​Samuel Waggaman’s A Compendium of Botanic Materia Medica: For Use of Students in Medicine and Pharmacy is a seminal work published in 1895, designed to serve as a comprehensive guide for students and practitioners in the fields of medicine and pharmacy. This volume reflects the medical knowledge and botanical understanding of its time, offering detailed descriptions of various medicinal plants and their applications. The book is structured to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical insights, making it a valuable resource for those interested in the therapeutic uses of plants.​

The compendium delves into the classification, characteristics, and medicinal properties of a wide array of botanical substances. Each entry typically includes the plant’s scientific name, common names, habitat, morphological features, and the parts used medicinally. Waggaman emphasizes the importance of understanding the natural sources of medicinal compounds, reflecting a time when plant-based remedies were central to medical practice. The inclusion of a glossary aids readers in comprehending specialized terminology, enhancing the book’s utility as an educational tool.​

In addition to individual plant profiles, the book addresses broader topics such as the preparation and administration of herbal medicines. It discusses various methods of extraction, dosage forms, and the principles underlying the therapeutic use of botanicals. Waggaman’s work underscores the significance of empirical knowledge and traditional practices in the development of pharmacology. By documenting the medicinal uses of plants, the compendium serves as a bridge between traditional herbal medicine and the emerging scientific approaches of the late 19th century.​

A Compendium of Botanic Materia Medica stands as a testament to the rich heritage of botanical medicine. It provides a snapshot of the medical and pharmaceutical understanding of its era, offering insights into how natural products were utilized for healing purposes. For modern readers, the book offers historical context and a foundation for appreciating the evolution of medicinal plant use. Its detailed accounts and systematic approach make it a valuable reference for those interested in the history of medicine, pharmacognosy, and the enduring relationship between humans and the plant kingdom.