated by Bill Gates, Joseph Mercola, Bret Weinstein, these Medicine Books offer trusted insights and practical knowledge

What if the books you read could transform the way you understand health and medicine? In an age when medical knowledge shapes lives on a global scale, having access to trusted insights is more vital than ever. Medicine touches every one of us, from the breakthroughs in cancer treatment to the critical decisions during pandemics. This collection of 17 books, recommended by voices like Bill Gates, Joseph Mercola, and Bret Weinstein, offers not just facts but real-world perspectives from those deeply engaged in the field.
Take, for example, Dr. Pierre Kory's "War on Ivermectin," which dives into the complex controversies of COVID-19 treatment with firsthand accounts from the front lines. Or consider Matt Richtel's "An Elegant Defense," which makes the immune system accessible and compelling, endorsed by Bill Gates himself. Alejandro Junger's praise for "Ancient Remedies" highlights the power of traditional healing methods that complement modern medicine, while Atul Gawande’s "Being Mortal" challenges us to rethink how medicine approaches the end of life.
While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific health concerns, learning goals, or medical background might consider creating a personalized Medicine book that builds on these insights. Tailored content brings expert knowledge directly into your unique context, making your learning journey more effective and relevant.
Recommended by Steve Kirsch
Founder of COVID-19 Early Treatment Fund
“It’s now three years after the start of the pandemic and we know from over ninety-five independent studies that ivermectin is one of the most effective drugs for treating COVID-19.” (from Amazon)
by Pierre Kory Dr., Jenna McCarthy, Del Bigtree··You?
by Pierre Kory Dr., Jenna McCarthy, Del Bigtree··You?
Drawing from his extensive background as a critical care specialist and pioneer in ultrasound, Dr. Pierre Kory chronicles his fight to validate ivermectin as a Covid-19 treatment. You gain insight into the complex interplay between medical science, media influence, and pharmaceutical interests, with detailed accounts of over ninety-five studies supporting ivermectin’s efficacy. The book exposes the professional and personal challenges faced by physicians advocating for this inexpensive medicine amid widespread skepticism and institutional resistance. If you want a deep dive into the controversies shaping pandemic responses and the politics behind medical treatments, this book offers a candid narrative grounded in frontline experience.
Recommended by Alejandro Junger
New York Times Best-Selling Author
“If you want to avoid the nasty side effects of prescription medications and are seeking an alternative, this book is the answer. Dr. Axe discusses ancient treatments used for centuries in traditional Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Greek medicine. Ancient Remedies is the first comprehensive guide to holistic remedies. It's a must-read.” (from Amazon)
by Dr. Josh Axe··You?
Unlike most medicine books that zero in on pharmaceuticals, this one invites you into the world of traditional healing passed down through Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Greek practices. Dr. Josh Axe, with his extensive background in natural health and clinical nutrition, guides you through treating over seventy ailments using herbs, essential oils, CBD, and mind-body methods. You'll find practical chapters explaining how to align with your circadian rhythm and eat for your body type, aiming to address root causes rather than symptoms. This book suits anyone curious about natural medicine alternatives or seeking to complement conventional treatments with time-tested remedies.
by TailoredRead AI·
This tailored book explores essential medical principles and practices personalized to match your background and learning goals. It examines foundational concepts such as anatomy, physiology, and pathology, then delves into clinical decision-making, diagnostics, and treatment options relevant to your specific interests. By addressing your unique goals, it reveals pathways through complex medical content that align with your experience and objectives. This personalized guide combines a rich synthesis of medical knowledge with a focus on practical understanding, ensuring the material feels relevant and engaging. Whether you aim to enhance your healthcare competence or deepen your grasp of medicine, this book offers a focused learning experience crafted just for you.
Recommended by Stephen Harrod Buhner
Author of The Lost Language of Plants
“I have been aware of Sam Coffman’s healing work for many years and have been continually impressed with his service to those in need. This book is a welcome addition to the emerging field of the herbal treatment of serious conditions.” (from Amazon)
by Sam Coffman··You?
