Herbal Medicine Books

Looking for the best herbal medicine books? 

If you ask me, there are few things better in this life than curling up with a good herbal book. 

I am often asked to list my favorite books on herbs. Up until now I thought that was an impossible request. 

When people ask that question I think they are expecting a list of three, perhaps five herb books. Impossible! 

By Robin Wall Kimmerer

By Rosemary Gladstar

By David Hoffman

Body into Balance: An Herbal Guide to Holistic Self-Care

By Maria Noel Groves

Read a Review of Body into Balance here.

By Nancy Phillips

It's been a few years since I've read this one, but I remember it being a great introduction to many aspects of herbalism. 

Practical Herbs 1

By Henriette Kress

A fantastic book by herbalist Henriette Kress that lives up to the title: Practical! This is a great introduction to herbalism with lots of information a more seasoned herbalist will also enjoy. Also check out her latest release, Practical Herbs 2. 

By Kami McBride

By Rosalee de la Foret

By Anna Rosa Robertsdottir

All books by Robert Dale Rogers.

I often reference these books as they are an amazing resource of information!  

By Michael Moore

Michael Moore's legacy to us all was re-enlivening the use of plants found outside our door (as opposed to simply buying them). His infamous humor is blended with a lifetime of study and practice. Don't let the title fool you, many of these plants are found outside of the mountain west. 

By Michael Moore

Michael Moore's legacy to us all was re-enlivening the use of plants found outside our door (as opposed to simply buying them). His infamous humor is blended with a lifetime of study and practice. Don't let the title fool you, many of these plants are found outside of the Pacific west. 

by Matthew Wood

The Earthwise Herbals are what I reach for when I want a quick but thorough energetic understanding of a plant. Get both volumes and you'll seldom find a plant not listed. Volume one covers plants from the Old World. 

by Matthew Wood

The Earthwise Herbals are what I reach for when I want a quick but thorough energetic understanding of a plant. Get both volumes and you'll seldom find a plant not listed. Volume two covers plants from the New World. 

by Matthew Wood

This book doesn't cover as many plants as the Earthwise Herbals but the plants it does cover are discussed very in-depth. You'll reach a different level of intimacy with these particular plants! 

by Paul Bergner

I think Paul Bergner is the cat's meow of herbalism. All of his books are a must read by herbalists. Think you know all there is to know about garlic? Paul takes this to the next level, fully introducing energetics and blasting the theory that all herbs are good for all people. 

by Paul Bergner

In this brilliant book, Paul Bergner takes two plants that have been used, abused and overly simplified by the herbal industry, and gives them back their complexity. Like all of Paul's books the simple titles hide the real magic of the book - in this one you'll learn a lot about the immune system as well. 

by Paul Bergner

In this book Paul shares a wealth of knowledge about ginseng. Who it works great for and who it doesn't, and how to think about tonic (adaptogen) herbs in general. 

by Beverly Grey

Don't live in the Boreal area? Neither do I, but this book is incredibly inspiring and beautiful and covers many plants found in North America. Complete with gorgeous photos and wonderful recipes. 

by Darcey Williamson

Darcey Williamson is an herbal treasure and if you live anywhere near the Rocky Mountains this is a must have. Most of the plants listed are applicable to me in the Northeastern Cascades. She'll wow you with native plant uses that you've never considered before and it's all backed up with her decades of practice and experience. 

by Gazmend Skenderi

This book gives basic info on hundreds of herbs. I use it when I need the basics fast. 

by Brigitte Mars

A great reference that includes energetics and covers popular herbs from around the world. The only thing missing is dosages. 

by Winston and Kuhn

Another great book for getting the basics quick. Each herb listing also contains a lot of scientific studies. It's a small book, nice to have on the go. 

by Margi Flint

In this epic book, Margi covers everything from getting your practice started, to reading the body and understanding poop as a diagnosis. You'll want to read those silky pages again and again. 

by David Hoffman

Often required reading for herbal schools, Medical Herbalism is a large manual on western herbalism. Herbs, herbal theory, body systems and herbal perspectives on common diseases are covered. 

by Matthew Wood

This is a book of western herbal theory. Matthew Wood covers the six tissue states and other energetic understandings of herbs and the body. 

by Alan Tillotson

This is one of my most reached-for herbal resources. Tillotson is a clinical herbalist who has a thorough understanding of the major systems of herbalism. This book covers commonly used herbs from around the world (from dandelion to ginger) and offers energetic diagnostic patterns as well. 

by Landis and Khalsa

A solid book that clearly addresses how to use herbs with people and diseases. From quick bandaid solutions (like carob powder for diarrhea) to long term care for the root of the problem. A fabulous book from experienced herbal clinicians. 

