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Eighty five (85) Medicinal Herbs
& their Uses
By Raven MooneWind
These are recommendations and you
should speak to a qualified herbologist for dosage directions..............
Usual forms of medicinal remedies.................
1) Infusions
Infusions are a simple way of extracting the active principles
of herbs through the action of hot
water. The preparation of infusions is similar to way we prepare
tea. This method is used to
extract the volatile components of the dried or green aerial
parts of herbs and plants like flowers
and leaves. Infusions may use single herbs or a blend and are
drunk hot or cold. Certainly this is
the most common and cheap method of extracting the medicinal
compounds of herbs.
2) Decoctions
Roots, barks and fruits being thicker and less permeable than
the aerial parts of medicinal plants,
do not liberate their active principles by simple infusion.
It is necessary to simmer these parts in
boiling water in order to extract their medicinal constituents.
The material should be cut or
broken into small pieces. In order to avoid loosing volatile
constituents, use a lid over the
simmering pan. After cooling down and separating the solid from
the liquid, decoctions can be
taken hot or cold.
3) Tinctures
Most of the volatile components of medicinal plants and herbs
are soluble in alcohol. By
immersing dried or fresh parts of plants in alcohol, the active
principles are easily extracted at
concentrations that exceed those that can be achieved by infusion
or decoction. Highly
concentrate solutions that will last for one to two years are
a convenient way to store and use
medicinal plants constituents. Ideally tinctures should be made
using pure ethyl alcohol distilled
from cereals. However, since this product is not available to
the public, good Vodka with 45-
35% alcohol can be used. The extraction is fairly quick. A 50%
mixture of herbs and alcohol
kept in a tightly closed jar will held a tincture ready for
use at the prescribed dosage. Never use
methyl alcohol, methylated spirits, isopropyl alcohol or any
other kind of unknown spirit to make
tinctures.
4) Syrups
With some rare exceptions, like peppermint that is a familiar
flavoring agent in toot paste and
chewing gum, infused or decocted herbs are not palatable, especially
for children. In order to
disguise their taste, infusion and decoctions can be mixed with
honey or unrefined sugar from
cane. These syrups combine the soothing action of these solvents
to the medicinal properties of
the infusions and decoctions resulting in additional benefits
specially for treating cough and sore
throats.
5) Infused Oils
Pure vegetable oils like sunflower, almond and olive oil are
easily found at grocer stores. They
have the property of dissolving the active, fat-soluble active
principles of medicinal plants and
herbs. This process is called infusion and can be carried out
at room temperature or higher.
Infusion is a slower process than alcohol extraction but has
the advantage of resulting in an oil
based solution of medicinal constituents that can easily be
used to make creams and ointments.
Hot infusion is recommended for the harder parts of the plants
while cold infusion is more
suitable for flowers and leaves.
6) Essential Oils
Essential oils are the volatile oily components of aromatic
plants, trees and grasses. They are
found in tiny glands located in the flowers (neroli), leaves
(eucalyptus), roots (calamus), wood
(sandal) and resins (frankincense). Essential oils are extracted
by four main methods: steam
distillation, expression, solvent extraction and efleurage.
In the first method the oil is extracted
by the action of hot steam and then selectively condensed with
water from which it is separated.
In the second method the oil is extracted by pressure or centrifugation.
In the third method the oil
is dissolved in a volatile solvent that when evaporated leaves
a heavily natural wax substance
called concrete. When separated from the wax, the resulting
liquid is called an absolute, the most
concentrated form of aroma available. Efleurage is a longer
process involving the dissolution of
the oils in animal fat and its separation using alcohol. Although
essential oils main usage is in
cosmetics and perfumery, many of them do have proved therapeutic
properties.
7) Ointments
Ointments are prepared like hot infused oils, the difference
being that herbs are simmered in
waxes or fats containing no water. After separating the simmered
herbs by squeezing and
cooling, the result is a solid mixture of the wax or fat with
the medicinal constituents of the plant.
Petroleum jelly, soft paraffin wax and bees wax are some common
bases used. Ointments form a
oily barrier on the surface of injuries and carry the active
principles to the affected area.
8) Creams
Creams are mixtures of oils or fats with water. Since water
and oils are not miscible, it is
necessary to add an emulsifying agent that avoids their separation.
Creams are therefore stable
emulsions of oils or fats. Medicinal properties are added to
creams when they use or are made
with tinctures, infusions, oil infusions, essential oils or
decoctions. Creams are permeable
allowing the skin to breathe and sweat. Their water content
and some additional hydrophobic
agent like Glycerin promotes the hydration and cooling of the
skin.
Part ll Properties and uses
Aloe - Ylang Ylang
1) ALOE VERA
Aloe vera syn. A. barbadensis (Liliaceae)
HISTORY and USES
Native to Africa, aloe vera is commonly cultivated elsewhere.
