As I mentioned in my last post, there is no shortage of books on herbs and herbalism. However, separating the excellent references from those that are less impressive can be a challenge. This post will include some of the best books, blogs, vlogs, and other resources I didn’t include last time.

Many of these books I have purchased for my own herbal library.  If you see something you like and purchase it through the link, as an Amazon Associate, I do earn a commission on qualifying purchases.

Herbal Antibiotics By Stephen Harrod Buhner -This book provides a great deal of information about herbal alternatives to antibiotics. This book works well with Stephen’s book, Herbal Antivirals.

The Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine by Andrew Chevallier – This is a book that is profusely illustrated with monographs for more than 500 herbs and guidelines as to parts used and preparation.

The School of Natural Healing by Dr. John R. Christopher is an invaluable book containing all of Dr. Christopher’s herbal formulas.Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health – Rosemary Gladstar is considered by many in the world of herbs to be a national treasure. Originally, this book was published under the title of Rosemary Gladstar’s Family Herbal. This softback version contains all 175 recipes of the original book.

All of Rosemary’s books are definitely worth reading. Her book, Herbal Healing for Women, is one of the first encounters I had with her work.  Whether you are a young woman in her childbearing years or are facing change of life issues, I found this book definitely beneficial.   More recently, Rosemary released a companion book for men,  Herbal Healing for Men, which I gave my son as a graduation gift.  Also, if you get a chance, be sure to check out her Instagram and YouTube videos.  They are well worth your time.

Grow Your Own Medicine – Handbook for the Self-Sufficient Herbalist by Ava Green – If you are an absolute beginner and just need to find somewhere to start, Ava Green’s book is a great place to begin. Herbs are noted as to whether they are culinary, medicinal or both. There are even garden layouts to give you an efficient way to plan your own herbal garden on your own homestead.

The Herbal Medicine Maker’s Handbook by James Green – This is one of the textbooks that my American Herbalist’s Guild mentor used when I studied under her. It is also what I now use when I am teaching herbal classes at the local level. This book belongs on the bookshelf of every herbalist and homesteader. Whether you want to make teas, tinctures, or any other herbal preparation, James Green covers best practices that will stick with you for a lifetime.

Mother Nature’s Herbal by Judith Griffin, Ph.D. –  I was surprised at the depth of this book. It outlines many

medicinal herbs in the context of various cultures around the world and their various uses according to those regional modalities.

The Herbal Handbook by David Hoffman – Even though you probably won’t find recipes in this book, it is packed with lots of information about which herbs are useful for various ailments. David Hoffman also put together the massive volume Medical Herbalism, which has chemical breakdowns of herbs and is geared toward those who approach herbalism as a science.

Planetary Herbology – by Michael Tierra – This was one of the first herbal books that I bought when I started getting very serious about herbs. The author successfully went beyond Western herbalism into Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Native American modalities as well. Michael has also included several formulas for various illnesses and chronic conditions. This is definitely one that sees a lot of use at our homestead.

Of course, this list is just a start. I have scores of herbal books; some in print, some quite rare. If you really want to learn about herbs, these are all great books to start with. I am sure, however, that in your own travels, you will encounter books that you might not find readily available in a bookstore or online.  My advice is that if you do find something fantastic and your budget will allow, make the investment in your herbal future.

Disclaimer: The information made on this blog is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, recommend, or prevent any medical condition or replace professional medical advice. If you are pregnant or nursing, taking any medications, or have a medical condition, consult your physician or healthcare professional before using any herbs, herbal products, supplements, or tea.