As a new-comer to the world of holistic medicine, I must say that this book was indeed a great start for learning about all the benefits that natural medicine can offer. I used to think herbal treatment was a gimmick, but after trying several different types of herbs, I found out quickly that this type of healing was no joke. The Way of Herbs is simply a guide, that is easy to follow and understand, that helps you get on the right track to starting your herbal lifestyle. I think more than anything, I learned of herbal treatments that I never thought would work, or never even heard of. I cannot believe herbal medicine is not more popular than it already is. This book is definitely a great start for anyone like myself who is new to herbal medicine, but also for anyone who has already been involved with it. I like how the book describes many "household" remedies for simple ailments.

Although I do not think I have ever sat down and read this book from cover to cover, I instead use the book as a reference guide. This is the book I turn to as a first resort whenever my family has any ailment or health problem. The book is organized very well and covers almost any herb you can imagine.

I am not against traditional medicine. However, I do believe that alternative treatments are often safer and more effective than those offered by the medical community. This book is great because it appeals to those, like myself, who are generally beginners when it comes to herbal medicine. The author emphasizes a holistic approach to healing that I believe is the key ingredient that traditional medicine is missing.

Overall, this is an excellent book for those interested in trying a more natural approach to their health.

I love this book. I started getting into natural healing remedies long before it became real popular. It is amazing the healing properties of the most simple household herbs.Wonderful descriptions of Western herbs and Chinese herbs are focused on and comkpared. This book describes herbs literally down to a science. It tells you what can be used for all sorts of ailments, from sore gums to a stomach ache but all natural and much better then the over the counter products we're all so used too. This is very interesting reading. Its gives a person the, "oh wow i had no idea" realization/feeling. Wayyy mucho recommended!

The Way of Herbs by Michael Tierra is one of the best resources on the market for anyone interested in herbal medicine. This book does an excellent job of merging the western and eastern traditions with respect to herbal medicine. The first chapter begins with a discussion on balance as being key to health. Another chapter discusses a balanced diet. Balance is the focal point of Ayurvedic medicine.
The ensuing chapters contain detailed discussions on the theory of using herbs, herbal therapies, methods of application, herbal properties, diagnosis and treatment. Tierra even discusses various remedies you can make with most common items in your kitchen.
The two longest chapters in the book consist of extensive descriptions of Western herbs and Chinese herbs. Plant descriptions include: the official name of the plant; the common names; family that the genus is from; parts of the plant used as medicine; the plant’s energy and flavors; the systems of the body that it affects; the plant’s biochemical constituents; the uses of the plant; dosages used; additional notes and cases. The closing chapters give specific details on storing herbs, making formulas and treatments for specific ailments.
The research that went into this is priceless. I consistently refer to it often when I have an ailment, when I need a new formula or to reconfigure one of my old formulas. This book actually holds as much importance in my library as Jethro Kloss’ Back to Eden.