The clear gel found inside the
plant's leaf and the crystalline part found alongside the leaf
blade, which contains aloin, are both
used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. The clear gel is a
remarkably effective healer of
wounds and burns, speeding up the rate of healing and reducing
the risk of infection. The
brownish part containing aloin is a strong laxative, useful
for short-term constipation. Aloe is
present in many cosmetic's formulae because its emollient and
scar preventing properties.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Heals wounds, emollient, laxative.
2) ANGELICA
Angelica arcangelica (Umbelliferae)
HISTORY and USES
Angelica has a long-standing record as a prized medicinal herb
and has been mentioned by
European herbalist since the 15th Century. Angelica has been
used to reduce muscular spasms in
asthma and bronchitis. It has also been shown to ease rheumatic
inflammation, to regulate
menstrual flow and as an appetite stimulant. The stems are candied
for culinary use.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antispasmodic, promotes menstrual flow.
3) ANISE
Pimpinella anisum (Umbelliferae)
HISTORY and USES
Anise has been cultivated in Egypt and known to the Greeks,
Romans and Arabs, who named the
plant anysun. Since Antiquity it has been used as a flavoring
spice in recipes and as a diuretic, to
treat digestive problems and to relieve toothache. Anise seeds
are known for their ability to
reduce flatulence and colic, and to settle the digestion. They
are commonly given to infants and
children to relieve colic, and to people of all ages to ease
nausea and indigestion. It also has an
expectorant and antispasmodics action that is helpful in countering
period pain, asthma,
whooping cough and bronchitis. The mild hormonal action of anise
seeds may explain its ability
to increase breast-milk production and its reputation for easing
childbirth and treating impotence
and frigidity. Anise essential oil is used externally to treat
lice and scabies.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Reduces colic and flatulence, promotes digestion,
antispasmodic..
4) ARNICA
Arnica montana (Compositae)
HISTORY and USES
Arnica has been used extensively in European folk medicine.
The German philosopher and poet
Goethe (1749-1832), claimed arnica for ease his angina in old
age. Herbalism and homeopathy
use arnica extracts, ointments and compresses to reduce inflammation
and pain from bruises,
sprains, tendons, dislocations and swollen areas. Arnica improves
the local blood supply and
accelerates healing. It is anti-inflammatory and increases the
rate of re-absorption of internal
bleeding. The internal use of arnica is restricted to homeopathic
dosages as it is potentially toxic.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Anti-inflammatory, germicide, muscular soreness,
pain re leaving.
5) ARROWROOT
Maranta arundinacea (Marantaceae)
HISTORY and USES
Arrowroot is native to South America and the Caribbean. The
local indigenous people use its
root as a poultice for smallpox sores, and as an infusion for
urinary infections. Arrowroot is used
in herbal medicine in much the same manner as slippery elm (Ulmus
Rubra), as a soothing
demulcent and a nutrient of benefit in convalescence and for
easing digestion. It helps to relieve
acidity, indigestion and colic, and is mildly laxative. It may
be applied as an ointment or poultice
mixed with some other antiseptic herbs such as comfrey.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Anti-inflammatory, digestive, antiseptic.
6) ARTEMISIA, WORMWOOD
Artemisia absinthium (Compositae)
HISTORY and USES
The name of this plant derives from its bitterness, from absinthia,
the Roman word for "bitter".
This property is used for providing bitter taste to some well-known
beverages and liquors.
Wormwood has a marked tonic effect on the stomach, the gallbladder
and in adjusting weak
digestive problems. It is used to expel roundworms and threadworms.
By improving the
functions of the digestive system it helps in many conditions,
including anaemia. It is also a
muscle relaxer occasionally used to treat rheumatism. The leaves
of wormwood have antiseptic
properties which may derive from the azulenes that the plant
contains.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Bitter, carminative, muscle relaxer, antiseptic.
7) BASIL, HOLY BASIL
Ocimum sanctum (Labiatae)
HISTORY and USES
Holy basil, like sweet (culinary) basil, comes from India where
it is revered as a sacred herb. The
Egyptians burned a mixture of basil and myrrh to appease their
gods. Sweet Basil (Ocimum
basilicum) was introduced in Europe as a seasoning for food.
The herb has very important
medicinal properties - notably its ability to reduce blood sugar
levels. It also prevents peptic
ulcers and other stress related conditions like hypertension,
colitis and asthma. Basil is also used
to treat cold and reduce fever, congestion and joint pain. Due
to its anti-bacterial and fungicide
action, basil leaves are used on itching skin, insect biting
and skin affections.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Lowers blood sugar levels, antispasmodic, analgesic,
lowers blood
pressure, reduces fever, fungicidal, anti-inflammatory.
