Adaptogen:

Herbs that improve the body's ability to adapt to stress of any sort, including infection, mental stress, or fatigue. Adaptogens are important in herbal medicine. Western medicine uses drugs to act upon the body. They force the body into a specific targeted response. Often times this has unwanted side effects requiring additional drugs. Herbal medicine, on the other hand, seeks to understand the cause of a specific symptom or ailment. Herbal medicine then supports the body in its innate ability to heal itself. In that they offer broad support to nourish all of the systems of human physiology, Adaptogens are the stars of herbal medicine.

Examples:

Ashwagandha Withania somnifera, Astragalus membranaceus, Chaga Mushroom Inonotus obliquus, Cordycep muchrooms, Eleuthro Eleutherococcus senticosus, Ginseng Panax quinquefolius, Holy Basil (Tulsi), Maitaki mushroom Grifola frondosa, Japanese Knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum,, Reishi Mushroom Ganoderma spp., Rhodiola Rhodiola rosea, Schisandra Schisandra chinensis, Stinging Nettle Urtica dioica, Turmeric Curcuma longa, Valerian Valeriana officinalis

Alexiteric:

Herbs that protect the body from the effects of poison; obviating the effects of venom; alexipharmic. A preservative against contagious and infectious diseases, and the effects of poison in general.

Examples:

Common Plantain Plantago major, English Plantain Plantago lanceolata

Alterative:

Herbs that restore the proper function of the body. Alterative herbs are also tonic herbs. They differ from Adaptogens in that they typically nourish specific organs or systems. They usually act through altering metabolism by improving the tissues' ability to metabolize nutrients and eliminate wastes. Many of these herbs act through the kidneys, liver, lungs, bowels, or skin to eliminate wastes. Some stimulate digestion, some are antimicrobial, and some work through actions not as yet understood. Generally used as first line medicines in conditions of chronic inflammation or degeneration, for example, any sort of chronic skin condition, many types of arthritis, and auto-immune illnesses. Most herbs that have a primary action on the liver or kidneys can be considered alterative. Tonic berbs are Alterative, and Alterative herbs are Tonic.

Examples:

Alfalfa Medicago sativa, Ashwagandha Withania somnifera, Astragalus membranaceus, Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Bayberry (Sweet gale, Wax-Myrtle) Myrica gale, Trillium (Birthroot) Trillium spp., Bistort Persicaria bistorta, Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa, Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum, Black Root Leptandra Virginica, Black Walnut Bark Juglans nigra, Blessed Thistle Cnicus benedictus, Blue Flag Iris versicolor, Boxwood Buxus spp., BurdockArctium lappa, A. minor, Pot Marigold Calendula officinalis, C. arvensis, Cayenne Capsicum annuum, Chaparral Larrea tridentata, Chickweed Stellaria media, CleaversGalium aparine, Comfrey Symphytum officinale L, Devil's Claw Harpagophytum procumbens, Dandelion Root Taraxacum officinale, Dogwood Cornus spp., Echinacea L., Elder Sambucus L., Eyebright Euphrasia L., Figwort Scrophularia, Fringe Tree Chionanthus L., Fumitory Fumaria, Garlic Allium sativum, Ginseng Panax quinquefolius, Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis, Gotu Kola Centella asiatica, Guaiac Guaiacum L., Holly llex, Ironweed Vernonia spp., Kelp, Licorice Root Glycyrrhiza lepidota, Mandrake Mandragora L., Maitaki mushroom Grifola frondosa, Marshmallow Althaea officinalis, Mezereum Daphne mezereum, Milkweed Asclepias L., Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica, Oregon Grape Root Mahonia Nutt., Pilewort Ranunculus ficaria, Pipsissewa Chimaphila umbellata, Plantain Plantago spp., Pokeweed Phytolacca americana, Prickly Ash Zanthoxylum L., Purple Loosestrife Lythrum salicaria, Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus, Red Clover Trifolium pratense, Rockrose Cistus L., Reishi Mushroom Ganoderma spp., Rose hips Rosa palustris, Rhubarb Rheum rhabarbarum, Sarsaparilla Smilax aristolochiifolia, Sassafras Sassafras albidum, Soapwort Saponaria L., Speedwell Veronica L., Spikenard Nardostachys grandiflora, Black Spruce Picea mariana, St John's Wort Hypericum perforatum, Twinleaf Jeffersonia diphylla, Uva Ursi Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi, Virginia Creeper Parthenocissus quinquefolia, Wafer Ash Ptelea trifoliata, Wahoo Euonymus atropurpurea, Walnut Juglans nigra, Wheatgrass Triticum aestivum, Willow Bark Salix spp., Wild Indigo Baptisia L., Wood Betony Stachys officinalis, Curly Dock Rumex crispus, Water Dock Rumex orbiculatus, Yarrow Achillea millifolium, Yellow Jessamine Gelsemium sempervirens, Yellow Parrila, Yerba Santa Eriodictyon spp., Yucca Root Yucca schidigera

Analgesic:

Herbs that relieve pain.

Examples:

Black Birch Betula lenta, Black Cohosh Acteae racemosa, Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum, Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum, Buttercup Ranunculus L., Chamomile Anthemis L., Celandine, Clove, Comfrey Symphytum officinale L, Corydalis Corydalis DC., Cow Parsnip Heracleum maximum, Echinacea Echinacea L., Figwort Scrophularia, Ginger Zingiber officinale, Henbane Hyoscyamus niger, Hops Humulus lupulus, Jimson Weed Datura stramonium, Kava Kava Piper methysticum, Lemongrass Cymbopogon L., Goatsbeard Tragopogon L., Ghost Pipe Monotropa uniflora, Lady's Slipper Cypripedium acaule, Marijuana Cannabis sativa, Meadowsweet Spiraea spp., Mint Mentha L., Monkshood Aconitum L., Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Nightshade, Noni Fruit, Opium Papaver somniferum, Pansy, Passion Flower Passiflora incarnata, Pipsissewa Chimaphila umbellata, Pokeweed Phytolacca americana, Poplar, Prickly Ash Zanthoxylum L., Primrose, Saffron, St. John's Wort Hypericum perforatum, Sassafras Sassafras albidum, Skullcap Scutellaria spp., Turmeric Curcuma longa, Wild Daisy, Willow Salix spp., Wintergreen Gaultheria procumbens, Woodruff Asperula L. Valerian Valeriana officinalis

Anhidrotic:

Herbs that decrease sweating.

Examples:

Astragalus Astragalus membranaceus, Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum,

Anodyne:

Herbs that reduce pain by reducing the sensitivity of the nerves. Synonymous with ANALGESIC

Antacid:

Herbs that relieve excessive stomach acid. They may also possess demulcent effects to protect the stomach lining.

Examples:

Comfrey Leaves or Root Symphytum officinale L, Corydalis Corydalis DC., Flax Seed, Dandelion Root Taraxacum officinale, Figwort Scrophularia, Kelp, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Passion Flower Passiflora incarnata, Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus, Slippery Elm Ulmus americana, Wood Betony Stachys officinalis

Anthelmintic:

Destroy or expel worms from the digestive system. There are two categories of anthelmintics; Vermicides - these destroy worms without necessarily expelling them. They should be used with laxative herbs. Vermifuges - These herbs expel parasites and worms from the bowels. These will evacuate the upper intestines and the bowels very rapidly. There are two other categories that deal specifically with tapeworms, but most of the herbs will fall into the two mentioned. For informational purposes Taeniafuges expel tapeworms, and Taeniacides kill tapeworms in the body.

Examples:

Elecampane Inula helenium, Garlic Allium sativum, Mayapple Podophyllum peltatum, Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota, Tansy Tanacetum L., Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Antiabortive:

Herbs that could help to reduce abortive tendencies. Usually taken in small quantities during the early stages of pregnancy. They will not prevent miscarriage when the fetus is damaged or improperly secured.

Examples:

American Mistletoe Phoradendron leucarpum, Cramp bark Viburnum opulus, Pennyroyal Mentha pulegium, Ragwort Packera spp, ragwort Senecio jacobaea, Raspberry leaf Rubus idaeus.

Antiangiogenic:

Herbs that help to inhibit abortive tendencies. The herbs will not interfere with the natural process of miscarriage when the fetus is damaged or improperly secured.

Examples:

Reishi Mushroom Ganoderma spp.,

Antiarrhythmic:

Herbs that are used to suppress abnormally fast rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia and ventricular tachycardia.

Examples:

Figwort Scrophularia

Antiarteriosclerotic:

Herbs that that prevents or counteracts atherosclerosis.

Examples:

Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna, Self Heal Prunella vulgaris, Red Clover Trifolium pratense

Antiarthritic:

Relieve gout or other arthritic conditions. Generally, ALTERATIVES

Examples:

Angelica, Arnica Arnica montana, Ashwagandha Withania somnifera, Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Bilberry Vaccinium cespitosum, Black Birch Betula lenta, Black Cohosh Acteae racemosa, Camphor Tree Cinnamomum camphora, Cayenne Capsicum annuum, Devil's Claw Harpagophytum procumbens, Eucalyptus Eucalyptus globules, European Mistletoe Viscum album, Giloy Tinospora cordifolia, Guggul Commiphora mukul, Larch Larix decidua, Meadowsweet Spiraea spp., Nirgundi Vitex negundo, Poke Phytolaca americana, Shallaki Boswellia serrata, Sonth Zingiber officinale, Spruce Picea spp., Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica, Turmeric Curcumin longa, Willow Bark Salix spp., Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Antiasthmatic:

Herbs that relieve the symptoms of asthma. Some, like Lobelia, are strong Antispasmodics that dilate the bronchioles. Others, like Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Yerba Santa Eriodictyon californicum help break up the mucus. Some herbs like Mullein may be smoked for quick relief, which may also be taken as tea.

Examples:

Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa (Cimicifuga racemosa), Blue Vervain Verbena hastata, Choke Cherry Prunus virginiana, Elecampane Inula helenium, Highbush Cranberry Viburnum trilobum, Lobelia Lobelia inflata, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Rooibos African Red Tea, Schisandra Schisandra chinensis, Yerba Santa Eriodictyon californicum

Antibacterial:

Herbs that kill bacteria. Some plants contain aucubin which inhibits the ability of the bacteria to divide and replicate itself. Some antibacterial herbs actually kill the bacteria.