Drawing from his extensive experience as a former Green Beret medic and clinical herbalist, Sam Coffman offers a detailed guide that bridges emergency medical preparedness with herbal medicine. You’ll learn to assess medical emergencies accurately and apply specific herbal treatments when conventional care isn’t accessible, with precise protocols for a range of acute health issues. The book also introduces you to the foundational principles of herbal medicine, including how herbs interact with bodily diseases and how to prepare them effectively. This is ideal if you want practical knowledge for emergency situations, blending military medical skills with natural remedies. However, if you seek purely conventional medical approaches, this might not align with your needs.
by Robert Kizior BS RPh, Keith Hodgson RN BSN CCRN··You?
by Robert Kizior BS RPh, Keith Hodgson RN BSN CCRN··You?
Robert Kizior's decades of pharmacy experience shaped this detailed reference that supports nurses navigating drug therapy. You get precise, up-to-date facts on over 1,000 generic and 4,000 trade name drugs, including dosing, side effects, and nursing considerations organized to fit clinical workflows. The book’s alphabetical drug listings, cross-references, and tabbed format make quick consultation practical, especially with new FDA-approved medications and critical alerts like Black Box warnings. While it’s invaluable for nurses managing medication safety, anyone involved in patient care can benefit from its clear presentation of complex pharmaceutical information.
by Joseph Wegmann··You?
by Joseph Wegmann··You?
When Joe Wegmann first realized the complexities surrounding mental health medications, he set out to clarify the often confusing landscape of psychopharmacology for professionals. Drawing from over 30 years of clinical experience, this book delves into detailed diagnostic criteria and medication effectiveness, including emerging treatments like medical marijuana and telehealth practices. You'll gain specific insights into managing anxiety disorders, bipolar diagnosis, and chronic pain with psychotropic drugs, all presented with a blend of scientific rigor and clinical intuition. This book serves mental health clinicians and pharmacists seeking a nuanced understanding rather than a simplistic overview.
This tailored book explores a unique integration of natural remedies and conventional medical treatments, tailored specifically to your background and healing goals. It covers the science behind both approaches, revealing how they can complement each other to accelerate recovery and wellness. Through a personalized lens, it examines herbal therapies, nutritional interventions, pharmaceutical options, and holistic care methods, focusing on a 30-day healing journey designed around your interests and needs. This approach allows you to engage deeply with the material that matters most to you, offering a focused learning experience that bridges expert knowledge with your individual context.
Recommended by Matthew Wood
Founder, Matthew Wood Institute of Herbalism
“This is a phenomenal addition to the herbal bookshelf. It fills the need for a large, comprehensive herbal formulary—the likes of which we have not seen for a hundred years—yet it is so much more than that: a complete guide to the serious use of herbs from the field and forest to the single remedy or formula in clinic.” (from Amazon)
by Thomas Easley, Steven Horne··You?
by Thomas Easley, Steven Horne··You?
Thomas Easley's extensive experience in herbal medicine shines through in this detailed guide to crafting herbal remedies. You gain hands-on knowledge about preparing over 250 herbal medicines, including tinctures, capsules, and topical applications, along with insights into dosage forms and extraction techniques like percolation and Soxhlet extracts. The book walks you through selecting the right preparation method for different herb categories and offers practical advice on harvesting and drying herbs. Whether you're a novice interested in natural remedies or a seasoned herbalist refining your craft, this guide provides clear, science-informed explanations without unnecessary jargon.
Recommended by Ty Bollinger
Author of The Truth About Cancer
“Dr. Connealy understands the role of nutrition, epigenetics, and integrative approaches in healing cancer and even preventing cancer. Cancer is not a death sentence. There is always hope, and this book will empower you with knowledge that just might save your life or the life of a loved one.” (from Amazon)
by Leigh Erin Connealy··You?
by Leigh Erin Connealy··You?
