The Compleat Herbal of Physical Plants by John Pechey, first published in 1694 and revised in 1707, stands as a comprehensive guide to the medicinal properties and applications of plants known in the early modern period. Pechey, a member of the College of Physicians in London, compiled this work to serve as a practical resource for physicians, apothecaries, and herbalists. The book encompasses a wide array of English and foreign herbs, shrubs, and trees, detailing their use in both physical and surgical contexts. Each entry provides information on the plant’s virtues, medicinal uses, and often includes one or more receipts (recipes) from esteemed physicians of the time.​

A notable feature of Pechey’s herbal is its inclusion of dosage information, aligning with prescriptions from London physicians and others, thereby offering practical guidance for medical practitioners. The work also delves into the preparation of various medicinal forms, such as compound waters, syrups (both simple and compound), electuaries, pills, powders, and other medicines. This emphasis on preparation reflects the era’s growing interest in standardized medicinal formulations.​

Beyond plant-based remedies, Pechey expands the scope of his herbal to include substances commonly sold by apothecaries and druggists, such as gums, balsams, oils, and juices. For each of these substances, he provides detailed descriptions of their virtues and uses, thereby offering a more holistic view of the materia medica of the time. This comprehensive approach underscores the interconnectedness of plant-based and other natural substances in early modern medical practices.​

The Compleat Herbal of Physical Plants not only serves as a valuable historical document but also reflects the medical and botanical knowledge of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Pechey’s work is a testament to the era’s commitment to cataloging and systematizing knowledge for practical application in medicine and surgery. Today, it offers modern readers insight into the foundations of herbal medicine and the evolution of medical practices.