Examples:

Echinacea L., Elecampane Inula helenium, Garlic Allium sativum, Ginger Zingiber officinale, Golden Seal Hydrastis canadensis, Hops Humulus lupulus, Japanese Knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum,, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Plantain Plantago spp., Usnea, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Antibilious:

These herbs stimulate the flow of bile from the liver. Most of the remedies classified as BITTERS or HEPATICS also have cholagogue function. Bile aids in the digestion and assimilation of fats and fat-soluble nutrients. It also acts as a mild laxative to keep the bowels moving smoothly and prevent accumulation of material that could become toxic.

Examples:

Balmony, Fringetree, Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis

Antibiotic:

Herbs that inhibit the growth of, or destroy, bacteria, viruses or amoebas. Many of these herbs may have direct germ killing effects, but they work by stimulating the bodies own immune system response. Eating miso, tamari, or yogurt can help replace the good bacteria you can lose by taking antibiotics for an extended period of time.

Examples:

Echinacea L., Garlic Allium sativum, Ginger Zingiber officinale, Golden Seal Hydrastis canadensis, Hops Humulus lupulus, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Old Man's Beard Usnea spp.,, Plantain Plantago spp., Usnea, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Anticancer

Herbs that prevent or delay the development of cancer.

Examples:

Ashwagandha Withania somnifera, Creat or Green Chiretta Andrographis paniculata, Heart-leaved Moonseed Tinospora cordifolia, Sour sop Annona muricata, Gotu Kola Centella asiatica, Schisandra Schisandra chinensis, Turmeric Curcuma longa, Wild Jujube Ziziphus nummularia,

Anticatarrhal:

Help remove excessive mucus, generally from the upper respiratory tract. Mucus is generally produced in the body's effort to remove infective organisms or to remove excessive carbohydrates. Some of these herbs make the mucus more watery so it is easier to expel, others decrease production.

Examples:

Angelica, Anise, Bayberry (Sweet Gale, Wax-Myrtle) Myrica gale, Bistort Persicaria bistorta, Black Cherry Bark Prunus serotina, Cayenne Capsicum annuum, Cinnamon Cinnamomum spp., Coltsfoot, Tussilago farfara, Comfrey Symphytum officinale L, Cranesbill Geranium dissectum, Elder Sambucus L., Elecampane Inula helenium, Figs, Flax Seed, Garlic Allium sativum, Ginger Zingiber officinale, Ginkgo Biloba, Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis, Horseradish, Irish Moss, Lobelia Lobelia inflata, Lungwort, Marshmallow Althaea officinalis, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Peppermint Mentha piperita, Raisins, Sage Salvia oficinalis, Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica, Yerba Santa Eriodictyon californicum

Anticoagulant:

Herbs that break up or prevent clots.

Examples:

Yellow Sweet Clover Melilotus officinalis, White Sweet Clover Melilotus albus

Anticonvulsant:

Herbs that help reduce or prevent seizures.

Examples:

Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa, Ghost Pipe Monotropa uniflora, Gotu Kola Centella asiatica, Kava Kava Piper methystycum, Valerian Valeriana officinalis

Antidiabetic:

Herbs that help regulate and reduce blood sugar.

Examples:

Burdock Arctium annum, Dandelion Taraxacum officinale, Garlic Allium sativum, Milk thistle Silybum marianum, Turmeric Curcuma longa

Antidepressant:

Herbs that raise the mood and counteract depression. With the advent of modern pharmacology, it has been found that these herbs have an action on the chemicals that transmit nerve impulses in the brain; these "neurotransmitters" have been found to be in imbalance in most cases of severe depression.

Examples:

St John’s Wort Hypericum perforatum, Passion Flower Passiflora incarnata.

Antidiarrheal:

Alleviates diarrhea

Examples:

Agrimony Agrimonia eupatoria, Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Bilberry Vaccinium myrtillus, Blackberry Rubus allegheniensis, Cinquefoil Potentilla erecta, Coffee Coffea Arabica, Dogwood Cornus florida, Psyllium Seed Plantago afra, Uzara Xysmalobium undulatum

Antiemetic:

Herbs that reduce nausea and vomiting.

Examples:

Anise, Black Horehound, Cinnamon Cinnamomum spp., Cloves, Colombo, Ginger Zingiber officinale, Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis, Iceland Moss, Lemonbalm, Peach Leaves, Peppermint Mentha piperita, Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus, Red Clover Trifolium pratense, Spearmint Mentha spicata, Sweet Basil

Antiepileptic:

Herbs that help reduce or prevent seizures.

Examples:

Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa, Ghost Pipe Monotropa uniflora, Kava Kava Piper methysticum, Marijuana Cannabis sativa, Valerian Valeriana officinalis

Antifungal:

Herbs which prevent, inhibit, or kill fungal growth.

Examples:

Cornflower Centaurea cyanus, Echinacea L., Elecampane Inula helenium, Eucalyptus, Garlic Allium sativum, Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis, Japanese Knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum,, Mountain Laurel Kalmia latifolia, Myrrh, Licorice root Glycyrrhiza glabra, Old Man's Beard Usnea spp.,, Oregano Origanum vulgare, Pot Marigold Calendula officinalis, C. arvensis, Thyme Thymus vulgaris, Turmeric Curcuma longa, Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa, Wild Indigo Baptisia L., Sage Salvia officinalis

Antihemorrhagic:

Herbs which stop or prevent bleeding. Astringents are often haemostatic.

Examples:

American Cancer Root (bear corn, broomrape, squaw root) Conopholis americana, Field Horsetail Equisetum arvense, Cranesbill Geranium dissectum, Shepherd's Purse Capsella bursa-pastoris, Yarrow Achillea millefolium

Antihepatotoxic:

Herbs that prevent damage to the liver.

Examples:

Dandelion Taraxacum officinale, Milk Thistle Silybum marianum, Turmeric Curcuma longa

Antihistamine:

Herbs that oppose the action of histamines.

Examples:

Kudzu Pueraria lobata, Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica,

Antihydropic:

Relieves "dropsy" or fluid retention.

Examples:

Bearberry Uva Ursi Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi, Couch Grass, Buchu, Corn Silk, Dandelion Taraxacum officinale, Pipsissewa Chimaphila umbellata, Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota

Antihydrotic:

Herbs that reduce or supress perspiration.

Examples:

Sage

Antihypertensive:

Herbs that reduce blood pressure.

Examples:

Arjuna Terminalia arjuna, Astragalus Astragalus membranaceus, Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Burdock Arctium L., Cleavers Galium aparine, Hawthorn Crataegus spp., GarlicAllium sativum, Passion Flower Passiflora incarnata, Yarrow Achillea millifolium

Antihypothyroid:

Herbs that stimulate thyroid action.

Examples:

Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa, Kelp

Anti-Infective:

Herbs that combat infections.

Examples:

Bistort Persicaria bistorta, Clematis Clematis recta, Colchicum Colchicum autumnale, Curly Yellow Dock Rumex crispus, Echinacea Echinacea L., Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis, Jack-in-the-Pulpit Arisaema triphyllum, Kudzu Pueraria lobata, Lily-of-the-Valley Convallaria majalis, Mountain Laurel Kalmia latifolia, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Oats Avena sativa, Peppermint Mentha piperita, Pitcher Plant Sarracenia purpurea, Plantain Plantago spp., Sandalwood Santalum album, Sassafras Sassafras albidum, Sorrel Rumex acetosa, Spruce Picea spp., Thyme Thymus vulgaris, Yarrow Achillea millefolium

Anti-Inflammatory:

Helps the body combat inflammation. Herbs classed as emollients, demulcents, and vulneraries often do this. Some anti-inflammatory herbs contain salicylates, the chemicals on which aspirin is based; some herbs contain precursors of steroidal compounds, and can balance the levels of steroids in the body; Others have a useful anti-inflammatory effect without a mechanism of action yet identified;

Examples:

Unknown:
Ashwagandha Withania somnifera, Black Cherry Prunus serotina, Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa, Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum, Blueberry Vaccinium L., Bogbean, Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum, Choke Cherry Prunus virginiana, Cleavers Galium aparine, Devil’s Claw Harpagophytum procumbens, Dandelion Taraxacum officinale, Dead-Nettle Lamium purpureum, Elecampane Inula helenium, Figwort Scrophularia, Gotu Kola Centella asiatica, Hawthorn Crataegus spp., Marigold flowers, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Reishi Mushroom Ganoderma spp., St. John's Wort Hyperricum perrforatum, Spotted Joe Pye Weed Eupatorium maculatum, Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica, Turmeric Curcuma longa, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium, Yarrow Achillea millefolium
Salicylates:
Black Birch Betula lenta, Black Cohosh Acteae racemosa, Black Haw, Meadowsweet Spiraea spp., Pipsissewa Chimaphila umbellata, Schisandra Schisandra chinensis, Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa, Willow Bark Salix spp., Wintergreen Gaultheria procumbens,
Steroidal:
Arjuna Terminalia arjuna, Ginseng Panax quinquefolius, Licorice Root Glycyrrhiza lepidota, Wild Yam.

Antilithic:

Helps prevent the formation of stones or gravel in the urine, and can help the removal of those already formed. They may work by a combination of dissolving stones, washing out the components that could form them, or increasing urine flow so as to flush out the system.

Examples:

Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Bean, Bearberry Uva Ursi Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi, Black Birch Betula lenta, Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum, Briar Hip, Buchu, Cascara Sagrada Frangula alnus, Chaparral Larrea tridentata, Chervil, Corn Silk, Cucumber, Dandelion Taraxacum officinale, Devil's Claw Harpagophytum procumbens, Dyer's Broom, Everlasting, Fraxinella, Goldenrod Solidago canadensis, Ground Ivy, Holly llex, Horsetail, Hydrangea Root, Spotted Joe Pye Weed Eupatorium maculatum, Juniper Berries, Knot Weed, Marshmallow Althaea officinalis, Meadowsweet Spiraea spp., Mouse Ear, Oregon Grape Root Mahonia Nutt., Parsley, Pimpernel, Pipsissewa Chimaphila umbellata, Plum, Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota, Queen of the Meadow, Ragwort Packera spp., Common Groundsel, European, Restharrow, Seven Barks, Uva Ursi Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi, Water Eryngo, Woodruff Asperula L., Yellow Toadflax

Antimalarial:

Herbs that prevent or treat Malaria.

