Natural remedies: their origins and uses

The past two decades have witnessed a phenomenal explosion of interest in the potential uses of plant medicines in healthcare and this has evoked the rebirth of pharmacognosy as the rapidly expanding area of academic research responsible for educating healthcare professionals about these remedies. This introductory text on phytotherapy highlights the aspects of medicinal plants that are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the role plant drugs can play in healthcare. It is unique in that it is the first volume in English to employ the Anatomical Therapeutic and Chemical (ATC) classification system developed by the World Health Organisation to present information on the therapeutic uses of plants. It will prove invaluable to pharmacists, researchers and professionals throughout the healthcare system, and students of medicine, herbalism and complementary medicine.