"In this in-depth examination of the sacred underpinnings of Native American medicinal ""herbalism,"" the author of The Secret Teachings of Plants reveals how shamans and healers ""talk"" with plants to discover their medicinal properties. Buhner explores the longstanding relationship between indigenous peoples and plants and the techniques and states of mind these cultures use to communicate with the plant world. For each healing plant ""described,"" he presents medicinal ""uses,"" preparatory ""guidelines,"" and ceremonial elements such as prayers and medicine songs associated with its use."