Description
Book SynopsisThis beautifully illustrated textbook pairs research on the biochemical properties and physiological effects of medicinal plants with a history of the ways in which humans have cultivated plant species and investigated their effects.
Nature’s Pharmacopeia fosters an appreciation of the chemistry and cultural resonance of herbal medicine.
Trade ReviewNature's Pharmacopeia will have a significant impact on the training and education of undergraduate students pursuing degrees in the life sciences, history, or other disciplines in the humanities. -- Thomas Eulgem, University of California, Riverside A well-researched, clearly written, and beautifully illustrated textbook on important aspects of the world's ethnomedicine. Throughout the volume, Choffnes seamlessly weaves together fascinating stories and scientific facts and provides an excellent introduction to the past, present, and future of traditional medicine. -- Dr. Rainer W. Bussmann, director, William L. Brown Center, Missouri Botanical Garden Nature's Pharmacopeia is a compelling and wonderfully readable introduction to the importance of plants as therapies and toxins. Dan Choffnes provides a detailed, fascinating overview of some of the most interesting and economically important species-this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the green world. -- Michael J. Balick, vice president for botanical science and director, Institute of Economic Botany, New York Botanical Garden The beauty and romance of medicinal plants are beautifully illustrated in this book, which belongs on the shelf of every researcher, doctor, and medically literate citizen. -- Paul Alan Cox, director, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson Hole, Wyoming Recommended. CHOICE An excellent single-volume reference. Economic Botany
Table of ContentsPreface Note to the Reader Introduction 1. The Concepts of Ethnomedicine 2. The Regulation of Drugs 3. The Actions of Medicinal Plants 4. The Actions of Medicinal Plants on the Nervous System 5. Poppy 6. Coca 7. Peyote 8. Wormwood 9. Hemp 10. Coffee 11. Tea 12. Cacao 13. Tobacco 14. Popular Herbs 15. The Future of Medicinal Plants Conclusion Notes Bibliography Index
