September 25, 2025

Introduction The history of medicine cannot be told without acknowledging the critical role of the United States Pharmacopeia (USP). As a guiding document, the USP has established trusted standards for medicines, herbs, and preparations, shaping both scientific and traditional healing practices. By combining historical insight with medical innovation, the USP remains one of the cornerstones […]

Introduction Herbal medicine has shaped human history for thousands of years, bridging the gap between folklore, spirituality, and science. From remedies passed down through generations to carefully documented botanical studies, these traditions reveal how our ancestors viewed plants as healers, protectors, and companions in daily life. Today, thanks to collections like the World Herb Library, we

Introduction Mushrooms have fascinated humanity for thousands of years. Some have nourished, some have healed, and others have caused deadly poisonings. Their dual nature—as both food and potential danger—has made them a subject of folklore, science, and medicine across cultures. From ancient herbalists to modern mycologists, the study of mushrooms has shaped our understanding of

Introduction Plant names are more than simple labels; they are windows into history, culture, science, and tradition. From the structured Latin system of botanical classification to the colorful and descriptive common names used in everyday language, plant names tell stories about how humans have interacted with the natural world. Whether rooted in medicine, folklore, or

Introduction Pharmacy is one of the oldest healing sciences, bridging the gap between medicine, botany, and chemistry. Long before the age of modern laboratories and pharmaceutical companies, healers, apothecaries, and physicians relied on detailed manuals and reference works to guide their use of plants, minerals, and compounds. These early dispensatories and pharmacopoeias laid the foundation