What is the best book on medicinal herbs?

[Dennis Leahy]

I'd like to get a really good book on medicinal herbs. I will listen to guidance on the issue of scope or focus, but it seems like I would want "herbs of North America" rather than "herbs of the world", so that I might be able to grow or forage most of them. Oh sure, I take turmeric and won't be growing or foraging that - so there will be exceptions - but I'd like to know what herbs are somewhat local to me and what they do.

Bonus points if the book helps to identify the living plant. Extra bonus points if hints are given for ideal growing conditions and/or how to grow the plant.

Double bonus points if the book tells what part of the plant and exactly how to prepare it. For example, "dry the roots, crush, and make into tea or crush to powder and ingest in capsules." (that kind of thing) rather that being an encyclopedia of what herb alleviates what symptom or cures what disease.

If you feel that it is necessary, please recommend 2 books instead:
one on growing/identifying/foraging North American herbs
and
one on herbal medicine

Thanks in advance!

Dennis

[Dennis Leahy]

are you familiar with any of these books:

The Herbal Medicine-Maker's Handbook: A Home Manual - James Green

Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants in Wild (and Not So Wild) Places - Steve Brill

The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants: A Practical Reference Guide to over 550 Key Herbs and Their Medicinal Uses - Andrew Chevallier

Thanks,

Dennis

[DreamsInDigital]

I think also if you can find older books, like even about 100 or so years old or re-prints of the old ones. That is good as well. And, just because the herbs are from another country, if you have an compatible climate you can grow them also.

Rosemary is one you can never have enough of, so is Meadow Sweet (awesome anti-inflammatory that doesn't upset the stomach. Also, the only tolerable pain medication for those with Fibromyalgia) Wild Oregano is another really good one for all sorts of things, Chamomile, blue berry leaf, raspberry leaf ( plus bonus on the fruits being yummy and healthy also!)

[spiritwind]

One of my all time favorites is "Advanced Treatise in Herbology" by Edward E Shook. I have used many of the recipes in this book with great success. He also explains (maybe a little too much for some) the chemistry behind how/why they work. There are many others but this is the one I pull off the shelf first.

[Russ1959]

Hi Dennis,

I would definitely recommend James Wong's book "Grow Your Own Drugs" as a great source for growing your own natural remedies.

kind regards

Russ

[eileenrose]

I used Edgar Cayce's books which usually include some herbal remedies (plus other diet advice)....just look them up on AMazon and see if you like them (as he is a Westerner). I use Michael Tierra 'way of herbs' book as well. It has eastern and western herbs.

Shook "Advanced..." is a fun book (though probably more advanced than people realize). The elementary book he put out might be easier to begin with. But both excellent.

I use to take herbal classes and those are the best, as learning one herb at a time is the usual way to go.
I am still learning myself.

I find that once you got the principles of preparation down, for yourself (each tradition uses a different methodology), you can come up with your own remedies.
Which is the Chinese Medicine way and the way I go now, myself. As I rather do the formalation myself....unless it is complicated. Then I just recommend finding a local herbalist/chinese practioner to put the formula together for you (or point it out in pill form). Master this art form takes too long (if you are trying to healing yourself)....four years at accupuncture school.

Not easy at all (if you take on too much).

----
ps: Note: Personally, I havn't found just one book, or any several books, on herbs that satisfies me (is very applicable/versatile).

[wavydome]

I'm persuaded by the book below. It has nice write ups and w/1500 pics....

The Herb Society of America
New Encyclopedia of Herbs
& There Uses

My way has been taking the plunge without ideal coaching, but i'm still fairly fit.

I'm cutting down food intakes and am finally eating a lot of stinging nettle! It is just now beginning to bud up. I used to joke it puts fire in my belly, as a seasoning. But recently i half heard, half intuited that it's mineral blend is especially favorable for psychic strengths (& fitness). To say nothing of garden-bonding plus freshness for molecular, structural qualities. Taste is similar to spinach or whatnot, although i prepare my food hurriedly and am also trying to reduce my eating of trucked in foods, (for obvious reasons there, no?). Not at all adverse to the notion of subsisting on prana, if that transpires.

[eileenrose]

Posted by wavydome (here)
I'm persuaded by the book below. It has nice write ups and w/1500 pics....

The Herb Society of America
New Encyclopedia of Herbs
& There Uses

My way has been taking the plunge without ideal coaching, but i'm still fairly fit.