By Dr. Jill Stansbury

By Thomas Easley and Steven Horne

by Lesley Tierra

Perhaps one of my most referenced herbals of all time. I love how Lesley breaks down common western diseases into different underlying patterns, thus giving us the tools to move away from treating disease (e.g., insomnia) and move towards working with the person. This book also serves as a fabulous introduction to basic TCM concepts. 

by Michael Tierra

Like all of Michael's books this one thoroughly covers all there is to know from the energetics, to pattern discrimination to how to actually use the plants! 

By Jeremy Ross

This book and the next are the latest additions to my Chinese Medicine for the Western Herbalist library and they are fast becoming my favorite. Yes, I know they are expensive. However, if you are truly interested in this topic they are well worth it. 

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by Peter Holmes

I find the theory of TCM to be brilliant and effective, but I love using herbs closer to home. Peter Holmes' two volume set is a masterpiece of compiled information placing western herbs into a TCM framework. Pricey, but if you love TCM and western herbs it is a great investment!

by Peter Holmes

I find the theory of TCM to be brilliant and effective, but I love using herbs closer to home. Peter Holmes' two volume set is a masterpiece of compiled information placing western herbs into a TCM framework. Pricey, but if you love TCM and western herbs it is a great investment!

by Thomas Avery Garran

This is a fabulous book and I highly recommend it for those who want to use western herbs within a TCM framework. 

by Thomas Avery Garran

Here is the long awaited follow-up to his first book. I loved this book on numerous levels. Not only is the individual herb information interesting, but his introduction to the book is worth reading over and over. 

by Frawley and Lad

Great introduction to Ayurveda and a review of western materia medica within an Ayurveda standpoint. The introduction to this book is worth the price alone! 

by Todd Caldecott

A very meaty textbook for Ayurveda. For the serious student there is no other like it! 

by Khalsa and Tierra

Another great introduction to the basic concepts of Ayurveda which also includes a review of commonly used Ayurvedic herbs. 

by James Green

Probably the most thorough and most hilarious book out there. He covers everything from the most basic teas to the most complex medicine making techniques. 

by Richo Cech

Richo covers many of the basics in this book and then gives a plant by plant guide on how to prepare certain plants. I think both this book and James Green's book (above) are great resources for Medicine Making. 

by Dr. Sharol Tilgner 

This book has a brief, but useful, materia medica followed by a treasure trove of herbal tincture formulas. This is one of our only herbal formula books in western herbalism. 

by Lisa Ganora

Lisa Ganora makes this topic come to life. Herbal geeks everywhere will love this book! 

by Aviva Romm

This is one of the best herbal textbooks on the market and includes information from some of the most experienced herbalists of today. If you work with women in a clinical setting this book is a must. 

by Aviva Romm

I think this is the best book out there for using herbs to address common complaints in pregnancy. 

by Aviva Romm

A fabulous book for postpartum care, from sitz baths to increasing milk supply. 

by Rosemary Gladstar

Filled with Rosemary's magic, sage wisdom and many do it yourself herbal remedies. A must have for all women interested in herbs.

by Mary Bove

Great resource from one of the most experienced herbalists of our time.

by Demetria Clark

This book is full of simple but effective remedies for using herbs with children. Great option for beginning and experienced herbalists alike.  

by Aviva Romm

One of my go-to books for herbs for kids. Specific herbs, easy recipes and many childhood health complaints are covered. 

by Lesley Tierra 

A fun book to inspire the children in your life (and yourself!). Lots of fun activities, songs, stories and other fun things to do with herbs. 

Herbal Roots Zine

by Kristine Brown

A fantastic resource for parents, this monthly zine is filled with creative curriculum to inspiring your kids to play with plants and learn at the same time. Songs, stories, crafts and more!

by AHPA

This is the first book I reach for when wondering about herbal safety and herb/drug interactions. Be sure to get the second edition. 

by Stargrove, McKee, Treasure

This is a dense book that doesn't cover a lot of herbs, but really covers the herbs well.

by Francis Brinker

This book covers more herbs than the above book, just less in-depth. Both are great references for the practicing herbalist. 

by Tom Elpel

A must have for those wanting to break into the world of botany for plant identification purposes. Tom demystifies the world of plant identification and shares interesting herbal tidbits about the plants as well. Shameless self promotion: buy this book and use it along with mine and John Gallagher's course, Learning Your Plants: Botany for Herbalists, on HerbMentor.com.

