Using herbs for stress relief and common ailments. This is a fully illustrated guide to the therapeutic herbs and their uses, and to making safe, effective herbal remedies at home. It includes easy-to-make remedies to treat everyday conditions such as stress, anxiety, headaches, migraines and muscle tension. Step-by-step photographic projects demonstrate how to make herbal teas, tinctures, decoctions, and infused oils. You can counteract the stresses and strains of today's hectic lifestyle with herbal preparations that leave you feeling calm and refreshed, or energized and uplifted. More and more people are seeking natural and effective antidotes to the stresses and strains of today's hectic lifestyles, and, increasingly, people are turning to traditional, age-old therapies such as herbalism. This handy book gives practical guidance on the preparation of herbs in teas, decoctions, infused oils and compresses. Plant profiles of the most popular and useful herbs are included, with a guide to their properties and uses, from the relaxing and calming qualities of chamomile to the uplifting scent of rosemary and the refreshing qualities of peppermint. Remedies and recipes are recommended for treating everyday conditions and concerns: there are recipes to encourage deep, relaxing sleep, to promote a sense of calm and well-being, and to relieve headaches and muscle tension. This is a practical and authoritative introduction to the natural benefits of herbalism.

Drawing on the writings of Nicholas Culpeper, the 17th-century herbalist, apothecary and astrologer, this updated, accessible introduction celebrates the holistic medical traditions of the West, and places Culpeper in his appropriate context as one of the forebears of modern holistic medicine and a prophet of the NHS. An extensive new introduction to the work comments on the latest research and developments in the area. The book traces the development of the Western holistic medical tradition from its origins in the natural philosophy of Ancient Greece to the work of Culpeper himself. It describes and explains the relationship between the four elements, the four humours and the four constitutional types: sanguine, choleric, melancholic and phlegmatic, as well as explaining the functional relationships of organs and body systems. The book explores the interconnectedness of psyche (mind) and soma (body) and includes a section on herbal medicine and therapeutics with a study of 20 common herbs, dietary suggestions and uses for culinary herbs. It also provides accessible information on astrology and the importance of the horoscope for holistic patient assessment. The book looks at the holistic approach to the preservation of health and prevention of disease, with explanations of the various disease states, their humoral medical diagnosis and treatment. An authoritative insight into the expanding world of holistic medicine, this book is an indispensable resource for medical herbalists, students of herbal medicine and all those interested in Western holistic medicine and its origins.

"It has been an honor to be associated with David Dalton's work for many years, witnessing his skills as a healer and teacher.... David combines an extraordinary passion for both plants and people." -Patricia Kaminski, director of The Flower Essence Society, Nevada City, California "This is an outstanding resource.... David writes from his rich experience as a therapist and flower essence practitioner in presenting each flower portrait with clarity and fullness. I am especially grateful for the way David has moved beyond descriptions and indications to more fully develop the true character of each essence and the personality traits of those who could benefit from each of these 'stars.'" -Kate Gilday, herbalist, Woodland Essence, Cold Brook, New York "David Dalton has made an inestimable contribution to the study and use of flower essences. His work deepens the understanding of the particular energetics of flowers, as well as providing a system of diagnosis and use. Attention especially to herbalists and lovers of the plant world: in Stars of the Meadow, you will re-meet many medicine plants you are familiar with in a new and profound way." -Claudia Keel, Earthflower Herbals Flower essences are liquid, energetic remedies derived from living flowers. They bring the natural dynamic energy of the plant directly into the human electro-system, where they work to bring about movement toward health and balance. Because of their energetic and living quality, they work directly and deeply in the emotional system, assisting in the release of early wounds and trauma. These suppressed imprints are considered to be a main causes of many types of diseases or imbalances today. Flower essences are a perfect complement to many of today's health practices. They enhance the effects of energy work, physical therapy, acupuncture, psychotherapy, cranial-sacral work, massage, aroma therapy and many other forms of healing and treatment. Flower essences are safe, natural, and non-toxic. Continuing the work of Edward Bach, Stars of the Meadow looks deeply into the relationship between health and the human personality. David Dalton takes us on a thorough and soulful exploration of how to use more than forty medicinal herbs as flower essences, portraying each flower in a way that is both substantive and inspired. Each description is organized to present a picture of how the flower essence affects the adult personality as it has been formed through life, and describes its direct clinical effects on children and animals. Dalton also connects different types of flowers-based on the number and arrangement of petals as well as associated colors and qualities-to the system of human chakras, or energy centers. This innovative approach allows the reader to discover new ways to employ flower essences to focus on specific areas of one's being, from the most physical to the highest levels, allowing a kind of flexibility rarely found in any single system of healing. Stars of the Meadow is a valuable guide not only for those who are new to flower essences, but also for seasoned herbalists who wish to deepen their knowledge of this effective method of healing body, mind, and soul.

