Georg August Schweinfurth
Le piante utili dell' Eritrea
"Le piante utili dell'Eritrea" by Georg August Schweinfurth is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The book focuses on the plants of Eritrea that have significant utility, particularly in relation to European industry and trade. Schweinfurth aims to educate readers about the flora of this region, arguing against pessimistic views that dismiss its value to commerce. The opening of the text sets up Schweinfurth’s argument for the economic potential of Eritrea's natural resources, particularly its native plants, which have remained largely unknown or undervalued by European merchants and industrialists. He discusses the need for practical knowledge regarding these plants and outlines an approach to classify them by their uses, including medicinal, aromatic, and textile applications. This introductory portion serves to contextualize the author's field study in Eritrea and lays the groundwork for a detailed catalog of the region's flora, emphasizing its importance for both local use and broader commercial application.