8) BELLADONA, DEADLY NITIGHTSHADE
Atropa belladonna (Solanaceae)
HISTORY and USES
Deadly nightshade is native to Europe, western Asia and northern
Africa. Herba bella dona, or
"herb of the beautiful lady" is known for its poisonous
effects (belladonna increases heartbeat
and can lead to death), like many other plants it is an important
and beneficial remedy when used
correctly. Belladonna contains atropine used in conventional
medicine to dilate the pupils for eye
examinations and as an anesthetic. In herbal medicine, deadly
nightshade is mainly prescribed to
relieve intestinal colic, to treat peptic ulcers and to relax
distended organs, especially the stomach
and intestine. Deadly nightshade is also used as an anesthetic
in conventional medicine.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Smooth muscle, antispasmodic, narcotic, reduces
sweating, sedative.
9) BENZOIN GUM
Styrax benzoin (Styraceae)
HISTORY and USES
Benzoin is a tree native to South-East Asia. Its trunk exudes
a gum well known for its strong
astringent and antiseptic action. For this reason it is used
externally to fight tissue inflammation
and disinfection of wounds. When taken internally, benzoin gum
acts to settle griping pain, to
stimulate coughing, and to disinfect the urinary tract. Benzoin
gum is widely used in cosmetics
as an antioxidant in oils, as a fixative in perfumes and as
an additive to soaps. When steam
inhaled, it helps healing sore throats, head and chest colds,
asthma and bronchitis.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, astringent, anti-inflammatory.
10) BERGAMOT
Also Known As: BeeBalm, Horsemint, Lemon Mint, Lemon Horsemint,
Wild Bergamot.
CULINARY USE: Use BeeBalm flowers or leaves in fruit or green
salads, teas, flavoring for
black tew, wines, lemonade, pork, duck,
goose, sausages, or jellies.
Citrus bergamia syn. C. aurantium var. bergamia (Rutaceae)
HISTORY and USES
(BeeBalm, Monarda species), health uses and precautions, symbolism,
crafting uses and more.
For health, a leaf infusion is used internally for nausea, flatulence,
or menstrual pain. Externally,
a leaf infusion used in a bath or in a poultice for painful
joints, inflammation, and more.
Bergamot oil, expressed from the peel, assists in avoiding infectious
diseases. In cosmetics it is
used in preventing oily skin, acne, psoriasis and acne. The
oil (or constituents of it) are
sometimes added to sun-tanning oils. Bergamot oil is also used
to relieve tension, relax muscle
spasms and improve digestion.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Disinfectant, muscle relaxant.
11) BITTER ORANGE
Citrus aurantium (Rutaceae)
HISTORY and USES
The bitter orange, native to tropical Asia, has provided food
and medicine for thousands of years.
Its oil contains flavonoids which are anti-inflammatory, antibacterial
and antifungal. Bitter
orange juice is rich in vitamin C which helps the immune system.
As an infusion, it helps to
relieve fever, soothe headaches and lower fever. It yields neroli
oil from its flowers, and the oil
known as petitgrain from its leaves and young shoots. Both distillates
are used extensively in
perfumery. Orange flower water is a by-product of distillation
and is used in perfumery and to
flavor sweets and biscuits, as well as being used medicinally
to reduce heart rate and
palpitations, to encourage sleep and calm the digestive tract.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial,
digestive.
12) BOLDO
Peumus boldus (Umbelliferae)
HISTORY and USES
Boldo is a tree original from the Chilean Andes. It activates
the secretion of saliva and gastric
juices. Boldine, one of its constituents, induces the flow of
bile as well as the total amount of
solids that it excretes. Its protective action over the hepatic
cells has been demonstrated "in vitro"
and "in vivo". Boldo stimulates liver activity and
bile flow and is chiefly valued as a remedy for
gallstones and liver or gallbladder pain. It is normally taken
for a few weeks at a time, either as a
tincture or infusion. Boldo also has antiseptic properties which
help in combating cystitis.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Bile and liver activity stimulant, digestive.
13) CALENDULA, MARIGOLD
Calendula officinallis (Compositae)
HISTORY and USES
Marigold is one of the best herbs for treating local skin problems.
Infusions or decoctions of
Calendula petals decrease the inflammation of sprains, stings,
varicose,veins and other swellings
and also soothes burns, sunburns, rashes and skin irritations.
These remedies are excellent for
inflamed and bruised skin, their antiseptic and healing properties
helping to prevent the spread of
infection and accelerate the healing. Marigold is also a cleansing
and detoxifying herb, and the
infusion and tincture are used to treat chronic infections.
Taken internally, it has been used
traditionally to promote the draining of swollen lymph glands
such as tonsillitis.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Anti-inflammatory, astringent, heals wounds,
antiseptic, detoxifying.