I'm cutting down food intakes and am finally eating a lot of stinging nettle! It is just now beginning to bud up. I used to joke it puts fire in my belly, as a seasoning. But recently i half heard, half intuited that it's mineral blend is especially favorable for psychic strengths (& fitness). To say nothing of garden-bonding plus freshness for molecular, structural qualities. Taste is similar to spinach or whatnot, although i prepare my food hurriedly and am also trying to reduce my eating of trucked in foods, (for obvious reasons there, no?). Not at all adverse to the notion of subsisting on prana, if that transpires.

For example, I don't muscle test (intuitively) this herb for you, Wavydome, (stinging nettles...one of my more favorites). Spinach...yes. Sometimes it is food we need (and not so much specific herbal remedies...though those helps). Just saying....if you were interested. As it helps with allergy season, those might be the affects that you are enjoying.

Some detoxing, like eating dandelion greens from your yard (unsprayed ones), is always handy as well. Wheatgrass....fine.
Anyway...hope that helps. It isn't just herbs that help (especially if you are guessing), but foods/juicing can do wonders (if what you need is specific nutrition).

Notes:
If it is an underlying adrenal deficiency (what I am getting), then accupunture is best (and maybe kudzu...a root...though don't know why...I see that for you as here it is used for sugar suppression/addiction...and is cooling...have to look up what else).

See. ...too complicated for just beginners....and no one really gets into herbs anymore.

To many 'easier?' or not pursued by FDA options (that is me...and friends...who have gotten out of the field to avoid these bozos).....

In general, people have a tendency to take the easy out (.hence the restriction of herbal products is underway in the USA, Europe right now....has been for 50 odd some years....as we didn't fight enough to keep these options available....my feeling anyway). Otherwise I'd be employed right now (doing this).
----

re: large books on herbs (just a note)
And I don't enjoy these types of herbal books. The only encylopedia's of herbs that makes any sense are the Chinese ones (which don't make sense unless you get trained in china). I am just saying...I can't recommend these huge books on herbs....not enough value for the buck (and often inaccurate...about how each herb works/etc.....maybe the people who can write books like this well won't.....or just they don't exist.....right now...in the West.)

[eileenrose]

Posted by Dennis Leahy (here)
I'd like to get a really good book on medicinal herbs. I will listen to guidance on the issue of scope or focus, but it seems like I would want "herbs of North America" rather than "herbs of the world", so that I might be able to grow or forage most of them. Oh sure, I take turmeric and won't be growing or foraging that - so there will be exceptions - but I'd like to know what herbs are somewhat local to me and what they do.

Bonus points if the book helps to identify the living plant. Extra bonus points if hints are given for ideal growing conditions and/or how to grow the plant.

Double bonus points if the book tells what part of the plant and exactly how to prepare it. For example, "dry the roots, crush, and make into tea or crush to powder and ingest in capsules." (that kind of thing) rather that being an encyclopedia of what herb alleviates what symptom or cures what disease.

If you feel that it is necessary, please recommend 2 books instead:
one on growing/identifying/foraging North American herbs
and
one on herbal medicine

Thanks in advance!

Dennis

On foraging, once in a while we have classes on foraging here in Santa Cruz. I'd go with one of those (a class, verses a book....tried the book way...but too hard to identify the plants from pictures...or so I found).

But honestly, only one women made any sense (I took three different masters classes in the 1990's)....and it was the Native American one (of course).

Just saying, we be are way too undereducated here (us westerners).

Based on her (native women) information (so accurate it was painful), I realized that no western class was getting it right.

Either they didn't know what they were doing, making it up as they went, or thought, like you do, that you can just point at a plant, pull it and eat or use it safely.

Needless to say, we did a lot of throwing up (as for some reason the America led classes loved to have people eat the local herbs. They would then say, if someone got ill from doing that, 'was our fault' or 'everyone's throws up, it's good for you', nonsense) in the American led classes (it was a little funny....and yes, I liked these classes too...or I should say I liked the teacher's popularity.....).

So I stopped taking American women/man classes and just took either Chinese or Native American (aryvedia ok to) classes after that.
No nonsense and makes sense (and is credible and won't make you ill).
But I am sure you will discover this on your own...it is a steep learning curve.

[mariposafe]

Despite its' age, Culpeper's is still outstanding in this field, and even if it fails to provide everything you're looking for, I'd still say that it's inconceivable your home should be without it !

Good luck

[Marianne]

Hey Dennis,

'The Herb Book' by John Lust - has info on 500+ herbs (materia medica) with line drawings, preparation and dosage info. Gives botanical classifications, how to store, prepare and use herbs. Available in paperback. Probably the best value and all around easy to reference book. One of the books on my 'must buy' list when I was an herbal apprentice. You can tuck it into your backpack. If I could only have one (!) this would be the one.

