Jean Willoughby

This book gives an overview of some of the ways that you can use herbs to improve your health and well-being. It is sectioned into chapters according to the health issue that you wish to address, such as 'skin care' or 'immunity'. Within those chapters, it is sectioned by herb, with each section addressing the ways that a particular herb can help with this issue, including teas, ointments,etc. An illustration of the herb is included, as well as some notes about the history of its use. I can't help but think that particular recipes for teas or herbal preparations would be useful, although this is interesting from a botanical point of view.… (més)

This is a book about the history, folklore, and possible health benefits of 57 different herbs and herbal combinations. The book's layout is very useful; it is divided into nine chapters, each chapter covering a different condition, and then gives one or two pages each to several herbs that may be beneficial for that condition. The chapters are: Enhanced Energy, Strengthened Immunity & Cold Relief, Digestive Health, Emotional Balence & Stress Management, Hormonal Harmony, Mental Clarity & Focus, Pain Relief, Skin Care, and Improved Sleep.
While this book may be good for somebody just getting interested in herbs, it isn't very thorough and therefor might not be the best for people with a more advanced interest. It doesn't mention dosage, the herbs discussed are limited, and there are a couple mistakes. One of the more obvious mistakes is where the author writes of "phytochemicals with antibacterial and antiviral properties, both of which may help reduce the duration of colds or act as preventative measures." The only benefit (other than the placebo effect) possibly derived from an antibactial during a cold is fighting any secondary infections caused by a lowered immune system, but an antibacterial will not fight a cold virus. On the same page it also makes the broad statement that "unlike pharmaceuticals, herbs don't cause unwelcome side effects such as drowsiness and cloudy thinking", while as a matter of fact they can. The side effects of properly used herbs are often fewer and more mild than pharmaceuticals, and some herbs have no side effects whatsoever, but to make the statement that all herbs are free from unwelcome side effects is wrong and can lead to dangerous results with people who don't know any better.
All in all, the book seems to have gotten most things right, and it is still informative enough. The history, folklore, and uses are interesting, and the full-page watercolor pictures given for most herbs in the book are detailed and very beautiful.… (més)