14) CAMPHOR
Cinnamomum camphora syn. Laurus camphora (Lauraceae)
HISTORY and USES
Camphor trees are native to China and Japan and are cultivated
for its wood for the extraction of
camphor oil. Marco Polo was the first to note that the Chinese
used camphor oil as a medicine,
scent and embalming fluid. Camphor crystals have strong antiseptic,
stimulant and
antispasmodic properties and are applied externally as unguents
or balms as a counter-irritant
and analgesic liniment to relieve arthritic and rheumatic pains,
neuralgia and back pain. It may
also be applied to skin problems, such as cold sores and chilblains,
and used as a chest rub for
bronchitis and other chest infections.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, antispasmodic, analgesic, expectorant.
15) CARDAMOM
Elettaria cardamomum (Zingiberaceae)
HISTORY and USES
Cardamom has been praised as a spice and medicine and used in
ancient Egypt to make
perfumes. It is an excellent remedy for many digestive problems,
helping to soothe indigestion,
dyspepsia, gastralgia, colon spasms and flatulence. It has an
aromatic and pungent taste and
combines well with other herbs and helps to disguise the less
pleasant taste of other herbs.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Eases stomach pain, carminative, aromatic,
antispasmodic.
16) CARDUS, MILK THISTLE, MARY
THISTLE
Carduus marianus syn. Silybum marianum (Compositae)
HISTORY and USES
Milk thistle is native to the Mediterranean and has been in
use as a remedy for liver problems for
hundreds, if not thousands, of years. It is used in a whole
range of liver and bladder conditions
including hepatitis and cirrhosis. Recent research has confirmed
traditional herbal knowledge,
proving that the herb has a remarkable ability to protect the
liver from damage resulting from
alcoholic and other types of poisoning. Today, milk thistle
is widely used in the West for the
treatment of a range of liver conditions.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Digestive, liver tonic, stimulates secretion
of bile, increases breast-milk
production, antidepressant.
17) CELERY, SMALLAGE
Apium graveolens (Umbelliferae)
HISTORY and USES
More familiar as a vegetable than as a medicine, celery find
its main use in the treatment of
rheumatism, arthritis and gout. Containing apiol, the seeds
are also used as a urinary antiseptic.
Celery is a good cleansing, diuretic herb, and the seeds are
used specifically for arthritic
complaints where there is an accumulation of waste products.
The seeds also have a reputation as
a carminative with a mild tranquilizing effect. The stems are
less significant medicinally.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Anti-rheumatic, antispasmodic, diuretic, urinary
antiseptic.
18) CHAMOMILE, GERMAN CHAMOMILE
Chamomilla recutita syn. Matricaria recutita (Compositae)
HISTORY and USES
Chamomile grows wild in Europe and west Asia. Related species
are found in North America
and Africa. Its flowers help to ease indigestion, nervousness,
depressions and headaches, being
ideal for emotion related problems such as peptic ulcers, colitis,
spastic colon and nervous
indigestion. Chamomile's essential oil have anti-inflammatory,
anti-spasmodic and antimicrobial
activity. It is an excellent herb for many digestive disorders
and for nervous tension
and irritability. Externally, it is used for sore skin and eczema.
Roman chamomile
(Chamaemelum nobile) is a close relation, used in a similar
way.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, relaxant,
carminative, bitter, nervine.
19) CHICORY
Cicorium intybus (Compositae)
HISTORY and USES
Chicory is native to Europe and have been cultivated through
the ages. As a tea or extract,
chicory root is a bitter digestive tonic that also increases
bile flow and decrease inflammation. Its
roasted root is commonly used as a coffee substitute. Chicory
is an excellent mild bitter tonic for
the liver and digestive tract. The root is therapeutically similar
to dandelion root supporting the
action of the stomach and liver and cleansing the urinary tract.
Chicory is also taken for
rheumatic conditions and gout, and as a mild laxative, one particularly
appropriate for children.
An infusion of the leaves and flowers also aids the digestion.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Digestive, liver tonic, anti-rheumatic, mild
laxative.
20) CINNAMON
Cinnamomum verum syn. C. zeylanicum (Lauraceae)
HISTORY and USES
Cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka, growing in tropical forest
and being extensively cultivated
throughout the tropical regions of the world. Cinnamon has a
long history of use in India and was
first used medicinally in Egypt and parts of Europe from about
500 BC. The infusion or powder
is used for stomach pains and cramps. Traditionally, the herb
was taken for colds, flu and
digestive problems, and it is still used in much the same way
today.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Warming stimulant, carminative, antispasmodic,
antiseptic, anti-viral.
21) CLOVE
Eugenia caryophyllata syn. Syzgium aromaticum (Myrtaceae)
HISTORY and USES
Clove trees are original from Indonesia. The dried flower buds,
clove, are extensively used as
spice. The buds, leaves and stems are used for the extractions
of clove's oil. Both the oil and the
flower buds have been valued as a herbal medicine for a long
time. The oil contains eugenol, a
strong anesthetic and antiseptic substance. Cloves are also
well known for their antispasmodic
and stimulative properties.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, mind and body stimulant, analgesic,
antibacterial,
carminative.
