Herbal Pearls: Traditional Chinese Folk Wisdom by Yue Chong-xi, translator, and Steven Foster, editor, 2008.
From 1934 to 1980, Chinese folklorist Miao Wen-wei collected stories that were hundreds if not thousands of years old regarding how certain plants used in Traditional Chinese Medicine were named. The 53 stories in this collection convey much about Chinese culture, folk customs, social habits, history, medical knowledge, mythology and wisdom. Most of the stories reflect a reverence and respect for the ancient herbal healers who cared for the oppressed peasants. From the well-known dong quai, ginseng and licorice to the much-maligned kudzu, dandelion and Japanese honeysuckle, these stories will engage, entertain and educate. Softcover, 168 pages. B558