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Accessible Gardening: Tips & Techniques for Seniors & the
Disabled ...
Joann Woy, Stackpole Books (5067
Ritter Rd., Mechanicsburg, PA 17055-6921), softcover, 1997, 224 pages, $16.95. Though
gardening is therapeutic, there are many that are unable to enjoy its benefits because of
disabilities. This excellent book will give a boost to those out there that have foregone
this pleasure due to injuries or aging. There are so many ideas to help gardening
enthusiasts that I have no idea where to begin
..how about trash bag gardening? Or
easy composting ideas? Or dozens of tools that make maintaining a garden easy. And the
absolute best part is the source list---165 different companies and groups that bring
gardening back to those that haven't been able to enjoy it.
Adrianas
Spice Caravan ... Adriana and Rochelle Zabarkes, Storey (Schoolhouse Rd.,
Pownal,
VT 05261); softcover; 203 pages; $14.95; ISBN: 0-88266-987-7. And while were on the
subject of cookbooks, this is one youll love if you like some heat in your food. How
about "Searingly Hot Ethiopian Lamb Stew"? Or "Lemon Pepper Bluefish with
Chipotle Chile Cream?" I think its wonderful
.
Flower
Essences fascinate me…probably because they work.
Advanced Bach Flower Therapy by Gotz Blome, M.D. (Healing
Arts Press, 1999 translation; softcover; $19.95; 389 pages; ISBN:
0-89281-828-X) goes into great depths at diagnosing and treating
emotional disorders with the various Bach remedies.
Much more than the normal flower essence book it will give you a
much greater understanding of what they can do and when they are
appropriate.
The Agony of the Leaves:
The Ecstasy of My Lives in Tea ... Helen Gustafson, Henry Holt, 115 W 18th St., New
York, NY 10011; hardcover; 1996 $23; 174 pages. There are books you get as review copies
(why do you think I have so many books?) and those you buy
.this is one I bought so I
can be really honest. This one is charming as you read about a woman's life through her
experiences around the world with tea. Sure there are recipes scattered throughout and
information about tea and its history but it's more of a love affair with tea from a tea
buyer and contributing editor of Tea Quarterly. Get it!
Herbs
for Pets ... A
much larger tome on the subject of pet care is All You Ever Wanted to
Know About Herbs for Pets by Mary L. Wulff-Tilford & Gregory
Tilford.
(Bowtie Press; 1999; hardcopy; 415 pages; ISBN: 1-889540-46-3).
Filled with Greg’s gorgeous plant photos (he’s also the
author of several field guides), you’ll get not only a good material
medica but treatment of various common pet ailments.
And it’s rounded out with information on using both flower
essences and homeopathy on pets as well.
Great book and if you buy quick (by the end of June) you’ll get
a $10 discount….only $39.95)
Along the Garden Path
... Bill & Sylvia Varney, Fredericksburg Herb Farm, PO Drawer 927, Fredericksburg, TX
78624-0927; 1995; hardcover; 176 pages; $24.95. One thing you can rely on, anything
Fredericksburg Herb Farm does will look like quality and this cookbook is no exception.
You're going to find some interesting creations here
.Chaucer's Love Dish with rose
petals, dates, pine nuts and almond milk; Rose Geranium Buttermilk Pies or Italian Cream
Cake; Cinnamon Basil Ice Cream and lots more. There's also information on growing herbs
and many non-culinary recipes. This book is one you'll use over and over no matter what
your experience level.
Aquatic Plants
and Their Cultivation ... By now most of us have realized that a business
cant subsist solely on selling herbs. You need to add other areas to capture the
customers attention and I cant imagine a better choice than water gardening.
It seems to just flow with herbs and the ambiance it creates. Auquatic Plants and Their
Cultivation (Helen Nash with Steve Stroupe; Sterling; 1998; hardcover; 224 pages;
ISBN: 0-8069-9979-9) gives you complete cultivation information to help you and your
customers grow healthy plants for their new interest. Beautiful photographs urge you to
start your own creation and theres plenty of information on dealing with pests and
disease problems. Excellent reference book.
Aromatherapy
for Healing the Spirit ... Aromatherapy
is always with us and a recent book by Gabriel Mojay, Aromatherapy
for Healing the Spirit (Healing Arts Press, 1997; softcover; $19.95;
191 pages; IS N: 0-89281-887-5) has its focus on restoring emotional
balance whether the problem is depression, anger, frustration, or
relationship issues.
Applied through massage you’ll learn blends that will help your
clients cope with many of life’s issues a bit better.
Asian Health Secrets
... Letha Hadady, Crown (301 E 50th St, NY, NY 10022) hardcover; 1996; 512 pages; $27.50.
A good guide and introduction to various alternative herbal treatments: Chinese, Ayurvedic
and Tibetan. Most of the books I've seen were written for practitioners or serious
students of Asian medicine. This book the average layperson can easily follow with English
translation of most of the herbs involved. Also sections on food as medicine and specific
complaints such as arthritis, women's health, skin and hair care. I'm not an expert on the
subject so I can't vouch for accuracy of everything but I found it interesting and would
recommend it.
At Home with Herbs ...
Jane Newdick, Storey Communications, Schoolhouse Road, Pownal, VT 05261; 1994; hardcover;
220 pages; $29.95. Believe it or not there are always beginners on the herb obsession path
and this book will help fuel that passion. Nothing tremendously elaborate or wildly
different here for those who have been playing longer
.but the color photographs and
easy instructions will be very beneficial to newbies.