22) COMFREY, KNITBONE
Symphytum officinale (Boraginaceae)
HISTORY and USES
Comfrey's name derives from the Latin con firma, i.e. "with
strength", from the belief that it
could heal broken bones. Comfrey leaves and roots contain allantoin,
a cell multiplication agent
that increases the healing of wounds. Today, it is still highly
regarded for its healing properties.
Externally it is used for rashes, wounds, inflammation and skin
problems. Internally, comfrey
has action over the digestive tract helping to cure ulcers and
colitis. It is also used for a variety of
respiratory problems.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Digestive problems, anti-inflammatory, wound
healing, astringent.
23) CORIANDER
Coriandrum sativum (Umbelliferae)
HISTORY and USES
Coriander use has a medicinal plant has been reported since
1500 B.C. both as a spice and as a
medicine. It has now spread well beyond its native Mediterranean
and Caucasian regions. It aids
digestion, reduce flatulence and improves appetite. It helps
relieving spasms within the gut and
counters the effects of nervous tension. Coriander is also chewed
to sweeten the breath,
especially after consumption of garlic (Allium sativum). It
is applied externally as a lotion for
rheumatic pain. Coriander essential oil is used in the manufacture
of perfumes, cosmetics and
dentifrices.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Digestive, antispasmodic, anti-rheumatic.
24) CYMBOPOGON, LEMON GRASS
Cymbopogon citratus (Gramineae)
HISTORY and USES
Native from Sri Lanka and South India, lemon grass is now widely
cultivated in the tropical
areas of America and Asia. Its oil is used as a culinary flavoring,
a scent and medicine. Lemon
grass is principally taken as a tea to remedy digestive problems
diarrhea and stomach ache. It
relaxes the muscles of the stomach and gut, relieves cramping
pains and flatulence and is
particularly suitable for children. In the Caribbean, lemon
grass is primarily regarded as a feverreducing
herb. It is applied externally as a poultice or as diluted essential
oil to ease pain and
arthritis.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Digestive, antispasmodic, analgesic.
25) DAMIANA
Turnera diffusa syn. T. diffusa var. aphrodisiaca (Turneraceae)
HISTORY and USES
Native from the Gulf of Mexico, damiana has an ancient reputation
as an aphrodisiac and is an
excellent remedy for the nervous system acting as a stimulant
and tonic in cases of mild
depression. Damiana has a strongly aromatic, slightly bitter
taste. The leaves are used to flavor
liqueurs and are taken in Mexico as a substitute for tea.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Nerve tonic, antidepressant, urinary antiseptic.
26) DANDELION
Taraxacum officinale (Compositae)
HISTORY and USES
Occurring naturally in Asia, Dandelion is now a common plant
everywhere. Its medicinal virtues
were probably introduced in Europe by the Arabs in the 10th
Century. Both the Persians and the
East Indians used it for liver complaints. Known principally
as a weed, dandelion has an
astonishing range of health benefits. The leaves, which can
be eaten in salads, are a powerful
diuretic. The roots act as a "blood purifier" that
helps both kidneys and the liver to remove
impurities from the blood. This effect seems to be due to its
potassium content. It also acts like a
mild laxative and improves appetite and digestion.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Diuretic, digestive, antibiotic, bitter.
27) DILL
Anethum graveolens syn. Peucedanum graveolens (Umbelliferae)
HISTORY and USES
An ancient Egyptian remedy in the Ebers papyrus (c. 1500 BC)
recommends dill as one of the
ingredients in a pain-killing mixture. The Romans knew dill
as anethum, which later became
"anise". Dill has always been considered a remedy
for the stomach, relieving wind and calming
the digestion. Dill's essential oil relieves intestinal spasms
and griping and helps to settle colic,
hence it is often used in gripe water mixtures. Chewing the
seeds improves bad breath. Dill
makes a useful addition to cough, cold and flu remedies, and
is a mild diuretic. Dill increases
milk production, and when taken regularly by nursing mothers,
helps to prevent colic in their
babies.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Digestive, antibacterial, antispasmodic, diuretic.
28) EUCALYPTUS, BLUE GUM
Eucalyptus globulus (Myrtaceae)
HISTORY and USES
Eucalyptus is native from Australia, where it comprises more
than 75% of all trees. A traditional
aboriginal remedy, eucalyptus is a powerful antiseptic used
all over the world for relieving
coughs and colds, sore throats and other infections. The leaves
cool the body and relive fever.
Inhaling the vapors of the essential oils heated in water, clears
sinus and bronchial congestions.
