23 Christian Herbalist Books for Home Healers

Looking to heal your family at home using God’s natural herbs? Though herbalism has deep roots in Christian tradition, much of the modern information is unfortunately influenced by New Age ideas. In this post, we’ll introduce 23 Christian herbalist books  to help you approach healing from a faith-centered perspective.

For Christians seeking to learn about healing with natural herbs, the challenge lies in finding resources that align with our moral values. To help guide you on your journey, we've curated a list of 23 books that reflect centuries of Christian wisdom in herbal medicine. These works offer you a path to reclaiming the use of herbs in a way that honors God.

Are you ready? Let’s dive into these fascinating books and rediscover the healing power of God's creation...

1. Hildegard of Bingen's Medicine

by Dr. Wighard Strehlow and Gottfried Hertzka M.D.

Hildegard of Bingen’s Medicine revives the profound healing wisdom of the 12th-century mystic and prophet, Hildegard of Bingen, whose divinely inspired visions provided a holistic approach to healing the body, mind, emotions, and spirit. This groundbreaking book presents translations of Hildegard’s texts, which reflect the pinnacle of medieval healing science. The authors, who have worked clinically with Hildegard’s teachings for over 30 years, offer insightful commentary on these ancient remedies.

2. Physica

by Hildegard von Bingen

Physica is my favorite herbal book, and the text I most frequently reach for! St. Hildegard von Bingen (1098-1179) was likely the greatest herbalist who ever lived because her knowledge was divinely inspired. This book contains her list of herbs, animals, minerals, and their medicinal uses. She also explains in this book what herbs and substances are not useful for medicine, or even potentially harmful. While Dr. Strehlow and Hertzka's book above is a valuable introduction to Hildegard medicine, Physica is the definitive textbook for any Christian looking to gain a deeper understanding of her healing science.

3. Causae et Curae

by Hildegard von Bingen

Causae et Curae by Hildegard of Bingen is a remarkable 12th-century work that explores the interconnectedness of the world and humanity's place within it, merging holistic medicine with concepts akin to quantum physics. A complement to Physica, readers gain access to Hildegard's visionary and medical insights, which reflect a profound understanding of the body, nature, and the cosmos. Known for her work in both medicine and mysticism, St. Hildegard offers a multidimensional perspective on health and healing, making this book another essential resource for Christian home healers.

4. Health through God's Pharmacy

by Maria Treben

For the Christian just starting out in herbalism, Health through God's Pharmacy is a fantastic introduction with plenty of herbal profiles and remedies to get you going. Written by a world-renowned herbalist who happens to be a devout Catholic, Maria Treben (1907-1991) often invoked the Blessed Virgin Mary's intercession when seeking to understand God's design for herbs and their medicinal uses.

5. Christian Herbal Medicine

by Judson Carroll

Understanding the history of herbal medicine is essential for Christian herbalists as it highlights the deep roots of herbal practices within Christianity. Contrary to modern misconceptions linking herbal medicine to "New Age" spirituality and political ideologies, Christian monks, nuns, and priests were instrumental in preserving and advancing herbal knowledge for nearly 2,000 years. Christian Herbal Medicine: History and Practice explores this rich history, demonstrating that Christian herbalists can reclaim the rightful place of herbal medicine in their faith tradition, countering myths and affirming that using medicinal herbs aligns with Christian principles of healing and stewardship of God’s creation.

6. Hortulus

by Abbot Walafrid Strabo

Hortulus ("Little Garden") by Walafrid Strabo, a 9th-century Benedictine monk and abbot, is a seminal poem on medieval gardening that offers a detailed account of his personal garden on Reichenau Island. Composed in Latin hexameter verse, this work describes 23 herbs and flowers, detailing their appearances, uses, and medicinal properties. Strabo's poem not only provides practical gardening insights but also reflects the integration of gardening into monastic life as both a practical and spiritual endeavor. Hortulus is considered one of the earliest and most significant medieval texts on gardening, offering a blend of hands-on experience, poetic expression, and religious devotion that continues to influence historians, gardeners, and herbalists today.