Examples:

Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Black Catnip Phyllanthus amarus, Cayenne Capsicum annuum, Croton Seeds Croton tiglium, Fever Bark Alstonia constricta, Hwema Bark Corynanthe pachyceras, Marijuana Cannabis sativa, Milk Thistle Silybum marianum, Neem Antelaea azadirachta, Quassia Picrasma excelsa, Quinine Cinchona pubescens, Simaruba Simaruba amara, Tree of Heaven Ailanthus altissima, Tulip Tree Liriodendron tulipifera, Umbrella Mushroon Polyporus umbellatus, Wild Indigo Baptisia tinctoria

Antimicrobial:

Help the body destroy or resist pathogenic organisms. Some of these are actually antiseptic, killing the organisms (generally, "cidal" means organisms are killed, "static" means replication of organisms are stopped, and "fuge" means organisms, as in intestinal worms, are expelled.) Others support the function of the immune system to neutralize many pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. These herbs can support the body in fighting off many infections, but there are certainly times when antibiotics can be life-saving.

Examples:

Blue Vervain Verbena hastata, Pot Marigold Calendula officinalis, Chaparral Larrea tridentata, Chaste Tree Berry Vitex agnus-castus, Clove, Eastern White Pine Pinus strobus, Echinacea L., Garlic Allium sativum, Golden Seal Hydrastis canadensis, Gotu Kola Centella asiatica, Japanese Knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum,, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Old Man's Beard Usnea spp.,, Oregon Grape Root Mahonia Nutt., Plantain Plantago spp., Propolis, Spotted Joe Pye Weed Eupatorium maculatum, Turmeric Curcuma longa, Umbrella Mushroon Polyporus umbellatus, Unsea, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium, Yarrow Achillea millefolium

Antimitotic:

Herbs that prevent cell division. These are especially helpful in the treatment of infections and cancers..

Examples:

Chaga Inonotus obliquus, Comfrey Symphytum officinalis, Maitaki mushroom Grifola frondosa, Plantain Plantago spp.

Antimutagenic:

Herbs that reduce spontaneous mutations within cells. This may help reduce incidence of cancer.

Examples:

Arjuna Terminalia arjuna, Blueberry Vaccinium L., Comfrey Symphytum officinalis, Chaga Inonotus obliquus, Maitaki mushroom Grifola frondosa, Plantain Plantago spp., Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus, Reishi Mushroom Ganoderma spp., Turkey Tail Mushroom Trametes versicolor

Antineoplastic:

Herbs that inhibit the growth of tumors.

Examples:

Arjuna Terminalia arjuna, Ashwagandha Withania somnifera, Bitter Melon Momordica charantia, Chaga Inonotus obliquus, Cranberry Vaccinium macrocarpon, Kudzu Pueraria lobata, Japanese Knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum,, Maitaki mushroom Grifola frondosa, Mayapple Podophyllum peltatum, Old Man's Beard Usnea spp.,, Plantain Plantago spp., Pygeum Prunus africana, Turmeric Curcuma longa, Reishi Mushroom Ganoderma spp., Umbrella Mushroon Polyporus umbellatus

Antinociceptive:

Herbs that reduce the body's response to painful stimuli.

Examples:

Ghost Pipe Monotropa uniflora, Marijuana Cannabis sativa

Antioxidant:

Herbs that render free radicals harmless.

Examples:

Arjuna Terminalia arjuna, Artichoke, Ashwagandha Withania somnifera, Bacopa Bacopa monniera, Bilberry Vaccinium myrtillus, Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum, Blueberry Vaccinium L., Chaga Inonotus obliquus, Dandelion Taraxacum officinale, Elecampane Inula helenium, Ginger Zingiber officinale, Ginkgo, Grape Seed Extract, Green tea Camellia sinensis, Hawthorn Crataegus spp., Japanese Knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum,, Maitaki mushroom Grifola frondosa, Milk Thistle Silybum marianum, Olive Leaf, Purslane Portulaca oleracea, Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus, Reishi Mushroom Ganoderma spp., Rosemary, St John's Wort Hypericum perforatum, Turkey Tail Mushroom Trametes versicolor Turmeric Curcuma longa, Umbrella Mushroon Polyporus umbellatus, Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa

Antiparasitic:

Destroy or expel worms from the digestive system. See Anthelmintic

Examples:

Garlic Allium sativum, Mayapple Podophyllum peltatum, Tansy Tanacetum L., Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Antiproliferant:

Herbs that inhibit cell growth.

Examples:

Dead-Nettle Lamium purpureum, Elecampane Inula helenium

Antipruritic:

Herbs that prevent or relieve itching.

Examples:

Butcher’s Broom Ruscus aculeatus, Evening Primrose Oenothera biennis, Jewelweed Impatiens capensis, Kudzu Pueraria lobata, Scarlet Pimpernel Anagallis arvensis, Sweet Gale Myrica gale, Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica, Vervain Verbena officinalis, Wheat Triticum aestivum

Antipsoriatic:

Herbs that alleviate symptoms of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis.

Examples:

Bitter Mellon Momordica charantia, Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum, Burdock Arctium lappa, A. minor, Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium, Kudzu Pueraria lobata, Red Clover Trifolium pratense, Reishi Mushroom Ganoderma spp., Sarsaparilla Smilax spp., Sunflower Helianthus annuus, Teazle Dipsacus spp., Turmeric Curcuma longa, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Antipsychotic:

Relieves the symptoms of Psychosis.

Examples:

Pygeum Prunus africana

Antipyretic:

Herbs that reduce fever. In general, herbatopofpages don't like to reduce fever unless it also has some beneficial effect on the infection or inflammation causing the fever. They see fever as one of the body's ways of fighting infection, and try to use herbs that support the immune system and the other cleansing processes of the body. Thus, the DIAPHORETICS can lower body temperature by promoting perspiration, but they also help the body cleanse. Similarly, circulatory STIMULANTS increase blood flow to the skin and so promote a cleansing sweat. ALTERATIVES can act through an ANTI-MICROBIAL action, or through stimulation of the immune system, and can also help the body clear out the toxic waste products of an infective process.

Examples:

Alfalfa Medicago sativa, American Centaury, American Hellibore, Bird's Tongue, Birthwort, Bloodroot, Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum, Borage, Brooklime, Buck Bean, Camphor, Carline Thistle, Catnip Nepeta cataria, Black Birch Betula lenta, Chickweed Stellaria media, Cleavers Galium arpine, Colombo, Coral Root, Cranberries, Currant, Dogwood Cornus spp., Dulse, Elder flowers Sambucus L., Ephedra (Mormon Tea, Ma Huang), European Centuary, Everlasting, Feverweed, Fraxinella, Fringe Tree Chionanthus L., Garlic Allium sativum, Gotu Kola Hedge Bindweed, Holly llex, Hops Humulus lupulus, Imperial Masterwort, Kelp, Lady's Mantle, Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis, Lemons, Licorice Root Glycyrrhiza lepidota, Limes, Magnolia, Monkshood Aconitum L., Olive, Oranges, Peruvian Bark,Poplar, Quassia, Rosemary, Shepherd's Purse Capsella bursa-pastoris, Skullcap Scutellaria L., Sumac Rhus typhina, Sweet Flag Acorus americanus, Willow Bark Salix spp., Wormwood Artemisia absinthium, Southernwood Artemisia abrotanum, Valerian Valeriana officinalis, Yellow Gentian, Yerba Santa Eriodictyon californicum

Antiretroviral:

Herbs which are effective against retroviruses (RNA viruses such as Coronavirus, HIV, HSV, MERS, and SARS).

Examples:

Aloe, Astragalus Astragalus membranaceus, Bromelain, Cats Claw, Frost Grape Vitis vulpina, Garlic Allium sativum, Licorice Glycyrrhiza lepidota, Magnolia Vine Berries, Multake, Prunella, Rooibos, Shitake, Turmeric Curcuma longa

Antirheumatic:

Herbs that alleviate the symptoms of Arthritis.

Examples:

Arnica Arnica montana, Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Black Birch Betula lenta, Black Cohosh Acteae racemosa, Camphor Tree Cinnamomum camphora, Cow Parsnip Heracleum maximum, Creeping Snowberry Gaultheria hispidula, Cayenne Capsicum annuum, Dandelion Taraxacum officinale, Devil's Claw Harpagophytum procumbens, Henbit Lamium amplexicaule, Figwort Scrophularia, Gotu Kola Centella asiatica, Meadowsweet Spiraea spp., Larch Larix decidua, Poke Phytolaca americana, Spruce Picea spp., Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica, Willow Bark Salix spp., Wintergreen Gualtheria procumbens Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Antiscorbutic:

Herbs rich in Vitamin C which prevent or cure scurvy, a disease caused by deficiency of this vitamin. They are generally classed as ALTERATIVES.

Examples:

Alfalfa Medicago sativa, Barberry Berberis vulgaris Berries, Black Berries, Black Currant, Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum, Burdock Root Arctium lappa, A. minor, Blueberries, Cayenne Capsicum annuum, Chickweed Stellaria media, Citrus Fruits, Cranberries, Dame's Rocket LeavesHesperis matronalis, Dandelion Taraxacum officinale, Eyebright Euphrasia L., Fennel Seed, Fenugreek Trigonella L., Hibiscus, Hops Humulus lupulus, Highbush Cranberry Viburnum trilobum, Horsetail Equisetum arvense, Juniper Berries, Kelp, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Peppermint Mentha piperita, Poke Root, Rose Hips, Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica, Wood Betony Stachys officinalis, Curly Dock Rumex crispus,

Antiseptic:

Inhibit growth of bacteria, and prevent infection, putrefaction, cell decay, and pus formation.

