Product Description

Fully updated with the latest developments in herbal science, this book provides an essential guide to gaining and maintaining good health through a holistic approach.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #47676 in Books
• Published on: 1998-08-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 416 pages

Customer Reviews

Excellent reference but lacking in treatment for ailments
This book is an excellent staple to understanding the basic properties of herbs, their energy (cool or warm) and what systems are affected. The definitions of herbal properties were clear and concise (alteratives, diuretics, etc.) The section on diagnosis and treatment listed Yin and Yang conditions and how to apply Yin/Yang theory to herbal medicine. This was helpful in understanding the energy of a plant. Both Western and Oriental herbs are listed in seperate sections and is fairly extensive. Most dosage recommendations, however, are listed in tincture or infusion form with little information on application through "00" or "0" capsules. In the Treatments for Specific Ailments section, the ailments are generalized like menstrual cramps, colds, constipation, coughs and sore throats, etc. While a very good basic foundation it does not elaborate on the different symptoms, for example, of a cold. Do they need a respiratory relaxant or stimulant, a demulcent or an anticatarrhal? Many of the remedies are in infusion or decoction form which is not practical for someone to have dry herbs in bulk to prepare this recommended blend. Also for client compliancy it is not realistic. The last chapter on magnetic therapy, while highly informative, has no place in an herbal resource book. I found this book to be in an easy to read format and a valuable basic resource book for a begining to intermediate herbalist.

The herbalist's must-have
This is perhaps the best book on herbal medicine I have ever read. Tierra covers not only the botanical and therapeutic properties of herbs, he shows with great clarity how they fit into the wider context of holistic healing. His integration of traditional Western herbalism with Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine--and he is a master of all three--justifies his proprietary name of "Planetary Medicine."

Awesome introduction
I am a midwifery student just getting into herbalism. My best friend is an herbalist, so I knew a little bit going in. This book is a fantastic introduction. The basics are laid out in a really straight-forward and helpful manner. Once you start getting comfortable with it, the reference bit is fantastic for quickly finding things. Michael Tierra does a fantastic job of walking the line between mysticism and science. He provides enough of the physical workings of the herbs to satisfy a rational mind, but doesn't lose track of the spiritual connection.