Dr. Leigh Erin Connealy brings over three decades of medical experience to challenge conventional cancer treatments with a broader, integrative perspective. In this book, you’ll explore how cancer arises from multiple factors rather than a single cause, and learn how to address these root causes through nutrition, epigenetics, and personalized protocols. Key chapters detail innovative testing methods like RGCC and Bio-Energetic testing that uncover cancer’s early stages, along with lifestyle steps that support healing beyond surgery or chemotherapy. If you’re seeking a deeper understanding of cancer prevention and complementary therapies beyond standard care, this book offers concrete insights and alternative approaches to consider.
Recommended by Paul Farmer
Harvard Medical School; Co-Founder, Partners in Health
“Where There Is No Doctor is an indispensable resource. This book has been, quite literally, a lifesaver for the poor -- even where there is a doctor.” (from Amazon)
by David Werner, Carol Thuman, Jane Maxwell··You?
by David Werner, Carol Thuman, Jane Maxwell··You?
When David Werner, a biologist and long-time health activist, first saw the dire need for accessible medical guidance in remote villages, he helped create this handbook to empower non-professionals with essential health knowledge. You learn straightforward methods to assess and care for common ailments like dehydration, malaria, and respiratory infections, along with practical advice on sanitation and childbirth. The book is packed with clear illustrations and covers everything from first aid to disease prevention, making it an invaluable companion for health workers and community members alike. Its step-by-step instructions on building latrines and recognizing serious symptoms offer concrete skills you can apply directly. If you seek a no-frills, deeply practical manual for primary health care in underserved areas, this is the guide for you, though it's less suited for advanced medical professionals.
Recommended by Scott Johnson
Author of The Doctor’s Guide to Surviving When Modern Medicine Fails
“Preparation for a time when Western medical care is not available—such as during a ‘collapse’—is vital for survival. Dr. Joseph and Amy Alton give practical guidance to prepare nonmedical persons and equip them to care for their loved ones during a long-term survival situation. You will feel confident to handle the most common medical situations encountered during a disaster with The Ultimate Survival Medicine Guide: Emergency Preparedness for any Disaster.” (from Amazon)
Drawing from decades of hands-on medical practice and survival expertise, Amy Alton and Dr. Joe Alton crafted this guide for situations where conventional healthcare fails you. You’ll learn how to manage common injuries and illnesses when hospitals aren’t an option, including chapters on bleeding control, infection prevention, and natural remedies for when pharmaceuticals run out. The book details essential medical supplies and practical techniques for disaster scenarios, making it especially useful if you’re preparing for emergencies or long-term survival. While it’s not a substitute for professional care, it equips you with critical skills to protect your loved ones when help is delayed or unavailable.
Recommended by Ben Greenfield
Health and longevity expert, CEO of Kion
“This book blew my mind. I will admit . . . I thought I was simply going to be reading an interesting memoir of a good physician. Instead, I discovered the most groundbreaking, unorthodox, outside-the-box treatise on the heart I have ever stumbled upon. If you have a heart and you want to live a long time, you must, must read this book.” (from Amazon)
by Dr. Thomas Cowan MD··You?
What if everything you knew about the heart was wrong? Dr. Thomas Cowan, with decades of experience bridging anthroposophical medicine and conventional practice, challenges the mechanical pump model of the heart that dominates modern medicine. Instead, he presents a new perspective on the heart’s role, supported by historical and scientific inquiry, that reshapes how you understand cardiovascular disease and its treatments. Chapters delve into the origins of heart disease beyond blood vessels, critiquing common surgeries and medications, and propose a gentler, more holistic approach to healing. This book suits those curious about alternative medical theories and anyone seeking a fresh look at heart health beyond standard protocols.
Recommended by Emma Baker
Clinical academic in medicine and research
“Indispensable guide on using and prescribing drugs in the real world” (from Amazon)
by Andrew W. Hitchings BSc MBBS PhD FRCP FFICM FHEA FBPhS, Dagan Lonsdale BSc(Hons) MBBS PhD MRCP FHEA FFICM, Daniel Burrage BSc(Hons) MBBS MSc (Med Ed) MRCP FHEA, Emma Baker MBChB PhD FRCP FBPhS··You?
by Andrew W. Hitchings BSc MBBS PhD FRCP FFICM FHEA FBPhS, Dagan Lonsdale BSc(Hons) MBBS PhD MRCP FHEA FFICM, Daniel Burrage BSc(Hons) MBBS MSc (Med Ed) MRCP FHEA, Emma Baker MBChB PhD FRCP FBPhS··You?
