The Magic of Herbs

Book excerpt: Like many who were reared in a rural setting, David Conway came to know about healing arts that relied on a deep knowledge of herbal decoctions, tinctures, and poultices. In The Magic of Herbs, he shares the knowledge of herbs he gained in his early training in the hills of the Welsh countryside. Studying with a master herbalist near his boyhood home, he absorbed the practical and occult properties of the herbs and plants found in the surrounding environs. In this book, David presents an updated tome detailing in plain language a concise natural history and illustrated guide to the world’s most beneficial plants. Also treated are the occult properties of each of the plants described. Chapters include: Botanical Medicine, Herbalism and Astrology, Doctrine of Signatures, Preparation of Herbs, Tonics and Physics, Cosmetics and Narcotics, Wines from Herbs and Flowers, Language of Flowers, Herbal Materia Medica, and Index of Ailments and their Herbal Treatment.