Readers of this expansive, three-volume encyclopedia will gain scientific, sociological, and demographic insight into the complex relationship between plants and humans across history. Comprising three volumes and approximately half a million words, this work is likely the most comprehensive reference of its kind, providing detailed information not only about specific plants and food crops such as barley, corn, potato, rice, and wheat, but also interdisciplinary content that draws on the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. The entries underscore the fascination that humans have long held for plants, identifies the myriad reasons why much of life on earth would be impossible without plants, and points out the intertwined relationship of plants and humans—and how delicate this balance can be. While the majority of the content is dedicated to the food plants that are essential to human existence, material on ornamentals, fiber crops, pharmacological plants, and carnivorous plants is also included.

"With more than 1500 species and cultivars described, the Encyclopedia of Exotic Plants for Temperate Climates covers many plant groups, including aroids, bananas, gingers, bromeliads, cacti, yuccas, ferns and palms. Detailed cultivation advice enables gardeners of all levels to make informed choices from an expansive plant palette." --NHBS Environment Bookstore.

The Herbal Encyclopedia: A Practical Guide to the Many Uses of Herbs is a valuable resource for those seeking more than the usual aspects of learning about our planet's valuable medicinal herbs. Besides medicinal information, included is also information regarding the spiritual uses, and growing information for those who wish to grow their own natural medicines. Compiled by a nationally certified Naturopathic Doctor, this guide is a valuable addition to any reference library. Want to learn how to feed your body naturally? Want to learn how to grow your own medicinal herbs? Want to learn ways to incorporate herbs into your worship? Want to learn how to get healthy and stay that way? Then this book is for you!

Provides information on the history, uses, range, and characteristics of more than one hundred herbs, and offers tips on growing them

The Encyclopedia of Herbs and Spices provides comprehensive coverage of the taxonomy, botany, chemistry, functional properties, medicinal uses, culinary uses and safety issues relating to over 250 species of herbs and spices. These herbs and spices constitute an important agricultural commodity; many are traded globally and are indispensable for pharmaceuticals, flavouring foods and beverages, and in the perfumery and cosmetic industries. More recently, they are increasingly being identified as having high nutraceutical potential and important value in human healthcare. This encyclopedia is an excellent resource for researchers, students, growers and manufacturers, in the fields of horticulture, agriculture, botany, crop sciences, food science and pharmacognosy.

The authoritative reference to alternative health & healing.