American Medicinal Plants: An Illustrated and Descriptive Guide, Vol. 2 by Charles Frederick Millspaugh is a comprehensive botanical work that delves into the medicinal properties of North American plants. Published in 1887, this volume continues the exploration initiated in the first volume, focusing on an additional 70 plant species. Each entry is meticulously detailed, providing insights into the plant’s appearance, habitat, and medicinal uses. The work is renowned for its 70 full-page chromolithographic plates, each illustrating a specific plant, accompanied by descriptive text that outlines its therapeutic applications, preparation methods, and chemical constituents.​

Millspaugh’s approach combines scientific rigor with practical application. He categorizes plants based on their botanical families, offering a systematic method for identification and study. The text includes historical references to the plant’s use in various cultures and medical traditions, emphasizing its relevance in both contemporary and traditional medicine. Additionally, the volume features a therapeutic index that links over 1,000 ailments to corresponding plant remedies, serving as a valuable resource for practitioners and scholars alike.​

While some of the medicinal claims in Millspaugh’s work may be considered outdated by modern standards, the volume remains a significant contribution to the field of medical botany. Its detailed illustrations and thorough descriptions provide a window into the historical understanding of plant-based medicine. The work not only serves as a practical guide for identifying and utilizing medicinal plants but also offers insights into the cultural and historical contexts of herbal medicine in North America.​

American Medicinal Plants: An Illustrated and Descriptive Guide, Vol. 2 is an invaluable resource for those interested in the study of medicinal plants. Its combination of detailed botanical illustrations, comprehensive descriptions, and historical context makes it a timeless reference in the field of herbal medicine.