Success in treating common health problems with over-the-counter herbals, either as an alternative to or in conjunction with prescription medications depends upon knowing what one is doing and why. And, this book provides that essential guidance. Andrew Chevallier, a practicing herbal practitioner, the author of the Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants, and past president of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists in Great Britain, produced this book to provide people with the information they need to easily make appropriate and informed health choices.

In addition to actual information, the organization and format of the book's facilitates this. The bulk of the book is an extensive section on 140+ individual remedies (herbs, foods, spices). The detail for each remedy includes a beautiful color photograph of the plant, precise information on the remedy's medicinal use, its key actions, the health condition for which it is primarily used, and specific information regarding its safety, traditional use, scientific research, ways of using, cautions and naming other herbals that are usually used with it. In addition, there is a comprehensive section on common health problems categorized by type such as Digestion, Circulation, Women's Health Problems, which are cross-referenced to the pages of the remedies themselves. Very specific health concerns, such as tooth ache, can be found in the index. Last, but not least, is an excellent introductory section that discusses many aspects of using and understanding herbals: how they work, making and buying herbals, types of remedies and safety considerations, such as dosages.

I have used herbals for many years for various health conditions, and have referred to many of my herbal publications during that time. Each one has its own value, however, since I have acquired this book, it is my "go to" source because of the ease of focusing on a particular herb or condition. Of the many publications on herbal medicines, the "Visual Reference Guides Herbal Remedies" ranks among the most useful, instructive and comprehensive for anyone who has a minimum or no background in herbalism. ( )

Appears to have good info, has beautiful photos (not illustrations) of the various plants and plant parts ( )

Anyone who is interested in herbs should get this compact book. It's a great resource to have on hand when working with plants.

The book starts off with some general information on herbal medicine and its preparation. Then it gives exact details on about 140 plants, each accompanied by full colored pictures and details of their therapeutic properties. At the end of the book there is a long chapter on common health problems, and the suggested herbs to use for treatment.

Even though some of the herb listings are a little brief, it's a great starter book and gives you a good overview of the most common herbs. ( )