Most of us in the developed world are used to getting our medicines in the form of capsules or pills or syrups. So it may come as a surprise to know that many of our best medicines, from antihistamines to anticancer drugs, started out as chemicals in the stems and roots and leaves of leafy plants. And many of them are found in the world's rain forests. A chain of fascinating scientific investigation and research connects the natural world of the forest -- and the people who live there -- to the world of Western medicine and pharmacies. Pharmacy in the Forest offers a first look at how this chain works, and includes resources for further exploring on the World Wide Web.
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Editorial Reviews
From School Library Journal
Grade 5-8APowledge takes readers through the process of identifying potentially useful plants and describes how they are tested to isolate any medicinal properties. He writes from an environmental point of view, stating that forests should be conserved because so much of the plant and animal life, which may prove to be useful, remains undiscovered. The author is careful to acknowledge the importance of indigenous peoples in the identification of medicinal plants. He recognizes the significance of medicine men as the keepers of knowledge as well as their potential to help scientists. While the majority of the text is dedicated to medicinal plants in general, the author gives specific examples of plants that have been useful in treating disease and how they were first used. With large, attractive, full-color pictures (some uncaptioned) and readable text, this book will make a solid addition to most collections. Words in the text are italicized if they are defined in the glossary. Internet sites where students can do further research are included, but they are on the back cover where they might be easily missed.AMichele Snyder, Chappaqua Public Library, NY
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
Gr. 4^-6. This informative book discusses the many medicines that have come from forests and stresses the need for conservation in order to preserve potential cures as yet unknown to the medical community. Acknowledging the role of shamans and healers in indigenous cultures who have led scientists to potent plants and plant combinations, the author describes a number of these plants and tells how they are used today in treating various diseases and complaints. Many colorful photographs take readers on location to forests, farms, laboratories, and shops to observe the origins and uses of plant-based medicines. A well-focused book on a fascinating topic. Carolyn Phelan
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5.0 out of 5 stars
Sensational for the young scientist/herbalist!,
This review is from: Pharmacy In The Forest: How Medicines Are Found In The Natural World (Hardcover)
Curious about Echinaciea and it's properties? How about medicines to prevent heart attacks? THis book answers your questions and more!
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