I have an older version of this book that I bought in college many years ago when I first became intrigued by the study of herbal medicine. I recently bought the 2009 Centennial Edition as a required text in the School of Natural Healing Master Herbalist program, and I am very glad I did.
The newer edition, while retaining all of the information in the earlier volume, is more user-friendly in several ways. The Table of Contents doesn't just list categories like the earlier edition (e.g. Alterative Herbs, Diaphoretic Herbs, etc); it also lists the name of each herb in each category so that you can look them up more quickly and easily without having to go to the Index. Dosages are updated, for example a "wineglassful," the old-time dose for many teas, has been changed to ounces. The previous text had tightly-spaced text with no bold lettering, which was hard on the eye and made it difficult to scan for information on the page. The current text utilizes bold print to name the condition, after which the recommended formulas are given. And there is a new and helpful glossary of terms in the back of the book.
Very generously, the book gives the recipe and instructions for preparation for many of the Dr. Christopher formulas which are sold commercially. While most manufacturers of herbal remedies keep their exact formulas as closely-guarded secrets, this book shares the information. There is a section with everything you need to know about gathering and storing herbs and how to prepare herbal remedies in a multitude of ways. Dr. Christopher's cleansing and dietary programs are given in detail as well, with quite a few recipes.
In the beginning of the book there is a fascinating biography of Dr. Christopher written by his son David Christopher, who currently runs the school his father started in the 1950s, the School of Natural Healing. Dr. C really was on the forefront and in the trenches in the days when alternative therapies were eyed with suspicion in this country. Numerous case histories make interesting and enlightening reading. Did you know that Dr. Christopher was the only Herbal doctor in the United States Army? Amazing.
There is a section on common diseases, giving causes and lists of suggested herbs. But it is when you read the description of each individual herb, as well as the lists of formulas using that herb, that Dr. C's wisdom really shines. With a few exceptions, these are his personal formulas, most of which he formulated drawing upon his extensive training, knowledge, and experience, but some of which he was given in prayer at critical moments. It is clear that he has a personal relationship with each herb, and his descriptions inspire you to great respect for the noble plants that our Creator gave us for food and for medicine.
My only complaint would be the small typeface of the book. True, it is already a substantial volume and larger type would have added to its 670 pages. But the larger font would have made it a bit easier on the eye.
Get to know this book. Use it to study the formulas, the individual herbs in the formulas, and make friends with the herbs. This book will be a constant companion and is a must-have for any serious student of herbal medicine. While I'm at it, let me put in a little unsolicited plug for the School of Natural Healing. I am greatly enjoying and profiting from my herbal studies there. It's one of the best schools out there, with distance and online programs, and it all began with the humble author of this book.
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About the author
Wrong edition but still happy
I was pretty happy to get the book, unfortunately it was not the 25th edition as advertised. I am a little disappointed however, it's still a good book to have so I plan to keep it.. 3 stars due to not being 25th edition.
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