Examples:

Calendula, Chaparral Larrea tridentata, Chaste Tree Berry Vitex agnus-castus, Clove, Echinacea L., Garlic Allium sativum, Golden Seal Hydrastis canadensis, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Oregon Grape Root Mahonia Nutt., Plantain Plantago spp., Propolis, Shepherd's Purse Capsella bursa-pastoris, Usnea spp., White Pine Pinus strobus, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium, Yarrow Achillea millefolium

Antispasmodic:

Helps prevent or ease muscle spasms in both skeletal muscles (the muscles that move bones) and smooth muscles (the muscles related to many of the body's involuntary functions, such as digestion). Many sedative, nervine, or hypnotic herbs also have anti-spasmodic effects. Those anti-spasmodic herbs with an affinity for the respiratory system are useful for asthma.

Examples:

Chamomile Anthemis L., Catnip Nepeta cataria, Cayenne Capsicum annuum, Corydalis Corydalis DC., Cramp Bark Viburnum opulus, Cow Parsnip Heracleum maximum, Dead-Nettle Lamium purpureum, Ghost Pipe (Ghost Pipe) Monotropa uniflora, Hawthorn Crataegus spp., Hops Humulus lupulus, Kava Kava Piper methysticum,, Lady's Slipper Cypripedium acaule, Lavender, Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis, Marijuana Cannabis sativa, Passion Flower Passiflora incarnata, Skullcap Scutellaria L., Sweet Flag Acorus americanus, Valerian Valeriana officinalis, Blue Vervain Verbena hastata, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Antithrombotic:

Herbs that prevent formation of blood clots.

Examples:

Garlic Allium sativum, Yarrow Achillea millefolium

Antitoxin:

Herbs that act against the effects of specific toxins.

Examples:

Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa, Angelica, Cleavers Galium aparine, Plantain Plantago spp.

Antitussive:

Herbs that reduce or prevent cough.

Examples:

Black Cherry Prunus serotina, Black Cohosh Acteae racemosa, Coltsfoot Tussilago farfara, Elecampane Inula helenium, Mullein Verbascum thapsus

Antivenin (sometimes called Antivenom):

Herbs that protect against specific poisons, especially those in the venom of snakes, spiders, and scorpions

Examples:

Plantain Plantago spp.

Antiviral:

Herbs that kill viruses or render them unable to replicate.

Examples:

Chaste Tree Berry Vitex agnus-castus, Dead-Nettle Lamium purpureum, Japanese Knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum,, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Old Man's Beard Usnea spp.,, Plantain Plantago spp., Umbrella Mushroon Polyporus umbellatus

Anxiolytic:

Herbs that reduce anxiety

Examples:

Ashwagandha Withania somnifera, Blue Vervain Verbena hastata, Ghinkgo biloba, Gotu Kola Centella asiatica, Hops Humulus lupulus, Kava Kava Piper methysticum, Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis, Passion Flower Passiflora L. St John's Wort Hypericum perforatum, Skullcap Scutellaria spp., Valerian Valeriana officinale, Wild Lettuce Lactuca spp.

Aperient:

A mild and gentle laxative. Promote only the natural bowel movement and function. Bulk forming herbs soak up water in the gut, creating a larger volume of softer stool

Examples:

Agar-Agar, Asparagus, Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum, Borage, Burdock Arctium lappa, A. minor, Pot Marigold Calendula officinalis, C. arvensis, Cucumber, Curly Dock Rumex crispus, Dandelion Taraxacum officinale, Dyer's Broom, Elder Sambucus L., Fig, Flax Seed, Fringe Tree Chionanthus L., Guar Gum, Japanese Knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum, Licorice Root Glycyrrhiza lepidota, Olive Oil, Plum, Prunes, Psyllium, Raisins, Restharrow, Rhubarb root Rheum rhabarbarum, Rose, Rose Hips Rosa palustris, Senna, Slipperry Elm Ulmus rubra, Turtlebloom, Witch Grass

Aphrodisiac:

Herbs that increase sexual potency or excitement.

Examples:

Artichoke, Ashwagandha Withania somnifera, Astragalus membranaceus, Burdock Arctium lappa, A. minor, Carline Thistle, Celery, Clove, Coriander Coriandrum sativum, Damiana, European Vervain Verbena officinalis, False Unicorn, Fennel, Fenugreek Trigonella L., Galangal, Ginseng Panax quinquefolius, Horny Goat Weed Epimedium spp., Jasmine, Jimson Weed Datura stramonium, Kava Kava Piper methysticum, Lettuce, Lovage, Maca Root, Matico, Mint Mentha L., Onion, Plantain Plantago spp., Pride of China, Queen of the Meadow, Saffron, Sarsasparilla Root, Savory, Saw Palmetto Serenoa repens, Sundew, Walnut Juglans nigra, Water Eryngo

Aromatic:

These herbs are characterized by a strong, usually pleasant odor that stimulates the digestive system. Often used in cooking to add flavor, they also aid digestion.

Examples:

Allspice, Angelica, Anise Seed, Balm, Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Buchu, Chamomile Anthemis L., Caraway, Cardamon, Catnip Nepeta cataria, Cinnamon Cinnamomum spp., Cloves, Coriander Coriandrum sativum, Cubeb, Dill, Fennel, Galangal, Ginger Zingiber officinale, Goldenrod Solidago canadensis, Hops Humulus lupulus, Juniper, Khus-Khus, Lavender, Marjoram, Matico, Monarda, Nutmeg, Orris Root, Pennyroyal Mentha pulegium, Peppermint Mentha piperita, Rosemary, Rue, Sage Salvia oficinalis, Sassafras Sassafras albidum, Savory, Star Anise, St John's Wort Hypericum perforatum, Sweet Cicely, Sweet Flag Acorus americanus, Wax Myrtle, Wild Hyssop, Wood Betony Stachys officinalis, Woodruff Asperula L., Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Astringent:

Have a binding action on skin or mucous membranes that helps dry up mucous discharge, tone local blood vessels and varicosities, and stop bleeding. Most of these herbs are rich in tannins, compounds used to "tan" leather, which precipitate protein molecules; they produce a leathery, smooth coat over the tissue in question, thus reduce irritation on the surface by a mild numbing, reduce local inflammation by toning the vessels supplying the area, and create a barrier to infection in wounds and burns. Depending on the tissue they act upon, they are used to treat diarrhea, bleeding, mucous discharges, and the discomfort of varicosities and hemorrhoids.

Examples:

Agrimony Agrimonia L., Aloe Vera, Alpine Cranberry Vaccinium vitis-idaea L. spp., Amaranth Amaranthus L., American Cancer Root (bear corn, broomrape, squaw root) Conopholis americana, Apple Fiber, Bearberry Uva Ursi Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi, Bears Garlic Allium sativum, Beechdrops, Beet Root, Bennet Geum urbanum, Betony Stachys officinalis, Bilberry Vaccinium myrtillus, Black Birch Betula lenta, Blackberry Rubus allegheniensis, Black Cherry Prunus serotina, Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa, Black Walnut Juglans nigra, Blueberry Vaccinium L., Trillium (Birthroot) Trillium spp., Bistort Persicaria bistorta, Black Alder Alnus glutinosa, Pot Marigold Calendula officinalis, C. arvensis, Cayenne Capsicum annuum, Choke Cherry Prunus virginiana, Cinnamon Cinnamomum spp., Cinquefoil Potentilla L., Conopholis americana - American Cancer Root, bear corn, broomrape, squaw root, Comfrey Symphytum officinale L, Cranesbill Geranium dissectum, Curly or Yellow Dock Rumex crispus, Dandelion Root Taraxacum officinale, Dogwood Cornus spp., Dead-Nettle Lamium purpureum, Elecampane Inula helenium, Elm Ulmus americana, Evening Primrose Oenothera L., Eyebright Euphrasia L., Fenugreek Trigonella L., Goldenrod Solidago L., Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis, Great Burnet, Ground Ivy, Hawthorn Crataegus spp., Hemlock Spruce, Hemp Nettle Galeopsis L., Henbit Lamium amplexicaule, Henna, Herb Robert, Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis), Holly llex, Horse Chestnut, Horseweed, Houndstongue, Houseleek, Hyssop, Kidney Vetch, Japanese Knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum,, Lady's Mantle, Laurel, Lemon, Lettuce, Loosestrife Lythrum spp., Lungwort, Madder, Magnolia, Mallow, Marsh Tea, Marijuana Cannabis sativa, Matico, Meadowsweet Spiraea spp.Milfoil, Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca, Mountain Laurel, Mouse Ear, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Myrrh, Nettle, New Jersey Tea, Oak bark Quercus spp., Olive Leaf, Peppermint Mentha piperita, Periwinkle, Peruvian Bark, Pilewort Ranunculus ficaria, Pimpernel, Pipsissewa Chimaphila umbellata, Pitcher Plant, Plantain Plantago spp., Plum, Pomegranite, Pride of China, Privet, Queen of the Meadow, Radish, Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus, Red Eyebright Euphrasia L., Rhatany, Rhubarb Rheum rhabarbarum, Rockrose Cistus L., Schisandra Schisandra chinensis, Rose Rosehips Rosa palustris, Rosemary, Rowan, Sage Salvia oficinalis, St John's Wort Hypericum perforatum, Sandalwood, Sanicle, Savory, Senna (Purging Cassia), Shinleaf, Soloman's Seal, Sorrel, Spotted Cranesbill Geranium dissectum, Squaw Vine Mitchella repens, Sticklewort, Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica, Storksbill, Sumac, Sweet Fern, Sweet Gum, Sycamore Maple, Tormentil, Vervain Verbena officinalis, Virginia Creeper Parthenocissus quinquefolia, Water Avens, Wax Myrtle, White Pond Lily, Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa, Black Cherry Bark Prunus serotina, Wild Indigo Baptisia L., Wild Strawberry, Willow Bark Salix spp., Wintergreen Gaultheria procumbens, Witch Hazel Hamamelis virginiana, Yarrow Achillea millefolium, Water Dock Rumex orbiculatus, Yellow Toadflax, Yucca Root

Bactericidal:

Herbs that kill bacteria.

