The majority of herbal medicinal products are purchased by patients themselves, without a doctor's prescription. For those who want to use phytopharmaceuticals independently or wish to consult physicians or pharmacists in a targeted manner, this book offers scientifically sound information. It is not just another herbal book, but explains the advantages and limitations of therapy with herbal medicinal products. After introductory chapters, all areas of indication in which herbal medicines can be sensibly used are discussed. The chapters are divided into a medical part (function of the organs concerned, symptoms of disease, limits of self-treatment) and a pharmaceutical part (importance of phytotherapy, plants and their mode of action, simple household remedies, recommended preparations from pharmacies and health food shops). Special chapters include topics such as pregnancy.