Review: Herbal Medicine for Beginners

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Howdy, y’all.  It’s been a minute, eh?

Well, I am back with a book review.  I have made my love of herbal remedies known and have spent a good chunk of change on teas, tinctures, and vinegars from local shops and one in Hilton Head.  While I like the convenience of ready-made options, I am curious about making my own.  Katja Swift and Ryn Midura’s book for beginners makes me feel more comfortable about taking the plunge.  

Over the years I’ve played with adding herbs to my food and making skin care products that include pain-relieving benefits.  I have made bath oils and body washes to help boost my energy and clear my sinuses.  I am in love with the spicy goodness of the Herbal Fire Tonic from The Herb Room in Hilton Head, SC.  I worry about not getting the recipes right, mold, and the cost of messing up a batch if I make more medicinal remedies.  Swift and Midura’s Herbal Medicine for Beginners addresses these concerns and makes me feel like I can do this.  I was lucky enough to receive a review copy and have already made the Warming Compress (page 141).  It’s on my wonky ankle now.

This book covers the bases in a way that is easy to understand.  There are recipes and general processes for making herbal medicines, profiles of medicinal herbs, a list of required and optional tools, and full descriptions of the types of remedies available.  Even if you don’t decide to make your own remedies, this book may help make you more comfortable about reaching for these options when you need them.  Each recipe includes a list of “Herbal Allies” that help with the healing process.  I easily see the Sinusitis and Sore Throat remedies coming into rotation thanks to these allergies.

Will I break out this book every time I need something?  Probably not.  Wil I make a few things to have on hand during certain times of year?  yes.  Will I use the information I’ve learned to help me with my future purchases?  Most definitely.

Are you a fan of herbal medicines?  Thinking about it?  Swift and Midura have answers for you.  Check out what other readers think about this book.  Herbal Medicine for Beginners is available now and if you’d rather have a physical copy, pre-orders are available.

On that note, I have more reading to do.  Or dinner to make.  Whichever appeals more.  Until next time.