The great importance and usefulness of herbs among settlers in the American colonies are made abundantly clear in this charming volume. Compiled by members of the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America; this carefully researched and delightfully written guide provides a wealth of insights into the supply sources that sustained colonists of the period.Here are descriptions of more than 50 herbs and plants; from "simples" or medicinal flora that were believed to offer remedies for a number of ailments (including the ability to relieve pain from real or imagined afflictions) to those used as natural dyes; disinfectants; taste enhancers; and more. Among the varieties described here are bee balm; bloodroot; candytuft; daffodil; feverfew; hollyhock; hyssop; Jacob's-ladder; lady's bedstraw; lavender; lovage; lemon balm; marjoram; mint; parsley; periwinkle; primrose; rosemary; rue; sage; sweet woodruff; tansy; tarragon; thyme; violet; winter savory; wormwood; yarrow; and many others.Each plant is illustrated by an accurate drawing taken from early herbals and is accompanied by a quotation; anecdote; and informative description that includes popular and scientific names and the plant's use in colonial households.An invaluable collection for plant lovers and herb enthusiasts; this excellent reference will also delight anyone interested in early American life.
#2677068 in Books 1999-06-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 .81 x 5.40 x 8.42l; #File Name: 0472086359240 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Thinking of Traveling to India?By Leonard EdwardsAn outstanding writer describes his years of travel inIndia. Excellent.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A MustBy DreamweaverEven though it is now slightly dated; this book is a must for anyone planning to visit India.Thoughtful and balanced. Forthright and direct on the toughest issues you may wonder about.Totally accurate; Keay has also written the best single volume history; as well as witty.Once you have read this you can start reading his other books along with those by William Dalrymple.7 of 8 people found the following review helpful. Classic!!By A CustomerIf you are looking for an introduction to India that goes deep below the surface and yet does not fill up pages - this is the book. This book is a classic and no review will do full justice to it.The book is organized geographically and for each of those regions Keay gives us a view of the people; culture and tourist places in that order of importance.People seem to be of most importance to Keay and perhaps rightly so. All important "types" of social groups are described along with "how" and "why" they are unique. The "types" are according to region; caste; religion or sect or a combination of these. Culture is also described vividly and contrasted well and somewhere in this history is put in to give a perspective on things.It is a highly recommended reading among books on India in English language and tourists and students would benefit alike from it.
