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 In this internet age, when all information in the world seems only a Google search away it may seem at first glance that we have outgrown the need for books. But the information you find on the web is only the glittery suface of a deep sea of knowledge. If you really want to learn about herbs and natural healing you need at least three good referance books. The selection of books here, and the authors quoted from them throughout this website, are the ones in my personal bookcase.
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Growing and Using |
| Author:Weiss, Gaea and Shandor, Publication Date: 1985 |
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Mixing Essential Oils for Every Use |
| Author:Carol Schiller, Publication Date: 1994 |
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A excellent quick reference guide, short on fluff, this book gets straight to the point with well organized and easy to follow directions for everyday use essential oils. |
Their Meanings and Origins |
| Author:A.W. Smith, Publication Date: 1997 |
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compact dictionary to combine definitions of botanical names in general usage with information on their derivation and guides to pronunciation. A monumental index provides a cross-reference from some 1,800 common plant names to corresponding botanical ones. Combines thoroughness, botanical rigor, and interesting facts and lore — all leavened with touches of humor |
Herbs, Rituals, and Remedies for Every Season of Life |
| Author:Kavasch, E. Barrie, Barr, Karren, Publication Date: 1999 |
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American Indian Healing Arts is a magical blend of plant lore, history, and living tradition that draws on a lifetime of study with native healers by herbalist and ethnobotanist E. Barrie Kavasch.
Here are the time-honored tribal rituals performed to promote good health, heal illness, and bring mind and spirit into harmony with nature. Here also are dozens of safe, effective earth remedies--many of which are now being confirmed by modern research. |
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| Author:Charles F. Millspaugh, Publication Date: 0000 |
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The Dover edition, first published in 1974 is a one-volume, unabridged, republication of the work as published in 1882. This book will be of interest to anyone interested in North American medicinal plants, however one major drawback in the plates, while still gorgeous are poor quality black and white. If you have read A Modern Herbal, by M. Grieve, you will notice she drew heavily on Milspaugh's work for the North American native plants, which she was not as familiar as those in England and Europe. Milspaugh was one of the first to catalogue these plants and to present exacting descriptions of them as well as their properties to the layman. |
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| Author:Usha Lad & Dr. Vasant Lad, Publication Date: 2006 |
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Ayurveda, the ancient healing art of India, teaches that food plays an essential part in one’s health and sense of well-being. Here is an authentic guide of the Ayurvedic approach to food and tasty vegetarian cooking. The recipes are formulated using herbs and spices to help balance the constitution of each person. The effects of the foods on individual constitution are included with every recipe together with the medicinal properties of many of the foods. This is a cookbook and much more. |
38 Essences that Heal |
| Author:David F. Vennells, Publication Date: 2001 |
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This book gives a simple explanation of what the Bach Flower Essences are and how they can be used in everyday. Good information on how to apply Bach's remedies to improve everyday life. |
Herbs and Other Natural Supplements That Can Jumpstart Your Sex Life |
| Author:Chris D. Meletis, Publication Date: 2000 |
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Spanish fly, saw palmetto, Brazilian bark. The legends and hype abounds, but how can you know what really works, and what is a safe amount to take? This book is a no-nonsense guide on sexual botanicals, which to use with caution and which to avoid. |
Nature's Answer to Arthritis, Cancer & Alzheimer's Disease |
| Author:Thomas M. Newmark, Publication Date: 2000 |
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If you or a loved one are suffering from arthritis, cancer or Alzheimers this book is a must read. The one thing all these conditions have in common is unchecked inflammation - A deeper understanding of the disease process will lead you toward making better decisions concerning your health. The scientific basis for many herbs used in traditional herbal medicine is explained, along with some of the drawbacks of the mainstream pharmaceutical approach. |
A Modern Edition of a Classic Sixteenth-Century Manual |
| Author:Li Shih-Chen, Publication Date: 1578 |
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As a basis for modern-day holistic medicine, Chinese Medicinal Herbs provides an invaluable compendium for practitioners of alternative healing methods. Students, professionals, and health-care specialists will want to own this landmark treatise, a treasury of tried-and-true wisdom from centuries of practical experience. |
Herbals of our Foremothers |
| Author:Juliette De Bairacli Levy, Publication Date: 1974 |
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Lore and uses for 200 herbs, 97 illustrated. Down-to-earth wisdom and practical hands-on knowledge. Foreword by Rosemary Gladstar |
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| Author:Nicholas Culpeper, Publication Date: 0000 |
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For more than 300 years, Culpeper's Complete Herbal has been the standard in the field of herbal remedies. It contains a comprehensive description of nearly all herbs, along with descriptions of their medicinal properties and instructions on preparing and using them to treat many different illnesses. Includes precise botanical illustrations to aid in identification. |
Over 1,000 Solutions to Your Pet's Problems |
| Author:Editors of Prevention Health Books, Publication Date: |
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An owner's manual and a godsend--no four-legged home should be without it |
Information for Everybody |
| Author:Dr. Chase, Publication Date: 0000 |
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Dr. Chase, a traveling physician in the mid 1800s, published a book of 800 recipes for health remedies, drinks, livestock cures, etc that was a mainstay in households across early America. Some of these early Eclectic remedies are still good today, some not, but the reader will get a fascinating glimpse into how our forefathers lived. The book has been reprinted, Kessinger Publishing, LLC (June 29, 2008), and original copies are battered and timeworn, but still available. |
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| Author:Alice Cook Brown, Publication Date: 2001 |
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A wealth of information on the uses of herbs by homemakers of the past through more than 500 authentic recipes as they appeared in their original sources. The recipes cover the use of herbs for medicinal, culinary, cosmetic, and other purposes, from making vegetable and meat dishes to dyes and insecticides. 113 black-and-white illustrations |
Natural and Healthy Personal Care for Every Body |
| Author:Dina Falconi, Publication Date: 1997 |
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A great book - formulas range from simple to complex - with easy to follow directions.
