Agrimony
Agrimonia eupatoria (Rosaceæ)
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The juice is an antiseptic and can be applied to wounds and cuts. It was used by the Greeks to treat cataracts. The infusion can be used to treat gastro-enteritis and jaundice.
Other Uses: Blood-clotting agent.
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Aloe
Aloe vera (Liliaceae) |
Synonym A. indica. Aloe vera juice may be taken orally as an effective decongestant. In small doses it may stimulate, or increase, the menstrual flow. The fresh juice may be applied directly to minor burns, sunburn, insect bites, etc.
Other Uses: Wound healing, de-wormer, soothing agent, as in rashes, for example. demulcent.
CAUTION: Aloe vera should be avoided during pregnancy. It should also be avoided during breast feeding, as it may act as a purgative to the baby.
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Angelica
Angelica arcangelica (Umbelliferae) |
Useful during bouts of coughing, bronchitis, pleurisy, fever and influenza. The leaf can be used as a compress for chest inflammation. Its essential oil is used in easing intestinal colic and flatulence. As an appetiser it may be used in anorexia nervosa. It has been shown to help ease rheumatic pain and it acts as a urinary antiseptic in cystitis.
Other Uses: Anti-spasmodic, expectorant, diuretic, diaphoretic.
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Aniseed
Pimpinella anisum (Umbelliferae) |
Aniseed provides a volatile oil which is used orally to ease griping, intestinal colic and flatulence. Its anti-spasmodic properties means it may be used in bronchitis, or where there is persistent, irritable coughing, or whooping cough. Cf. Caraway and Fennel.
Other Uses: Expectorant, anti-spasmodic, carminative, parasiticide, aromatic.
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Barberry
Berberis vulgaris (Berberidaceae) |
Barberry promotes healthy liver function, or where there is inflammation of the gall-bladder and/or gall stones, and it is said to reduce an enlarged spleen. It is useful during malaria and is also effective in the treatment of Leishmaniasis.
Other Uses: Anti-emetic, bitter tonic, mild laxative.
CAUTION: Avoid during pregnancy.
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Basil
Ocimum basilicum (Lamiaceae) |
An aromatic and antiseptic, the juice is used for the treatment of insect bites. It is effective in treating nervous disorders and dyspepsia.
Other Uses: Shock induced stomach upsets, anti-spasmodic
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Bay
Laurus nobilis (Lauraceæ) |
Sweet Bay or Bay Laurel. An aromatic, the bruised leaf can be used to treat insect stings and rheumatic or aching joints and limbs.
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Birch (Silver)
Betula pendula (Betulaceae) |
Silver Birch leaves are an effective remedy for cystitis and other urinary tract infections. They may used for gout, rheumatism and mild arthritic pain. The damp, fresh in-side of the bark placed against the skin, will ease muscular pain.
Other Uses: Diuretic, antiseptic, tonic.
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Black Cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa (Ranunculaceae) |
Cohosh is North American Indian name for the species of eighteen plants of which this, the 'black snake root', is one variety. It is a very effective relaxant. It is useful in cases of painful or delayed menstruation, ovarian cramps or cramping pain in the womb, and has a normalising action on female hormonal activity. It may be used in the treatment of rheumatic conditions of all kinds, as well as sciatica and neuralgia. During labour, Black Cohosh promotes uterine activity and allays anxiety. It reduces spasm and so helps in the treatment of whooping cough. Some find it useful in relieving tinnitus.
Other Uses: Alterative.
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Bladderwrack
Fucus vesiculosus (Fucaceae) |
Bladderwrack has a high iodine content and is reputedly effective in the treatment of underactive thyroid glands (and possibly moderating thyroid associated obesity), and goitre. It is said to moderate the symptoms in rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis, when taken orally, and as an application to the joints it relieves the pain.
