Excellent book. It's not small, actually its HUGE!
Instead of repeating what most of the reviewers wrote, here is another great reason to buy this book.
I use it frequently when working WITH the patients Primary Care Physician (aka MD).
It's very easy to understand why we "usually" get the "eyebrow" look... (think of the wrestler.. the ROCK). Instead of "attempting" to explain TCM concepts, its far easier to "translate" the explanation of how the herb works, in WESTERN TERMS.
Not only do you have chemical compositions, but you also have case studies and treatments in WESTERN Diagnosis.
I also love the "reference" SECTIONS at the end of the book which divide the herbs into western diagnosis, key signs/symptoms and even gives full detail on contraindications with other herbs/supplements.
After reading this book, you really should get an automatic PhD. Blows away the book we used at school.
P.S. Go to Kinkos and make COLOR COPIES of the picture of the herbs and use them with your other books (paste them!). Far easier going to China town showing pictures and characters instead of ATTEMPTING to speak chinese.