With over 1,000 color photographs, this comprehensive guide unlocks the secrets of these wonder plants--from planting and harvesting to cooking and storing

Now you can discover the joy and pleasure of growing your own herbs—for spicing up meals, creating crafts, treating ailments, and more. In this beautifully illustrated and comprehensive herbal guide you'll find information on their history, cultivation, propagation, and harvesting, along with a wealth of great ideas for using herbs everyday in a variety of ways. This guide unravels the mysteries of these versatile plants, with savvy tips and simple formulas for maximizing their powers. You'll learn:

• Mint can repel ants, flies, mice, and moths
• Garlic can seriously lower cholesterol
• Chives, fennel, tarragon, thyme, oregano, and winter savory are perennials
• Rosemary was used in the Middle Ages for its tranquilizing effects, and it is still a digestion aid

Known for alleviating common ailments, herbs are an ancient natural wonder--herbs are hotter than ever. Extremely informative and fascinating, this book will help you find which herb can treat various complaints. Throughout the guide are instructions for bursting-with-flavor recipes, health-care products, decorative craft ideas, insect repellents, cosmetics, cleaning agents, and much more.