Examples:

Echinacea L., Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Myrrh, Garlic Allium sativum, Plantain Plantago spp., Pipsissewa Chimaphila umbellata, Thyme Thymus vulgaris, Eucalyptus, Wild Indigo Baptisia L., Sage Salvia oficinalis

Bitter:

The bitter taste of these herbs seems to stimulate the release of digestive hormones in the gut. This stimulates appetite, and is of value in convalescence. It helps normalize the secretory functions of pancreas, duodenum, and liver. It increases the secretion of bile, and aids the liver in detoxification. There is also evidence that these herbs help the gut wall repair local damage. Note that these herbs should not generally be used in pregnancy (anything that increases gut contractions can also increase uterine contractility) Also called BITTER TONICS.

Examples:

Black Birch Betula lenta, Blueberry Vaccinium L., Blue Vervain Verbena hastata, Choke Cherry Prunus virginiana, Gentian, Spotted Joe Pye Weed Eupatorium maculatum, Rue, Sweet Flag Acorus americanus, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Broncodilator:

Herbs that help dilate the bronchial tubes and aveoli in the lungs.

Examples:

Lobelia Lobelia inflata

Cardiac:

Herbs that support normal cardiac function.

Examples:

Arjuna Terminalia arjuna, Blue Vervain Verbena hastata, Garlic Allium sativum, Ginger, Zingiber officinale, Hawthorn Crataegus spp., Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca, Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica, Swamp Rose Rosa palutris, Turmeric Curcuma longa

Carminative:

These herbs are generally rich in aromatic oils. Their main action is to soothe and settle the gut wall, easing gripping and allowing the removal of gas. Many of the aromatic herbs have a carminative effect.

Examples:

Allspice, Angelica, Anise, Astragalus, Balm, Basil, Betony Stachys officinalis, Brier Hip, Buchu, Butterfly Milkweed Asclepias tuberosa, Caraway, Cardamom, Carline Thistle, Carrot, Catnip Nepeta cataria, Cayenne Capsicum annuum, Celery, Chamomile Anthemis L., Chickweed Stellaria media, Cinnamon Cinnamomum spp., Cloves, Coriander Coriandrum sativum, Cow Parsnip Heracleum maximum, Cubeb, Dill, Fennel, Ferula, Feverfew, Garlic Allium sativum, Ginger Zingiber officinale, Goldenrod Solidago L., Hyssop, Juniper, Laurel, Lavender, Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis, Lemongrass Cymbopogon L., Lovage, Marjoram, Masterwort, Milfoil, Monarda, Myrrh, Nutmeg, Onion, Orange, Parsley, Pennyroyal Mentha pulegium, Peppermint Mentha piperita, Pimpernel, Pleurisy Root Asclepias tuberosa, Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota, Rue, Sage Salvia oficinalis, Sarsaparilla Smilax aristolochiifolia, Savory, Star Anise, Sweet Cicely, Sweet Flag Acorus americanus, Thyme Thymus vulgaris, Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa, Valerian Valeriana officinalis, Wild Ginger Zingiber officinale, Wild Cherry Bark Prunus virginiana, Wild Hyssop, Wintergreen Gaultheria procumbens, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium, Yerba Santa Eriodictyon californicum

Cathartic:

Herbs that clean waste material from the whole digestive system, including bowels, liver, and gall bladder. Can have a very strong effect. Due to the considerable griping they produce, are often used with ginger. Strong cathartics are often topofpageed as poisonous, and should be used with caution. Contrast with APERIENTS and LAXATIVES.

Examples:

Aloes, Asarum, Bird's Tongue, Black Root Leptandra Virginica, Blue Flag Iris versicolor, Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum, Buck Bean, Butterfly Milkweed Asclepias tuberosa, Castor Bean, Dogbane, Elder Sambucus L., Hellebore, Holly llex, Jalap, Japanese Knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum, Spotted Joe Pye Weed Eupatorium maculatum, Mandrake Mandragora L., Mezereum Daphne mezereum, Mulberry Morus rubra, Pokeweed Phytolacca americana, Scotch Broom, Senega Snakeroot, Senna, Stillingia, Walnut(Butternut), Wild Jalap, Yellow Toadflax

Cholagogue:

These herbs stimulate the flow of bile from the liver. Most of the remedies classified as BITTERS or HEPATICS also have cholagogue function. Bile aids in the digestion and assimilation of fats and fat-soluble nutrients. It also acts as a mild laxative to keep the bowels moving smoothly and prevent accumulation of material that could become toxic.

Examples:

Aloe Vera, Artichokes, Balmony, Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Black Root Leptandra Virginica, Blue or American Gentian, Burdock Arctium lappa, A. minor, Pot Marigold Calendula officinalis, C. arvensis, Cat's Foot, Chicory Cichorium intybus, Dandelion Taraxacum officinale, Elder Sambucus L., Elecampane Inula helenium, European Centaury, Fern, Fumitory Fumaria, Fringed Gentian, Fringetree, Garlic Allium sativum, Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis, Heather, Hedge Bindweed, Hemp Agrimony Agrimonia L., Lavender, Licorice Root Glycyrrhiza lepidota, Linden, Milk Thistle Silybum marianum, Mint Mentha L., Mouse Ear, Mugwort, Olive, Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota, Radish, Red Pimpernel, Red Clover Trifolium pratense, Rosemary, Senna, Soapwort Saponaria L., Stiff Gentian or Gallweed, Turtlebloom, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium, Yarrow Achillea millifolium, Yellow Dock Rumex crispus, Yellow Gentian, Yerba mate

Choleretic:

Herbs that stimulate the production of bile. This makes the body better able to release toxins. These herbs specifically increase the production of bile in the liver. This helps to aid in digestion and the breakdown of fats and cholesterol.

Examples:

Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum, Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis, Fringetree Chionanthus virginicus, Turmeric Curcuma longa

Cicatrisant:

Herbs that aid wound healing. See VULNERARIES

Examples:

Hounds Tongue Cynoglossum officinale, Comfrey Symphytum officinale L, Plantain Plantago spp.

Cytotoxic:

Herbs with the ability to damage or kill cells. Usually referring to cancer cells.

Examples:

Elecampane Inula helenium,

Demulcent:

Herbs rich in mucilage which soothe and protect inflamed or irritated tissue. When they are used on the skin, demulcent herbs are called EMOLLIENTS. Depending on where they work, they can reduce irritation in the bowel and help heal ulcers, ease cough, or relax painful spasm in the bladder, ureters, and sometimes even the uterus

Examples:

Acacia, Almond, Althea, Barley, Apple Fiber, Burdock Arctium lappa, A. minor, Chickweed Stellaria media, Cinnamon Cinnamomum spp., Cleavers Galium aparine, Colombo, Coltsfoot, Tussilago farfara, Comfrey Symphytum officinale, Elecampane Inula helenium, Dulse, Elm Ulmus americana, Fenugreek Trigonella L., Fig Tree, Flax, Ginseng Panax qinquifolius, Great Burnet, Gum Plant, Hibiscus Hibiscus esculentus, Hollyhock, Iceland Moss, Indian Corn, Irish Moss, Kelp, Licorice Root Glycyrrhiza lepidota, Lungwort, Common Mallow Malva neglecta, Marshmallow Root Althaea officinalis, Milk Thistle Silybum marianum, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Oat Straw, Olive, Pansy, Plantain - Common Plantago major, Slippery Elm Ulmus rubra, White Pond Lily, Wild Daisy, Witch Grass

Deobstruent:

These herbs will remove obstructions from the alimentary canal and other areas.

Examples:

Barberry Berberis vulgaris (liver), Culver's Root (bowel), Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis (glands), Gravel Root (kidneys), Hydrangea Root (kidneys), Plantain Plantago spp.(blood, kidneys), Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota

Depurative:

A term synonymous with ALTERATIVE

Desiccant:

Herbs that will dry surfaces by absorbing moisture.

Examples:

Agar Agar, Bladderwrack Powder, Corn Starch, Marshmallow Powder Althea officinalis, Slippery Elm Ulmus americana

Detoxicant:

Herbs that support the liver in removing toxic substances from the body. See HEPATIC. Contrast with ANTITOXINS, which work against specific toxins.

Diaphoretic:

Herbs that promote sweating. This can help the vital function of removing waste products through the skin. Or it can help cool the body during a fever. They are thought to work by dilating the capillaries in the skin, which stimulates the sweat glands. Many of these herbs work as diaphoretics if taken hot, but as DIURETICS if taken cold.

Examples:

General: Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum, Burdock Arctium lappa, A. minor, Butterfly Milkweed Asclepias tuberosa, Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa, Pot Marigold Calendula officinalis, C. arvensis, Cayenne Capsicum annuum, Chamomile Anthemis L., Dame's Rocket LeavesHesperis matronalis, Ginger Zingiber officinale, Henbit Lamium amplexicaule, Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis, Peppermint Mentha piperita, Rosemary, Spearmint Leaf
Stimulating: Angelica, Blessed Thistle Cnicus benedictus, Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum, Buchu, Elder flowers Sambucus L., Ephedra, Garlic Allium sativum, Horseradish, Hyssop, Pennyroyal Mentha pulegium, Peppermint Mentha piperita, Sage Salvia oficinalis, Spearmint Mentha spicata, Yarrow Achillea millefolium
Neutral: Horehound, Safflower, Sarsaparilla Smilax aristolochiifolia, Sassafras Sassafras albidum,
Relaxing: Burdock Arctium lappa, A. minor, Pot Marigold Calendula officinalis, C. arvensis, Catnip Nepeta cataria, Chamomile Anthemis L., Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis, Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca, Mugwort, Passion Flower Passiflora incarnata, Pipsissewa Chimaphila umbellata, Pleurisy Root Asclepias tuberosa, Sweet Flag Acorus americanus, Thyme Thymus vulgaris, Vervain Verbena officinalis, Willow Salix spp., Wild Yam

Discutient:

Herbs which act by dissolving abnormal growths and tumors.

Examples:

Black Walnut Bark Juglans nigra, Bloodroot, Burdock Root Arctium lappa, A. minor, Cabbage Leaf, Chaparral Larrea tridentata, Devil's Claw Harpagophytum procumbens, Garlic Allium sativum, Sanicle, Red Clover Trifolium pratense

Diuretic:

Herbs that increase the formation and flow of urine. They are used to treat water retention, obesity, lymphatic swellings, nerve inflammations such as lumbago and sciatica, infections of the urinary tract, skin eruptions, and kidney stones. Whenever a Diuretic is given, a lesser amount of Demulcent herb is also given to buffer the effect of the diuretic on the kidneys (especially when the Diuretic contains irritating properties) and to protect the tissues from the movement of kidney stones.

