Take a photo of a barcode or cover
4.11 AVERAGE
4.11 AVERAGE
This is an excellent introductory book for the aspiring herbalist interested in holistic, plant-based medicine. While it only scratched the surface, the book was perfectly suited for beginners who are just trying their hand at herbal remedies. It wasn't the most scientific book I've come across on the topic, but Pursell was methodically thorough in her approach; I never felt overwhelmed by the content. I highly recommend this book for those who are considering pursuing herbalism as a serious hobby.
informative
slow-paced
The book doesn't speak about where the plants listed grow, if they're invasive species in certain places, or where they are indigenous to. This feels like a huge chunk of information that's been left out.
Even just "nettles have two species that have hybridized and naturalized throughout the world" or a mention of which chickweed or which elder plant they're talking about, not just listing a scientific name and hoping people get it right.
The book also lists endangered and protected plants for medicinal use! Do your research and make sure that you're buying from a reputable supplier, and if you gather plants yourself, be mindful.
Even just "nettles have two species that have hybridized and naturalized throughout the world" or a mention of which chickweed or which elder plant they're talking about, not just listing a scientific name and hoping people get it right.
The book also lists endangered and protected plants for medicinal use! Do your research and make sure that you're buying from a reputable supplier, and if you gather plants yourself, be mindful.
informative
relaxing
slow-paced
The way this book is organized makes understanding herbal apothecary easy, AND safe. As I have been foraging, growing, and saving a multitude of plants, I knew they were useful and general purposes, but this book gives explicit dosages, directions, and how-to not just use them, but use them safely and for best outcomes.
This book is well-written, I find myself disagreeing with one or two things, but I find this a common thing in a field like this. I wouldn’t rely solely on this as a reference. It’s good to have but there are more comprehensive and complete sources out there. But for an introduction to some of the herbs listed it is good.