The Magical and Ritual Use of Herbs

by Richard Alan Miller

Book Overview

Biochemist, physicist, and herbalist, Miller explains the historical use, chemical structure, preparation of, and rituals related to psychotropic herbs. This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0892814012
• ISBN13: 9780892814015
• Release Date: June 1983
• Publisher: Destiny Books
• Length: 128 Pages
• Weight: 0.42 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 5.3" x 8.4"

Customer Reviews

Fast delivery

The book was in great condition, and the delivery was fast. I will buy again for this seller.

Magic herbal ride!

This fascinating book investigates the habitat, cultivation, historical use, chemical structure and benefits of nineteen psycho-active herbs. These plants are discussed by chapter in the following categories: Stimulants (including Damiana, Passionflower and Guarana), Depressants (including Lobelia, Skullcap and Valerian), Narcotics (Wild Lettuce and Wormwood), Hallucinogens (including Kava Kava, Yohimbe, Amanita Muscaria, Morning Glory Seed and Psilocybe Mushroom). Their preparation, ritual use, primary effects and potential hazards are described in detail.Some of the benefits that may be derived from the wise use of these plants include stress relief (Kava Kava and Valerian Root), increased energy (Guarana), restful sleep and cleansing (Wormwood) and spiritual development (Fly Agaric, Psilocybe). The author writes with great authority, effortlessly blending scientific and esoteric knowledge. I enjoyed his no-nonsense factual approach. The book includes a Quick Reference Chart, a Bibliography and a Chemistry, Botanics/Organic and General Index, making it a valuable reference work in addition to a fascinating read.

A well written resource on some of the more potent herbs

One in the series of books by Richard Alan Miller. (The others being "Magical and Ritual use of Perfumes" with Iona Miller, and "magical and Ritual Use of Aphrodisiacs") This book is a typical example of the attention to detail, clarity of writing, and concise nature that I have come to expect from the author.Covering some of the more Pharmocologically active herbs,the coverage is complete enough for my friends in the medical feilds, without losing readers with less chemistry knowledge (like me). There are diagrams of the active chemical compounds, when known, and lots of details about growth and habitat, but the directions and hazards of use are clear enough for a novice.While not covering the more common herbs, such as Rosemary, or sage, this book is a valued part of my herbal library. I sincerely hope that the author writes a more wide ranging book on herbs in the future! Definately worth every penny.

informacion

Perdonen que no haya tenido el gusto de leer alguno de sus interesantes libros, pero necesito informacion con respecto a los efectos de dos extrañas plantas que tengo en mi pasesión "marygold" y "cola de león". Por lo que se la primera es original de América del norte y la segunda de Africa del Sur. Envíen por favor información con respecto a estas plantas, se los agradeceré.

Informative and clearly written and well organized.

This book is very informative, clearly written and well organized. One must have knowledge of wild crafting (plant gathering) and a pretty good knowledge of chemistry to take full advantage of what it has offer. It provides excellent and concise information on herbal effect and very clear warnings. Some good recipes also.