Andrew W. Hitchings and his coauthors bring their extensive clinical pharmacology expertise into this guide designed for safe and effective drug prescribing within NHS practice. You learn not only the pharmacology behind the most common drugs but also practical prescribing tips grounded in real-world experience, such as clinical pearls for emergency drugs and common interactions. The book balances scientific detail with accessible, ward-friendly organization—ideal if you need quick yet reliable drug information. If you’re a medical student, junior doctor, or pharmacist wanting to deepen your understanding of drug mechanisms alongside practical prescribing advice, this book offers clear, focused knowledge without overwhelming complexity.
Recommended by Bill Gates
Co-Founder & Former CEO of Microsoft
“Should you pick your nose? You can read an excerpt from Matt Richtel’s fascinating book about the immune system on my blog to find the answer:” (from X)
by Matt Richtel··You?
While working as a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, Matt Richtel noticed how complex and misunderstood the immune system remains despite its critical role in health. This book takes you through the immune system's biology by weaving together the stories of four patients, revealing how immunity protects and sometimes betrays us. You gain insight into the immune system's evolutionary design, how modern life challenges it, and the science behind autoimmune diseases and vaccines. It’s especially useful if you want a vivid, humanized understanding of immunology that connects cutting-edge research with real lives, without getting lost in jargon or oversimplification.
Recommended by Malcolm Gladwell
Journalist and bestselling author
“American medicine, Being Mortal reminds us, has prepared itself for life but not for death. This is Atul Gawande's most powerful--and moving--book.” (from Amazon)
by Atul Gawande··You?
by Atul Gawande··You?
What happens when a practicing surgeon with deep public health experience confronts the limits of medicine itself? Atul Gawande, with decades at Harvard Medical School and as a New Yorker writer, developed this book to challenge how medicine approaches aging and death. You’ll explore how current systems often prioritize safety over dignity, with examples ranging from nursing homes to hospice care, and discover models that better respect quality of life in patients’ final months. The chapters on hospice alternatives and family decision-making highlight practical shifts in care philosophy. This book is suited for anyone grappling with end-of-life care or seeking a thoughtful critique of modern medical priorities.
Recommended by Jim Oshaughnessy
Founder/Chairman, OSAM LLC, investment expert
“@rationalwalk Great book, cheers” (from X)
by Siddhartha Mukherjee··You?
by Siddhartha Mukherjee··You?
The Emperor of All Maladies offers a detailed exploration of cancer through Siddhartha Mukherjee’s unique lens as a cancer physician, researcher, and science writer. You gain a deep understanding of the disease’s history, biology, and treatment evolution, from ancient surgical attempts to modern chemotherapy and cellular biology. The book’s chapters on historical figures and pivotal discoveries, like the early use of radiation, reveal how scientific perspectives have shifted over centuries. If you want to grasp cancer’s complexity from multiple angles—medical, historical, and human—this book provides a rich, nuanced narrative that suits both medical professionals and informed readers curious about the disease's impact and ongoing challenges.
Recommended by David Perlmutter
Board-certified neurologist, bestselling author
“Healing Arthritis leverages the most leading edge medical research. This book will pave the way for dramatic improvement for countless individuals suffering from arthritis.” (from Amazon)
by Susan Blum MD MPH, Michele Bender, Dr. Mark Hyman··You?
by Susan Blum MD MPH, Michele Bender, Dr. Mark Hyman··You?
Susan Blum MD MPH challenges the conventional wisdom that arthritis must be managed solely with medications by presenting a science-based, drug-free treatment plan. You learn a three-step protocol targeting root causes: reducing inflammation through diet and supplements, repairing gut health to support immune function, and addressing emotional triggers that worsen symptoms. Specific chapters guide you through a two-week anti-inflammatory diet, gut repair strategies, and long-term maintenance with a Mediterranean-style approach. This book suits anyone seeking a natural alternative to conventional arthritis treatments, especially those willing to engage deeply with lifestyle changes to improve joint health.
