Hands-On Healing Remedies: 150 Recipes for Herbal Balms, Salves, Oils, Liniments & Other Topical Therapies

Published in 2012 by Storey Publishing, this volume was authored by Stephanie L. Tourles, a licensed holistic esthetician and herbalist with decades of experience in natural body care. The book was developed to provide accessible, practical instructions for creating homemade topical remedies, reflecting the growing early 2010s cultural interest in self-sufficiency and the use of botanical ingredients for minor ailments. It serves as a comprehensive guide for those looking to move beyond commercial synthetic products by utilizing herbs, essential oils, and plant-based fats.

The design of the book prioritizes utility, utilizing a clear, instructional format that categorizes remedies by their intended use, such as skin care, pain management, or first aid. Tourles intended for the work to demystify herbalism, making complex processes like macerating oils or emulsifying salves approachable for the home hobbyist. It has been well-regarded within the herbalist community for its focus on safety and standardized recipes, establishing itself as a standard reference text for readers interested in the intersection of traditional apothecary practices and modern home health.