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Burdock leaf or root
Arctium lappa (Compositae) |
Burdock, leaf or root, is a most valuable remedy for the treatment of dry or scaly skin and eczema if used over a period of time. It will be useful as part of a wider treatment for blood disorders and rheumatic complaints, especially where they are associated with psoriasis. It stimulates the digestive juices and especially bile secretion. Thus it will aid kidney function and help to heal cystitis. Externally it may be used as a compress or poultice to speed up the healing of wounds and ulcers. The German physician and chemist Paracelsus. Small wonder he decided to call himself 'Paracelsus'. Paracelsus was born in Germany, but trained in medical school in Italy. He was the first to advocate external agents as the causes of disease, and advocated the use of chemicals for the treatment of ailments. He was not very popular with the medical and scientific establishment of his day, because of his revolutionary ideas. recommends it as a hair restorative.
Other uses: Alterative, diuretic, bitter.
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Calendula, Marigold
Calendula officinalis (Compositae) |
English Marigold. One of the best herbs for treating local skin problems and slow-healing wounds or skin ulcers.. It may be used safely wherever there is an inflammation on the skin, whether due to infection or physical damage. It may be used for any external bleeding or wound, bruising or strains. Marigold may be used both internally and externally to combat fungal infections. The juice of the stems has been recommended for warts.
Other Uses: Astringent, cholagogue, emmenagogue.
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Catnip
Nepeta [cararia] (Lamiacae) |
Catmint. It is a traditional cold and flu remedy. John Gerarde recommends it as a remedy for bruising. Its powerful diaphoretic action makes it useful during fevers, and especially bronchitis. It is recommended for stomach upsets, dyspepsia, flatulence and colic. It is said to be a remedy for diarrhoea in children.
Other Uses: Anti-spasmodic, sedative, astringent.
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Chamomile
Chamaemelum nobile (Compositae) |
Roman chamomile (synonym Anthemis nobilis). As a gentle sedative, it is safe for treating gripe and teething problems in children, and more generally for anxiety, insomnia, indigestion and gastritis. It can also be used for gingivitis and for bathing inflamed or sore eyes, and as a gargle for sore throats. According to some authorities, chamomile has a reputation in the treatment of neuralgia, period pains, headaches, muscular pain, cramp, etc. as well as aiding recovery after a fever, alleviating hysteria and as a calmative for shattered nerves.
Other Uses: Analgesic, antiseptic, vulnerary
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Chaste Tree
Vitex agnus-castus (Verbenaceae) |
Chaste Tree stimulates and normalises pituitary gland functions, especially progesterone function. Chaste Tree is most frequently used for normalising the activity of female sex hormones, especially during the menopause, and after use of the birth control pill.
Other Uses: It is said to be an aphrodisiac.
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Chervil
Anthriscus cerefolium (Umbelliferæ) |
Common chervil. The Romans used chervil for treating blood disorders and conjunctivitis, and John Gerarde recommends it for a weak stomach. Eaten raw it is said to cure hiccups and the leaves can be applied externally to soothe rheumatic pain or treat bruising.
Other Uses: Diuretic.
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Chickweed
Stellaria media (Caryophyllaceæ) |
Chickweed is used to treat skin disorders, such as psoriasis. It also has a reputation in rheumatism, irritation of the colon, and as a liver tonic. As a poultice it is used to treat boils, etc. As an eye wash, it is especially useful in the treatment of styes.
Other Uses: Pulmonaria.
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Cinnamon
Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Lauraceae) |
A fragrant, aromatic, it is used as a carminative ingredient in herbal mixtures. It relieves nausea and vomiting. Due to its mild astringency it can be used against diarrhoea.
Other Uses: Stimulant, restorative.
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Comfrey
Symphytum officinale (Boraginaceæ) |
Knit-bone. Comfrey has a long tradition for healing broken bones, ostitis, sprains, bruises, damaged ligaments and rheumatic or arthritic conditions. It is also used for the treatment of lymphatic and lung disorders, including tuberculosis.
Other Uses: Vulnerary.
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Cornsilk
Zea mays (Poaceae) |
Actions: Diuretic, demulcent, tonic.
Indications: As a soothing diuretic, CornSilk is helpful in any irritation of the urinary system. It is used for renal problems in children and as a urinary demulcent combined with other herbs in the treatment of cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis and the like.
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Cowslip
Primula veris (Primulaceae) |
Primrose (U.K.), Marsh Marigold (U.S.). Traditionally used to treat St. Vitus Dance and other nervous complaints, such as hysteria and, to a lesser extent, epilepsy. Some claim relief in migraine.