But I must tell you about David Hoffmann's giant tome, 'Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine' in case you want to dive into this subject deeper. I bought it as soon as it came out (I studied with him and knew he was working on this) and so it was only available in hard cover at $60.00. I think it's available in paperback now so would be cheaper. It's a huge book. He goes in depth into the phytochemistry of plants, talks about contraindications and safety, and gives info on formulations/preparations. He talks about using herbs by body systems (respiratory, digestive, nervous systems, etc.) which is helpful in trying to decide which herb(s) to use. Plus a complete materia medica (list of herbs with botanical name and common names, with information on parts used, constituents, actions, indications, safety considerations, and preparations/doseage).

The one by James Green, I know I have it and it's great, it gives in depth info on preparing herbal medicine. Also tells you how to make your own vinegar, which impressed the heck out of me! And if it speaks to you, it would give enough info on herbs to be very useful. I couldn't find it on my bookshelves this morning so I could look through again for the specific requirements you asked about. Hmm, maybe I lent it to someone. You could go to Amazon and look it up, look at the reviews of others to get an idea whether you'd like it.

Good luck!

PS: I agree that going on plant walks is the best way to learn about herbs and become familiar enough to use them safely. I studied for years, but it wasn't until I took an apprenticeship and spent the spring/summer/fall outdoors with the plants that I really learned about them.

[wavydome]

I think it is great to support books.... I never liked sitting still and reading extensively though. That is why the encyclopedic book fits us well, here-- Yes regarding life right here, perhaps not for others. My herbal need is just to make sure what was what. Preferring to get outside to work hands on instead... Not the 9-5 treadmill work, rather i build all kinds of stuff and study things in life. Make almost zero money nowadays, having invested my energy towards hands on living. Dealing with circumstances as these do arise.

More power to all who learn from multiple cultures, learn the arts of healing, etc... I had some fills of those things in the past, or as much as was available, in time and in place. Nothing much to brag about. But here we are, each in specific sets of circumstances.

In gratitude for life.


PS-- Muscle testing seems cool, not sure that really works for me, or dowsing, but great for those who benefit. A testing form i latched on to is what surrounds one's place. What plants grow well on our few acres, naturalized for almost 42 years, today. Nettle is here and i like powerful things. For each, may they find there own and prosper.... It is true though, i should spend more time gathering the numerous edibles and am hoping to do it more. If building projects will allow time for that. It helps one realize just how slavery arose ;-)

PS2- A thing about whole-istic preparation technique: grow it and naturalize it around you. Commerce can be cool, but my life has focussed on self naturalizing.

PS3- we need a thread to inspire people to live on the land, despite hands and knee work... For those of us with endless dreams of building better scenarios ;-)

[Dennis Leahy]

Wow, thanks for all the replies! I will read every word of your replies and check them all out!

Dennis

[13th Warrior]

I need to check my book shelf to verify...

I believe this is the book i obtained some 20 years ago; it's undoubtedly been updated and has a new book jacket.

Well illustrated and without too much information overload.

http://www.amazon.com/The-Complete-B.../dp/0140238026

[9eagle9]

Old book published around the turn of the century, sometimes hard to find...but will contain information that have been discarded over the last hundred years because some of the ingredients are rather repellent.

Jethro Klosses "Back to Eden".

Before Cayce's time (i think) but rather reminds one of him even though he didn't channel this information.

You would need a companion herb book because he's not always clear on dosing as that was given knowledge at the time.

Interesting too as the author has a decided prejudice about things like Dairy products, that people think is a more modern discovery in regards to food allergies.

Euell Gibbons is nearly forgotten about these days and better remembered for his Grape Nuts commericials , has a lot of good practical and easy books on what is referred to as forgotten herbs.

[Marianne]

Posted by wavydome (here)
I'm persuaded by the book below. It has nice write ups and w/1500 pics....

The Herb Society of America
New Encyclopedia of Herbs
& There Uses

My way has been taking the plunge without ideal coaching, but i'm still fairly fit.

I'm cutting down food intakes and am finally eating a lot of stinging nettle! It is just now beginning to bud up. I used to joke it puts fire in my belly, as a seasoning. But recently i half heard, half intuited that it's mineral blend is especially favorable for psychic strengths (& fitness). To say nothing of garden-bonding plus freshness for molecular, structural qualities. Taste is similar to spinach or whatnot, although i prepare my food hurriedly and am also trying to reduce my eating of trucked in foods, (for obvious reasons there, no?). Not at all adverse to the notion of subsisting on prana, if that transpires.

