Other Human Uses for Plants

Food production is not the only way whereby plants contribute to human welfare. Coal, oil, and gasoline all, either directly or indirectly, trace their beginnings to plants of long ago. Thus, much of our machinery actually runs on plant products. This book is a product of plants, as are spices, tea, stimulants, sedatives, pain killers, oils, waxes, gums, alcohol, linen, brooms, and Christmas trees. Plants have been used at varying times and in varying cultures to create visions, depose demons, incur blessings, improve fertility, cast spells, cure toothache, and ensure falling in love.