A master herbalist's guide to natural personal care. Unlike conventional makeup-coverups, Dina's unique approach nurtures natural beauty and health. |
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| Author:Deni Brown, Publication Date: 1995 |
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The definitive guide to the identification, cultivation, and uses of 1,000 herbs. The Herb Society of America's Encyclopedia of Herbs and their Uses is the most authoritative illustrated encyclopedia of herbs yet produced. It covers over 1000 herbs grown worldwide for their culinary, aromatic, medicinal, and economic uses, as well as for their decorative qualities in the garden |
General Historie of Plantes |
| Author:John Gerard, Publication Date: 0000 |
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Gerards Herbal, is the bestselling herbal of all, exceeding the number of copies printed of any other, because it has been reproduced in modern times.
There are controversies and caveats to the work, such that Gerard based much on the work on prior art of the Flemish botanist Rembert Dodoens who was published in Latin in 1583. That said you would have to go back to the The Ebers Papyrus, to find any herbal NOT based on prior writings, or in fact tainted by outright plagiarism. One wonders what he would make of the fact his work is available at the click of a mouse on Amazon, and the scattered bits and pieces of his words that are quoted in every modern herb book I have read.
Gerard's position as a wealthy member of the English aristocracy gave him access to thousands of New World species that he personally tended, drew and wrote about in his legendary herbal garden. His writing is lyrical once you get past the Old English style and there are many facts and recipes that can updated and used by those with good grounding in herblore.
One Hundred and One Botanists - Science(2002) - Duane Isely |
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| Author:Marlene Ericksen, Publication Date: 2000 |
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This comprehensive overview of the principles of aromatherapy is an invaluable guide through the wonderful and odorous world of essential oils — their history, their origins, and the many ways they can be used to treat a host of common conditions, including pain, menstrual disorders, digestive complaints, and children's ailments. |
Bringing Chinese Herbs to the West |
| Author:Steven Foster and Yue chongxi, Publication Date: 1992 |
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Anyone wishing a deeper understanding of Chinese herbs, their uses and histories will appreciate this beautifully written and easily read book. Professionals will augment their knowledge and anyone opening its cover will enjoy the lively history of culture and civilization as seen through the eyes of an herbalist.
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Simple Home Remedies fro Women of All Ages |
| Author:Rosemary Gladstar, Publication Date: 1993 |
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I really like this book, the author has a very powerful and personal way of writing that makes you feel like you could be talking to an old friend over a cup of herbal tea in a cozy kitchen. Very detailed and well organized information on all aspects of using herbs, including storage, cultivation, making teas and extracts...
Targeted to any woman who wishes to use a more natural approach to health care, understandable for beginners, a good referance to more advanced users. |
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| Author:Gregory L. Tilford, Publication Date: 2001 |
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The Tilfords' book introduces readers to hundreds of plant medicines that can be used in the daily care of animals. The authors, both herbalists, begin with a chapter on the principles and practices of herbalism, explaining the basics of herbal preparations and what they call the "ethical use of herbs." They discuss the connection between herbs and diet and give guidelines for feeding dogs and cats. The bulk of the book is a 191-page guide to herbs for animals. |
Healing, Gardening, and Cooking with Wild Plants |
| Author:Adele Dawson, Publication Date: 2000 |
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Adele Dawson's classic guide to the seasonal use of herbs for food, drink, and medicine x Clear directions for growing and using many wild and cultivated herbs. Detailed pen-and-ink drawings help readers identify 70 herbs. I find myself drawn in whenever I pick up this book to referance a herb. Her style of writing is so intimate and warm, you feel as if you have found a wise friend. Invaluable referance for herbal remedies, quick and healthy meals, and practical garden advice. |
A practical family guide to making herbal remedies for common ailments |
| Author:Penelope Ody, Publication Date: 1995 |
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Especially valuable here are the lists of ingredients and proportions for making herbal mixes at home: something lacking in many herbal coverages |
Materia Magica of African-Amercan Culture |
| Author:catherine yronwode, Publication Date: 2002 |
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Accurate botanical information on roots and herbs used in African-American conjure and hoodoo |
Nature's Proven Sex Boosters for Men and Women |
| Author:Chris Kilham, Publication Date: 2004 |
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In the wake of Viagra's enormous popularity, the international market has been inundated by a blizzard of purported natural sex enhancers. Some of these products are nothing but hype, yet others contain proven agents that enhance libido, improve sexual function, and increase pleasure. These bona fide sex-boosters can be found in Hot Plants.
