Garden of Eden, by Snu Voogelbreinder explores the vast world of psychoactive plants, animals and other organisms, and their uses in shamanism, spiritual exploration and healing. Encompassing scientific research, personal experience, ancient knowledge and esoteric philosophies, a multidisciplinary approach is taken, giving a wide view of the effects of natural substances on the mind, with an emphasis towards beneficial outcomes. Preliminary information is given regarding neurochemistry, drug-free consciousness alteration, and methods of use, from cultivation or wild-sourcing through to harvesting, processing, consumption and navigation of the effects. Thousands of species from over 1700 genera are discussed, with over 440 genera covered in greater detail, including botanical and zoological descriptions. Also included are a detailed index of natural chemicals of particular interest, and a huge bibliography containing thousands of reference entries.
The book is partly illustrated in black & white, 510 pages, hardcover (22cm x 30.7cm x 4.1cm). Printed on sturdy Envirocare 100% Recycled post-consumer fibre (chlorine-free), using vegetable oil-based inks, benign press chemicals and 100% solar power in pre-press and print production. The manufacture was carbon-neutral.
Copies of the book are now available (retail only) for $100 (Australian) + postage & packaging. Please be aware that this edition has been self-published by the author and is limited to 500 copies. In the future, a 2nd updated edition - hopefully with colour photographs - may emerge from a professional publisher in a much larger print-run.
To enquire or to place an order, send an e-mail message to
goe@wideband.net.au
Please be aware that this is a one-man operation and I have many other responsibilities, including as a volunteer firefighter, so at times (particularly December to March, peak fire season where I live) there may be unexpected delays in getting a reply to your message. I appreciate your patience and I assure you that I will reply as soon as I can.
Sincerely,
Snu Voogelbreinder
This book is a fine complement to other classics of the genre, such as Christian Raetsch's Encyclopedia of Psychoactive Plants, Jonathan Ott's Pharmacotheon and Trout's Notes.