Other Uses: Diuretic, expectorant gargle
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Cleavers
Galium aparine (Rubiaceae) |
Goose-grass. It has uses in a wide range of swollen gland conditions, such as lymphatic problems, tonsillitis, adenoidal problems, and in ulcers and tumours. It is widely used to alleviate skin conditions, especially psoriasis. It is used in the treatment of cystitis and other urinary conditions where there is pain.
Other Uses: Diuretic, alterative, tonic astringent.
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Cloves
Syzygium aromaticum (Myrtaceae) |
Synonym Eugenia aromatica (caryophyllum). An aromatic, cloves are used to allay nausea, vomiting and flatulence and to stimulate the digestive system. As a powerful local antiseptic and mild anaesthetic, oil of cloves is used topically to relieve toothache.
Other Uses: Carminative, anti-emetic.
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Coltsfoot
Tussilago farfara (Compositae |
Coughwort. Coltsfoot is used in the treatment of a variety of chest complaints, especially bronchitis and including emphysema. Coltsfoot may be used in irritation coughs and whooping cough. The cured leaves are smoked as a treatment for asthma. The freshly bruised leaves can be applied to boils, abscesses and suppurating ulcers.
Other Uses: Expectorant, anti-spasmodic, anti-catarrhal, diuretic, anti-inflammatory.
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Cucumber
Cucumis sativa (Cucurbitaceae) |
The seeds of the cucumber are used to treat tapeworm infestation. The juice of the fresh fruit is cooling, healing and soothing to the skin.
Other Uses: Demulcent, vulnerary, mild diuretic.
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Dandelion
Taraxacum officinalis (Compositae) |
Synonym T. dens-leonis. The young leaves are a powerful diuretic. The root helps both kidneys and liver to purify the blood and reduce hypertension. It is also a mild laxative and digestive aid. Dandelion juice can be applied to warts.
Other Uses: Antibiotic, blood sugar balance, gall stones.
CAUTION:Bile duct occlusion, gall-bladder empyema, ileus.
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Devil's Claw
Harpagophytum procumbens (Pedaliaceae) |
Synonyms Harpagophyti radix. Rams horn. The (dried, sliced) tuber of this plant has been found effective in some cases of arthritis for reducing inflammation and pain in the joints. This plant can also give aid in liver and gall-bladder complaints.
Other Uses: Anodyne, analgesic, appetiser.
CAUTION: Gastric, duodenal ulcers
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Dill
Anethum gravolens (Umbelliferae) |
Synonym Peucedanum graveolens. Dill is a traditional remedy for insomnia. It is commonly used also to alleviate flatulence and colic, especially in children. It is said to stimulate the flow of milk in nursing mothers. Chewing the seeds will banish bad breath.
Other Uses: Digestive, antibacterial, aromatic, anti-spasmodic.
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Elder
Sambucus nigra (Caprifoliaceae) |
Common Elder. The elder has been venerated since time immemorial and revered for its many healing properties. The leaves are used primarily for bruises, sprains, wounds and chilblains. It is believed that the leaves make an effective ointment for tumours. Elder flower infusion is an ideal treatment for chills, colds and influenza, catarrh, hay fever and sinusitis. Elder berries are useful in rheumatism.
Other Uses:Bark: purgative, emetic, diuretic. Leaves: purgative, expectorant, diuretic and diaphoretic. Flowers: Diaphoretic. Berries: Diaphoretic, diuretic.
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Elecampane
Inula Helenium (Compositæ) |
The root was much prized by the Romans to alleviate the effects of overeating. Otherwise, the root may be used as a treatment for coughs, catarrh and bronchitis.
Other Uses: Chest complaints generally.
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Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus globulus (Myrtaceae) |
Tasmanian blue gum. The aromatic foliage is a traditional aboriginal remedy. Eucalyptus is used for relieving coughs and colds, sore throats and other infections. The leaves cool the body and relieve fever. The essential oils are used in a steam bath to unblock the sinuses and bronchial tubes, and form the basis for many such patent remedies.
Other Uses: Antiseptic, expectorant, anti-fungal.