Examples:

American Cancer Root (bear corn, broomrape, squaw root) Conopholis americana, Bearberry Uva Ursi Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi, Blackberry Rubus allegheniensis, Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum, Butterfly Milkweed Asclepias tuberosa, Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum, Cleavers Galium aparine, Couch Grass, Cranberry, Buchu, Corn Silk, Dandelion Taraxacum, Dame's Rocket LeavesHesperis matronalis, Figwort Scrophularia, Field Horsetail Equisetum arvense, Hawthorn Crataegus spp., Hemp Nettle Galeopsis L., Spotted Joe Pye Weed Eupatorium maculatum, Pipsissewa Chimaphila umbellata, Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota, Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica, St John's Wort Hypericum perforatum, Umbrella Mushroon Polyporus umbellatus, Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa

Emetic:

Herbs that cause vomiting. They have been used in the past in conditions characterized by a great deal of mucus, to clear the mucus from the body. In modern herbalism, they are used to cause forceful emptying in cases of poisoning.

Examples:

Ipecacuanha Cephaelis ipecacuanha, Adder's Tongue, American Hellebore, Asarum, Black Alder Alnus glutinosa, Red Alder, Smooth Alder, Black Root Leptandra Virginica, Bloodroot, Blue Vervain Verbena officinalis, Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum, Carline Thistle, Dame's Rocket LeavesHesperis matronalis, Dogbane, Dog Poison, Dog's Mercury, Elder Sambucus L., European Centaury, Garden Violet, Hellebore, Hemp Agrimony Agrimonia L., Holly llex, Japanese Knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum,, Spotted Joe Pye Weed Eupatorium maculatum, Lobelia Lobelia inflata, Mezereum Daphne mezereum, Milkweed Asclepias L., American Mistletoe Phoradendron leucarpum, Nightshade, Peyote, Pilewort Ranunculus ficaria, Pride of China, Rockrose Cistus L., St. Benedict Thistle, Scotch Broom, Senega Snakeroot, Skunk Cabbage, Solomon's Seal, Spurge (Cypress, Flowering, Garden, Milk-Purslane, Petty), Stillingia, Twinleaf Jeffersonia diphylla, Water Eryngo, Wild Indigo Baptisia L., Wild Yam

Emmenagogue:

Herbs that stimulate menstrual flow, often used to refer to all herbs that normalise and tone the female reproductive system, although these remedies would better be called uterine tonics.

Examples:

Examples of strong Emmenagogues: Black Cohosh Acteae racemosa, Juniper Berries, Pennyroyal Mentha pulegium
Herbs with some Emmenagogue properties include: American Centaury, Angelica, Balm, Aloe Vera, Birthwort, Bloodroot, Blue Cohosh Caulophyllum thalictroides, Brooklime, Caraway, Chamomile Anthemis L., Chicory Cichorium intybus, Trillium (Birthroot) Trillium spp., Cotton, Elecampane Inula helenium, Ergot, European Vervain Verbena officinalis, False Unicorn Root, Field Horsetail Equisetum arvense, Flax, Fraxinella, Hellebore, Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis), Hyssop, Imperial Masterwort, Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis, Lovage, Madder, Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca, Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota, Parsley, Pot Marigold Calendula officinalis, C. arvensis, Ragwort Packera spp., Rosemary, Rue, Saffron, Shepherd's Purse Capsella bursa-pastoris, Squaw Vine Mitchella repens, Sumac Rhus typhina, Sweet Flag Acorus americanus, Tansy Tanacetum L., Tarragon, Thuja, Wood Sorrel Oxalis spp., Yarrow Achillea millefolium

Emollient:

See DEMULCENT...emollients have a soothing and healing effect like demulcents, but specifically on the skin.

Examples:

Aloe Vera, Cattails Typha spp., Chickweed Stellaria media, Cleavers Galium aparine, Elecampane Inula helenium, Fenugreek Trigonella L., Flax seed, Gotu Kola Centella asiatica, Kelp, Mallow Malva neglecta, Marshmallow Root Althaea officinalis, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Plantain Plantago spp., Slippery Elm Ulmus americana

Estrogenic:

Herbs that normalize the balance of estrogens in the body. Often supply compounds the body can make into estrogens if more are needed. These herbs are often used to ease the symptoms of menopause.

Examples:

Black Cohosh Acteae racemosa, Chaste Tree Berry Vitex agnus-castus, Angelica, Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca, Wild Yam

Expectorant:

Herbs that help the body to remove excess mucous from the lungs. Stimulating expectorants work by irritating the lining of the bronchioles to stimulate expulsion of mucous; examples include Balm of Gilead, Elecampagne, Violet, and White Horehound. Many of these herbs can act as EMETICS in large doses. The relaxing expectorants soothe bronchial spasm and promote the production of a more watery mucous that is easier to cough up.

Examples:

American Cancer Root (bear corn, broomrape, squaw root) Conopholis americana, Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum, Butterfly Milkweed Asclepias tuberosa, Choke Cherry Prunus virginiana, Coltsfoot, Tussilago farfara, Elecampane Inula helenium, Eyebright Euphrasia L., Fenugreek Trigonella L., Hemp Nettle Galeopsis L., Hyssop, Lemongrass Cymbopogon L., Licorice Root Glycyrrhiza lepidota, Marshmallow Althaea officinalis, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Nettle Leaf Urtica dioica, Plantain Plantago spp., Red Clover Trifolium pratense, Slippery Elm Ulmus rubra, Black Cherry Bark Prunus virginiana, Yucca Root Yucca schidigera, Yerba Santa Eriodictyon californicum

Febrifuge:

Herbs that reduce fever. Herbalists understand that a fever is the body's way of fighting off an infection. As long as the body is able to eliminate waste, they do not typically use herbs to reduce fever. They may also lower a fever when it has some beneficial effect on the infection or inflammation causing the fever. They will also lower fever if for some reason the body's ability to eliminate waste has been compromised. They will first attempt to repair the waste eliminating system that is not functioning properly, and try to use herbs that support the immune system and the other cleansing processes of the body. They may give DIAPHORETICS to lower body temperature by promoting perspiration, and help the body cleanse. Or they may give circulatory STIMULANTS to increase blood flow to the skin and so promote a cleansing sweat. ALTERATIVES can act through an ANTI-MICROBIAL action, or through stimulation of the immune system, and can also help the body clear out the toxic waste products of an infective process.

Examples:

Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum, Cleavers Galium aparine, Cow Parsnip Heracleum maximum, Henbit Lamium amplexicaule, Spotted Joe Pye Weed Eupatorium maculatum, Meadowsweet Spiraea spp. Willow Salix spp., Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa, Wintergreen Gaultheria procumbens

Fungicide:

Herbs that kill fungus. See ANTI-MICROBIAL.

Galactagogue:

Herbs that increase lactation. Generally need to be used in the context of a very good diet and general health to be effective.

Examples:

Anise Seed, Basil, Borage, Caraway, CleaversGalium aparine, Cumin, Dandelion Root Taraxacum officinale, Dill, European Vervain Verbena officinalis, Fennel, Fenugreek Trigonella L., Goat's Rue, Iceland Moss, Milk Thistle Silybum marianum, Milkwort

Haemostatic:

Herbs which stop or prevent bleeding. ASTRINGENTS are often haemostatic

Examples:

Bayberry, Sweet Gale, Wax-Myrtle Myrica gale (Uterus), Beth Root Trillium erectum, (General), Black Alder Alnus glutinosa, Blackberry Rubus allegheniensis, (Uterus), Bistort Persicaria bistorta, Black Cohosh Actea recemosa (Lungs), Cayenne (Powerful), Club Moss, Comfrey Symphytum officinale L, Cranesbill Geranium dissectum, Ergot, Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis (Uterus, bowels), Great Burnett, Horsetail, Knotweed, Mullein Verbascum thapsus (Bowels, general), Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica (General), Plantain Plantago spp., Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus, Red Alder, Shave Grass, Shepherd's Purse Capsella bursa-pastoris, Smooth Alder, Storksbill (Uterus), Tormentil, White Oak Bark Quercus alba, (General), Witch Hazel Hamamelis virginiana, Yarrow Achillea millefolium

Hepatic:

Herbs that support the function of the liver. They tone, strengthen, and in some cases increase bile flow (see CHOLAGOGUE ). BITTERS often exert their function through stimulation of the liver. Important for general health as the liver is the primary organ responsible for removing toxins from the body.

Examples:

Agrimony Agrimonia L., Aloe Vera, Arjuna Terminalia arjuna, Asparagus, Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Bayberry (Sweet Gale, Wax-Myrtle) Myrica gale, Blue Flag Iris versicolor, Boldo, Buckthorn, Cascara Sagrada Frangula alnus, Curly Dock Rumex crispus, Dandelion Taraxacum officinale, Fennel, Garden Sage Salvia oficinalis, Hyssop, Mandrake Mandragora L., Mayapple Podophyllum peltatum, Milk thistle Silybum marianum, Poke Root Phytolacca americana, Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota, Schisandra Schisandra chinensis, Self Heal Prunella vulgaris, Wild Yam, Wood Betony Stachys officinalis

Hypnotic:

Herbs that help induce sleep. This effect can result from muscle-relaxing properties, volatile oils that reduce psychological tension, or remedies that act on the nervous system itself. Almost any hypnotic remedy can become addictive if used consistantly for any long period. Should be used as part of a hotopofpageic approach to sleeplessness, including exercise, diet, relaxation exercises, and counselling regarding sources of stress.

Examples:

Passion Flower Passiflora incarnata, Hops Humulus lupulus, Kava Kava Piper methysticum, Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis, Marijuana Cannabis sativa, Skullcap Scutellaria spp., Valerian Valeriana officinalis

Hypoglycemic:

Herbs that help regulate and reduce blood sugar.

Examples:

Burdock Arctium lappa, A. minor, Garlic Allium sativum, Milk thistle Silybum marianum, Plantain Plantago major

Hypolipidemic:

Herbs that help lower cholesterol.