Aromatherapy: A Complete
Guide to the Healing Art ... Kathi Keville & Mindy Green; The Crossing Press, PO
Box 1048, Freedom, CA 95019; 1995; softcover; $14.95; 156 pages. With two authors like
this, how could the book fail? Not a million recipes like some others, but really full of
information on not only aromatherapy as a science but material on essential oils including
using them for cooking (Savory Cheese Torta using basil oil) and body care products. A lot
of jaded book buyers found this one an excellent resource.
The Aromatherapy and
Massage Book ... Christine Wildwood; Thorsons, An Imprint of Harper Collins; 1994;
softcover; 128 pages; $16. The aromatherapy information is extremely basic and the
majority of material is on massage. There are a lot better books out there on the subject.
Aromatherapy
for Dummies (--For Dummies)
...
by Kathi Keville is certainly not
just for the novice.
(IDG Books, 1999; softcover; 360 pages; $19.99; ISBN:
0-7645-5171-X).
Like all the “Dummy” books (and I have a slew of them) its
layout and indexing make it extremely easy to find the answer to your
specific question.
You’ll learn how to tell good oils from inferior ones, using
aromatherapy throughout your life, creating your own blends and treating
common ailments.
Even if you consider yourself beyond the “dummy” stage, your
customers may find this exactly what they need to introduce them to the
world of essential oils.
Aromatherapy
for Lovers and Dreamers ... And how could I resist a book entitled Aromatherapy
for Lovers and Dreamers? (Judith White, Karen Downes, Leon Nacson, 1995, Crown Trade,
softcover; 102 pages; $11; ISBN: 0-517-88667-7) But it wasnt too exciting. A few
ideas for oil blends; some general hints about romance
and thats pretty much it
Aromatherapy for Mind and
Body ... David & Carol Schiller, Sterling Publishing, 387 Park Ave., South, New
York, NY 10016, 1996; softcover, 128 pages, $9.95. It's OK, there are a lot better out
there. Numerous formulas to use for meditation, visualization, dreaming, etc. There is a
section on weight loss that incorporates using essential oils for cellulite reduction
through bath and massage, exercise, etc.
Aromatherapy for
Practitioners ... Ulla-Maija Grace, C.W. Daniel, 1 Church Path, Saffron Walden, Essex,
CB10 1JP, UK; 1996; softcover; $17.95; 179 pages. A no-nonsense, practical guide to what
oils to use for what conditions with contraindications. Specific ailments are discussed
and what applications of essential oils are recommended. It's a textbook type so don't
expect warm and fuzzy.
The Aromatherapy Guide (Second Edition)
... Susan Hollick, 1996, Vencom Publishing, PO Box 59007, Mississauga, ONT L4T 4J1,
Canada;
email: hollick@informamp.net;
softcover; $12.95 ... Looking for a directory of aromatherapy products? Things like
essential oil suppliers, distributors, associations
.anything to do with
aromatherapy? Then get this directory right away. Excellent profiles of all the companies
listed.
Aromatherapy Oils: A
Complete Guide ... PatrCarol & David Schiller, Sterling, 1996,
softcover, 160
pages, $14.95. There's that "complete" word again
..always a scary word
especially in a book only 160 pages on such a vast subject. Good chapter on vegetal oils
and butters which is a subject rarely addressed this comprehensively. As for the bulk of
the book on essential oils
.it's a low redo of Julia Lawless' book
.and it
doesn't have the pictures.
An Astrological Herbal For
Women ... What's new books without at least a couple in the "grey" area (as
my friend Arlene likes to put it). So we have An Astrological Herbal For Women by
Elisabeth Brooke, Crossing Press, Inc. 800-777-1048; softcover; 237 pages; 1995; $12.95).
Recipes, charms, folklore, a little medicine, a few rituals. Add it to your Scott
Cunningham collection.
The
Ayurveda Encyclopedia is definitely not only an impressive reference
book but truly a work of love on the part of its author, Swami Sada
Shiva Tirtha (Ayurveda Holistic Center Press, 82A Bayville Ave.,
Bayville, NY 11709,
http://ayurvedahc.com/press.htm
softcover, 668 pages; $34.95; 1998).
This is one of the most complete one-book texts I’ve seen on
Ayurveda and includes the philosophy of this ancient holistic medicine
system as well as ailments and their treatments and an in-depth
discussion of both Herbology and Aromatherapy as applicable to Ayurveda.
85 herbs are profiled.
There is so much information I can’t possibly do it justice
here so I suggest checking out their website to read Chapter 1 which
will tempt you to get this book for your own medicinal library.
Baby's First Herbal Health
Book ... Teri Adolfo-Majewski, The Herbal
Peasant, PO Box 162547, Sacramento CA 95816-2547, 1996; spiral bound paperback. A great
gift for a new herbal mother with remedies for diaper rash, ear ache, teething, colic and
every other childhood ailment you can think of. I especially liked the chapter titles:
Mommy my Bottom Burns and Mommy I have runny poop! No questions there about what the
problem is. Great shower gift.
Bach Flower
Massage ... Daniele Lo Rito, Healing Arts Press, 1997;
softcover; $14.95; 198
pages; ISBN: 0-89281-736-4 Weve all heard of aromatherapy massage but have you ever
considered the potential of using flower essences in bodywork? This is an extremely
interesting concept showing how to combine two forms of healing for very specific
conditions. I havent tried them yet, but Im anxious to get started.
Recommended.