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Fennel
Foeniculum vulara (Umbelliferae) |
Fennel has a very long pedigree, it was much esteemed by the Greeks and Romans. Fennel seeds are aromatic and often prescribed for flatulence, colic, and as a stimulant for the appetite. They are also used to make an infusion as an effective remedy for bronchitis and coughs or the relief of fever and during convalescence. The cold infusion may be used as an eyewash to treat conjunctivitis and inflammation. The essential oil eases muscular, arthritic and rheumatic pains. An infusion of the leaves is used to treat the nervous system. In the Middle Ages, the aroma was used to repel insects. Cf. Aniseed
Other Uses: Diuretic, anti-spasmodic, tonic, galactogogue.
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Figwort
Scrophularia nodosa (Scrophulariaceae) |
Unpleasant smelling, Fig-wort is traditionally a cure for piles (Ficus), hence the name. Fig-wort is now usually recommended as a treatment for eczema, psoriasis and any skin irritation. It is also a heart stimulant.
Other Uses: Alterative, diuretic, mild purgative.
CAUTION: Figwort should be avoided where there is any abnormally rapid heartbeat (tachycardia).
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Garlic
Allium Sativum (Liliaceae) |
Garlic is another cultivated plant with a long pedigree: it was known to the ancient Egyptains, who venerated its curative powers. In the Middle Ages it was used as a cure for leprosy. It is an effective anti-microbial and bactericide. It is effective in treating infections, such as virus and alimentary parasites, including those of the nose, throat and chest. Garlic reduces cholesterol, hypertension, and blood sugar levels. It alleviates bronchitis, catarrh, colds, flu and coughs. For relief from pain and irritation of warts, try painting them with freshly crushed garlic.
Other Uses: diabetes, antibiotic, diaphoretic, antispasmodic, expels worms.
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Ginger
Zingiber officinale (Papilionaceae) |
The rhizome of the Ginger plant may be used to stimulate blood circulation in chilblains and cramp. It is used to alleviate fever, dyspepsia, flatulence and colic. An infusion is recommended as a gargle for the effective relief of sore throats. It is said to be useful in a salve for fibrositis and muscle sprain. Clinical reports suggest success using 4-6 grams per day of powdered ginger for migraines and the nausea that accompanies them.
Other Uses:Carminative, rubefacient, diaphoretic.
CAUTION:Seek medical advice before taking ginger during pregnancy.
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Ginkgo
Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgoaceae) |
Maidenhair tree. Extinct in the wild, now grown in temple gardens in China. The action of Ginkgo on brain function has been shown to prevent dizziness, depression, and other symptoms related to poor circulation of blood to the brain. It is also used to treat diabetes, haemorrhoids and varicose veins. Ginkgo is also invaluable for alleviating asthma, and tinnitus. Ginkgo biloba extract reduces the formation of a substance known as platelet-activating factor,26 which may contribute to migraines.
Other Uses: Tonic, anti-asthmatic, antispasmodic, anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory.
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Ginseng
Panax ginseng (Araliaceae) |
Ginseng root is the most famous Chinese herb of all. Ginseng is believed to increase mental and physical efficiency and promote resistance to stress and disease. It often shows an amphoteric action in that it will sedate or stimulate the central nervous system, according to the prevailing state of the user.
Other Uses: General tonic and mental stimulant.
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Hawthorn berries
Crataegus oxyacantha (Rosaceae) |
Midland Hawthorn, May. Also C. Monogyna, Haw, Common hawthorn, Whitethorn. Hawthorn Berry (Crataegi fructus) is especially associated with remedies for weaknesses of the heart and circulatory system. The berries can also be used to control palpitations, high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis and angina.
Whilst they can be very effective in the aiding of these conditions, qualified attention is essential.
Other Uses: General tonic.
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Hops
Humulus lupulus (Cannabinaceae) |
Synonym Lupuli strobilis. Hops are a central nervous system relaxant, especially in the presence of alcohol. They are used extensively for the treatment of tension, anxiety, headache and insomnia (e.g. used as the stuffing in a pillow). Hops may be used to give relief in mucous colitis. As an antiseptic they are useful for the treatment of ulcers, appetiser.
