The New American Herbal

From modern garden master Stephen Orr comes a new, definitive book on herbs to finally replace the dusty and outdated classics. Here are entries on hundreds of plants that are extraordinarily useful in cooking, homeopathy, and more; dozens of recipes and DIY projects; and beautifully styled photographs so you know just what you're growing.

With more than 900 entries, each accompanied by brand new photography and helpful growing advice, The New American Herbal takes the study of herbs to an exciting new level. Orr covers the entire spectrum of herbaceous plants, from culinary to ornamental to aromatic and medicinal, presenting them in an easy to use A to Z format packed with recipes, DIY projects, and stunning examples of garden design highlighting herbal plantings. Learn about the herbs you've always wanted to grow (chervil, chamomile, and lovage), exotic herbs (such as Artemisia, the bitter herb used in Absinthe, or the anti-inflammatory Meadowsweet), and ornamental varieties (Monkshood and Perilla). For cooks there is indispensable guidance on planting and maintaining a bountiful kitchen garden and crafters will delight in dozens of exciting new uses for fresh, dried, and distilled herbs. Here, too, are 40 delicious recipes such as Ragu Bolognese with Fennel and Lemon Semolina Cake with Lavender, as well easy steps for projects such as a hanging herb garden and instructions on how to plant, dry, and preserve your garden’s bounty.

Meticulously researched and exhaustive in its scope, The New American Herbal is an irresistible invitation to explore the versatility of herbs in all their beauty and variety.

My thoughts: I have always been interesting in using herbs more, for both cooking delicious dishes and to use medicinally. This book is perfect! I think it would work well for the experienced herbalist as well, but is especially perfect for those of us who don't know a whole lot about the wide world of herbs. I love that each of the herbs has a picture, which helps one identify them. I also especially like that the author has told us how to grow each plant and the safety of each one. This will be a book that my husband and I will use for years to come! It came at a wonderful time, since we are wanting to expand our herb garden. Right now, we are growing sage and..... sage.;)
So, if you are a gardener, this is a book you should have in your library!
I received this book from blogging for books in exchange for my honest review.