With 18 states that have legalized the use of marijuana for medical purposes, more Americans are curious about medical cannabis: How can it help me? What illnesses does it alleviate? How do I procure it? "The Medical Cannabis Guidebook: The Definitive Guide To Using and Growing Medicinal Marijuana" is the most exhaustive guide to medicinal cannabis produced to date, with information regarding the types of illnesses and diseases that can be helped by cannabis, real case studies from medical users, grow information, legal advice, and more. With many recipes for extracts, descriptions of administration techniques, and discussions of the therapeutic uses of cannabis throughout the ages, "The Medical Cannabis Guidebook" serves as a handbook for cannabis use and also allows patients to make and grow their own medicine, prepare it in the correct way for their specific illness, dose correctly, and educate themselves so they can make their own informed choices. An indispensable guide for anyone needing medical cannabis, anyone curious about its uses and even long time users looking to get the most out of their medicine, this book is the only true medicinal cannabis handbook on the market today written by two world renowned and respected cannabis experts.

This accessibly written book examines the most commonly taken dietary supplements, exploring what they are and what they're purported to do, and summarizing key research findings regarding their potential health benefits and risks. Today, more than 50 percent of Americans take at least one type of dietary supplement regularly. But do these products actually work? How are they regulated? Are there any potential health risks? Dietary Supplements: Fact versus Fiction examines the most commonly used non-nutrient supplements (those that are neither vitamins nor minerals and not essential for human health). Using a standardized structure, each entry discusses a particular supplement's origins, purported benefits, potential risks, and common dosage. Summaries of key research studies are included to help readers make informed decisions about supplements' usefulness. Introductory materials give readers a foundational understanding of how supplements are regulated and labeled and offer practical information about how to read a Supplement Facts panel. For those interested in supplements for a particular health complaint (such as fatigue or pain), a topic finder has also been included. Provides unbiased, evidence-based information to help readers make their own decisions about supplementation Summarizes and contextualizes key research findings in easy-to-understand language Uses a standardized structure and topic finder to make it easy for readers to find the exact information they're looking for Offers practical information on how to read and understand the Supplement Facts panel found on all dietary supplements

***This paperback edition has a new introduction by the author and updated content.
This is the first volume of North Atlantic Books' updated paperback edition of Dale Pendell's "Pharmako" trilogy, an encyclopedic study of the history and uses of psychoactive plants and related synthetics first published between 1995 and 2005. The books form an interrelated suite of works that provide the reader with a unique, reliable, and often personal immersion in this medically, culturally, and spiritually fascinating subject. All three books are beautifully designed and illustrated, and are written with unparalleled authority, erudition, playfulness, and range.
"Pharmako/Poeia: Plant Powers, Poisons, and Herbcraft "includes a new introduction by the author and as in previous editions focuses on familiar psychoactive plant-derived substances and related synthetics, ranging from the licit (tobacco, alcohol) to the illicit (cannabis, opium) and the exotic (absinthe, salvia divinorum, nitrous oxide). Each substance is explored in detail, not only with information on its history, pharmacology, preparation, and cultural and esoteric correspondences, but also the subtleties of each plant's effect on consciousness in a way that only poets can do. The whole concoction is sprinkled with abundant quotations from famous writers, creating a literary brew as intoxicating as its subject.
The "Pharmako" series is continued in "Pharmako/Dynamis" (focusing on stimulants and empathogens) and "Pharmako/Gnosis "(which addresses psychedelics and shamanic plants).

