Iwigara: American Indian Ethnobotanical Traditions and Science

What a fascinating book. I will be honest, I thought this book would contain much more information than it does. I was under the impression that it would go into depth on each plants native history and uses. In a sense it does, however, quickly! Which is actually a relief, because this makes for a great quick reference and refresher book. Each plant listed will have about a page or two dedicated to it. In there will be a quick summary of the native history, how it was and is used, where to find, and what are the medical benefits. It’s an incredible reference book, with detailed pictures and descriptions. It wasn’t what I was expecting, but that was actually a wonderful surprise. I do enjoy that it isn’t a boring detailing book, rather, a quick strait to the point book.

This is undoubtedly a fantastic contribution to ethnobotany and a great reference book for the rest of us. Salmón shares the knowledge and reverence North American Indigenous people have for dozens of plants in a detailed but approachable way. Each plant profile includes the parts used, season, region, traditional uses, how to identify the plant in the wild, and health benefits. Includes tons of beautiful photographs. Highly recommended.

I've been an herbalist for over 10 years and this book had so many uses for and stories about herbs that I've not heard before. I'm learning something new on every page and truly appreciate this collection of knowledge.This is definitely not a classic "herbal text" - if you're looking for a ton of information on common herbs and how to make herbal medicines, this is not the right book for you. If you're interested in learning about native culture and herbal use - both ancient and modern - this is the book for you.

I am reading now. I am learning stuff I had no knowledge of.

Full of knowledge.

This is a beautiful book, well produced with amazing images. The content is fascinating. It’s easy to pick it up and look up different plants by skipping around.

I was drawn to the cover illustration and unusual title and I had the opportunity to review a digital copy through Netgalley: Iwigara is described as both a story and a reference book; I was looking forward to experiencing a visual treat with historical photographs, plant images, and botanical illustrations of the 80 food and medicinal native plants that were to be covered. Enrique Salmon begins with giving the reader a peek into the worlds and cultures of the indigenous peoples of North America, he then takes you on a quick tour of the plants: how to identify, harvest and prepare, their health benefits and uses, and many include a story or anecdote.I ordered the hardcover book and was disappointed in its size and presentation. The text was hard to read, had small margins, and the photographs were not inspiring. Much of the art seemed to be clip art or found online. It ended up not living up to my expectations, so I returned it.

Iwigara is a truly lovely book. Dr. Enrique Salmón is from the Rarámuri (Tarahumara) tribe of northwestern Mexico and studies ethnobotony and traditional ecological knowledge. Viewing the plants from a traditional indigenous perspective is what makes this book truly special, and not just another guide to planes.Salmón includes 80 plants, from ash and blueberry to willow and yarrow, and it's the writing in the descriptions that rally shines. Each description includes native myths and stories related to the plant, personal reminiscences, and how different tribes used each plant.The guiding principle is Iwigara itself, the idea that all living things - plants, animals, humans - are interconnected and share the same breath. As a Unitarian Universalist, this naturally resonated with me, as one of the seven UU principles is "Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part." Anyone interested in ethnobotany, Native American teachings, or Ancestral Know.edge, (along with UUs!) will find this an interesting read.