The Herbal Alchemist’s Handbook

photo courtesy of amazon.com

The Herbal Alchemist’s Handbook is the latest grimoire on the market that is chock full of information for any alchemist. Karen Harrison has been involved in magic and occultism since her childhood. She also earned a Master of Herbology from the Emerson College of Herbology in Montreal. In addition to writing she also owns Isis Books with her husband.

The handbook kicks off with planetary signatures and their herbal counterparts with the Sun and Moon included despite not being real planets. Harrison then moves to educating the rest of us about how to concoct different mixtures. From ritual oils to bath salts and everything in between. Following up is how it all relates with planetary and elemental influences. I found it overall a very dry read, this could be perhaps because I have a very rudimentary education in terms of astrology. Before diving into this treasure trove, and it is a treasure trove with all of the information at your fingertips, I do recommend you get through Astrology 101 so that it’s easier to comprehend and relate the work of herbs in a very ritual sense. It is important to note that this book is about using the herbs for ritual work. Kitchen witches may find the book helpful but won’t get in-depth information on herbs from health and magical properties for magical workings outside of a circle.

The Herbal Alchemist’s Handbook
Karen Harrison
Weiser Books
Paperback
$21.95
ISBN: 978-1-57863-491-0
June 2011

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***Disclaimer**
Weiser Books sent me a copy of The Herbal Alchemist’s Handbook in exchange for this review. All opinions in this review are my own and are not swayed by receiving the book.