Other Uses: Hypnotic, astringent, aromatic bitter
CAUTION: CNS depressant -Do not use in cases with marked depression.
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Horsechestnut
Aesculus hippocastanum (Hippocastanaceae) |
Horse chestnut seed, or conkers, uniquely is concerned with the vessels of the circulatory system, particularly the veins. It may be used internally to aid the body in the treatment of problems such as phlebitis, inflammation in the veins, varicosity and haemorrhoids. Externally it may be used as a lotion for the same conditions as well as for leg ulcers.
Other Uses: Astringent.
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Horseradish
Armoracia rusticana (Cruciferae) |
Synonym Cochlearia armoracia. Fresh Horseradish root stimulates the digestion (the taste is rather pungent). It eases flatulence and gripe. It can be used in influenza, fevers, and urinary infection. It has been used for rheumatism and as a poultice in bronchitis. It is also said to dissolve tumours of the skin and possess beneficial, venal acting powers.
Other Uses: Mild laxative, diuretic, anti-scorbutic.
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Juniper Berries
Juiperus communis (Cupressaceae) |
Common juniper. The ancient Egyptians used the leaves to make cedar oil to use with other ingredients for mummification. The essential oil obtained from dried, ripe Juniper Berry is an aromatic. Juniper Berry infusion makes an excellent antiseptic. The bitter action aids digestion and eases flatulence and colic. It is used in cystitis, rheumatism and arthritis, and to ease pain in the joints or muscles.
Other Uses: Diuretic, carminative.
CAUTION: Due to its action on the kidneys, Juniper Berries should be avoided in any kidney disease. It should also be avoided in pregnancy.
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Ladies Mantle
Alchemilla vulgaris ( Rosaceae) |
Lady's Mantle has been widely used in folk medicine (e.g. a restorative for sagging bosoms), and in the Middle Ages alchemists collected its dew for use in the transmutation of base metals into gold. The Lady of the title refers to the Virgin Mary, to whom it is dedicated. Traditionally, therefore, Lady's Mantle has been used to cure women's ailments, such as the pains associated with the period and to ameliorate excessive bleeding, or else to stimulate proper menstrual flow, should this be the problem. Lady's Mantle is also said to ease the menopausal change. It can also be used as a mouthwash for sores and ulcers and as a gargle for laryngitis.
Other Uses: Astringent, diuretic, anti-inflammatory.
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Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia (Lamiaceæ) |
Synonym L. officinales, L. vera, L. spica. The dried flowers are a traditional moth and insect repellant. An infusion of the flowers is an effective treatment for headaches, especially if induced by stress. It is a soporific and useful in depression. Added to the bath, the flowering stalks are said to help suffers from gout and sciatica. The root of Lavender is a nervine, relaxant, and aid in childbirth. The much stronger oil is used to ease rheumatic aches and pains.
Other Uses: Carminative, anti-spasmodic, rubefacient
CAUTION: Lavender oil should not be taken internally
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Lily of the Valley
Convallaria Majalis (Liliaceae) |
Muguet Leaf, May Lily Leaf. Lily of the Valley has been cultivated in Britain since the 15th century. In the 16th century, John Gerarde recommended it as a brain tonic and potentiator of good memory. The dried leaves are perhaps the nearest equivalent to the cardioactive, digitalis, but without the potentially toxic side-effects. Thus Lily of the Valley is a treatment for heart failure and dropsy, where this is associated with a heart condition. It will also aid breathing in congestive heart conditions.
Other Uses: Diuretic.
CAUTION: Should only be used under medical supervision.
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Liquorice
Glycyrrhiza glabra ( Leguminosae) |
To the early Moorish physicists, liquorice was known as a fertility aid for women. However, there is no doubt that both the root and the juice of the liquorice plant have special, and unusual medicinal properties. It can be used in the treatment of adrenal gland problems, including Addison's disease. Its more conventional role is in the treatment of bronchial problems, such as sore throat, catarrh, bronchitis and coughs. It is claimed by some have a place in the treatment regime for the cure of tuberculosis, and to be a safe, effective alternative to cortisone for the treatment of rheumatism. Liquorice is credited with an allopathic role in the treatment of peptic ulceration, gastritis and ulcers. It can also be used in the relief of abdominal colic, menstrual problems and irregularities.