From the anc |
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| Author:Richo Cech, Publication Date: 2000 |
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This is an excellent resource for those who want clear and concise information on making herbal medicines at home. Very easy to read and understand, there is information here for beginners, and for advanced home herbalists. |
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| Author:Charlotte Erichsen-Brown, Publication Date: 1979 |
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Chronological historical citations document 500 years of usage of plants, trees, and shrubs native to eastern Canada, northeastern U.S. Also complete identifying information. Well documented and detailed descriptions of herbs and plants used by the Native tribes and settlers of early North America |
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| Author:Maud Grieve, Publication Date: 1931 |
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Here is the first comprehensive record of plants and their uses to have been written for hundreds of years -- in fact the only complete modern herbal. A truly encyclopedic work, the two-volume set describes well over 800 different species of herbs, grasses, mushrooms, shrubs and trees. Included is historical background for each plant, cultivation tips, up-to-date information on useful substances derived from each plant, and the different ailments the herb is used to treat. Also included are folk beliefs as well as economic and cosmetic properties of hundreds of plants -- from aconite to zedoary. Also, common and Latin names, drawings, photographs, a good index and much more. |
the Medicinal Culinar |
| Author:Maud Grieve, Publication Date: 1931 |
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Volume 2 of the fullest, most exact, most useful compilation of herbal material. Gigantic alphabetical encyclopedia, from aconite to zedoary, gives botanical information, medical properties, folklore, economic uses, much else. Indispensable to serious reader. Total in set: 161 illustrations. |
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| Author:Mrs Lavender, Publication Date: 1930 |
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A dictionary of homely plants & everyday vegetables with their medicinal values. Herbs for health & beauty and cures for rheumatism, bronchitis, asthma, lumbago, coughs and colds, etc. |
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| Author:Nancy L Nickell, Publication Date: 1999 |
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NATURE'S APHRODISIACS examines those questions, separating fact from fiction, superstition from science in a well-researched, comprehensive guide to Nature's aphrodisiacs and what they can do for you. |
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| Author:Susun Weed, Publication Date: 2002 |
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Alternative Approaches for Women 30-90. I like Susun's warm and folksy way of writing. Very wise and informative. Great selection of home herbal formulations and information for women to be able to take charge of their own health. Susun Weed, green witch and wise woman, is an extraordinary teacher with a joyous spirit, a powerful presence, and an encyclopedic knowledge of herbs and health. |
Their Sacred, Healing and Hallucinogenic Powers |
| Author:Richard Evans Schultes, Albert Hofman, Christian Ratcsch, Publication Date: 1992 |
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Revised and updated classic text on the ritual uses of psychoactive plants. |
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| Author:Phyllis A. Balch, Publication Date: 2002 |
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This book is divided into three parts for easy reference. Part I discusses the basic principles of herbal medicine and outlines the properties and characteristics of some one hundred sixty single herbs and sixty herbal combination formulas. Part II describes more than one hundred fifty common disorders, conveniently arranged in alphabetical order from acne to yeast infection, and names the herbal therapies that can be used in the treatment of those conditions. Part III is a guide to using various kinds of herbal and other alternative therapies. In addition, it includes self-diagnostic tests and boxed insets throughout, which offer detailed information on a wide variety of topics. |
The Healing and Beautifying Properties of the Essential Oils of Flowers and Herbs |
| Author:Robert B Tisserand, Publication Date: 1977 |
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Robert Tisserand is often called the father of modern aromatherapy, and his book is fact filled and easy to read. Gives more detail behind the scientific reasons why aromatics work than many aromatherapy books, but only profiles a limited number of the many aromatics available for use today. |
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| Author:Valerie Ann Worwood, Publication Date: 1993 |
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This is the perfect starter book for anyone interested in aromatherapy and an excellent reference for more experienced practitioners. |
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| Author:E.A. Wallace Budge, Publication Date: 1927 |
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Wonder reference to the history of herbal medicine, with particular detail on Egyptian herbology. |
Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing |
| Author:James Duke, Publication Date: 2000 |
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The most thorough and comprehensive herb reference of its kind, THE GREEN PHARMACY HERBAL HANDBOOK was compiled from Dr. Duke's database of the world's medicinal plants. The database, which he began during his career as a top botanist with the USDA, is a major resource for herbalists around the world. Written in Dr. Duke's own folksy, jargon-free language, this important reference work explains each herb with care. |
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| Author:Hasnain Walji, Ph.D., Publication Date: |
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The book explains how the various essential oils work and how the average person can use them (baths, massages, skin care, and room fragrances). Walji also talks about various ailments/illnesses and the use of these oils for treating them naturally. |
The Best Natural Alternatives to Over-The-Counter and Prescription Medicines |
| Author:Linda B. White, M.D., Publication Date: 2003 |
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The Herbal Drugstore, which has already said hundreds of thousands of copies in hardcover, sifts through all the scientific research, facts, and opinions to provide objective, concise profiles of more than 280 drugs and drug categories, along with their herbal alternatives. For each health problem (almost 100 are listed), you can weigh the functions and side effects of the most common pharmaceutical treatments against the benefits and cautions of the best-known herbal remedies.