The flora of Iraq is particularly rich and diverse, owing to the country's diverse habitats of deserts, plains and mountains. The inspiration for this book was the work of the Iraqi herbalist, Abdul Jaleel Ibrahim Al-Quragheely, who documented the country's flora and its uses in ethnobotanical medicine. He opened a local practice in 1990 and dispensed herbal medicines for six years when communities were most in need. A Herbal of Iraq describes 50 plants and their uses in traditional herbal medicine in the region. In addition to the wealth of information it contains, this dual language English-Arabic herbal is illustrated richly throughout with archival and contemporary botanical art.

First published over 350 years ago during the reign of Elizabeth I, "Culpeper's Herbal" remains one of the most complete listings of herbs and their uses in existence. From Adder's Tongue to Yarrow, each of the 411 herbs is described in detail, along with its "government and virtues," remedies, and cautions. Although much of the medical advice must be taken with a pinch of salt, the engaging tone, enthusiasm, and expertise of the author are irresistible and highly entertaining. Also included is Culpeper's advice on gathering, drying, conserving, and using herbs to get the most out of them. This collector's edition is a must-have for anyone interested in herbs and their uses. Each entry is illustrated with a finely detailed image and there are thirty beautiful full-page plates throughout the book.

In the tradition of the bestselling Alchemy of Herbs, The Complete Guide to Adaptogens details the benefits of twenty-four adaptogenic herbs, and includes more than seventy-five recipes that target specific wellness categories such as sleep, mental focus, beauty-and more! Adaptogens are a unique class of herbs that greatly improve your body's reaction to emotional and physical stress, while also increasing your energy, stamina, endurance, and mental clarity. Recent studies support what practitioners of Indian Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine have known for centuries-these herbs such as Rhodiola, ginseng, licorice, and more, have many heath and wellness benefits and are safe for long-term use. Whether you're interested in honing your mental abilities to a razor-sharp level, want to boost your athleticism, or are looking for ways to elevate your healthy lifestyle, adaptogens have so much to offer for everyday well-being. In The Complete Guide to Adaptagens, you'll learn about the numerous benefits of twenty-four popular adaptogenic herbs, including Rhodiola, Ashwagandha, Maca, He Shou Wu, and Holy Basil. You'll also find more than seventy-five easy recipes for potions and remedies to improve sleep, mood, mental focus, immune function, stamina, as well as general wellness and beauty. These all-natural, safe remedies fight the effects of chronic stress, while restoring your body's balance, health, and vitality.

"Cody Johnson beautifully balances historical knowledge with cutting-edge science to produce a thoroughly enjoyable and enlightening read which paints a holistic picture of the risks and benefits of psychedelic use in modern day medicine and culture." -Rick Doblin, PhD, Founder and Executive Director of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS). Magic Medicine explores the fascinating history of psychedelic substances and provides a contemporary update about their growing inclusion in modern medicine, science, and culture. Each chapter dives into the rich history of a single plant or compound and explores its therapeutic and spiritual uses in cultures near and far. Firsthand quotes allow glimmers of psychedelic light throughout. Learn all about: Classical psychedelics, including 2C-B, ayahuasca, LSD, and peyote The empathogenic psychedelics MDA and MDMA Dissociative psychedelics, including DXM, ketamine, and salvia Unique psychedelics, including cannabis, DiPT, and even fish and sea sponges The history of psychedelic plants and substances is full of colorful facts and stories, and intriguing questions. Did US Army Intelligence really use LSD as an enhanced military interrogation technique? How is DiPT able to make a familiar tune sound utterly foreign? Can MDMA (Ecstasy) help people overcome traumatic experiences? Many psychedelic plants and substances have a long history of being incorporated into various healing traditions-such as cannabis and opium in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Science is beginning to research what traditional cultures have told us for years: psychedelics have transformative healing properties. Anyone who has ever wondered about psychedelics-from complete neophytes to veteran trippers, seekers and sages to skeptics and scientists, therapists and patients to green thumbs and armchair anthropologists-will find something in this engrossing and beautifully designed book.