Provides information on the history, uses, range, and characteristics of more than one hundred herbs, and offers tips on growing them

The fragrant waft of herbs from a sunlit garden is a sensory experience to be relished. Since ancient times, cultures all over the world have prized herbs for their scents, medicinal properties, and remarkable seasoning qualities. Herbs are as relevant today as they have always been. A Visual Directory of Herbs is a comprehensive botanical A-Z reference to over 270 individually photographs herbs. Full descriptions of each herb are given, with essential information on habitat, cultivation, and the parts of the herb used for their culinary, fragrant or medicinal properties. Harvesting and storage are clearly explained, and you can delight in recipes for herb oils, vinegars, teas, poultices, and other therapeutic concoctions. Caution boxes will alert you to any aspects of the plant's character you should steer clear of. An inspirational but practical directory of herbs, this is the ultimate reference to using and growing herbs successfully.

"An easy reference guide to 256 herbs, each herb illustrated in full color. Comprehensive information on growing, collecting and storing herbs Discusses the therapeutic properties of medicinal herbs Glossaries of both botanical and medical terms."--Amazon.com.

The Encyclopedia of Herbs and Spices provides comprehensive coverage of the taxonomy, botany, chemistry, functional properties, medicinal uses, culinary uses and safety issues relating to over 250 species of herbs and spices. These herbs and spices constitute an important agricultural commodity; many are traded globally and are indispensable for pharmaceuticals, flavouring foods and beverages, and in the perfumery and cosmetic industries. More recently, they are increasingly being identified as having high nutraceutical potential and important value in human healthcare. This encyclopedia is an excellent resource for researchers, students, growers and manufacturers, in the fields of horticulture, agriculture, botany, crop sciences, food science and pharmacognosy.

The demand for locally sourced organic foods continues to rise. This resource is a prime reference for the many who are growing or wanting to grow their own vegetables, herbs and fruits. The book features superb full-color photographs and illustrations and an easy-to-use A-Z directory. Comprehensive growing, harvesting and preserving tips and a wealth of recipes are a boon to gardeners and cooks alike. Practical aspects of gardening are explained in detail, with in-depth sections on creating a garden, pollination, soil fertility and greenhouse growing. Some of the topics covered are: Nutritional values The most useful and most recommended varieties Plant hardiness, propagation and growing guidelines Cropping, harvesting and storing Weed, pest and disease control Ornamental and wildlife value Pruning and training Companion planting Container growing. A yearly maintenance calendar, glossary, further reading section, seed sources list and detailed index round out this outstanding book.

This beautifully illustrated, complete guide to herbs unlocks the secrets of these wonder plants—from planting and harvesting to cooking and storing—including their health benefits. Now you can discover the joy and pleasure of growing your own herbs—for spicing up meals, creating crafts, treating ailments, and more. In this comprehensive and beautifully illustrated herbal guide you’ll find information on their history, cultivation, propagation, and harvesting, along with a wealth of great ideas for using herbs everyday in a variety of ways. This guide unravels the mysteries of these versatile plants, with savvy tips and simple formulas for maximizing their powers. Did you know? · Mint can repel ants, flies, mice, and moths · Garlic can seriously lower cholesterol · Chives, fennel, tarragon, thyme, oregano, and winter savory are perennials · Rosemary was used in the Middle Ages for its tranquilizing effects, and it is still a digestion aid Known for alleviating common ailments, herbs are an ancient natural wonder—herbs are hotter than ever. Extremely informative and fascinating, this book will help you find which herb can treat various complaints. Throughout the guide are instructions for bursting-with-flavor recipes, health-care products, decorative craft ideas, insect repellents, cosmetics, cleaning agents, and much more.