7. De Materia Medica

by Dioscorides

Pedanius Dioscorides (c. 40-90) was a Greek physician, pharmacologist and botanist. His book on herbal medicine, De Materia Medica, was widely read for more than 1,500 years, and carefully preserved by the Benedictine monks. Even in remote Alpine regions, the monks were reported as carrying these hand-copied texts of De Materia Medica around with them. This is a must-have for anyone who wants to learn traditional Western medicine as practiced by the Benedictines for over 1,000 years and continues to be a valuable reference for herbalists today.

8. A Modern Herbal 

by M. Grieve

A Modern Herbal is an extensive and updated edition of the traditional medieval herbal, offering a thorough exploration of over 800 varieties of plants, including herbs, grasses, shrubs, fungi, and trees. This modern reboot provides meticulously researched scientific support alongside rich folklore about each entry, covering everything from the medicinal properties and botanical classification of plants to their cultivation methods and chemical constituents. With detailed entries featuring information on dosages, preparations of extracts, tinctures, and foods, as well as cosmetic uses, the book also includes hundreds of recipes for lotions, ointments, sauces, and more. Illustrated with beautiful and detailed images, A Modern Herbal is both a comprehensive reference for serious students and an enchanting read for the general audience, adding depth to the understanding of plants and their uses in history and contemporary practice.

9. Handbook of Monastic Medicine

by Johannes G. Mayer, Bernhard Uehleke and Father Kilian Saum

Handbook of Monastic Medicine is a comprehensive handbook that revives the ancient healing practices of monastic medicine. With over 100 profiles of medicinal herbs used by nuns and monks throughout history, this book combines centuries-old wisdom with modern discoveries to offer practical home remedies for various ailments. The result of 20 years of research by historian Dr. Johannes G. Mayer and Dr. Bernhard Uehleke, the book draws from medieval sources, including ancient parchments and manuscripts, to reveal the therapeutic secrets of monastic gardens. Complete with precise recipes and guidance from Father Kilian Saum, former head of St. Ottilien Abbey’s infirmary, this book provides a treasure trove of effective, time-tested therapies grounded in the monastic tradition. This book is only available in German.

10. The Secret Healing Knowledge of the Nuns

by Johannes Gottfried Mayer

The Secret Healing Knowledge of the Nuns delves into the remarkable contributions of women in medieval medicine, focusing on figures like Hildegard von Bingen and her sisters. During the High Middle Ages, these women played a crucial role in medical research, nursing, and the development of therapies, including the founding of hospitals. Dr. Johannes G. Mayer, head of the monastery medicine research group, explores the world of these pioneering nuns, revealing how their ancient recipes and methods can still offer valuable healing insights today. This book provides a fascinating look at the enduring legacy of monastic medical practices and their relevance to contemporary wellness. This book is only available in German.

11. The Alphabet of Galen 

by Nicholas Everett

The Alphabet of Galen is a critical edition and English translation of an ancient text that catalogues nearly 300 natural products—including metals, aromatics, animal materials, and herbs—alongside their medicinal uses. This Latin translation, derived from earlier Greek writings that no longer survive, was widely referenced in medieval collections of medical authorities such as Hippocrates, Galen of Pergamum, and Soranus. The text offers fascinating linguistic insights, including rare Greek and Latin technical terms and unique pharmacological descriptions. Nicholas Everett's work not only sheds light on medieval translations of ancient science but also enhances our understanding of the medicine of the Benedictines.

