Review by Choice Review
Al-Achi (pharmacy, Campbell Univ.) has compiled a wealth of evidence-based information on the effects of botanical preparations on in vitro and in vivo models of disease. Included is information on the history and safety of botanical medicine; the use of botanicals against cancer, cardiovascular disease, skin disorders, diabetes, thyroid disorders, gastrointestinal disease, psychiatric disorders, infection, and pain, plus an extensive bibliography of peer-reviewed publications. However, poor editing, organizational flaws (hemorrhoids placed between atherosclerosis and lipid-lowering), errors ("the source of omega-6 is fatty fish"), and questionable omissions (no discussion of aloe vera and burns, or botanicals used for congestive heart failure) diminish the author's considerable scholarship and limit the volume's usefulness. Summing Up: Optional. Graduate students, faculty/researchers, and professionals/practitioners. A. P. Boyar CUNY Herbert H. Lehman College
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