Examples:

Arjuna Terminalia arjuna, Milk thistle Silybum marianum

Hypotensive:

See ANTI-HYPERTENSIVE.

Immunomodulator:

Herbs that stimulate the immune system or supress the immune system based upon the needs of the body.

Examples:

Chaga inonotus obliquus, Maitaki mushroom Grifola frondosa, Reishi Ganoderma spp., Self Heal Prunella vulgaris, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Immunostimulant:

herbs which stimulate the immune system.

Examples:

Arjuna Terminalia arjuna, Astragalus Astragalus membranaceus, Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum, Burdock Arctium lappa, A. minor, Chaga inonotus obliquus, Echinacea Echinacea L., Maitaki mushroom Grifola frondosa, Reishi Mushroom Ganoderma spp., Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica, Turkey Tail Mushroom Trametes versicolor, Umbrella Mushroon Polyporus umbellatus, Yarrow Achillea millefolium,

Laxative:

Herbs that promote contractions of the bowels to stimulate removal of feces. Generally differentiated from the gentler APERIENTS which promote normal bowel activity, in that these stronger herbs act by irritating the bowels so they evacuate more forcefully.

Examples:

Agave, Aloe Vera, American Cancer Root (bear corn, broomrape, squaw root) Conopholis americana, Apple tree bark, Asparagus, Black Walnut Bark Juglans nigra, Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum, Cascara, Chickweed Stellaria media Dandelion Root Taraxacum officinale, Dog's Mercury, Ferula Ferula foetida, Fig tree, Figwort Scrophularia, Fumitory Fumaria, Garden Violet, Henbit Lamium amplexicaule, Japanese Knotweed Polygonum cuspidatum,, Larch, Licorice Root Glycyrrhiza lepidota, Lily of the Valley, Mayapple Podophyllum peltatum, Mexican Damiana, Olive, Pansy, Peach tree, Plum Prunus domestica Prunus americana, Pokeweed Phytolacca americana, Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus, Senna, Sorrel, Tamarind, Wahoo*, Walnut Juglans cinerea, Wild Daisy, Wild Oregon Grape Root Mahonia Nutt., Yellow Parilla, Yerba Mate, Yucca Root

Lithotriptic:

Herbs that help to dissolve and eliminate urinary and biliary stones and gravel.

Examples:

For kidney and bladder stones, Black Birch Betula lenta, Choke Cherry Prunus virginiana, Dandelion Root Taraxacum officinale, Pipsissewa Chimaphila umbellata, Stinging Nettle Leaf Urtica dioica
For the gallbladder: Wild Cherry Bark Prunus virginiana, Cascara Sagrada Frangula alnus

Lymphatic:

Herbs that will stimulate and cleanse the lymphatic system.

Examples:

Black Walnut Bark Juglans nigra, Chaparral Larrea tridentata, Curly Dock Rumex crispus, Dandelion Taraxacum officinale, Echinacea L., Garlic Allium sativum, Oregon Grape Root Mahonia Nutt., Poke Phytolacca americana

Lipolytic:

Herbs that normalize lipids in the body. These herbs are gaining attention as we learn more about the effects of the ratios of different types of lipids in the causation of heart disease.

Examples:

Dong Quai, Garlic, Turmeric Curcuma longa

Narcotic:

Powerful ANODYNES which often also have HYPNOTICS function

Examples:

Ghost Pipe Monotropa uniflora, Kava Kava Piper methysticum, Marijuana Cannabis sativa, Opium Poppy Papaver somniferum Wild Lettuce Lactuca spp.

Nervine:

Herbs that exert an effect on the nervous system. See the categories below.

Examples:

Nervine Relaxant: Herbs that promote relaxation of the nervous system. Often act to sedate or produce sleep, or to relax muscles. Black Cohosh Acteae racemosa, Blue Vervain Verbena hastata, Black Haw, California Poppy, Catnip Nepeta cataria, Chamomile Anthemis L., Cramp Bark Viburnum opulus, Ghost Pipe Monotropa uniflora, Hyssop Hyssopus officinalis, Hops Humulus lupulus, Spotted Joe Pye Weed Eupatorium maculatum, Kava Kava Piper methysticum, Lady's Slipper Cypripedium acaule, Lavender, Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis, Linden blossom, Marijuana Cannabis sativa, Musk-mallow Malva moschata, Passion Flower Passiflora incarnata, Pleurisy Root Asclepias tuberosa, St John's Wort Hypericum perforatum, Valerian Valeriana officinalis
Nervine Stimulant: Herbs that stimulate the nervous system.
Cacao, Coffee Coffea arabica, Tea, Mate, Kola Nut, Rhodiola Rhodiola rosea
Nervine Tonic: Herbs that support and strengthen the nervous system.
Ashwagandha Withania somnifera, Cleavers Galium aparine, Kava Kave Piper methysticum, Oats, St John's Wort Hypericum perforatum, Vervain Verbena officinalis, Skullcap Scutellaria spp.

Nutritive:

Herbs that nourish the body. Useful in convalescence or anorexia.

Examples:

Marshmallow Althaea officinalis, Hemp seeds

Odontalgic:

Herbs that relieve oral pain.

Examples:

Black Birch Betula lenta, Cow Parsnip Heracleum maximum, Creeping Snowberry Gaultheria hispidula, Willow Salix spp., Wintergreen Gaultheria procumbens,

Orexigenic

Herbs that stimulate the appetite.

Examples:

Chicory Cichorium intybus, Marijuana Cannabis sativa,

Oxytocic:

These herbs will promote and can assist in easier childbirth. See Uterine Tonic

Examples:

Birthwort, Black Cohosh Acteae racemosa, Blue Cohosh Caulophyllum thalictroides, Marijuana Cannabis sativa, Cotton, Ergot, Peruvian Bark, Shepherd's Purse Capsella bursa-pastoris

Parasiticide:

Herbs that destroy parasites in the digestive tract or on the skin.

Examples:

Blackberry Rubus allegheniensis, Black Walnut Bark Juglans nigra, Chamomile Anthemis L., Cinnamon Oil, Chaparral Larrea tridentata, Cloves, Echinacea L., False Unicorn, Garlic Allium sativum, Gentian, Stinging Nettle Leaf Urtica dioica, Rue, Thyme Thymus vulgaris, Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa, Wood Betony Stachys officinalis, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Parturient:

Herbs that support and facilitate the birthing process. These are often Uterine Tonics or stimulants. See Oxytocic

Examples:

Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa, Blue Cohosh Caulophyllum thalictroides, Chaste Tree Berry Vitex agnus-castus, False Unicorn Root, Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca, Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus, Squaw Vine Mitchella repens

Pectoral:

Herbs that strengthen the lungs. All expectorants are pectorals, but this class includes herbs that aid the lungs through other actions as well.

Examples:

Choke Cherry Prunus virginiana, Elecampane Inula helenium, Lobelia Lobelia inflata, Blood Root Sanguinaria canadensis, Common Mallow Malva neglecta, Marshmallow Althea officinalis, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Pleurisy Root (Butterfly Milkweed) Asclepias tuberosa, Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica

Relaxant:

Herbs which induce relaxation. See Nervine

Examples:

Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa, Black Haw, California Poppy, Catnip Nepeta cataria, Chamomile Anthemis L., Cramp Bark Viburnum opulus, Ghost Pipe Monotropa uniflora, Hops Humulus lupulus, Hyssop, Kava Kava Piper methysticum, Lady's Slipper Cypripedium acaule, Lavender, Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis, Linden blossom, Marijuana Cannabis sativa, Musk-mallow Malva moschata, Passion Flower Passiflora incarnata, Pleurisy Root also Butterfly Milkweed Asclepias tuberosa, St John's Wort Hypericum perforatum, Valerian Valeriana officinalis

Restorative:

See ALTERATIVE

Rubefacient:

Herbs that increase the flow of blood at the surface of the skin and produce redness where they are applied. Their function is to draw inflammation and congestion from deeper areas. They are useful for the treatment of arthritis, rheumatism, and other joint problems and for sprains.

Examples:

CayenneCapsicum annuum, Cinnamon Cinnamomum spp., Ginger Zingiber officinale, Hellebore, Horseradish, Juniper, Knotweed, Mustard Seed, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Olive Leaf, Pasque Flower, Peppermint Oil, Prickly Ash Zanthoxylum L., Rosemary Oil, Rue, Thyme oil Thymus vulgaris

Sedative:

Herbs that strongly quiet the nervous system. These will include antispasmodic and nervine

Examples:

American Cancer Root (bear corn, broomrape, squaw root) Conopholis americana, Black Birch Betula lenta, Black Cherry Prunus serotina, Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa, Black Haw Viburnum spp., Bloodroot, Bugleweed (arterial, nervine), Catnip Nepeta cataria, Celery seeds, Chamomile Anthemis L., Choke Cherry Prunus virginiana, Coral Root, Ferula Ferula foetida, Feverweed, Garden Sage Salvia oficinalis, Goldthread, Hawthorn Crataegus spp., Hops Humulus lupulus, Hyssop, Ghost Pipe Monotropa uniflora, Kava Kava Piper methysticum, Lavender, Lady's Slipper Cypripedium acaule, Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis, Lettuce Lactuca spp., Monkshood Aconitum L., Mountain Laurel, New Jersey Tea, Passion Flower Passiflora incarnata, Peach Tree, Pennyroyal Mentha pulegium, Peony, Peppermint Mentha piperita, Periwinkle Vinca minor, Red Clover Trifolium pratense, Saffron, Saw Palmetto Serenoa repens, Skullcap Scutellaria spp., Spearmint Mentha spicata, St John's Wort Hypericum perforatum, Sweet Flag Acorus americanus, Thyme Thymus vulgaris, Valerian Valeriana officinalis, Witch Hazel Hamamelis virginiana, Wood Betony Stachys officinalis, Yellow Jessamine Gelsemium sempervirens

Sialagogue:

Substances that stimulate the flow of saliva and thus aid in the digestion of starches.

