Includes bibliographical references and index.

This book is a photographic guide to more than 350 of the most commonly used and best known medicinal plants of the world. It was first published in 2004. This completely revised edition includes 28 new monographs of species and more than 230 new photographs. The first part of the book comprises short sections on: the medicine systems of the world; plant parts used; dosage forms; use of medicinal plant products (route of administration; phytotherapy, pure chemical compounds and dietary supplements); active ingredients; quality and safety; efficacy of medicinal plant products; and regulation of herbal remedies and phytomedicines. The main body of the book consists of monographs of the plant species, arranged alphabetically by their scientific names, containing the following information: commonly used vernacular names in several languages, description, origin, parts used, therapeutic category, uses and properties, preparation and dosage, active ingredients, pharmacological effects, warning, notes and regulatory status (i.e. whether listed in one or more pharmacopoeias). Each plant species is illustrated with 2-4 colour photographs. Following the monographs, are sections on health disorders and how to treat them with medicinal plants, an overview of secondary metabolites and their effects, and a quick guide to commercialized medicinal plants (listing species/family/common name; origin; plant parts used; active principles; medicinal system; and main indications in traditional medicine or homoeopathy/other uses). There is also a useful glossary of chemical, medical and pharmaceutical terms; a list of further reading; and a subject index.

Medicine systems of the world -- Plant parts used -- Dosage forms -- Use of medicinal plant products -- Active ingredients -- Quality control and safety -- Efficacy of medicinal plant products -- Regulation of herbal remedies and phytomedicines -- The plants in alphabetical order -- Health disorders and medicinal plants -- Overview of secondary metabolites and their effects -- Quick guide to commercialised medicinal plants.

Title from PDF title page (viewed December 10, 2019).

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