12. The Medicinal Herbs of Father Johannes Künzle

by Jolanta Wittib and Judson Carroll

In 1911, Fr. Johannes Künzle published what would become one of the most important books written on Herbal Medicine in the 20th Century. This edition includes a new English translation of The Herbs and Weeds of Fr. Johannes Künzle along with commentary by modern herbalists. Fr. Künzle was a bold and outspoken Swiss priest who sought to educate the common people of central Europe about the flowers, weeds and trees that grew in abundance, and how they may be used to treat common illnesses. Like his predecessor, Fr. Kneipp, his vision was of kitchen medicine, folk medicine, and a firm faith that God had provided all an individual of family could need for general health. This little book became a best seller, leading to fame (that he generally did not desire), and to clashes with the medical establishment. He challenged that establishment and won court battles, proving that his herbs were sometimes even more effective than their medicine.

13. Herbal Medicine for Preppers

by Judson Carroll

Judson Carroll's mission in Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People is to bring the practical benefits of herbal medicine to everyday life, inspired by the traditions of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Rooted in the practices of conservative, Christian Appalachian farmers and woodsmen, the book reflects a lifestyle of preparedness and self-reliance. In rural areas where access to medical care was limited and financial resources were scarce, these communities maintained herbal traditions passed down through generations. Carroll's work aims to preserve and share this practical knowledge, highlighting the integration of herbal medicine with essential skills such as gardening, hunting, and home maintenance, and continuing a legacy of rugged individualism and self-reliance for new generations.

14. The Western Herbal Tradition

by Graeme Tobyn, Alison Denham and Midge Whitelegg

The Western Herbal Tradition: 2000 Years of Medicinal Plant Knowledge is a detailed and fully illustrated guide that delves into 27 essential plants central to the practice of herbal medicine. Drawing from historical texts and modern research, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of these herbs, shedding light on their identification, uses, and therapeutic applications. Each chapter includes clear information on safety, prescribing, dosage, and recipes, making it a valuable tool for both practitioners and students of herbalism. With full academic references and an in-depth analysis of the history and current uses of each plant, The Western Herbal Tradition provides a profound understanding of herbal medicine's past and present, making it a vital resource for anyone interested in the practice and history of herbal medicine.

15. Materia Medica of Western Herbs

by Carole Fisher

Materia Medica of Western Herbs contains a comprehensive list of the herbs, their habitat and cultivation, active and nutritional constituents, herbal actions, scientific information, historical uses, safety information, and drug interactions. Because safety information and drug interactions are not contained in the old texts, this or a similar book is a must-have for practicing herbalism safely, as well as understanding the science of how herbs work.

16. Medical Herbalism 

by David Hoffmann

Medical Herbalism is a foundational textbook offering an in-depth exploration of the scientific principles behind therapeutic herbalism and their application in modern medicine. Designed for medical practitioners, the book provides comprehensive information on the identification and use of medicinal plants, categorized by chemical structure and physiological effect. It covers the art and science of herbal medicine-making, including preparations, dosage, contraindications, and toxicology, while also addressing the challenges posed by the complexity of plant medicines in current research. With sections on green medicine, the history of Western Herbalism, and other medicinal plant modalities, Medical Herbalism also includes practical guides on dosage formulation, measurement systems, and conversion tables. This essential resource is invaluable for students and practitioners of clinical herbalism looking to deepen their knowledge and refine their practice.

17. Galen: Works on Human Nature

by P.N. Singer and Philip J. van der Eijk

Aelius Galenus (c. 129-216) was a prominent Greek physician and surgeon whose prolific works significantly influence medical practice to this day. In Volume 1, Mixtures (De Temperamentis), he introduces a typology of the human body based on nine combinations of hot, cold, dry, and wet qualities, exploring the concept of the 'well-tempered' individual whose balance ensures optimal health. This foundational knowledge, central to the practices of the Benedictines and referenced by figures like St. Hildegard, remains crucial for Christian herbalists and traditional Western herbalists. Understanding Galen’s temperaments offers historical and practical insights into diagnostic techniques and therapeutic regimens based on interactions between foods, drinks, and drugs.