Examples:

Beet Root, Betel Nut Piper betle, Black Pepper Piper nigrum, Blue Flag Iris versicolor, Cayenne Capsicum annuum, Currant Ribes rubrum, Echinacea L., European Centaury, Ginger Zingiber officinale, Lemon, Licorice Root Glycyrrhiza lepidota, Moneywort Lysimachia nummularia, Prickly Ash Zanthoxylum L., Quassia Picrasma excelsa Rooibos African Red Tea, Senega Snakeroot, Seven Barks (Hydrangea), Water Eryngo, Yerba Santa Eriodictyon californicum

Soporifics:

Herbs that will assist in giving a restful and relaxing sleep.

Examples:

Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa, Catnip Nepeta cataria, Hops Humulus lupulus, Kava Kava Piper methysticum, Lady's Slipper Cypripedium acaule, Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Passion Flower Passiflora incarnata, Skullcap Scutellaria spp., Valerian Valeriana officinalis, Vervain Verbena officinalis, Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa

Spasmolytic:

Herbs that relax the smooth muscles of the body. Smooth muscle is found in the walls of hollow organs, including the stomach, intestines, bladder and uterus. It is also found in the walls of blood vessels, and lymph vessels, (excluding blood and lymph capillaries) it is known as vascular smooth muscle. There is also smooth muscle in the tracts of the respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems. See ANTISPASMODIC.

Examples:

Angelica Sinensis Dong Quai, Matricaria chamomilla Chamomile, Corydalis spp., Corydalis Root,Humulus lupulus Hops Strobiles, Mentha piperita Peppermint Oil, Passiflora incarnata Passionflower, Piper methysticum Kava Kava, Scutellaria laterifolia Skullcap, Tanacetum parthenium Feverfew, Valeriana officinalis Valerian Root Viburnum opulus Cramp Bark.

Stimulant:

Generally, herbs that cause an increase in body functions. In older herbals, this term refers specifically to stimulants of the circulatory system

Examples:

Cayenne Capsicum annuum, Bayberry (Sweet Gale, Wax-Myrtle) Myrica gale, Black Birch Betula lenta, Blueberry Vaccinium L., Cow Parsnip Heracleum maximum, Figwort Scrophularia, Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa, Prickly Ash Zanthoxylum L., Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota, Yarrow Achillea millefolium. See CARDIAC.

Stomachic:

Herbs that tone and stimulate action of the stomach. See BITTER.

Examples:

Black Birch Betula lenta, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Styptic:

Herbs that will stop bleeding, both internal and external.

Examples:

Bennet Geum urbanum, Beth Root Trillium erectum, Bistort Persicaria bistorta, Blackberry Rubus allegheniensis, Blind Nettle, Cranesbill Geranium dissectum, Field Horsetail Equisetum arvense, Horseweed, Loosestrife Lythrum spp., Matico, Plantain Plantago spp., Rhatany, Sanicle Sanicula europaea, Shepherd's Purse, Spotted Cranebill, Tormentil, White Oak Bark Quercus alba, Witch Hazel Hamamelis virginiana, Yarrow Achillea millifolium

Thymoleptic:

Herbs that raise the mood and counteract depression. With the advent of modern pharmacology, it has been found that these herbs have an action on the chemicals that transmit nerve impulses in the brain; these "neurotransmitters" have been found to be in imbalance in most cases of severe depression.

Examples:

St John's Wort Hypericum perforatum, Passion Flower Passiflora incarnate

Tonic:

Herbs that strengthen and support the function of the whole body.

Examples:

Alfalfa Medicago sativa Apple Fiber, Cayenne Capsicum annuum, Cow Parsnip Heracleum maximum, Dandelion Root Taraxacum officinale, Eyebright Euphrasia L., Fenugreek Trigonella L., Ginseng Panax quinquefolius, Hops Humulus lupulus, Milk Thistle Silybum marianum, Plantain Plantago spp., Reishi Mushroom Ganoderma spp., Yerba Mate
Specific Tonics
-Tonic: Blood: Chaparral Larrea tridentata, Echinacea Echinacea L., Garlic Stinging Nettles Urtica dioica

-Brain: Ashwagandha Withania somnifera, Ginkgo biloba

-Tonic: Cardiac: American Ginseng Panax quinquefolius, Arjuna Terminalia arjuna, Ashwagandha Withania somnifera, Blue Vervain Verbena hastata, Blueberry Vaccinium L., Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa, Bugleweed, Figwort Scrophularia, Foxglove Digitalis purpurea, Hawthorn Crataegus spp., Hedge Hyssop, Hellebore, Lily of the Valley, Lime blossom, American Mistletoe Phoradendron leucarpum, Monarda, Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca, Peyote, Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus, Wahoo, Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa

-Tonic: Digestive: Elecampane Inula helenium, Sweet Flag Acorus americanus, Milk Thistle Silybum marianum

-Tonic: Gallbladder: Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis, Milk Thistle Silybum marianum, Oregon Grape Root Mahonia Nutt., Parsley, Wild Yam

-Tonic: Intestinal: Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Blackberry Rubus allegheniensis, Cascara Sagrada Frangula alnus, Cranesbill Geranium dissectum, Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis

-Tonic: Kidney: American Mistletoe Phoradendron leucarpum, Buchu, Burdock Root Arctium lappa, A. minor, Cleavers Galium arpine, Dandelion Root Taraxacum officinale, Fo-ti, Horsetail Equisetum arvense, Kava Kava Piper methysticum, Parsley, Pipsissewa Chimaphila umbellata, Saw Palmetto Serenoa repens, Uva Ursi., Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

-Tonic: Liver: Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Buckthorn Bark, Cascara Sagrada Frangula alnus, Dandelion Root Taraxacum officinale, Eyebright Euphrasia L., Fo-ti, Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis, Mandrake Mandragora L., Milk Thistle Silybum marianum, Stoneroot.

-Tonic: Lung: Beth Root Trillium erectum, Black Cherry Prunus serotina, Butterfly Milkweed Asclepias tuberosa, Choke Cherry Prunus virginiana, Comfrey Symphytum officinale L, Elecampane Inula helenium, Fenugreek Trigonella L., Garlic Allium sativum, Lungwort, Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Staghorn Sumac Rhus typhina

-Tonic: Nerve: American Mistletoe Phoradendron leucarpum, Ashwagandha Withania somnifera, Blue Vervain Verbena hastata, Celery, Chamomile Anthemis L., Ghost Pipe Monotropa uniflora, Hops Humulus lupulus, Kava Kava Piper methysticum, Lady's Slipper Cypripedium acaule, Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis, Lobelia Lobelia inflata, St. John's Wort Hypericum perforatum, Valerian Valeriana officinalis

-Tonic: Sexual Female:
Black Haw, Chaste Tree Berry Vitex agnus-castus, Damiana Turnera diffusa, Don Quai, False Unicorn, American Ginseng Panax quinquefolius, Horny Goat Weed Epimedium spp., Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca, Squaw Vine Mitchella repens, Yohimbe Pausinystalia johimbe

-Tonic: Sexual Male: Chaste Tree Berry Vitex agnus-castus, Damiana Turnera diffusa, American Ginseng Panax quinquefolius, Honry Goat Weed Epimedium spp., Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca, Plantain Plantago spp., Sarsaparilla Smilax aristolochiifolia, Saw Palmetto Serenoa repens, Yohimbe Pausinystalia johimbe

-Tonic: Uterine:Tone and normalize the function of the female reproductive system. Black Cohosh Actaea racemosa, Blueberry Vaccinium L., Blue Cohosh Caulophyllum thalictroides, Chaste Tree Berry Vitex agnus-castus, False Unicorn Root, Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca, Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus, Shepherd's Purse Capsella bursa-pastoris, Squaw Vine Mitchella repens, Wormwood Artemisia absinthium

Vasoconstrictor:

Herbs which reduce blood flow.

Examples:

Ma Huang Ephedra sinica, Witch Hazel Hamamelis virginiana, Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis, Bugleweed Lycopus virginicus

Vasodilator:

Herbs which Increase blood flow.

Examples:

American Hellebore Veratrum viride, Garlic Allium sativum, Barberry Berberis vulgaris, Black Cohosh Actea racemosa, Black Haw Viburnum spp., Butterfly Milkweed Asclepias tuberosa, Coleus forskholii Coleus, Cramp Bark Viburnum opulus, Fenugreek Trigonella foenum-graecum, Ginger Zingiber officinale, Ginkgo Biloba, Goldenthread Coptis spp., Ginseng Panax spp., Hawthorn Crataegus spp., Horseradish Amoracia rusticana, Kava Kava Piper methysticum, Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis, Linden Flower Tilia europaea, Olive Leaf Olea europaea, Parsley Petroselinum crispum, Prickly Ash Xanthoxylum americanum, Skullcap Scutellaria spp., Valerian Valeriana officinalis, Vervain Verbena officinalis, Yarrow Achillea millefolium, Yohimbe Pausinystalia johimbe

Veinotonic:

Herbs that have a strengthening effect on veins.

Examples:

Gotu Kola Centella asiatica

Vermicide:

Herbs that kill intestinal worms. See ANTHELMINTIC.

Vermifuge:

Herbs that promote expulsion of intestinal worms. See ANTHELMINTIC.

Vulnerary:

Herbs that help wounds or inflammations to heal; can refer to lesions of the skin or mucus membranes. Many ASTRINGENTS, DEMULCENTS, and EMOLLIENTS have vulnerary actions. Sometimes the vulnerary function is due to tannins producing an impervious layer that protects the wound as it heals. Sometimes mucilage soothes and keeps the tissue moist. Comfrey contains a compound called allantoin, which stimulates cell growth, and helps heal broken bones as well as skin. Comfrey contains hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA's). These have been shown to increase the incidents of liver failure. Rats given injections of pure PA's developed cancer. It is therefore not recommended that you take comfrey internally. Herbs with ANTI-MICROBIAL action can also assist wound healing by guarding against infection.

Examples:

American Cancer Root (bear corn, broomrape, squaw root) Conopholis americana, Burdock Arctium lappa, A. minor, Cattails Typha spp., Cleavers Galium aparine, Comfrey Symphytum officinale L, Chickweed Stellaria media, Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis,, Gotu Kola Centella asiatica, Mallow Malva neglecta, Marigold, Marshmallow Althaea officinalis, Old Man's Beard Usnea spp.,, Plantain Plantago spp., Yarrow Achillea millefolium, Willow Bark Salix spp., St John's Wort Hypericum perforatum