By Thomas J. Elpel and Kris Reed

Just published in 2014, this is a must have for those of you in the mountain west. I should note I am partially biased since I am honored to have some of my own photos published in this book. 

By Dina Falconi 

A beautiful book with lots of wonderful information. 

by Sam Thayer

These two books by Sam Thayer are easily the best books on foraging out there. As Sam repeatedly says in the books, these are based entirely on his very extensive experience. Even though he is based on the east coast, many of the plants are found all over north America.  

by Sam Thayer

These two books by Sam Thayer are easily the best books on foraging out there. As Sam repeatedly says in the books, these are based entirely on his very extensive experience. Even though he is based on the east coast, many of the plants are found all over north America. 

By Briana Wiles

By Briana Wiles

By Lisa M. Rose

by Pojar and MacKinnon

The must-have book for plant ID in the northwest coast. Besides an easy referenced field guide it also lists ways natives used the plants. 

by Parish, Coupe, & Lloyd

The must have book for plant ID in the inland northwest. Besides an easy referenced field guide it also lists ways natives used the plants. 

by Nancy Turner

For ethnobotany geeks out there, Nancy Turner is a goddess. Fascinating book on how plants were used to make tools, clothing, shelter and on and on. 

by Nancy Turner

A fantastic book that dispels the notion that first peoples didn't use agricultural practices. You'll discover that our idea of wilderness is completely false and see the brilliant ways people interacted with the land.

by Daniel Moerman

THE reference guide for Native American Ethnobotany. Many other books on the subject simply repeat this thoroughly researched treasure. 

by Todd Caldecott

One of my most recommended books to clients. Todd breaks through a lot of myths about food and shares simply but powerfully on the best foods for your health. 

by Paul Bergner

A little hard to find now, but this is a great book! 

By Holly Bellebuono

by Emily Han

by Janice Schofield

This was one of my first plant books and I still treasure it. It's specific to the pacific coast, but many of the plants are found across the US. Although she does list medicinal uses of plants, this book is not necessarily about herbalism, but more about edibles and general ethnobotany of plants.

by Linda Runyon

For many years Linda Runyon ate most of her food from the land. A great resource for wild edible plants.

by Sereena Kaul, Priya Kaul, Alexa Kaul

My most reached-for cookbook. Every recipe is delicious and fairly easy to prepare. I love that Indian cooking using TONS of spices. 

by Louisa Shafia

A beautiful cookbook with an interesting blend of herbs and spices. Persian food does sour so well!

by Jennifer McGruther

By Pascal Baudar

By Mia Wasilevich

By Guido Mase

I couldn't put this book down. A must read for any herbalist. 

by Winston and Maimes

A great read on a category of herbs. Besides offering in-depth information and energetics of plants, dosages and contraindications are often given for each plant.

by Robert Dale Rogers

My favorite book on fungi!

by Donald Yance

This is a wonderful resource for herbalists as well as those living with cancer.

by Steven Buhner

Although it's not my favorite to refer to herbs as antibiotics, this book is filled with good info. Get the second edition.

By Steven Buhner

If you loved Herbal Antibiotics then definitely get this book as well. Important books in our world.

by Timothy Scott

Interesting look at cultural beliefs around "invasive" plants. Also has a section on monographs of "invasive plants". 

By Jovial King and Guido Mase

By Mary Siisip Geniusz

by Dina Falconi

Heavenly recipes for all sorts of health and beauty applications. From creams to shampoos to solutions to acne.

by Stephanie Tourles

Nice simple book with great recipes for herbal body products.

by Rosemary Gladstar

This book goes beyond herbs for the body, but somehow I placed it here. Rosemary's recipes are ones that you'll use again and again. 

by Steven Buhner

by Mark Pilotkin

by Matt Wood

by Rosita Arvigo

By Maia Toll

by Juliet Marillier

by Diana Gabaldon

by Monica Furlong

by Monica Furlong

by Jean Auel

By Marsha Mehran

An aromatic tale of three sisters that will undoubtedly inspire you to cook more with cardamom. 

by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

Yes, the book is better than the movie. Very beautifully written.  

Rosalee is an herbalist and author of the bestselling book Alchemy of Herbs: Transform Everyday Ingredients Into Foods & Remedies That Healand co-author of the bestselling book Wild Remedies: How to Forage Healing Foods and Craft Your Own Herbal Medicine. She's a registered herbalist with the American Herbalist Guild and has taught thousands of students through her online courses. Read about how Rosalee went from having a terminal illness to being a bestselling author in her full story here.