The Fifth International Rubiaceae And Gentianales Conference

This is the first of two volumes on Gentianaceae. Comprising twelve chapters, it centres upon the characterization and ecology of Gentianaceae worldwide, with emphasis on the application of molecular and cytological approaches in relation to taxonomy. The first three chapters consider the classification of the family and review the advances in research since the earlier revision published in 2002, which resulted in the reclassification of some plants and the naming of new genera. The next chapter provides the most comprehensive report to date of the systematics of South American Neotropical woody Gentians. Other reviews include details of the Gentianaceae in Eastern Europe. The key biochemical steps that result in the diversity of Gentian flower colors, the cytology of European species and an historical account of the importance of Gentians in herbal medicines are also covered. Furthermore, an analysis of gene expression in overwintering buds is presented, discussing several aspects of plant taxonomy, phenotypic characteristics, phylogeography and pedigree. Two contributions highlight the importance of Gentians in India, and the last chapter presents evidence for the importance of Glomeromycota in developing arbuscular mycorrhizal associations with the roots of Gentians. This volume provides the basis for the biotechnological approaches that are considered in the companion book The Gentianaceae – Volume 2: Biotechnology and Applications.

This volume covers the orders Boraginales, Garryales and Solanales (except Convolvulaceae) of the Lamiids (Asterids I) as well as three unplaced families of that clade, i.e. Vahliaceae, Icacinaceae and Metteniusaceae, and the orders Aquifoliales, Escalloniales, Bruniales, Dipsacales and Paracryphiales of the Campanulids (Asterids II). It is the first of two final volumes to (almost) complete the treatment of the Asterids, which started with Vol. VI (Cornales, Ericales, 2004) and continued with Vol. VII (Lamiales, 2004) and Vol. VIII (Asterales, 2007). The present volume provides descriptions for 35 families and altogether 340 genera, including three genera of somewhat uncertain family affiliation. It provides identification keys for families within orders and for all genera within families, and also discusses probable phylogenetic relationships. The wealth of information contained in this volume makes it an indispensable source for all those working in pure and applied plant sciences.

This encyclopedic reference work on pharmacognosy covers the study of those natural substances, principally plants, that find a use in medicine. Its popularity and longevity stem from the book's balance between classical (crude and powdered drugs' characterization and examination) and modern (phytochemistry and pharmacology) aspects of this branch of science, as well as the editor's recognition in recent years of the growing importance of complementary medicines, including herbal, homeopathic and aromatherapy. No other book provides such a wealth of detail. A reservoir of knowledge in a field where there is a resurgence of interest - plants as a source of drugs are of growing interest both in complementary medicine fields and in the pharmaceutical industry in their search for new 'lead compounds'. Dr Evans has been associated with the book for over 20 years and is a recognised authority in all parts of the world where pharmacognosy is studied, his knowledge and grasp of the subject matter is unique. Meticulously referenced and kept up to date by the editor, new contributors brought in to cover new areas. New chapter on 'Neuroceuticals'. Addition of many new compounds recently added to British Pharmacopoeia as a result of European harmonisation. Considers development in legal control and standardisation of plant materials previously regarded as 'herbal medicines'. More on the study of safety and efficacy of Chinese and Asian drugs. Quality control issues updated in line with latest guidelines (BP 2007).