Part of a three-volume deluxe set, this atlas presents English readers with a thorough reference to the plants and creatures used in Chinese medicine, arranged alphabetically by their pinyin name, from H-Q. Each entry includes the name in pinyin, in Chinese characters, and in Latin, followed by the source of the ingredient, a full description, its diagnostic features, collection and processing, chemical constituents, pharmacological effects, nature and flavor, actions, indications, dosage, and additional notes. The value of the work lies in the superb full-page color watercolor illustrations that accompany each entry. The plant, insect, or animal is depicted entire and in its consituent parts, with captions describing each. Some entries have illustrations running to multiple pages. This is an outstanding resource for the Chinese medical practitioner and library. Presented in a sturdy and attractive case. Indexes are by Latin name and by clinical action. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)