Michael Moore, renowned herbalist, teacher, and author of several medicinal plant books, presents a one-of-a-kind guide to over 300 species of plants geographically ranging from Baja California to Alaska. This uniquely attractive book educates the reader to both native and introduced species within this region. With over eighty line drawings, forty-four colour photographs, maps, and a glossary, this book contains clear and reliable information on: Identification and safe use of the plants; Appearance, habitats, collecting methods, and storage; Therapeutic uses, constituents, and preparations; Potential toxicities and medical contraindications; Tea-making, tincturing, and salve making.'

Herbs are an important but often neglected part of garden life. Not only are these plants useful for their culinary, cosmetic, and medicinal properties, but they also make a delightful addition to any border and are usually very attractive to the insect, bird, and animal life we should be attracting into our gardens. This introduction to herbs - now in a newly revised and expanded second edition - is the ideal guide for the beginner. It is informative and easy to understand, giving sufficient pointers to further research without overwhelming the reader.

For any herbist this is an indispensable handbook of fascinating lore, of tips on practical herb garden design, and of comprehensive guidance in cultivating and harvesting herbs. Nonnative herbs grow best and look best in gardens that reproduce their native habitats. This view is the keystone of "The Essence of Herbs," an engaging book that combines a descriptive study of herbs with a history of the role herbs have played in culture, cuisine, and medicine. Here in a book for both specialists and nonspecialists are important guidelines for the herbist who gardens in harmony with the environment.