Links contained in this post and elsewhere on my website may include affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I only link to products and services that I love - and that I think you will love, too!

Read Time:3 Minute, 39 Second
​It’s hard to believe that the original edition of The Independent Herbalist: A Beginner’s Guide to Herbal Preparedness, my first eBook, came out in 2012, but it did! This handbook has proven to be a favorite with my readers- even five years later I still hear from new readers who love the way it’s organized and the easy projects that help them get started with their first herbal extracts, teas, and other preparations. 

Based on reader feedback, I was able to create a second edition with some updates and clarifications. I also gave it a smart new cover! Here’s a peek at what’s inside and what everyone seems to love the most. 


What’s Inside
This book is divided into three parts: Herbs +DIY; Herbal Profiles; and Herbs+Knowledge. A big part of herbal preparedness starts with being able to care for your basic health.The Resilient Herbalist will delve more into disaster herbalism, but the focus of this volume is being able to handle everyday first aid at home. I often teach two things in my classes: 1) you need to master the basics before you tackle the big stuff, and 2.) preparedness starts with everyday skills and behaviors.    

Herbs+DIY explains the tools and techniques you need to know to begin using herbs. It describes the basic tools you need, the most sustainable supply choices, and how to make common preparations like infusions, extracts, and salves. 

The Herbal Profiles in part two cover twelve of the most versatile herbs to stock at home and that are easily grown in the home garden.  The herbs covered include:

  • Angelica
  • Bee Balm
  • Catnip
  • Dandelion
  • Elder
  • Hawthorn
  • Lemon Balm
  • Mint
  • Mullein
  • Rose
  • Valerian
  • Yarrow  

Herbs + Knowledge gives you an overview of some of the history behind herbalism and some of the theory you will need to understand to work successfully with herbs. It also covers many helpful tips and suggestions if you are learning herbalism through self-study. If you can afford it, I really encourage you to seek out a good school to learn with to advance your studies. I work with and love the Herbal Academy, but there are many different schools to consider. Either way, the tips in this chapter can help you with your studies whether they are self-directed or part of a school curriculum.   

The book wraps up with several appendices and a glossary of herbal terms and definitions to help you continue your herbal studies. 

Curious? Here’s what some other readers have been saying:

Great Information on an Oft-Overlooked Aspect of Herbs
This book takes a different approach than most books about herbs. Often these types of books focus on matching particular herbs to various ailments, etc. While this information can also be found in this book, very few books focus on the manner of applying herbs to the various issues. That is what sets this book apart.

This book takes that aspect and offers up loads of helpful information. You will learn about vinegar and alcohol extracts, oxymels, oil and herb combinations, and much more. After that, it does look at individual herbs and how they can be used.

“Highly recommended!”
-J. Robideau

​Great Read!
“Enjoyed reading your book very much. Should be taught to children in school. Will keep this book for reference. I would recommend this book to everyone.”
-Warren Kunie

I’m Impressed with the Independent Herbalist
Although I haven’t read the whole book yet, what I have read so far is impressive. The author is clear and concise; and seems to have done the research needed to put the point across. I feel as though I will be easily able to follow directions. It’s the type of book that I can easily follow.”
-bastcrystal

If you would like to see all of the reviews, you can find them here. If you decide to read it, I hope you will add your own honest review to the list. Not only does it help support what I do as an author, I also take feedback from reviews into consideration when I’m making updates or planning a new project! 

Here’s the link to the eBook on Amazon, which is the only platform available at this time. However, you can also download the free Kindle Reader app that allows you to download and read eBooks on your computer or non-Kindle device. 

All the Best,
Agatha

Previous post Herbal vocabulary to help you learn herbalism
Next post The Giving Trees