Other Uses: Demulcent, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, mild laxative.
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Calendula, Marigold
Calendula officinalis (Compositae) |
English Marigold. One of the best herbs for treating local skin problems and slow-healing wounds or skin ulcers.. It may be used safely wherever there is an inflammation on the skin, whether due to infection or physical damage. It may be used for any external bleeding or wound, bruising or strains. Marigold may be used both internally and externally to combat fungal infections. The juice of the stems has been recommended for warts.
Other Uses: Astringent, cholagogue, emmenagogue.
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Mistletoe
Viscum alba (Loranthaceae) |
European Mistletoe. Apart from the ancient folklore associated with this plant, Pliny the Elder records that Mistletoe was used to make barren women fertile. Native to Europe and northern Asia. Only the dried, young leafy twigs, free of berries, are used. The chief use of mistletoe is as a hypotensive in lowering blood pressure and moderating heart rate. In low doses it may relieve panic attacks and headaches, thereby improving concentration. Mistletoe is sometimes prescribed for tinnitus and epilepsy. Recent research indicates the possibility of anti-tumour activity.
Other Uses: Nervine, soporific.
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Mugwort
Artemisia Vularis (Compositae) |
Mugwort was used in witchcraft by the Anglo-Saxons, and to flavour ale , in more recent times. Its main use today is as an emmenagogue. Mugwort is slightly aromatic, and can be used as a digestive stimulant, and its rather volatile, essential oil combats flatulence. It may also be used to relieve depression and ease tension.
Other Uses: Tonic, stimulant
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Myrrh
Commiphora molmol (Burseraceae) |
Synonym: C. Myrrh. Cf. Myrrhis odorata (Umbelliferæ) - Sweet Cicely. Myrrh resin tincture is an effective antiseptic and astringent. Myrrh may be used in topical application for sinusitis and minor skin complaints and as a gargle for pharyngitis, mouth ulcers, gingivitis, and pyorrhoea. It may also help with laryngitis and respiratory complaints. It is also recommended by some practitioners for use internally, for the treatment of stomach disorders, skin eruptions, such as boils, glandular fever and brucellosis.
Other Uses: Carminative, anti-catarrhal, expectorant, anti-inflammatory.
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Nettle
Urtica dioica (Urticacea) |
Common Stinging Nettle. Another of the plants with a long pedigree of service to mankind. The Romans used nettle stings to cure rheumatism, and nettle is still used today in arthritic conditions. Both the dried, young leaves and the root are useful; the former mainly in arthritic and rheumatic conditions, the latter as a prostatic. The juice is a diuretic, and an infusion serves as a tonic. Some advocate nettle as a specific in childhood eczema and it is claim it to be beneficial in all varieties of this condition, especially nervous eczema. As an astringent a tincture may be used for nose bleeds and, it is claimed, in the relief of haemorrhage symptoms, such as, for example, in uterine haemorrhage.
Other Uses: Astringent, prostatic.
CAUTION: Some people may experience allergic reaction.
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Oats
Avena sativa (Gramineae) |
Oats are one of the best remedies for 'feeding' the nervous system, especially when under stress. They are considered a specific in cases of nervous debility and exhaustion when associated with depression. They may be used with most of the other nervines, both relaxant and stimulatory, to strengthen the whole to the nervous system. They are also used in general debility. The high levels of silicic acid in the straw will explain its use as a remedy for skin conditions, especially in external applications.
Other uses: Nervine tonic, anti-depressant, nutritive, demulcent, vulnerary.
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Pansy
Viola tricolor (Violaceae) |
Pansy is used mostly in three areas, the skin, lungs and urinary system. It may be used in eczema and other skin problems where there is exudate (often called weeping) eczema. As an anti-inflammatory, expectorant it is used for whooping cough and acute bronchitis where it will soothe and help the body heal itself. For urinary problems it will aid in the healing of cystitis and can be used to treat the symptoms of frequent and painful urination.
Other Uses: Expectorant, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, laxative.