Bach Flower Remedies for
Children ... Healing Arts Press (One Park Street, Rochester, VT 05767) has released
some excellent books on herbs and alternative healing methods recently
.with more on
the way. If flower remedies are one of your interests, and especially if you're carrying
them in your shop, you should look into Bach Flower Remedies for Children by
Barbara Mazzarella (1994, softcover, $14.95, 184 pages; ISBN 0-89281-649-X) With so many
parents trying to avoid drugs like Ritalin, the use of flower essences in conjunction with
dietary changes may provide the help they need. The book is also filled with stories that
can be read to the children and visualization exercises the parents can help with.
Bach Flower Remedies for
Men ... Stefan Ball, C.W. Daniel Co., Ltd (available in US from National Book Network
301-459-3366 and New Leaf 770-948-7845); softcover; 1996; 195 pages; $14.95. There are so
few books out there dealing specifically with men's healing that any new one is welcomed.
And this is especially good because it deals with men's emotional issues
.you
know
.things like that mid-life crisis they all deny having? J This one is an
excellent one to have on your personal shelf for dealing with men in your life or for your
customers to take home (male and female). Subjects covered are fatherhood, stresses from
work, sexual problems, finding fulfillment along with specific physiological complaints
like hair loss, heart disease and prostate problems. I'm running right out and picking up
several bottles for someone I know.
Backyard Battle
Plan ... If critters are destroying your gardens and you feel overwhelmed, Backyard
Battle Plan may be your salvation. (Cooper Rutledge, Penguin, 1998,
softcover, 218
pages, $16.95, ISBN: 0-14-027208-9) This covers everything from your neighbors cat
to opossums and raccoons, from moles to moose, and not to forget insects. Its mostly
animal-friendly (with exceptions) to give them their own space on the planet but NIMBY
(but not in my back yard). If youve got problems youll want this book and
Im sure if you sell books in your shop, your customers will appreciate it as well.
Basic Herb Cookery ... Rose Marie
Nichols McGee and N.P. Nichols, Nichols Nursery Garden Press (1190 Old Salem Rd., NE,
Albany, OR 97321); 1996; softcover; $10.95; 128 pages. There aren't too many businesses
that have been selling herbs as long as Nichols Garden Nursery. And in all that time
they've learned a thing or two about cooking with those herbs. You and your customers will
pick up interesting new ways to use fresh herbs and lighter versions of some standard
recipes. Think how your next Open House will go over with a Chive Blossom Sage Cheese Log
or Basil Salsa? And even Peter Gail might enjoy that Dandelion Bud Omelet.
Basil: An Herb Lover's
Guide ... Thomas DeBaggio & Susan Belsinger, Interweave Press;
softcover; $19.95;
1996; 144 pages. I admit I'm biased about Tom and his writing. I actually stop everything
I'm doing when his twice yearly newsletter comes to read his "Peep's Corner". So
any book with his name on it gets my attention. You will love this one. If you only knew
about 4 or 5 kinds of basil you'll find out there's a lot more along with recipes that
only Susan Belsinger could have come up with. So GET THIS BOOK and be the only grower in
your area to offer a comprehensive basil collection along with info on how your customers
(including chefs) can benefit from your new knowledge.
Beautiful Easy Herbs
... Laurence Sombke, Rodale, 33 East Minor St., Emmaus, PA 18098; $27.95; 1997; hardcover;
277 pages; ISBN 0-87596-771-X. A lovely book for beginners that incorporates profiles on
specific plants, uses, garden designs and recipes (Linguine with Many-Basils Pesto). A
very nice starter book for those getting into herbs with plenty of color photographs to
help in identification.
The Best of Thymes ... Marge Clark,
Thyme Cookbooks, 6242 W. State Road 28, West Lebanon, IN 47991; 1997; hardcover; 410
pages; $25. This book is mega-impressive for several reasons. First, it's the best example
of a first class self-published book, bar none. You will think that one of the major
publishers put this out
.except it's less expensive. It's divided into sections by
individual herbs and has hundreds of well-tested recipes (Marge and her husband Dick
raised a housefull of boys on an Indiana farm). So these are not recipes an author just
dreamed up. For a delightful book of herbal recipes pick this one up.
What
can someone say about a book written by Tom DeBaggio and
Dr. Art Tucker? You
know it will be taxonomically perfect.
And The Big Book of Herbs is that
and more. (Interweave Press, 2000, $39.95, hardcover,
688 pages) Though
I wish it covered medicinal plants, there’s not a
culinary or fragrant one that’s not discussed.
Most give good cultivation information.
All have major uses along with important
chemistry information.
This is a must have for your reference library.
And if you order through us online (http://www.herbworld.com)
you’ll get free shipping as well thanks to Interweave
Press.
Biomagnetic and Herbal
Therapy ... Michael Tierra, Lotus Light, PO Box 325, Twin Lakes, WI 53181;
softcover;
95 pages; 1997; $10.95; ISBN 0-914955-33-0. If you've been to any of Michael's lectures
over the last couple of years, you'll have heard me extol the virtues of magnet therapy.
If you're clueless or need some clarifying, this little book will give you the basics
along with resources to get the magnets and further information on the process.
Blended Beauty: Botanical
Secrets for Body & Soul ... Philip B., Ten Speed Press, PO Box 7123, Berkeley, CA
94707; 1995; hardcover; 146 pages; $24.95. For those interested in botanical body care
using products from their kitchen this book has a variety of interests for you. The
creator of Philip B. Hair and Skin Care line gives you many of his secrets including
Oregano Hair Detangler, Chocolate-Pumpkin Conditioning Hair Milk and Cucumber-Parsley
Facial Toner. Great ideas and the majority don't require hard-to-find ingredients.