Eucaliptol, one of the substances found in the essential oil,
is one of the main constituents of the
many existing commercial formulas of chest rubs for colds. The
essential oil has also strong antibiotic,
anti-viral and anti-fungal action. Eucalyptus is a common ingredient
in many over-thecounter
cold remedies.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, expectorant, stimulates local blood
flow, anti-fungal.
29) FENNEL
Foeniculum vulgare (Umbelliferae)
HISTORY and USES
Native to the Mediterranean, fennel has spread to surrounding
areas, including India. Known to
the Greeks and Romans, is was used as food, spice and medicine.
The primary use of fennel
seeds is to relieve flatulence, but they also settle colic,
stimulate the appetite and digestion.
Fennel is also diuretic and anti-inflammatory. Like anise (Pimpinella
anisum) and caraway
(Carum carvi), it has a calming effect on bronchitis and coughs.
An infusion of the seeds may be
taken as a gargle for sore throats and as a mild expectorant.
Fennel increases breast-milk
production and the herb is still used as an eye wash for sore
eyes and conjunctivitis. Essential oil
from the sweet variety is used for its digestive and relaxing
properties.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Digestive, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory.
30) GARLIC
Allium sativum (Liliaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Original from Central Asia, garlic is now cultivated worldwide.
It was widely known by the
ancients, being found in Egyptian tombs and used by Greeks and
Romans. Recognized for its
pungent odor and taste, garlic is a powerful home medicine for
the treatment for a host of health
problems. It is one of the most effective anti-biotic plants
available, acting on bacteria, viruses
and alimentary parasites. It counters many infections, including
those of the nose, throat and
chest. Garlic is also known to reduce cholesterol, helps circulatory
disorders, such as high blood
pressure, and lower blood sugar levels, making it useful in
cases of late-onset diabetes.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antibiotic, expectorant, diaphoretic, hypotensive,
antispasmodic, expels
worms.
31) GENTIAN
Gentiana lutea (Gentianaceae)
HISTORY and USES
Native to Europe and Asia Minor, gentian properties as a medicinal
plant go back to 180 B.C.
Gentian is a powerful bitter that stimulates appetite and promotes
digestion through the increased
production of saliva, gastric juices and bile. It also decreases
gastric inflammation and kill
worms. Gentian is also used to treat liver and spleen problems
and to promote menstruation.
Medicinally, gentian strengthens a weak or under-active digestive
system.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Bitter, digestive stimulant, eases stomach
pain.
32) GINGER
Zingiber officinali (Zingiberaceae)
HISTORY and USES
Ginger is original from Southeast Asia and is now cultivated
in most tropical countries. Its
citations in ancient texts go back to the 4th century B.C. The
Greeks imported it from the East
centuries before Discorides recorded its use in the 1st century
A.D. Familiar as a spice and
flavoring, ginger is also one of the world's best medicines.
The Chinese consider ginger as an
important drug to treat cold and encourage sweating. Ginger
brings relief to digestion, stimulates
circulation, reduce headaches and kill intestinal parasites.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Diaphoretic, carminative, circulatory stimulant,
inhibits coughing, antiinflammatory,
antiseptic.
33) GINKGO
Ginkgo biloba (Ginkgoaceae)
HISTORY and USES
Ginkgo is thought to be the oldest tree on the planet, first
growing about 190 million years ago. It
is probably native to China, although there are no wild trees
remaining. Though long used as a
medicine in its native China, its therapeutic actions have only
recently been researched.
Traditionally known as an anti-microbial and anti-tubercular
action, it has now been shown that
ginkgo as a profound activity on brain function and cerebral
circulation. This action is useful to
prevent dizziness, tinnitus, short-term memory loss, depression
and other symptoms related to
poor brain circulation. Its effect on poor circulation also
used to treat other related disorders like
diabetes, hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Ginkgo is also valuable
for asthma.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Circulatory stimulant and tonic, anti-asthmatic,
antispasmodic, antiallergenic,
anti-inflammatory.
34) GINSENG
Panax ginseng (Araliaceae)
HISTORY and USES
Ginseng is the most famous Chinese herb of all. It is native
to north-eastern China, eastern
Russia and Korea. The related species Panax quinquefolious,
occurs in the eastern United States
and Canada. Ginseng has ancient and rich history as a medicinal
plant and has been praised for
its remarkable therapeutic benefits for about 7,000 years. Its
value was so great that wars were
fought for control of the forests in which it thrived. An Arabian
physician brought ginseng back
to Europe in the 9th century, yet its ability to improve stamina
and resistance to stress became
common knowledge in the West only from the 18th century. Ginseng
increases mental and
physical efficiency and resistance to stress and disease. It
often shows a dual response like
sedating or stimulating the central nervous system according
to the condition it is being taken to
treat. In the West, ginseng is regarded as a life-enhancing
tonic.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Tonic, stimulant, physical and mental revitalizer.
