Read more
In this comprehensive guide, Hoffmann explains specific actions individual herbs have on the body and suggests herbal prescriptions for a variety of conditions. It includes a practical reference section listing the effects of various herbs, with prescriptions on how to use them for a wide range of illnesses.
List of contents
The Herbal Handbook A User's Guide to Medical Herbalism How to Use the Book
1. What is a Herb?
2. Approaches to Herbalism
3. Actions
4. Aromatherapy
5. The Chemistry of Plants
6. Body Systems
7. Herb Gardens and Cultivation
8. Herbal Pharmacy
9. Herbs and Cooking
10. Using Dye Plants
11. Potpourri
12. Becoming a Medical Herbalist
Bibliography
Metric Conversion
Index
About the author
David Hoffmann has been a practicing medical herbalist and a member of Britain's National Institute of Medical herbalists since 1979. He has lectured widely and given seminars on this subject and is the author of
Herbs for Healthy Aging, An Herbal Guide to Stress Relief, and
Medical Herbalism.
Summary
Well-respected herbalist David Hoffmann's comprehensive and practical guide to herbal medicine.
• Discusses the history and modern practice of herbalism, including Chinese, Native American, and Welsh influences.
• Includes a practical reference section listing the effects of various herbs, with prescriptions on how to use them for a wide range of illnesses.
• Covers the fundamentals of growing, drying, storing, and cooking with herbs.
• Over 45,000 copies of previous edition sold.
This compendium of medical herbalism by one of the most eminent herbalists practicing today is both comprehensive and practical. Answering basic as well as complicated questions about herbal medicine, it provides both the novice and the experienced practitioner with a reliable framework in which to develop their herbal skills.
A discussion of the history and modern practice of herbalism, encompassing the influences of Welsh, Chinese, and Native American herbal medicine is followed by a practical reference section that lists the various actions herbs have on the body (carminative, anti-inflammatory, etc.), with examples of herbs and their mode of activity in each category. Herbal prescriptions for various illnesses are also organized under the main systems of the body so that information can be quickly and easily referenced. A final section covers the fundamentals of growing, drying storing and cooking with herbs, as well as the making of infusions, decoctions, oils, and ointments. The author also provides helpful introductions to aromatherapy and plant medicines.
Additional text
“Is it possible you will want another book with a more extensive list of herbs and their uses? Sure. But I highly recommend this one as an introduction to the concepts of herbalism. I’ve never yet seen another that compares, for that purpose.”
