The Handmade Apothecary

Victoria Chown and Kim Walker both studied Herbal Medicine at Westminster University. Kim is currently completing a PhD on Cinchona at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Royal Holloway, University of London. Victoria worked at Neal's Yard Remedies for six years providing natural health and beauty advice. Together they set up Handmade Apothecary. They are the authors of the bestselling The Handmade Apothecary, which focuses on foraging outdoors for herbs to create your own herbal medicines.

Herbs are quite literally everywhere; it is only our ability to recognize their value that has been lost Vicky and Kim explore the traditional uses of herbs combined with a modern and scientific understanding of a truly holistic approach so that you can use herbs to treat ailments and improve your general wellbeing.  The book contains fascinating information about herbs with suggestions of what each herb can be used for. Did you know that daisies infused in oil can be used to reduce bruises? That roses can help grieving and anxiety? Or that elderflower cordial can bring down a temperature? There is also an introduction to each of the body's systems (nervous, respiratory etc.) and which herbs are best for treatments. And of course, the book is peppered with vinegars, balms, oils, tinctures, creams, lotions and syrups to create your own little herbal health kit. Vicky and Kim also encourage people to reconnect with their local environment in addition to growing herbs in their gardens or windowsills. An all-encompassing guide for the beginner,  The Handmade Apothecary is filled with guidance, useful tips and tried-and-tested recipes that will inspire people to make their own remedies.Also by Vicky Chown and Kim Walker: The Herbal Remedy Handbook