Herbal Intelligence: Plant Teachers and the Return of Viriditas

David Hoffmann's guide to modern herbalism explores the cultural reawakening of ancient healing modalities, highlighting their role in reconnecting with the land and ourselves. He examines the ecological significance of herbs and their constituents, the concept of viriditas, biodiversity, chemodiversity, and the historical roots of herbalism. Hoffmann also discusses the exponential growth in recent research and peer-reviewed literature on phytotherapy and herbs, as well as the challenges of integrating herbalism into the global marketplace. He offers a range of herbal approaches to support personal and cultural resilience during the crises humanity is facing, emphasizing the importance of earth-centered herbalism for health and resilience.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 12 September 2024
Publisher: Inner Traditions Bear and Company

A guide to the cultural reawakening of modern herbalism
David Hoffmann, a renowned medical herbalist, delves into the dynamic landscape of modern herbalism, highlighting its resurgence as a means to reconnect with the land and ourselves in a time of ecological crisis. He explores the concept of viriditas, recognizing nature as divinely intelligent, and examines the profound involvement of herbs and their constituents in ecology, emphasizing their role in integration and homeostasis. Hoffmann delves into the concepts of biodiversity and chemodiversity, highlighting the ecological role of human-herb interactions and co-evolutionary relationships between species. He presents evidence of medicinal plant use by animals and early humans, tracing the history of herbalism from its ancient roots to the modern varieties practiced today. He explores the radical and non-hierarchical roots of herbalism, drawing parallels between its development and the growth of spiritual awakening and social radicalism. Hoffmann also examines the exponential growth in recent research and peer-reviewed literature on phytotherapy and herbs, highlighting the challenges of integrating herbalism into the global marketplace. He emphasizes the importance of ethical and sustainable practices in herbalism, recognizing the potential for harm if not approached responsibly. Overall, Hoffmann's guide provides a comprehensive understanding of modern herbalism, its historical roots, and its potential for positive impact on our planet and ourselves.

Weight: 318g
Dimension: 230 x 155 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781620556146