I agree about stinging nettle!! It's the one plant I'd have if I could choose only one. David Hoffmann says, 'if you don't know what's wrong with someone, give 'em nettles.'

And i think also that the plants impart their energy imprints when we ingest them.

Besides stinging nettle, the wild ones most dear to me are elderflower and elderberry, goldenrod, meadowsweet, St. Johnswort, wild bee balm (the lavender flowered one), comfrey, dandelion, violet, red clover, and burdock ... to name a few!

Sorry Dennis to go off topic, here's your thread back ...

[SilentFeathers]

This is one of the best books I have in my collection (or read), excellent for those who live in the Eastern US.

The Cherokee Herbal: Native Plant Medicine from the Four Directions

A practical guide to the medicinal uses of over 450 plants and herbs as applied in the traditional practices of the Cherokee. • Details the uses of over 450 plants for the treatment of over 120 ailments. • Written by the coauthor of Medicine of the Cherokee (40,000 copies sold). • Explains the healing elements of the Four Directions and the plants associated with them. • Includes traditional teaching tales as told to the author by Cherokee Elders. In this rare collection of the acquired herbal knowledge of Cherokee Elders, author J. T. Garrett presents the healing properties and medicinal applications of over 450 North American plants.

http://www.google.com/products/catal...ed=0CG4Q8wIwAg

[Arrowwind]

Culpepper's is worth having and a .01 cent for a used copy you cant beat the price. Personally I dont think you can have too many herbal books. Each provides its own insights and uses of plants that are overlooked by others.


http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss...ripbooks%2C368

[modwiz]

Posted by mariposafe (here)
Despite its' age, Culpeper's is still outstanding in this field, and even if it fails to provide everything you're looking for, I'd still say that it's inconceivable your home should be without it !

Good luck

The planetary affiliations, given by Culpeper, are a treasure trove of information when you understand the application of energy to a condition as well as the chemical composition. Ones' insight allows for unique synergies of bio-chemical/energetic remedies that can produce astounding results.

[eileenrose]

Posted by Marianne (here)

Posted by wavydome (here)
I'm persuaded by the book below. It has nice write ups and w/1500 pics....

The Herb Society of America
New Encyclopedia of Herbs
& There Uses

My way has been taking the plunge without ideal coaching, but i'm still fairly fit.

I'm cutting down food intakes and am finally eating a lot of stinging nettle! It is just now beginning to bud up. I used to joke it puts fire in my belly, as a seasoning. But recently i half heard, half intuited that it's mineral blend is especially favorable for psychic strengths (& fitness). To say nothing of garden-bonding plus freshness for molecular, structural qualities. Taste is similar to spinach or whatnot, although i prepare my food hurriedly and am also trying to reduce my eating of trucked in foods, (for obvious reasons there, no?). Not at all adverse to the notion of subsisting on prana, if that transpires.

I agree about stinging nettle!! It's the one plant I'd have if I could choose only one. David Hoffmann says, 'if you don't know what's wrong with someone, give 'em nettles.'

And i think also that the plants impart their energy imprints when we ingest them.

Besides stinging nettle, the wild ones most dear to me are elderflower and elderberry, goldenrod, meadowsweet, St. Johnswort, wild bee balm (the lavender flowered one), comfrey, dandelion, violet, red clover, and burdock ... to name a few!

Sorry Dennis to go off topic, here's your thread back ...

Off the top of my head (ps: using herbs like they are food isn't wise....it is foolish....as someone was comparing the two as equal. You can eat tons of spinach and all you get are flecks between your teeth, but you over eat an herb and you can aggravate all kinds of yang/yin deficiencies. Apples....oranges....)

Elderberry flowers - one part of a three part formula for cold and flu.
Goldenrod: - urinary track infection
Meadow sweet - 1 part of formula for headaches
St. Johnswort - depression (though have never muscle tested this to be sure...just read it)
Comfrey - pretty safe, I use topically...1 part of formula for external wounds (Ed's Salve)
Dandelion - pretty safe to eat leaves, detox liver
Red clover - I've seen used in purifying solutions (once for cancer?...I think
)...used with burdock/yellow dock...but never used myself (hasn't come up)

I see cold flu treatment, liver detox, salve for external wounds, anti-fungal treatment (goldenrod).

....just saying...I see medical treatments...not food. Just want to make that clear (not to just randomly eat these plants....perhaps only Dandelion leaves are safe for that anytime).