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Parsley
Petroselinum crispum (Umbelliferae) |
The fresh herb, so widely used in cookery, is one of our richest sources of vitamin C. Medicinally, Parsley has three main areas of usage. Firstly, it is an effective diuretic, helping the body to get rid of excess water and so may be used wherever such an effect is desired. Remember, however, that the cause of the problem must be sought and treated, don't just treat symptoms. The second area of use is as an emmenagogue stimulating the menstrual process. The third use is as a carminative, easing flatulence and the colic pains that may accompany it.
Diuretic, expectorant, emmenagogue, carminative, supposed aphrodisiac
CAUTION:It is advisable not to use parsley in medicinal dosage during pregnancy as there may be excessive stimulation of the womb.
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Peppermint
Mentha piperata (Labiatae) |
Peppermint is one of the best carminative agents available. It has a relaxing effect on the visceral muscles, anti-flatulent properties and stimulates bile and digestive juice secretion, all of which help to explain its value in relieving intestinal colic, flatulent dyspepsia and other associated conditions. The volatile oil acts as a mild anaesthetic to the stomach wall, which allays feelings of nausea and the desire to vomit. It help to relieve the vomiting of pregnancy and travel sickness. Peppermint plays a role in the treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Peppermint is most valuable in the treatment of fevers, colds and influenza. As an inhalant it can be used as a temporary treatment for nasal catarrh. Where migraine headaches are associated with the digestion, this herb may be used. As a nervine it acts as a tonic, easing anxiety, tension, hysteria etc. In painful periods (dysmenorrhoea) it relieves the pain and eases associated tension. Externally it may be used to relieve itching and inflammations.
Other Uses: Carminative, anti-spasmodic, aromatic, diaphoretic, anti-emetic, nervine, antiseptic, analgesic.
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Rhubarb
Rheum palmatum (Polygonaceae) |
Rhubarb Root has a purgative action for use in the treatment of constipation, but also has an astringent effect following this. It therefore has a truly astringent effect following this. It therefore has a truly cleansing action upon the gut, removing debris and then astringing with antiseptic properties as well.
Other Uses: Bitter stomachic, mild purgative, astringent.
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Saw Palmetto
Serenoa serrulate (Palmae) |
Saw Palmetto is well known to be supportive of the special nutritional needs of the prostate gland, helping to prevent possible problems associated with the prostate and atrophy of testes.
Other Uses: Antiseptic, diuretic, urinary system.
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Skullcap
Scutellaria laterifolia (Labiatae) |
Skullcap is perhaps the most widely relevant nervine available to us in the materia medica. It relaxes states of nervous tension whilst at the same time renewing and revivifying the central nervous system. It has a specific use in the treatment of seizure and hysterical states as well as epilepsy. It may be used in all exhausted or depressed conditions. It can be used with complete safety in the easing of pre-menstrual tension.
Other Uses: Nervine tonic, sedative, anti-spasmodic.
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Slippery Elm
Ulmus fulva (Ulmaceae) |
Slippery Elm Bark is a soothing nutritive demulcent which is perfectly suited for sensitive or inflamed mucous membrane linings in the digestive system. It may be used in gastritis, gastric or duodenal ulcer, enteritis, colitis and the like. It is often used as a food during convalescence as it is gentle and easily assimilated. In diarrhoea it will soothe and astringent at the same time. Externally It makes an excellent poultice for use in cases of boils, abscesses or ulcers.
Other Uses: Demulcent, emollient, nutrient, astringent.
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St. John's Wort
Hypericum perforatum (Hypericaceae) |
Natural antidepressant, neuralgic pain. Gentle sedative, stress, lung diseases, urinary passage infections. It is especially regarded as a herb to use where there are menopausal changes triggering irritability and anxiety. It is recommended, however, that it be not used when there is marked depression. In addition to neuralgic pain, It will ease fibrositis, sciatica and rheumatic pain. Externally It is a valuable healing and anti-inflammatory remedy. As a lotion It will speed the healing of wounds and bruises, varicose veins and mild burns. The oil is especially useful for the healing of sunburn.
Other Uses: Antiviral, anti-inflammatory, astringent. Aids in healing wounds, cuts.