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| Author:Richard Mabey, Publication Date: 1988 |
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The herbs in this glossary are listed under their botanical families, emphasizing the similarities between related plants. Many of the mint family (Labiatae), for example, are rich in essential oils, and important as culinary herbs, while a number of herbs in the daisy family (Compositae) are good for healing wounds and stopping bleeding. Within each family the herbs are listed alphabetically under their Latin names, with their common names also given in bold type. As well as the plants that have traditionally been used by herbalists, the glossary also contains a few plants that have been extensively used in orthodox medicine, such as the foxglove, and other more recently researched plants whose dramatic healing properties have lately been publicized. |
The Groundbreaking Omega-3 Antidepressant Diet and Brain Program |
| Author:Andrew Stoll, Publication Date: 2002 |
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Common fish oil gets my vote for the most helpful, and the most overlooked supplement people should add to their diet. Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their importance in preventing heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, can make a remarkable difference in depression and ADHD, and plant-based oils like evening primrose and flaxseed are great for your skin too! Best of all, they are very inexpensive, putting them within reach of even those with very limited budgets. |
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| Author:Plymouth Antiquarian Society, Publication Date: 2005 |
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Authentic collection of 17th- and 18th-century cooking lore and wisdom includes recipes passed down from generation to generation |
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| Author:Jean Valnet, MD, Publication Date: |
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This classic manual provides detailed evidence for the efficacy of plant medicine. Valnet effectively bridgesthe gap between the tradition of healing with herbs and the advances of modern medicine, showing, in scientific terms, why plant medicine works, and making an impassioned plea for curtailing our use of dangerous chemical therapies. |
For Cooking Crafts, Gardening, Health |
| Author:Barbara Pleasant, Publication Date: |
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Whether we use them for healing, in cooking, in crafts, or in a thousand and one other ways, our unique relationship with these valuable plants remains strong. The Whole Herb was designed for everyone who wishes to learn more about herbs and to incorporate them in daily life. Here is a complete, practical, and easy-to-follow guide to the many uses of herbs |
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| Author:Netje Blanchan, Publication Date: 1917 |
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This is a gem of a book - for all of us who value the beauty of wildflowers and herbs. The author's love of the subject shines through to the reader, and her plant and flower descriptions are flowing and beautiful. This popular book was recently released again by BiblioBazaar (May 23, 2007). You can also find used copies of the 2nd edition released in 1931 for a very reasonable price. It has passed into the public domain, and I have chosen to use many of her lovely and complete plant descriptions throughout this website.
Netje Blanchan describes a younger more innocent country, focusing on North American, for the most part the United States. She shows a disdain for many of the sacred cows of herbalism,
dismissive of Pliny and "superstitious peasants" who ascribed fantastical healing powers to what she saw as common wildflowers. She also consigns many of the old herbal remedies of her grandmothers time to a " more credulous" generation, although she does show a grudging respect for certain plants such as Joe-pye weed, and Spikenard She is writing from perspective of her times, 1917 when the birth and miraculous promises of science dazzled us into forgetting plants healing lore.
What makes her book so valuable is her obvious love and admiration of these wildflowers of pastures, roadsides, bogs and high pine forests. Her passion shines through in flowing descriptions that go beyond the usual plant description to add the story of the beneficial insects, bees and butterflies - their relationships and co-dependencies that are an integral part of each others stories. Beautiful and ingenious, with persistence and avarice they woo the insects attention with bright colored flowers and nectars, made not for human enjoyment as we may think, but as their very means of survival. |
Shamanic Practices and Forbidden Plants |
| Author:Claudia Muller-Ebeling, Wolf-Deieter Storl, Publication Date: 1998 |
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