Chicago Botanic Garden

Education — Lenhardt Library

Current Books & Book Reviews

PHOTO: bookcover

Jochen Bockemühl and Kari Jävinen.
Extraordinary Plant Qualities for Biodynamics.
Translation by David Heaf.
Edinburgh: Floris Books, 2006
(distributed by Steiner Books, Herndon, Va.).
paper, 153 p., ISBN 0–863–15576–6, $24.95.

Based on a theory of the biodynamic method first expressed by Rudolf Steiner in an agricultural course lecture more than eight decades ago, the text of Extraordinary Plant Qualities for Biodynamics focuses on the characteristics of seven plants, common to Europe, that reportedly are beneficial to mankind. Used in health and beauty products, yarrow, chamomile, nettle, valerian, oak, dandelion, and horsetail have qualities that affect life processes, according to the authors. Whether it is due to the translation from German or the concept itself, readers may find the discussion of biodynamics difficult to comprehend. Ultimately, this book recommends a more holistic and spiritual approach to agriculture — thought-provoking and difficult concepts to say the least, in this age of industrial farming and mass production of crops.

— Marilyn K. Alaimo, garden writer and volunteer, Chicago Botanic Garden.