I fell in love with this book when I opened the title page. It was so bright with beautiful photos I wanted to jump into the picture, and start running my fingers through the herbs. Then I started flipping the pages to peek through it, but we will get to that later. The Contents page has the following information: The Development of Herbal Medicine- The Benefits of Herbal Medicine, Using Herbs Wisely, Potent Plant Chemicals, Value of Whole Plants, Plants as Food & Medicines How Medicinal Plants Work- Herbal Treatments, Disgestion, Respiration & Circulation, Clearing Toxicity & Soothing Skin, Nervous, Endocrine & Immune System, Complex Natural Medicines Early Origins to the 19th Century- this section is vast in information on Medicinal Herbs throughout the centuries and the different cultures who use them. 20th Century & The Future- the same as above, there are many pages to read and learn about the different uses over the centuries. You will read about Europe, India, China, Africa, Australia, North America, South America (how all these countries use herbs). All the herbs from the different countries are listed from A-Z. Photos of the plants, roots, leaves, how the herb is broke down and used. I should say the Photographs are exceptionally done. The section I liked was the First Aid, Infusions, Decoctions, Tinchers, Capsules and Powders, Tonic Wines, Syrups, Infused Oils, Ointments, Poultices, Creams, Compresses & Lotions. Again all these subjects are extensively broken down. You learn through pictures as well. Towards the end of the book is a section: Ailments Index. It goes through all aliments you might encounter and how to treat them. This is the part I said I would get to later...I bought this book for my home library. About 13 years ago I started learning about herbs, growing them using them, and of course Aromatherapy. I wanted to grow different herbs in various garden beds: tea herbs, medicinal herbs etc.. I found this book to be extremely valuable in my learning process. My son suffered from very dry skin. I learned how to treat this problem and within a few weeks he was so much better. We go through various seasons. Whether it be sun burns or dry skin in the winter. Wouldn't you like to know a easy way to treat your problem? I think we tend to get caught up in buying products at the store or through our doctors but in the long run we could be harming our bodies. Simple fact: Did you know that Baby Oil is actually mineral oil and baby scent/fragrance? That is it. You can buy mineral oil and add the baby scent and you have the same thing and you can make a large batch of this for cheaper than what you would pay for a well known brand.. Did you know Talc is not good for your skin? And a well known brand sells talc powder for babies skin. You would be much better off using cornstarch only. The well known brand adds cornstarch making you think your getting something extra and great. It's all in the fine print, and this is what these books try to teach you. If you want to learn how to make products for yourself and for your family it is time you buy some good books and educate yourself. This book is so valuable and this is why I own this book. I hope you buy a copy for your library too. You won't be disappointed at all.Read full review
LOVE: This book has wonderful color pictures. It integrates the science and theory of some of the most common herbs known to man. Some of these herbs have been used for thousands of years! Great descriptions of how to prepare herbs in several forms, creams, tinctures, teas, etc, and gives a general dosage guide. Its also an interesting history book! Great Dichotomous Key at the end of the book for symptoms/health problems and also a great index. (This is one edition later then the newest edition, however I got this one for $18.00, whereas the newest edition is over $100.00. WISH: I wish it gave some recommendations on where to buy seeds and how to plant and cultivate these herbs!
This is exactly the reference book I need and I know I will use it for years to come. I love it!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Not a bad beginners guide to the world of Medicinal plants. A bit simplistic for my taste but most Encyclopedias are nothing more than quick hit essenrials on each covered topic. Pros: Good Photos, fairly accurate descriptions and information on uses and preparations of each plant. Cons: Simplistic. Bottom line: Better than adequate, but a bit basic Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Recomend?: Yes, for the layperson or hobbiest, not the serious student or professional. DRSchroeder Microbiologist/Chemist/plant scientist
This is my go-to book for all my family's ailments. I love it...
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Best Selling in Books
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Save on Books