The Bodacious
Book of Succulence ... by Sark (Fireside Books, 179 pages;
softcover; 1998; $15;
ISBN: 0-684-83377-8) Ive mentioned Sarks books before and this one is even
more fun. The kind of book you keep by your bed just to give you a boost when you get up
or whenever you need a push to live that succulent wild life. And check out her website at
http://www.campsark.com
The Book of
Green Tea ... As the benefits of green tea become the focus of increasing
research, The Book of Green Tea by Diana Rosen (Storey, 1998,
softcover; 155 pages;
$16.95; ISBN: 1-58017-090-0) will give you all the information you need for either your
own use or as material for a possible class. In addition to the history and research
youll find green tea recipes and green tea remedies. Learn the various varieties and
the proper way to serve it.
Botanical Safety Handbook
... Edited by Michael McGuffin, Christopher Hobbs, Roy Upton, Alicia Goldberg, CRC Press,
1997; hardcover; 231 pages; ISBN 0-8493-1675-8. An absolutely necessary reference book in
regard to cautions and contraindications of more than 600 plants. Don't expect fun
reading
.it's strictly a reference book. BUY IT!
Bread Baking
with Herbs ... Mimi Luebbermann, Prima Press (PO Box 1260, Rocklin, CA 95677);
hardcopy; 1996; 208 pages: ISBN: 0-7615-0245-9; $15 (but it was in the bargain books for
$4) I love home made bread and I love herbs so what better cookbook to add to my too large
collection than this one. Lots of good recipes and even ones to use up the leftover bread
(?) like puddings, cakes and pies. Nice addition.
The Budget Gardener: Twice
the Garden for Half the Price ... Maureen Gilmer, Penguin Books, 375 Hudson St., New
York, NY 10014; 1996; 194 pages; $13.95. Now I can't think of one herb person I know that
isn't a wee bit thrifty. So when I saw this book I knew that most of you would find dozens
of ideas to create that oasis more economically. Whether it's recycling ideas,
water-saving strategies or better plant shopping, you'll find something here that will
justify the price of the book (which is rather thrifty too)
Building Your Own
Greenhouse (Greenhouse Basics) ... Mark Freeman, Stackpole Books 5067 Ritter Rd.,
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055, 1997; softcover; 198 pages; $18.95. If you're into herbs there
comes a time when you want/need a greenhouse. And if you're just starting out you rarely
have the financial resources to buy that newest and latest one you saw in the catalog.
Here's everything you need to build your own with 11 specific examples. It gives you all
the details on framing, glazing, ventilating, insulating, plumbing, wiring and there's
lists of suppliers throughout the US and Canada. And if you've already got
yours
.maybe your customers would welcome this book
..that way they can buy more
of those tender perennials you've been trying to hook them on.
The
California Wine Country Herbs & Spices Cookbook ... Yes, I did admit
Im a cookbook junkie. I guess there are worse habits :-) And when I saw The
California Wine Country Herbs & Spices Cookbook by Virginia & Robert Hoffman
(The Hoffman Press, PO Box 2996, Santa Rosa, CA 95405; 1998; softcover; 240 pages; $14.95;
ISBN" 0-9629927-7-1) I quickly started searching through it for ideas for some of the
more unusual herbs and I was pleased to find some. There was "Seared Venison Tartar
with Pink Peppercorn Crust and Pickled Beets" and a "Cilantro Cured Salmon"
along with lots of new ways to incorporate the traditional basil, marjoram and ginger into
recipes from 96 winery chefs and winemakers. And there are suggestions on what wine to
serve. Youll find some here that will become your favorites too.
Cancer Salves: A Botanical Approach
to Treatment ... Dr. Ingrid Naiman, Seventh Ray Press (North Atlantic Books is
coming out with an updated version of this any day); 1997. This book is so wonderful that
we even excerpted a chapter on our website at http://www.herbnet.com (Herb Press area). And after meeting Ingrid in
person and having her speak at our San Antonio conference I want to give this book even
more press because the concepts are so fascinating. She discusses protocol for using plant
based salves to pull tumors out of the body. Ive talked to 2 of her patients and
their stories were amazing. Highly recommended. And check out her website at http://www.cancersalves.com
The Charmed Kitchen:
Cooking With Herbs and Spices ... Judi Strauss, Goosefoot Acres Press, PO Box 18016,
Cleveland, OH 44118-0016; softcover; 1996; 399 pages; $20. Everyone can use another
general herbal cookbook and this one will fill the bill. Great section on beverages that
has things like Basil Mary, Lemon Basil Cooler. Learn to make your own Chorizo. This book
is great for those that want to try herbs but don't want to be too extreme. Pretty good.
Chemistry and Applications
of Green Tea ... Edited by Takehiko Yamamoto, Lekh Raj Juneja, Doing-Chi Chu and Mujo
Kim; CRC Press, 2000 Corporate Blvd., NW, Boca Raton, FL 33431; 1997; hardcover; 160
pages; ISBN: 0-8493-4006-3. Green tea has been in the news for the last couple of years
for all its possible healing benefits. Here's some solid background on why and how it
works. Well documented with plenty of references you can learn Thea
sinensis' effect on
the prevention of colon cancer, its use as an antioxidant, it's sedative and deodorant
effects and its help in preventing tooth decay. When clients and customers question you,
you'll have more than enough research to back up your statements. Recommended and
interesting (though very textbook like).
