Aromatic Plants

Saffron is an important spice of high economic value. Used as a dye, and in the cosmetic industry, some interesting medicinal properties have recently been attributed to this genus. The book covers the research on the cultivation and genetic improvement of Saffron and all aspects on the botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and cultivation of the species. For two decades saffron specialists explored methods of improving its cultivation in the field and also in vitro. This research has resulted in a comprehensive and contemporary overview of saffron (Crocus Sativus L.) which will be of great interest to all concerned with the study and use of spices and medicinal plants.

Pueraria has been woven in Asian societies for more than two millennia, having been used in cooking, weaving, decorating and treating human ailments. It was not until 1876 when Pueraria lobata was brought to Philadelphia from Japan, that plants of the genus Pueraria were introduced to the USA. However, before long, its excellent nutritional value, remarkable hardiness and growing rate, and elaborate root system raised it to prominence in the fodder and fertilizer industry, and in soil conservation programs throughout the south. But recent ingenious research efforts may yet again turn this robust plant into a valuable cash crop for US farmers. This is the first book of its kind to be published on this medicinal and industrial plant genus. It has been assembled with a broad and diverse readership in mind, including students, educators and prevention and treatment practitioners as well as research scientists from a broad range of disciplines. This comprehensive book contains a concise description of the age-old knowledge, as well as authoritative scientific information that parallels the rapid increase in our scientific understanding of Pueraria.

The genus Vetiveria is one of the most versatile genera in plant species. The species produces odorous roots from which a precious essential oil is distilled and used in a variety of applications from perfumery to ethnopharmacology. The same roots give the plant particular characteristics that make it a valuable natural barrier against erosion. The book describes the anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, essential oil biogenesis and chemical composition, ethnopharmacologu and distillation, as well as the production of plants for oil exploration and for the use of Vetiveria as an ecological tool against erosion, flood, soil pollution and many other applications.

Known usually by their commercial names-star anise, aniseed and fennel, respectively-illicium, pimpinella and foeniculum are spices with a rich history. In addition to their traditional uses, each has multiple applications in botany, chemistry, pharmacology and therapy. The author, along with expert contributors, discusses this range of applications and presents data on the ecological and biological characteristics of these genera. The text gives a full profile for each species, including practices for cultivating, drying and storing the plants. Their performance in the marketplace is also reviewed, with a look at their economic importance and future trends. University professors and students in botany, pharmacology, phytochemistry and medicine will benefit from this volume.

Panax Ginseng has been commonly used in indigenous medicine in the Far East for over 5,000 years. Its man-like appearance ensured that it was quickly accepted as a tonic maintaining the body in good health, inducing rejuvenation and retarding ageing. The vast output of modern research suggests uses for this ancient drug in today's medicine.

Text discusses the multi-purpose uses of fenugreek as forage, food, spice, perfume, insect repellent, dye, herbal medicine, and much more. Describes fenugreek seed as a possible solution to such problems as birth control and gastric disorders. Color and halftone illustrations.