This year, this book turns 30 years old. (It still smells faintly of Nag Champa incense.) I met the author, in 1997, at a local New Age store, which is also where I purchased the book. That year also began my journey into aromatherapy, becoming a certified aromatherapist (a course taken at the same store) and creating many essential oils blends/formulas.
Herbs (seemingly) has always been part of my life. My mom would plant herbs in her garden and ‘wild harvest’ them also. Planetary Herbology is a book I still flip through. I consider it my herb bible. Because of this book, I was able to answer many of the “whys” I had about various herbs. I’ve never been one to take someone’s word. Even if I respect you, I’ll research. This book helped answer a lot of questions. Several herb books (and numerous herb-related classes later) and I’m still learning and blown away by all the natural remedies God has given us.
Of course, I’ve been able to incorporate numerous herbs into my daily lifestyle. Many are used in meal preparations and teas. I’m not trying to eliminate a health-related issue. I’m just being proactive, but if the need arises… I (usually) have an herb/spice that effectively eliminates the ailment.
I make my own teas, tinctures, salves, and toothpaste using herbs, spices, and essential oils. Also, I’m teaching my daughter what to use. Just as with my mom, a lot comes naturally since she’s observed it effectively used to combat various ailments (cold, flu, headaches, nausea, earaches, cramps) over the years, but… we’re taking it to the next level. I must say that it is fun sharing my experiences with her. It’s something that’s been part of my daily life for such a long time.
I flipped open my book and it landed on… Mandrake!
I remember the name from one of the Harry Potter movies. When I saw the movie, I had to chuckle since I was thinking of Mandrake root. It’s great for the liver and colon an has been used (effectively) with some types of liver disease. No… that wasn’t the same herb mentioned in the movie.
As you know – I, too, am a fan of herbs! This sounds like a great book! Neat – you got to meet the author! And I know what you mean about Mandrake! I thought the same thing when I watched the Harry Potter movies! We actually just re-watched ALL of them last month!
Jennifer Bliss recently posted..One Pot Beer Chili Mac
@Jennifer Bliss, He was teaching an aromatherapy class at the store I frequented. That was when I lived downtown in my twenties.
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