The Chinese System of Using
Foods to Stay Young ... Henry C. Lu, Sterling Publishing Co. (387 Park Ave South, New
York, NY 10016); 1996; softcover; $10.95; 192 pages. And while we're on the subject of
diets and want more extensive information on using the Chinese method of incorporating
food and herbs as part of your health plan, try this book. It gives information on various
foods and how they tonify the body and deal with deficiency and excess chi problems within
various systems.
Chinese
Traditional Herbal Medicine ... Now if you’ve read a little on TCM and
would like to research it further, pick up the two volumes of Chinese
Traditional Herbal Medicine
(Dr. Michael Tierra and Lesley Tierra, Lotus Press, 1998, softcover,
$22.95/$24.95; ISBN:: 0-914955-31-4 and 0-914955-32-2)
Volume One focuses on the theory, principles, diagnostic methods
and treatment modalities of TCM. Volume
2 provides an extensive Materia Medica (with sources) Excellent
references by excellent practitioners and writers.
The Cleveland Herbal,
Botanical, and Horticultural Collections: A Descriptive Bibliography of Pre-1830 Works
from the Libraries of the Holden Arbore
The Cleveland Herbal,
Botanical, and Horticultural Collections: A Descriptive Bibliography of Pre-1830 Works
from the Libraries of the Holden Arbore ... compiled by Stanley H. Johnston, Jr., Kent
State University Press; 1992; hardcover; 1012 pages. If you're doing research and need
older herbals for background information, this book could help. It gives a descriptive
bibliography of pre-1830 works from the libraries of the Holden Arboretum, the Cleveland
Medical Library Association and the Garden Center of Greater Cleveland. This includes
works like "A New and Complete Body of Practical Botanic Physic" from 1784-1794
and some material going back to the 15th century. A very interesting reference book.
Colour Scents:
Healing with Colour & Aroma ... Suzy Chiazzari, C.W. Daniel (1 Church Path,
Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 1JP, UK and available from New Leaf); 1998;
softcover; 239
pages; $23.95; ISBN: 0-85207-316-X. If aromatherapy has been an interest, then this book
takes it one step further by using the color signature of the plant along with its aroma
to effect healing. Youll get the basics of color therapy along with information on
specific essential oils. An interesting book.
Comforting Scents: Your Personal Aromatherapy Journal
(Valerie Gennari Cooksley, Prentice Hall Press, hardcover, 1998, ISBN:
0-7352-0002-5) is more the interactive type of book.
On one page is information about aromatherapy and the other a
page for notes describing your thoughts, blends, ideas on the subject.
A
Compendium of Herbal Magick ... Whether it’s for the folklore or
you’re into the ritual use of herbs you’ll enjoy A
Compendium of Herbal Magick (Paul Beyerl, Rhoenix Publishing,
1998, softcover, $24.50; ISBN: 0-919345-45-X)
Here are 330 profiles of not only the common herbs (sage,
marjoram, rose) but some truly unusual ones like Mangosteen, Stonecrop,
Toad Flax and everything in between.
Add to your folklore knowledge and put this book on your
reference shelf.
The Complete Book of Alternative Nutrition ... The Editors of Prevention Magazine Health Books, Rodale
Press, (33 E Minor St., Emmaus, PA 18098-0099); 1997; hardcopy; 448 pages; $27.95. This
goes beyond the normal herb book telling you what herb is good for what ailment. This book
gives advice on all the different types of diets: macrobiotics, vegetarianism, Chinese
nutrition, the Ornish Reversal diet and more as to what foods and herbs can do for various
health concerns as well as prevention and longevity.
The Complete Family Guide
to Alternative Medicine: An Illustrated Encyclopedia of Natural Healing ... edited by
Richard Thomas & C. Norman Shealy, Element Books, PO Box 830, Rockport, MA 10966,
1996, softcover, $19.95; 288 pages. Encyclopedias conjure up thoughts of comprehensive
discussions of a topic and these are extremely brief. But it does give at least a page to
a large number of alternative treatments for a wide range of ailments both physical and
emotional. So if you're not sure what moxibustion is or magnetic therapy you can at least
get a decent definition of the subject. What's one of the best parts is the source section
and recommended further reading.
The Complete Family Guide
to Natural Home Remedies ... Karen Sullivan, General Editor; Element Books, PO Box
830, Rockport, MA 01966; softcover; 1997; 256 pages; $24.95. Element Books is almost as
good as Dorling Kindersley in its use of color photographs as illustrations. And, though
the book is predominately herbal, there are a lot of other remedies as well including
flower essences, supplements, dietary changes. A good basic guide that your customers will
appreciate.
The Complete Guide to
Aromatherapy ... Salvatore Battaglia, The Perfect Potion, PO Box 273,
Zillmere, QLD
4034, Australia; 1995; softcover; ISBN 0-646-20670-2; 476 pages. This is an absolute must
if you're practicing aromatherapy. It's an excellent resource (though not complete
.I
hate that word in a title). Not only information on essential oils but on running a
practice including consultations and requirements for professionals. There's even a
section on pharmacokinetics which you'll be seeing more on as we become for sophisticated
in medicinal plant usage. Highly recommended.
