Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide - by Rosemary Gladstar

"Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide" by Rosemary Gladstar - the foundational accessible introduction to herbal medicine for new home herbalists. Rosemary Gladstar is one of the most influential modern Western herbalists and the founder of the United Plant Savers organization. This book is among the most widely recommended starting points for users new to herbalism.

About Rosemary Gladstar

Rosemary Gladstar is one of the most influential figures in modern Western herbalism. She founded the California School of Herbal Studies (one of the first formal Western herbalism schools), Sage Mountain Herbal Retreat Center in Vermont, and United Plant Savers (the leading organization for at-risk native medicinal plant conservation). She has been teaching, writing, and advocating for traditional herbalism for over 50 years. Her writing style is accessible to beginners while substantive enough for ongoing reference use.

Key Facts

Title

Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide

Author

Rosemary Gladstar

Author significance

One of the most influential modern Western herbalists; founder of United Plant Savers

Focus

Foundational herbs and preparation methods for new home herbalists

Suitable for

Complete beginners to herbalism

What's in the Book?

The book covers 33 foundational medicinal herbs with traditional uses, modern research perspectives, and practical preparation recipes. Each herb chapter includes growing/identification information, traditional uses, modern research notes, and recipes for teas, tinctures, syrups, oils, and other preparations. The herb selection focuses on common, accessible, and safe herbs ideal for beginning herbalism.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Rosemary Gladstar?
One of the most influential modern Western herbalists; founder of United Plant Savers, the California School of Herbal Studies, and Sage Mountain Herbal Retreat Center.

Is it suitable for complete beginners?
Yes; widely recommended as a starting point for new herbalists.

What herbs does it cover?
33 foundational medicinal herbs ideal for beginning herbalism.

Does it include recipes?
Yes; practical preparation recipes are included for each herb.

What's United Plant Savers?
The leading organization for at-risk native medicinal plant conservation, founded by Rosemary Gladstar.

What other books has she written?
Multiple books including "Family Herbal," "Herbs for Children's Health," and many others.