35) GUMPLANT
Grindelia camporum syn. G. robusta var. rigida (Compositae)
HISTORY AND USES
Gumplant is native to the south-western US and Mexico and was
used by Native Americans to
treat bronchial problems and also skin afflictions such as reactions
to poison ivy. The plant's
medicinal value was not recognized by traditional practitioners
until the mid-l9th century.
Gumplant was officially recognized in the Pharmacopoeia of the
United States from 1882 to
1926. Its anti-spasmodic, expectorant and hypotensive actions
find applications in treating heart
conditions, asthmatic and bronchial conditions. It has been
employed in the treatment of
wooping cough, hay fever and cystitis. Externally in relieves
and heals skin irritations and burns.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Anti-spasmodic, expectorant, hypotensive.
36) HAMAMELIS, WITCH HAZEL
Hamamamelis virginiana (Hamamelidaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Witch hazel is native to eastern North America, from New England
to west Minnesota. It was a
traditional remedy of many native North American peoples. Witch
hazel acts mostly on the veins
and circulation. For this reason it has been used to decrease
the inflammation and pain of bruises,
sore muscles, bleeding, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, phlebitis,
and insect bites. American
indians used poultices soaked in a decoction of bark to treat
tumors and inflammations,
especially of the eye, and took the herb internally for hemorrhaging
and heavy menstrual
bleeding. Hammamelis was introduced in Europe on the18th century.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Astringent, anti-inflammatory, stops external
and internal bleeding.
37) HAWTHORN
Crataegus oxyacantha & C. monogyna (Rosaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Hawthorn is native of Europe with close species found in North
Africa and western Asia. The
tree has been known and appreciated throughout the ages, by
the ancient Greeks, Arabs and
Europeans. Hawthorn is an extremely valuable medicinal herb.
In the Middle Ages it was as a
symbol of hope and taken for many ailments. It has been shown
that its effects are only present
when a whole plant preparation is used. Its applications are:
the loss of cardiac function, feelings
of congestions and oppression in the hearth region. Western
herbalists consider it literally to be a
"food for the heart", increasing blood flow to the
heart muscles and restoring normal heart beat.
Recent research has confirmed the validity of these uses.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Cardiotonic, diuretic, astringent, dilates
blood vessels, relaxant,
antioxidant.
38) HYSSOP
Hyssopus officinalis (Labiatae)
HISTORY AND USES
Hyssop is found native in the Mediterranean region an is commercially
cultivated in Europe,
Russia and India. In the past, hyssop was so highly esteemed
it was regarded as a virtual cure-all.
Currently an undervalued medicinal herb, hyssop is potentially
useful as it is both calming and
tonic. It has a large spectrum of uses which are due to its
anti-spasmodic action. It is used in
coughs, bronchitis, tight-chestedness, respiratory catarrh,
sore throat and common cold. As a
sedative, hyssop is a useful remedy against asthma in both children
and adults, especially where
the condition is exacerbated by mucus congestion. Hyssop is
used to flavor various liqueurs,
including Chartreuse.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Anti-spasmodic, expectorant, diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory,
hepatic.
39) JASMINE
Jasminum grandiflorum (Oleaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Jasmine is probably native of Iran and is now well known and
cultivated in Asia and Europe
where it was in the l6th century, mainly as a source of perfume.
Although it is rarely used today
in the western World, flower syrups were used for coughs and
leaf tea to rinse sore eyes and
wounds. Jasmine flowers make a calming and sedative infusion,
taken to relieve tension. The oil
is considered antidepressant and relaxing. It is used externally
to soothe dry and sensitive skin.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Aromatic, anti-spasmodic, expectorant.
40) JUNIPER
Juniperus communis (Cupressaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Juniper is found in Europe, south-western Asia and North America.
Juniper is tonic, diuretic and
strongly antiseptic within the urinary tract. It is a valuable
remedy for cystitis, and helps relieve
fluid retention, but should be avoided in cases of kidney disease.
In the digestive system, juniper
is warming and settling, easing colic and supporting the function
of the stomach. Taken
internally or applied externally, juniper is helpful in the
treatment of chronic arthritis, gout and
rheumatic conditions. Applied externally as a diluted essential
oil, it has a slightly warming
effect on the skin and is thought to promote the removal of
waste products from underlying
tissues.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Diuretic, anti-microbial, carminative, anti-rheumatic.
41) LAUREL, BAY LAUREL
Laurus nobilis (Lauraceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native to the Mediterrenean region, bay laurel is know cultivated
all over the world. Bay laurel
was sacred to the gods Apollo and Aesculapius, who together
oversaw healing and medicine.
