Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, 3rd Edition

With 550 key herbs and their uses as natural remedies for nearly 200 common ailments, Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine is the definitive home reference to healing with the world’s oldest form of medicine. From ginger to lavender and thyme to dandelion, learn about the chemistry of plants and how and why they work as medicines within the body.

Information on habitat and cultivation, parts used, active constituents, therapeutic properties, and traditional and current uses are described in a unique photographic plant index, and instructions on growing, harvesting, and processing your own home treatments are detailed. With its jargon-free text, fantastic photography, and focus on safety, this guide enables ease of understanding no matter what your level of herbal expertise.

Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine is the ultimate reference for anyone interested in exploring the healing benefits of plants and who wants to take control of their health with alternative natural treatments. Now updated to reflect the latest research.

Table of Contents

Contents 5
Introduction 6
THE DEVELOPMENT OF HERBAL MEDICINE 8
How Medicinal Plants Work 10
Active Constituents 14
Quality Control 17
Early Origins to the 19th Century 18
20th Century Onward 28
Herbal Traditions of the World 32
Europe 32
India and the Middle East 36
China, Japan, and Southeast Asia 40
Africa 44
Australia and New Zealand 46
North America 48
South America 52
KEY MEDICINAL PLANTS 54
OTHER MEDICINAL PLANTS 156
HERBAL REMEDIES FOR HOME USE 284
Growing Medicinal Plants 286
Harvesting & Processing 288
Making Herbal Remedies 290
Using Herbal Remedies Safely 298
Remedies for Common Ailments 299
Consulting an Herbal Practitioner 320
Glossary 321
Bibliography 322
General Index 323
Index of Herbs by Ailment 332
Useful Addresses & Acknowledgments 336