Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine

Medical Herbalism is a foundational textbook on the scientific principles of therapeutic herbalism and their application in medicine. Based on the author's more than twenty-five years of herbal practice, it contains comprehensive information concerning the identification and use of medicinal plants both by chemical structure and physiological effect, the art and science of making herbal medicine, and the challenge to current research paradigms posed by complex plant medicines.
The author details the intricate chemistry behind herbalism, providing for the first time important background and insights into how herbal remedies are able to achieve their results and the limitations and potential of viewing herbs chemically. He then presents in-depth discussions of specific ailments and treatments organized by each of the major body systems, as well as delving into the special needs of children and the elderly. He includes the most up-to-date information on preparations, dosage, and contraindications; information on toxicology and the issues involved in determining dosage and formulation types for an individual; and the pros and cons of both commercial and traditional techniques. His materia medica presents 150 of the most beneficial herbs used in treatment practices, identifying not only their present uses but also their historical derivations.
With additional sections devoted to the principles of green medicine, the history of Western herbalism, the variety of other medical modalities using medicinal plants, and an extensive resource directory, Medical Herbalism is the comprehensive textbook all students and practitioners of clinical herbalism need to develop their healing practices. It is also a complete handbook for the medical practitioner looking to bring herbal treatments into his or her practice.

David Hoffmann is a visiting faculty member at Bastyr University, the California Institute of Integral Studies, the National College of Phytotherapy, and the Rocky Mountain School of Botanical Studies.