The Complete Herb Gardener
... Paul Seitz, Sterling Publishing, 1996, softcover, 144 pages; $14.95. My biggest gripe:
no book this small is "complete". What you will find are good color photographs
of a large number of herbs and some rather unique garden designs. I especially liked the
spiral garden using stone walls. It's nice, basic and a good starter book (except for that
spiral idea).
The Complete Illustrated
Holistic Herbal: A Safe and Practical Guide to Making and Using Herbal Remedies ...
David Hoffmann, Element Books, PO Box 830, 21 Broadway, Rockport, MA 01966; 1996;
softcover; 256 pages; $18.95. Excellent basic reference book for those getting into herbal
medicine. 200 herbs are described with pictures giving parts used, constituents, actions
and preparations and dosages. Even those familiar with these plants might find it a very
useful reference guide. And written by David Hoffmann, I'm very sure of the accuracy.
The Complete Soapmaker :
Tips, Techniques, & Recipes for Luxurious Handmade Soaps ... Norma Coney,
Sterling, hardcover, 1996, 128 pages, $24.95. You see the pictures in this book and you're
ready to make soap. Unfortunately after one session in my kitchen while I make soap this
"pretty" book will be covered with fat (I'm a sloppy soap maker)
..good
recipes though. She has a rather interesting translucent soap recipe that uses vodka or
whiskey
..that would make an entertaining class
..you can drink what you don't
use. If you're into soap, buy the book
.and let me know how that kiwi soap comes out.
:-)
The Constituents of Medicinal Plants
... Andrew Pengelly, Sunflower Herbals (Stanley Cottage, Golden Highway,
Merriwa, NSW 2329
Australia; ph/fax 02 65485189; email: pengelly@hunterlink.net.au
) This is a definite must
have if you're serious about herbal medicine. In fact, it's required reading for David
Winston's apprenticeship course. And it's amazingly easy to follow as opposed to some of
the more scholarly texts I've seen. And it explains terms like phenol so that the reader
understands properties. Excellent but not available at your local bookstore. Contact
directly for shipment.
Contained Gardens &
The Hanging Garden:
Creative Displays for Every Garden ... There are a lot of us that live in town with
very little space for gardens but we yearn for something green we can nurture. These two
books give you two different ways to create your own mini landscape. Contained Gardens
(Susan Berry & Steve Bradley, Storey Publishing, hardcover, 1995, 160 pages, $25)
helps you fill patios, balconies and roof tops with lush plants. All the tricks of
maintaining these gardens are included as well as the best plants for containers. The
Hanging Garden: Creative Displays for Every Garden (Sue Fisher, Trafalgar Square,
north Pomfret, VT 05053; 1995; hardcover; 160 pages) adds even more dimension with ideas
for hanging baskets, window-boxes and arches. Both are filled with color photos that make
you start looking at your porch in a new light. So if you've been feeling blah in your
city setting, get these books and get with it!
Cooking with Lavender
... Joyce Ellenbecker, Foundation House Publications, 5569 North CR 29, Loveland, CO
80538; 1994; softcover; $7.95. I'm always looking for interesting little books that have a
lot of different information and that will resell easily. This is one that I think you'll
enjoy. From the lavender paper it's printed on to recipes like Lavender-Orange Ice Cream
and Peach-Lavender Pie your customers will be enchanted. I can see this as the basis for
an entire class.
Cordials from Your Kitchen
... Pattie Vargas & Rich Gulling, Storey, 1997, softcover; 171 pages; $14.95; ISBN
0-88266-986-9. If you liked the wine idea above, then you may want to progress to making
your own liqueurs. How about Rosemary-Tangerine and ginger liqueurs? Or Chcolate Covered
Cherry Cream or your own version of Ouzo? I admit, I'm going to be in the kitchen with
this one
..for quite a while.
Country
Containers ... We all know that gardening is great therapy and even
though you’re limited in space you can still create a landscaping
effect with container gardening. And
if you’re trying to offer your services in garden design this book may
offer just what you need for those patios and decks.
Country Containers (Stephanie Donaldson, 1999; David &
Charles, hardcopy, 168 pages; $29.95; ISBN: 0-7153-0651-0) will take you
from seaside gardens to woodland boxes.
And not only are there design ideas but ways to create containers
that look like you paid a hefty price for in an antique store. Handy reference book to have on your shelf.
Coyote Medicine ...
Lewis Mehl-Madrona, M.D., Scribner, 1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020; 1997;
hardcover; 299 pages; $24. I'm really excited about this book. First because the author
will be our Keynote Speaker at the conference in San Antonio in January. Second, because
it's the kind of holistic healing that MUST be incorporated into our society if we will
ever truly be whole. Part autobiography the author takes us through his education first as
a medical doctor then as a true healer of the mind as well as the body. Read it!!
Creating
and Planting Garden Troughs
... Garden troughs are “hot”.
And if you don’t believe it ask anyone offering classes in
making them. Well here’s
a great book that will give you class ideas to last an entire year: Creating
and Planting Garden Troughs (Joyce Fingerut & Rex Murfitt, B.B. Mackey Books, 1999, hardcover, $21, 164 pages; ISBN: 1-89344300-0)
Learn everything about constructing hypertufa troughs, the best
ways to plant, ideas for plants and even how to design a garden using
them. Pick up this one and
start creating!