CAUTION: Do not take during pregnancy or if planning to become pregnant.
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Thyme
Thymus vulgaris (Labiatae) |
With its high content of volatile oil, Thyme makes a good carminative for use in dyspepsia and sluggish digestion. This oil is also a strongly antiseptic substance, which explains may of Thyme's uses. It can be used externally as a lotion for infected wounds, but also internally for respiratory and digestive infections. It may be used as a gargle in laryngitis and tonsillitis, easing sore throats and soothing irritable coughs. It is an excellent cough remedy, producing expectoration and reducing unnecessary spasm. It may be used in bronchitis, whooping cough and asthma. As a gentle astringent it has found use in childhood diarrhoea and bed wetting.
Other Uses:Carminative, anti-microbial, anti-spasmodic, expectorant, astringent, anthelmintic.
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Valerian
Valeriana officinalis (Labiatae) |
Has a wide range of specific uses, the main indications are: anxiety, nervous, sleeplessness and symptoms of tension, such as headaches, muscle cramping or indigestion. Valerian is used world wide as a relaxing remedy in hypertension and stress related heart problems. It may be used safely in situations where tension and anxiety are causing problems, Valerian will help most cases. For some people It can be an effective mild pain reliever. As one of the best gentle and harmless herbal sleeping remedies, It enhances the natural body process of slipping into sleep and making the stresses of the day recede. For people who do not need as much sleep as they once did, It also eases lying awake in bed, ensuring that It becomes a restful and relaxing experience. This is often as re-vivifying as sleep itself, and indeed all that is necessary in more cases than not.
Other Uses: Nervine, hypnotic, anti-spasmodic, carminative, hypotensive, emmenagogue.
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Wild Yam
Dios corea villosa (Dioscoreaceae) |
This valuable herb was at one time the sole source of the chemicals that were used as the raw materials for contraceptive hormone manufacture. In herbal medicine Wild Yam is a valuable herb that can be used to relieve intestinal colic, to soothe diverticulitis, ease dysmenorrhoea and ovarian and uterine pains. It is of great use in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, especially the acute phase where there is intense inflammation.
Other Uses: Anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, cholagogue.
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Witch Hazel
Hamamelis virginiana (Hamameliadaceae) |
This herb can be found in most households in the form of distilled Witch Hazel. It is the most applicable and easy to use astringent for common usage. As with all astringents, this herb may be used wherever there has been bleeding, both internally or externally. It is especially useful in the easing of haemorrhoids. It has a deserved reputation in the treatment of bruises and inflamed swellings, also with varicose veins. Witch hazel will control diarrhoea and aid in the easing of dysentery.
Other Uses: Astringent.
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Woundwort
Stachys palustris (Labiatae) |
As its name implies, Woundwort is renowned in folklore as a wound healer. Used as a vulnerary It is an equivalent of Comfrey in its effect on wounds. It may be used directly on the wound or as an ointment or compress. Internally It will ease cramps and some joint pains, and also relieve diarrhoea and dysentery.
Other Uses: Vulnerary, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, astringent.
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Yarrow
Achillea millefolium (Compositae) |
Yarrow is one of the best diaphoretic herbs and is a standard remedy for aiding the body to deal with fevers. It lowers blood pressure due to a dilation of the peripheral vessels. It stimulates the digestion and tones the blood vessels. As a urinary antiseptic it is indicated in infections such as cystitis. Used externally it will aid in the healing of wounds. It is considered to be a specific in thrombotic conditions associated with high blood pressure.
Other Uses: Diaphoretic, hypotensive, astringent, diuretic, antiseptic.
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Yellowdock
Rumex crispus (Polygonaceae) |
Yellow Dock is used extensively in the treatment of chronic skin complaints such as psoriasis. The anthraquinones present have a markedly cathartic action on the bowel, but in this herb they act in a mild way possibly tempered by the tannin content. Thus it makes a valuable remedy for constipation, working as it does in a much wider way than simply stimulating the gut muscles. It promotes the flow of bile and has that somewhat obscure action of being a 'blood cleanser'. The action on the gall-bladder gives it a role in the treatment of jaundice when this is due to congestion.
Other Uses: Alterative, purgative, cholagogue.
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