Herbal Medicine: Trends and Traditions (A Comprehensive Sourcebook on the Preparation and Use of Medicinal Plants)

Hands down, this is THE most comprehensive book out (as of 2023) that covers 1) plant identification, 2) plant use history (including indigenous use), 3) medicinal preparations, 4) indications, 5) dosages, 6) cautions,and 7) how, what, where & when to collect the plants. It even includes the chemical compounds found in each plant. I've not seen that anywhere else, much less all of the above (and more) in one book.For people interested in making herbal medicines, this book is not only a must have, it will find a place at the very top of your stack of plant books. While this edition is well worth the expense, know that author Charles Kane has also put out editions that cover specific, reduced-area editions whose costs are in turn reduced.Two such books are "Medicinal Plants of the American Southwest" and "Medicinal Plants of the Western Mountain States". (There are many more.) I started with the one on southwest plants myself. Impressed with the contents of that book, I've gone on to purchase more of Charles Kane's books, including this one.Whether you are a pactitioner, hobbyist, or armchair enthusiast, you will find an indispensable wealth of information within these pages.P.S. I know my review is glowing -- but it's 100% sincere. In this day and age of skepticism, let me add that no one asked me nor paid me to write this, nor do I know or am I related to the author, Charles Kane. I have looked for a book similar to this since 1980... it went well beyond what I imagined such a book should contain.

The book provides much information, and much of the information comes from his personal experience as he provides information to customers, yet it's lacking in the detail that I was looking for.From the most comprehensive review I read on this book, I was expecting to find a more comprehensive review of the methods of extractions, as well as precise preparations customized for each ingredient.Unfortunately there is a uniform concentration that he advises for either fresh herbs or dry herbs, and the difference between the use of veg. glycerin, water, alcohol, or apple cider vinegar is not as comprehensive as provided in the pagan book I attempted to avoid (for the mis-guiding teaching that lead into new-age/sensuality) called The Herbal Medicine-Maker's Handbook.The Herbal Medicine-Maker's Handbook, although written by a new-ager, provides incredible detail not offered in this book unfortunately.I still give it 4 stars because it's a well though-out textbook that provides more information than many others.

I needed a good book to explain herbal plants and preparations. I believe that the only difference between prescription medicine of today and the herbs that our early ancestors used is the poisonous chemicals like mercury, lead and/or whatever else they add to the herbs today, thus the many terrible side effect. Herbs either heal you or kill you if you pick the and use the wrong herb. Now all I have to do is find a book that shows herb not to take if I'm taking a prescribed med. I like the book. It was shipped and received promptly. Great service.Herbal Medicine: Trends and Traditions (A Comprehensive Sourcebook on the Preparation and Use of Medicinal Plants) (Herbal Medicine Trends and Traditions)

this book is very scientific. to me, that makes it much more valuable than a more general "because I said so" type of book. I love the author. very inspiring book. he is very cool in that he isn't a total complete "everything natural is perfect" kind of guy, he is a more evidence based "do what works, but this is safer". and proves the exact chemical components of many many plants and how they can work for you, also includes dangers and bewares which is very important to know, since I plan to use these medicines on my children.

My interest in this book first sparked when I checked it out at my local library, which, apparently is full of gems! I had to own this book for myself because it is awesome to reference when preparing a multitude of herbs. It's a great book to start off with of you're just getting into herbs, and I would even recommend to those who are already lightly studying herbology. This book has helped me understand so much about herbs, and I am in love with it! :D

Great book on hebal medicinals of the southwest. anybody who is into living off the land or is a hebalist thisis the book for you. the only downside is that it doesnt give pictures for all the plants thats why i gave it 4 stars.

After reading the description and reviews of this book I was a little disappointed after receiving as it did not have the dosage information I needed and was the reason I purchased it.

A great book ,, I am busy making my herbs and feeling great ,for a old man. The book gives great instructions for all of the herbs in the book. I recommend this book to all.

My Mother loved it - the perfect birthday present for her - thank you