Creating Fairy
Garden Fragrances ... Many, many years ago at some of the early herb conferences
I met an herbal fairy princess named Linda Gannon that published a delightful newsletter
that she hand lettered and illustrated. Linda gave up the newsletter several years back
but she hadnt stopped cultivating her interest in herbs and fairies. Storey has just
released Lindas latest creation Creating Fairy Garden Fragrances (1998,
hardcover, 63 pages; $14.95; ISBN: 1-58017-076-5) which may even get you back into making
potpourri. (You oldtimers out there
.you remember "potpourri"? What got
most of us started back in the beginning?) Find out what flowers the fairies favor and
then create blends like "Dance of the Morning Nymphs" or "The Snow
Queen". Beautifully illustrated as well. And if youre beyond ever wanting to
make potpourri again, give this as a gift to inspire young herbalists.
Creating Your Own
Cosmetics-- Naturally; The Alternative to Today's Harmful Cosmetic Products ...
Nikolaus J. Smeh, Alliance Publishing, PO Box 399, Garrisonville, VA 22463; 1995;
softcover; 271 pages; $22.95. And if you're into natural body care it's worth every dime.
This is the ultimate make-your-own skin care book with information on not only botanicals
but ingredients like Germaben II so your products will have the quality of high priced
cosmetics. And you get suppliers for every ingredient!! Along with an extremely
comprehensive table of cosmetic chemicals causing adverse reactions. This is an essential
book if you're making body care products or teaching classes on the subject.
Culinary Herbs
... Richters growers conference was a wealth of information this year but one of the
best treasures I came away with was Culinary Herbs by Ernest Small (NRC Research
Press, Ottawa, ONT, Canada; 1997; hardcopy; 710 pages; ISBN: 0-660-16668-2) It was $80
Canadian and is also available directly from Richters. Excellent, excellent, excellent
reference book on 125 culinary herbs and their cultivation. And not just the traditional
chives, chervil and mint
.but perilla, Vietnamese coriander, chicory and more. If
youre growing commercially this is one book you wont want to be without.
Dead
Snails Leave No Trails
... When I mentioned the book Dead
Snails Leave No Trails (Loren Nancarrow and Janet Hogan Taylor,
10 Speed Press, softcover, 1996, 148 pages; ISBN: 0-89815-852-4) his
immediate comeback was "unless you’re French and hungry”. Books
on natural pest control are always a good seller.
And clever titles like this one have a tendency to capture the
customer’s attention while offering solid information on a topic of
interest to every gardener (and home owner).
Every insect from ants and roaches to aphids and whiteflies along
with four-legged creatures are covered.
Bring in the bats….or try some herbal solutions.
Add this to your reference library and be pest free.
Along with using herbs to heal, using herbs to
remove toxins from your body and environment is an
important part of maintaining good health.
The Detox Solution :
The Missing Link to... by Patricia
Fitzgerald (Illumination Press, 2001, softcover, 436
pages) This
is a very good reference book on a variety of cleansing
programs that can help problems like weight issues,
arthritis, asthma and more.
The author is not only a clinical nutritionist
but has degrees in both Traditional Chinese Medicine and
Homeopathic Medicine.
Both you and your clients will find a lot of
useful information here.
Drugs of Natural Origin
... Anthony Artuso, The Haworth Press (10 Alice St., Binghamton, NY
13904-1580); 1997; $24.95 softcover; 201 pages; ISBN: 0-7890-0414-3 This is for the
serious manufacturer as you can tell from the subtitle: Economic and Policy Aspects of
Discovery, Development and Marketing. If youre in the business for the big bucks
then this is a book that will give you some cold, hard facts about searching out new
drugs, dealing with host countries where the product grows, contractual arrangements and
more. If youre working out of your kitchen, dont bother, its way out of
your league.
Easy Recipes for Using
Fresh Herbs ... by John Lingle (Lingles Herbs, 2055 N. Lomina
Ave., Long Beach, CA 90815; 562-598-4372; 1996; softcover; 59 pages) is his way of selling
plants at his nursery in southern California but you might want to pick up a copy for
yourself (and available wholesale as well). Lemon Grass Soup, Thai Basil Soup and Grilled
Zucchini with Garlic Chives will answer customers questions on "what do you do
with this stuff?" Simple and fresh. Try it.
The Ecoherbalist's
Fieldbook: Wilderafting in the Mountain West ... Gregory L. Tilford, Mountain Weed
Publishing, HC 33 Box 17, Conner, MT 59827; 1993; softcover; 295 pages; $13.95. Though
sub-titled "Wildcrafting in the Mountain West" anyone interested in the subject
will find a wealth of information that can be used in any part of the country. Read the
book...then come hear Greg talk on wildcrafting in Albuquerque.
Edible and
Medicinal Plants of the West ... Gregory L. Tilford, Mountain Press Publishing
(PO Box 2399, Missoula, MT 59806); 1997; softcover; 239 pages; $21; ISBN: 0-87842-359-1
Excellent guidebook for identifying plants of the western states with clear color photos
and information on the plants including habitat, edibility, range, medicinal usage and
look-alike plants. Even if you dont live in the west this is a necessary reference
book if as an herbalist you need to know what specific plants look like. Highly
recommended.
Edible Flowers: A Kitchen
Companion ... Kitty Morse (Ten Speed Press, PO Box 7123, Berkeley, CA 94707;
hardcover; 1995; 70 pages; $9.95). This is a delightful little gift book with some ideas
I'd even eat: Turkey Calendula Roll-ups comes to mind. Not as many recipes as the other
book but beautifully done and I can see this in a gift basket for sure.
