Featuring 350 full-color photographs, botanical drawings, and maps, this accessible, fact-filled book is based on the work of renowned botanical experts and presents alphabetically arranged, beautifully illustrated entries for hundreds of plants touted for thousands of years to soothe and even heal.

Each is clearly described, with full details of its physical appearance and medicinal uses; its origins and geographic distribution, how it's harvested and used in conventional and alternative medicine, a range map; and more.

Fascinating cultural and scientific histories trace their origins in ancient folklore and follow them through the ages to their surprising role today as possible cures for colds and other illnesses.

• Hardcover
• 416 pages, 350 color photos, botanical drawings, and range maps
• 7 5/8'' x 9 3/4''
• © 2006

"This authoritative, clearly written, and gorgeously illustrated guide...manages to be succinct without being dry." —Library Journal