How to identify and choose an herb encyclopedia that meets your needs
While herbal treatments for a variety of diseases have been used by indigenous populations for thousands of years, with the advent of modern medicine, most notably penicillin and antibiotics, herbal medicine was largely abandoned as the best treatment option. In recent decades, with the development of 'miracle' pharmaceutical drugs, we've seen an increase in side effects, sometimes worse than the ailment they are intended to treat. This has led to a resurgence of interest in herbs as a safe and effective, alternative treatment option.
However, herbs have never lost their valued position as seasonings for our food. In fact, the trend towards 'fusion' cuisines has increased the popularity of herbs, as well as renewed interest in herbs as medicine. For example, it's almost common knowledge that garlic is excellent for strengthening heart function, regulating blood pressure and reducing your 'bad' cholesterol levels.
If you're interested in increasing your knowledge of herbs, both for culinary and medicinal purposes, an herbal encyclopedia is an excellent way to start! Let's take a look at how to choose an herb encyclopedia that best suits your needs.
Some of the older herb encyclopedias, such as Grieves', are a good source of some of the more obscure uses of herbs and herbal treatment regimens. This classic may be found in any herb shop's book collection, many bookstores and excerpts are available online. You may be surprised to look up the medical uses of many common kitchen herbs. For example, sage tea may be used to break a fever. The more you learn, the more fascinating herbs become!
Newer encyclopedias, such as the Dorling-Kindersley books, and Rodale's, tend to cover more aspects of the use of herbs, including botanical information, medicinal and culinary uses, including excellent photographs of each herb and detailed preparation tips and techniques. This type of herb encyclopedia is well suited to serve as a good reference if you're looking for an introduction to herbs.
Another classic series of herb encyclopedias are authored by John Heinerman, a renowned medical anthropologist. His encyclopedias are divided into separate books detailing the uses of herbs in conjunction with common foods for their medicinal value. He typically organizes his books by the herb or food, with separate topics which address specific conditions and ailments for which the herb or food is useful.
If you have an extensive background in herbs, you may want to take a look at some of the herb encyclopedias intended as a guide for professionals. Some of the best of this type of encyclopedia describes not only herbal treatments, by condition, but includes information on a variety of treatment options for each, including conventional drug therapies, nutrients which are corrective, homeopathic treatments, massage and acupuncture. While these books are generally more expensive than a general introductory herb encyclopedia, they are perhaps the most comprehensive, providing a number of alternative treatments for health conditions. This type of professional guide is a good choice if you have a number of specific health conditions for which you'd like to explore all of the avenues available to manage and improve your overall health. Don't be scared off by the 'professional' status. These guides are written in language easily understood by the layman.
When choosing an herbal encyclopedia, it's a good idea to browse the online book shops and read the reviews written by people who have purchased and read the book. These reviews provide good guidance on the style and quality from different people's perspectives.
Your herb encyclopedia may well help you become a better cook and take care of your family's health with a natural, safe and effective adjunct to your menus!