Author Description

Product Description Herbs are indeed "nature’s gift to mankind" and have had fascinating uses since the dawn of history. Events such as the spice wars in the Malay Archipelago attest to their importance. In our time, there is a strong interest in herbs in the search for "natural" and alternative medicines, and cures for diseases such as AIDS. Herbs of Malaysia presents an introduction to 100 common herbs of the country. The book defines herbs in the context of its uses and gives a brief historical background, notes on the development of modern drug technology, and an account of edible herbs and essential oils. The notes include over 200 full colour photographs. The uses of these herbs in traditional medicine in Malaysia and neighbouring countries - as well as in 'ulam' (salads), food flavouring, aromatherapy and fragrances - are described. The main chemical constituents of the herbs and notes on their nutritional value are provided where known. About the Author About the Authors / Editor: Dr. Joseph Samy has a doctorate from the Justus Liebig University in Germany, and was a recipient of the Alexander von Humboldt Award. He was an agronomist in the Malaysian Department of Agriculture and has headed the Rice Research Centre of the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), before lecturing at the Monash University Malaysia. Dr Joseph’s research on alternative agriculture has benefited from a research grant from the Countries of the Group of 77, United Nations, for studies into organic farming. Sugumaran Manickam has degrees in Agriculture and Plant Biotechnology and is a lecturer in biology at the University of Malaya. Kate Lee Lit Wen has a degree in Biotechnology and participated in herb research with Dr. Joseph at the Monash University Malaysia. Prof. Dr. K. M. Wong is a professor in biology at the University of Malaya, and the editor of this book. He has also authored and edited many other books on botany and natural history