Plants have been used to treat disease throughout human history. Phytomedicines, Herbal Drugs, and Poisons offers a richly illustrated, scientific guide to medicinal and poisonous plants, including those used for their mind-altering effects. Phytomedicines, Herbal Drugs, and Poisons covers approximately 300 species, from Aloe vera and Ephedra sinica to Cannabis sativa and Coffea arabica, detailing their botanical, geographical, pharmacological, and toxicological data as well as the chemical structures of the active compounds in each.
Ben-Erik van Wyk is professor of botany at the University of Johannesburg and the author of several best-selling books on plants and plant use.