Former Austinite Launches New Rainforest Herb Book at February Seminar

Austin, Texas (January 10, 2005).  Leslie Taylor will present information from her latest book, The Healing Power of Rainforest Herbs: A Guide to Understanding and Using Herbal Medicinals, at the Austin Herb Society spring seminar on Saturday, February 12, 2005. The seminar, “Health from the Rainforest”, will take place from 9:00 AM until 12:30 PM at the Zilker Botanical Gardens at 2200 Barton Springs Road, Austin, Texas. The seminar will be of interest to anyone wishing to learn about rainforest plants and their medicinal qualities. Registration is $30 to the public and $20 for Austin Herb Society members. Register at www.herbalgram.org or www.austinhersociety.org.

Taylor will base her presentation on her new book, which will be available for sale and signing. The book presents a comprehensive look at 73 Amazonian plants, many of which are growing in popularity in the US market due to their wide variety of uses and relative safety. The book, available January 2005, covers methods of preparing herbal remedies and recipes, properties and actions of rainforest plants, herbal treatment of specific diseases and disorders, and more. Taylor’s presentation will highlight two plants that grow well in Central Texas, kalanchoe (Kalanchoe pinnata or Bryophyllum pinnata) and scarlet bush (Hamelia patens).

In addition to a stimulating presentation about medicinal plants from the rainforest of South America, the seminar includes a light breakfast and exotic treats of fruits, nuts, chocolate, teas and juices of South America, displays of raw materials and handcrafts from the Amazon, and books, plants and products for sale.

The Austin Herb Society is a member-supported nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the providing education regarding the benefits of cultivating and using herbs to promote better health and well-being, encouraging the growth and use of herbs for many beneficial purposes, and providing charitable and volunteer support to community gardens, libraries and/or other community projects. Website: www.austinherbsociety.org.

Founded in 1988, the American Botanical Council is the nation's leading nonprofit organization providing research and education regarding herbs and medicinal plants. ABC occupies an historic 2.5 acre site in Austin, Texas where it publishes HerbalGram, a peer-reviewed journal on herbal medicine, books for health professionals, and other educational materials. For information contact: ABC at PO Box 144345, Austin, TX 78714-4345, ph: 512-926-4900, fax: 512-926-2345. Website: www.herbalgram.org.

Contact: Gayle Engels
American Botanical Council
P.O. Box 144345, Austin, TX 78714-4345
Phone: 512-926-4900 x 114; Fax: 512-926-2345
Website: www.herbalgram.org