Edible Flowers: A Recipe
Collection ... Marilyn Lande (Lan-Design Publications, 12202 East 203rd
st., Raymore,
MO 64083; 1994; softcover spiral; 79 pages; $7.95) gives you more to do with woodruff than
make May Wine (Tutti-Fruitti-Floral Topping). She also stuffs tulips with a combination of
canned salmon, cream cheese and horseradish (I'll eat that minus the tulip) and makes an
interesting Spring Garden Salad with dandelion greens, Calendula blossoms, Queen Anne lace
blossoms and
(I can hear Art Tucker now)
comfrey leaves. Definitely some
new ideas here.
The Enchanted Garden :
Discovering & Enhancing the Magical Healing Properties in Your Garden ... Claire
O'Rush, 1996, Trafalgar Square, Box 257, No Pomfret, VT 05053; hardcover; 109 pages;
$22.95. The subtitle is: Discovering and Enhancing the Magical Healing Properties in Your
Garden. And this book does do that by using herbal lore and the language of flowers along
with beautiful color plates to bring angel and fairy blessings into your garden. Who
knows, if you follow some of the instructions you might even be able to bring in that
unicorn you've been looking for.
Encyclopedia
of Chinese and U.S. Patent Herbal Medicines ... (Chongyun Liu and Yong Deng,
NTC/Contemporary Publishing, 1999,
hardcover, $35, 279 pages; ISBN: 0-87983-891-4) is an easy to use
reference book (assuming you have some basic knowledge of TCM
principles) that gives conditions/symptoms along with treatment
principles and TCM formula AND the U.S. Formula and Manufacturer so you
can find what used to be rather obscure products. Even better
ingredients in the formula are listed.
A really complete book you can’t afford to be without if
you’re doing anything with medicinals.
The
Encyclopedia of Edible Plants of North America ... Next to cookbooks, one of my
other book collections is resource guides. I never know when Ill get an email asking
what Hares Mustard is
.or what are the uses of Bitterroot. But with The
Encyclopedia of Edible Plants of North America by Francois Couplan (Contemporary
Publishing; 1998; softcover; 583 pages; $19.95; ISBN: 0-87983-821-3), I know Ill
never be at a loss for words. Based on 10 years of first-hand "grazing" research
there are traditional Native American cooking techniques, a comprehensive account of each
species including history, medicinal uses, toxicity and much more. An excellent resource
book to have on hand for yourself or customers questions.
Encyclopedia of Herbs and
Their Uses ... Deni Bown; Dorling Kindersley Publishing, 95 Madison Ave, NY, NY 10016;
1995; hardcover; $39.95; 424 pages. Sponsored by the Herb Society of America, in this book
you will find information and pictures of more than 1000 herbs....not a lot of depth but
definitely a good starting point if you want to know some very basic material. And there's
a large number of medicinal plants here as well.
The Encyclopedia of
Medicinal Plants ... Andrew Chevallier, Dorling Kindersley, hardcover, 1996; 336
pages; $39.95. I must admit to favoring Dorling Kindersley as an herb book publisher
because of the great color photographs of the plants (and their parts). And this book is
no exception. All I'm going to say here is that it's excellent and no medicinal reference
library should be without it!! It covers not only traditional Western herbs but many
Chinese ones and many of the not-so-common plants. Also good section on preparation. If
the price sets you back remember: good things cost money. So ask for it for a birthday
present. Didn't your significant other say you were hard to buy for?
Essential Energy ... Nikki Goldstein, Warner Books (1271 Avenue of the Americas,
New York, NY 10020); 1997; hardcopy; $29.95; 168 pages; ISBN: 0-446-91209-3. Aromatherapy.
Nice looking book
.same old basic information: a little history, a little about oils,
a little about usage. Nothing that makes me excited but for a beginner its not a bad
start.
The Essential Oils Book:
Creating Personal Blends for Mind & Body ... Colleen K. Dodt, Storey
Communications, softcover, 1996; 152 pages; $12.95. If you've ever heard Colleen lecture
on essential oils or aromatherapy you know that this is one person that truly believes in
what she teaches. You'll be converted in spite of yourself. And she brings her knowledge
and enthusiasm to this book. Great book for those just getting into
using oils with enough
suggestions for those that are old hands at it.
The
Essential Saffron Companion ... I thought I had a favorite saffron book,
but The Essential Saffron
Companion by John Humphries (10 Speed Press, 1996, softcover,
159 pages; $15.95; ISBN: 1-58008-024-3) is even better.
Lots of recipes, a lot of history, grow your own information and
everything you never thought of asking about saffron.
Make a class out of this one.
The Estrogen
Alternative ... Raquel Martin, Healing Arts Press (One Park St., Rochester, VT
05767); 1998; softcover; $14.95; ISBN: 0-89281-780-1 This is another book I have to really
recommend. Its full of not only information on botanical alternatives to hormone
therapy but filled with resource lists. This isnt just a menopause book but covers a
wide variety of womens health issues like uterine fibroids and osteoporosis.
Recommended for your medicinal library.
Everyday
Miracles ... I admit that Im obsessed with reading. It uplifts me, awakens
new ideas and just generally makes me a better person. I adore Oprah for opening even more
stories to me. So heres a few that I hope will do the same for you. Everyday
Miracles (David Spangler, Bantam (1540 Broadway, New York, NY 10036); 1996;
softcover;
238 pages; $11.95; ISBN: 0-553-37542-3) will take you a few steps closer to accomplishing
those dreams. Its about manifesting your hearts desires and gives you clear
directions to help you create your own miracles. Very recommended