Table of Contents
Introduction: On Herbal Medicine ix
Chapter 1 Getting Started: Basic Concepts in Herbal Medicine 1
Chapter 2 Herbal Preparations: Understanding the Many Ways to Prepare and Use Herbs 17
Chapter 3 Using Fresh Plants: Harvesting, Drying, and Using Fresh Herbs 33
Chapter 4 A Dried Herbs: Bulk Herbs, Capsules, and Tablets 47
Chapter 5 Introduction to Extractions: Terms, Equipment, Solvents, and Calculations 55
Chapter 6 Making Basic Extracts: Extracting Herbs in Water, Alcohol, Glycerin, and Vinegar 69
Chapter 7 Advanced Extraction Techniques: Percolation Extracts, Fluid Extracts, and Soxhlet Extracts 85
Chapter 8 Topical Preparations: Oil-Based Extractions, Topical Applications, and Local Applications 103
Chapter 9 Other Preparations: Concentrates, Lozenges, and Traditional Chinese Methods 115
Chapter 10 Aromatherapy and Flower Essences: Two Unique Ways to Extract and Use Herbs 123
Chapter 11 Formulas and Dosages: Designing Herbal Formulas and Using Herbs Effectively 135
Chapter 12 Sample Formulas: Some of Our Favorite Formulas 147
Chapter 13 Single Herbs: Instructions for Preparing and Using Single Herbs 169
Appendix 1 Herbal Hydrotherapy: Combining Herbs and Water for Healing 331
Appendix 2 Recommended Suppliers: Sources for Herb Plants and Seeds, Bulk Herbs, Bottles, Glycerin, and Other Supplies 343
Recommended Reading 347
Index 349
About the Authors 363