A Reference Guide to Medicinal Plants: Herbal Medicine Past and Present - Paperback

by John K. Crellin (Author)

Reissued as a companion edition to Trying to Give Ease: Tommie Bass and the Story of Herbal Medicine, this illustrated reference guide covers over 700 medicinal plants, of which more than 150 are readily obtainable in health food stores and other outlets. Based on the Appalachian herbal practice of the late A. L. "Tommie" Bass, each account of a plant includes the herbalist's comment, an assessment of the plant's efficacy, and current information on its chemical constituents and pharmacological effects. Unlike most herbal guides, this is a comprehensive, fully documented reference work that interweaves scientific evaluation with folkloric use.

Back Jacket

The historical comments that follow Bass's opinions are truly excellent. Detailed nad well referenced, they are essential reading for all persons interested in the history of herbs and their use.--Varro E. Tyler, "Pharmacy in History"

Author Biography

John K. Crellin, Clinch Professor of the History of Medicine at Memorial University of Newfoundland, is a physician, pharmacist, and historian. His books include Medical Ceramics in the Wellcome Institute and Home Medicine: The Newfoundland Experience.

Before her death in 1997, Jane Philpott was Professor Emerita in the Department of Botany and the School of Forestry and Environmental Studies at Duke University.