Recommended by Pierre Kory Md Mpa
ICU and lung specialist, COVID-19 protocol co-developer
“I'll be watching the VSRF tonight...and afterwards, I'm going to curl up with Dr. Peter McCullough's awesome book, "The Courage to Face COVID-19".” (from X)
by John Leake, Peter A. McCullough MD MPH, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.··You?
by John Leake, Peter A. McCullough MD MPH, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.··You?
What happens when frontline medical expertise meets a fierce challenge to public health orthodoxy? Dr. Peter McCullough, a respected physician and clinical investigator, teamed up with John Leake and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to document their fight against COVID-19 through early treatment protocols using repurposed drugs and supplements. You’ll gain insight into the development of these protocols and the resistance they faced from powerful pharmaceutical interests. This book unpacks the complex interplay between medicine, politics, and industry, offering readers a critical perspective on pandemic management and the consequences of sidelining early intervention. If you want to understand the medical and societal dynamics behind COVID-19 treatments, this book will sharpen your view.
by Danielle Martin··You?
What started as a personal journey into Ayurveda became Danielle Martin's mission to make herbal medicine approachable. Drawing from her training at the Ayurvedic Institute and Alandi Ayurveda Gurukula, she presents over 100 remedies rooted in centuries-old traditions yet accessible for modern use. You'll find detailed profiles of 35 key herbs like Ajwain and Yashtimadhu, alongside practical recipes such as Allergy-Relief Honey and Soothing Sore Throat Gargle. This book suits anyone curious about natural wellness, offering foundational knowledge without overwhelming jargon or assumptions about prior expertise.
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Conclusion
This collection of 17 medicine books reveals key themes: the critical role of integrative approaches blending conventional and natural therapies, the importance of understanding medical controversies with a discerning eye, and the profound human stories at the heart of medicine—from survival to end-of-life care. If you're grappling with chronic illness, "Healing Arthritis" offers a practical plan, while those interested in emergency care can rely on "The Ultimate Survival Medicine Guide".
For rapid implementation, combining the clinical focus of "The Top 100 Drugs" with the holistic wisdom of "The Modern Herbal Dispensatory" can offer a balanced foundation. Meanwhile, readers eager to deepen their understanding of infectious diseases should not miss "War on Ivermectin" or "The Courage to Face COVID-19." Alternatively, you can create a personalized Medicine book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation. These books can help you accelerate your learning journey and make informed, confident decisions about your health and care.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?
Start with a book that aligns with your immediate interest: for infectious diseases, "War on Ivermectin" offers frontline insights; for a broad understanding of the immune system, try "An Elegant Defense." These provide solid foundations before exploring more specialized topics.
Are these books too advanced for someone new to Medicine?
Not at all. Several books, like "Where There Is No Doctor" and "Ancient Remedies," are accessible to newcomers while offering expert-backed knowledge. The collection balances technical depth with clear explanations suitable for a range of readers.
What’s the best order to read these books?
Consider your goals: begin with broader overviews such as "Being Mortal" or "The Emperor of All Maladies," then move to niche areas like herbal medicine or pharmacology. This approach builds a strong medical framework progressively.
Should I start with the newest book or a classic?
Both have value. Newer books like "The Courage to Face COVID-19" address current issues, while classics like "The Emperor of All Maladies" provide enduring context. Mixing both equips you with timely and foundational knowledge.
Can I skip around or do I need to read them cover to cover?
You can definitely skip around. Many books serve as references or deep dives into specific topics. For example, "Saunders Nursing Drug Handbook 2024" is designed for quick consultation, while narrative works like "Being Mortal" benefit from sequential reading.
How can I get medical knowledge tailored to my specific needs?
Great question! While these expert books offer valuable insights, you can create a personalized Medicine book tailored to your background, interests, and goals. This bridges expert knowledge with your unique context, making learning more focused and actionable.
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