There's still a lot to learn about the healing power of plants, James Duke points out, but what we do know is already prodigious. Much of that knowledge is gathered in The Green Pharmacy, an A-to-Z guide to that relies on plant-based medicines to cure what ails us. Between the listings, Duke crams personal anecdotes from a lifetime of studying herbs, berries, and bark. For example, he relates how he worried about telling a pregnant niece that ginger could help alleviate her morning sickness because he'd learned from a pharmacologist that ginger could also induce miscarriage. Then he solved the mystery: he'd recommended ginger tea, which contains about 250 milligrams of ginger. The Chinese, he learned, use about 80 times that much to end pregnancies--another testimony to the amazing versatility of these natural medicines.

The Green Pharmacy

Many diseases and conditions for which we turn to modern medicine can also be treated naturally with healing herbs, medicinal food, other natural remedies--and these treatments can be safer, less expensive and possibly even more effective than traditional methods. Let Dr. James Duke, the world's leading authority on healing herbs, lead you through the vast world of natural remedies--from Anise for Asthma to Violet for Varicose Veins, and everything in between. With just a few trips to the health-food store, the supermarket, or your own backyard--and with the help of Dr. Duke--you'll have everything you need to create your own Natural Medicine Cabinet.

I purchased this book because I already own another one of his books. This one is a bit more conservative and doesn't really dig into the subjects like I thought it might. It is however, a nice easy read. There are many practical suggestions in the book and it is a good topical approach to herbal remedies.

I reference this book first whenever there is a medical issue. All should have a copy in their library.

Brian Housewert

Contains a valuable amount of information. Alot of great recipes for healing aids. I still use alot of the recommendations in this book for general health care. I haven't been to a doctor in years, and this book is one of the reasons why. So buy one right away, buy 2 and give one to a friend.

For those who wish to explore beyond the medical orthodoxy for treatments of everyday ailments this book is a must read. However, always discuss any alternative treatments with your medical practitioner if taking natural remedies in conjunction with orthodox medications.

I am really glad there are people out like Dr. James Duke because I am an herbalist and I enjoy this book immensely.