18. Essential Oils of the Bible

by Randi Minetor

Essential Oils of the Bible explores the historical and spiritual significance of essential oils mentioned in Scripture, offering a blend of scientific insight and biblical wisdom. The book profiles 30 essential oils, each paired with a biblical verse, and provides detailed information on their medicinal properties, uses, and precautions. It also offers 150 remedies and recipes for addressing common health needs and household care, grounded in natural, God-given healing. Complete with a comprehensive list of oils in Scripture and their biblical references, this guide is both practical and spiritually enriching for those looking to integrate essential oils into their health and wellness practices.

19. The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy

by Valerie Ann Wowood

The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy is a comprehensive resource for exploring the benefits of essential oils and aromatherapy. This revised and expanded edition features over 800 practical recipes for essential oil treatments, tailored to address a wide range of health issues across different age groups, from children to seniors. Worwood offers guidance on using essential oils for emotional well-being, self-defense against microbes, and various everyday applications, including beauty treatments and home care. Celebrated for its detailed profiles of 125 essential oils and 37 carrier oils, this book has been a cornerstone in aromatherapy for 25 years, reflecting the growing recognition of essential oils' positive impacts supported by scientific research.

20. Aromatherapeutic Blending

by Jennifer Peace Rhind

Aromatherapeutic Blending delves into the core concept of synergy in aromatherapy, emphasizing its significance and providing evidence-based guidance for creating effective and safe aromatherapeutic blends. The book explores new research developments in essential oil use, comparing holistic, psychosensory, and molecular approaches to blending. It includes detailed profiles of essential oils and absolutes, supported by comprehensive tables that help practitioners select the most appropriate oils for synergistic blends. Encouraging reflection and evaluation, the book aims to enhance the knowledge and insight of both students and practitioners, fostering more effective and informed aromatherapy practices.

21. In the Garden: An Illustrated Guide to the Plants of the Bible

by Whitaker House

This beautifully illustrated guide explores the plants, trees, herbs, and flowers mentioned throughout the Bible, offering readers a deeper understanding of their role in the biblical narrative. From Ruth’s barley to David’s hyssop, and the sycamore tree Zacchaeus climbed, In the Garden brings to life fifty plants significant to daily life in the ancient Near East and New Testament Israel. While it does not cover the medicinal uses of these plants, it provides unique insights into their biblical symbolism, including a Jewish calendar of growing seasons and festivals in Israel. With tips for cultivating your own biblical garden and indexes linking each plant to its corresponding Bible references, this book offers a fresh perspective on Holy Scripture.

22. Back to Eden

by Jethro Kloss

In Back to Eden, Kloss, a self-taught herbalist, shares his personal journey of discovering how the body can heal itself when supported with natural remedies and unprocessed foods. He advocates for a return to a lifestyle in harmony with nature, emphasizing the importance of mental, emotional, and spiritual balance for overall well-being. The book provides an extensive list of medicinal herbs and detailed instructions on how to use them for common ailments, along with guidance on adopting a holistic approach to health that addresses the root causes of illness. Kloss also stresses the value of non-invasive, natural therapies over conventional treatments and encourages sustainable living practices to benefit both personal health and the environment.

23. Nourishing Traditions

by Sally Fallon

Herbal medicine and nutrition go hand in hand. Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon challenges modern dietary trends, delivering the bold message that animal fats and cholesterol are not harmful, but essential for optimal health. This well-researched guide dispels the myths of low-fat diets, advocating for traditional foods rich in saturated fats, such as butter, to support brain function, heart health, disease protection, and energy levels. Fallon explains the health benefits of high-cholesterol diets, saturated fats, and enzyme-rich foods, while also addressing the dangers of vegetarianism, modern soy products, and improperly prepared grains and legumes. With practical advice on preparing nutrient-dense meals and a focus on traditional, time-honored cooking methods, Nourishing Traditions offers a comprehensive, nutritious, and delicious alternative to contemporary diet fads, emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition for all ages, including babies and children.