A Druid's Herbal for the Sacred Earth Year

October 1, 1994
Hopman provides the religious and historical background of the Druids before proceeding to the herbal information in chapters that progress through the seasons from All Hallows (the beginning of the Druidic year) through the fall equinox. Each of these chapters first sets the seasonal context, then presents a list of the herbs pertinent to that season. Each entry in a list cites the parts of the plant that are used and their herbal, homeopathic, and magical uses. Hopman follows the herbal with a discussion of planetary effects on herbs and the herbs used for major life events. Helpful appendixes guide the non-Druid in pronunciation, list sources of information and plants, and give a short list of references. Hopman's effort will fascinate anyone interested in herbs and their lore as well as that sizable group that finds the Druids and their approach to life intriguing. ((Reviewed October 1, 1994))(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 1994, American Library Association.)