The herb was thought to be greatly protective and healing. An
infusion of the leaves was taken
for its warming and tonic effect on the stomach and bladder,
and a plaster made from the leaves
was used to relieve wasp and bee stings. Bay laurel is used
mainly to treat upper digestive tract
disorders and to ease arthritic aches and pains. It is settling
to the stomach and has a tonic effect,
stimulating the appetite and the secretion of digestive juices.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Astringent, digestive.
42) LAVENDER
Lavandula officinalis syn. L. angustifolia (Labiatae)
HISTORY AND USES
Lavender is native to the Mediterranean region and is cultivated
in France, Spain and elsewhere.
It has been used for aromatic purposes by the Romans in washing
water and baths. This herb has
uses in culinary, cosmetics and medicine. It is effective to
cure headaches, especially when
related to stress, to clear depression associated with weakness
and depression. Externally,
lavender oil has been used as a stimulating liniment to help
ease aches and pains of rheumatism.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Carminative, relieves muscle spasms, antidepressant,
antiseptic and
antibacterial, stimulates blood flow.
43) LEMON
Citrus Limon (Rutaceae)
A native from Asia, probably from India, it is now widely cultivated
in Italy, California and
Australia. Lemon was unknown to the ancient Greeks arriving
in Europe probably brought by
Roman soldiers returning from Asia Minor. It is one of the most
important and versatile natural
medicines for home use. A familiar food as well as a remedy,
it has a high vitamin C content that
helps improve resistance to infection, making it valuable for
colds and flu. It is taken as a
preventative for many conditions, including stomach infections,
circulatory problems and
arteriosclerosis. Lemon juice and oil are effective in killing
germs. It decreases inflammation and
improves digestion.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, anti-rheumatic, antibacterial,
antioxidant, reduces fever.
44) MALVA, COMMON MALLOW
Malva silvestris (Malvaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
The young leaves and shoots of this plant have been eaten since
at least the 8th century BC. The
plant's many uses gave rise to the Spanish adage, "A kitchen
garden and mallow, sufficient
medicines for a home." The flowers and leaves are emollient
and good for sensitive areas of the
skin. It is applied as a poultice to reduce swelling and draw
out toxins. Taken internally, the
leaves reduce gut irritation and have a laxative effect. When
common mallow is combined with
eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus), it makes a good remedy for
coughs and other chest ailments.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Anti-inflammatory, emollient, astringent, laxative.
45) MARJORAM,WILD MARJORAM
Origanum vulgare (Labiatae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native from Asia, marjoram cultivated commercially in several
regions. Much used by the
ancient Greeks, wild marjoram has had a more significant role
in medicine than sweet marjoram
(O. majorana). Marjoram tea is an age-old remedy to aid digestion,
increase sweating and
encourage menstruation. As a steam inhalant, marjoram clears
the sinuses and helps relieve
laryngitis. Wild marjoram helps settle flatulence and stimulates
the flow of bile. Strongly
antiseptic, it may be taken to treat respiratory conditions
such as coughs, tonsillitis, bronchitis
and asthma. The diluted oil can be applied to toothache or painful
joints.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, digestive.
46) MATE
Hex paraguariensis syn. I. paraguensis (Aquifoliaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native to South America, probably to Paraguay, mate is a traditional
South American tea that
increases short-term physical and mental energy levels. It is
taken as a fortifying beverage in
much the same way as tea (Camellia sinensis) is consumed throughout
Asia and Europe. Mate
has properties similar to those of tea and coffee (Coffea arabica).
It stimulates the nervous
system, is mildly analgesic and diuretic. As a medicinal herb,
mate is used to treat headaches,
migraine, neuralgic and rheumatic pain, fatigue and mild depression.
It has also been used in the
treatment of diabetes.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Stimulant, diuretic, analgesic.
47) MELISSA, LEMON BALM
Melissa officinalis (Labiatae)
HISTORY AND USES
Lemon Balm has been cultivated in the Mediterranean region for
more than 2,000 years. The
Muslim herbalist Avicenna recommended lemon balm for heart problems.
Its main action is as a
tranquilizer. It calms nervous spasms, colics and hearth spasms.
The hot tea promotes sweat that
that is good for colds, flus and fevers. Its sedative actions
have been used to help in the treatment
of psychiatric problems, including dystonia. Lemon's balm anti-histamine
action is useful to treat
eczema and headaches. Today, this sweet-smelling herb is still
widely valued for its calming
properties, and new research shows that it can help significantly
in the treatment of cold sores.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Relaxant, antispasmodic, increases sweating,
carminative, anti-viral,
nerve tonic.
48) MISTLETOE
Viscum album (Loranthaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native to Europe and northern Asian, mistletoe is chiefly used
to lower blood pressure and heart
rate, ease anxiety and promote sleep. In low doses it also relieves
panic attacks, headaches, and
improves the ability to concentrate. Mistletoe is also prescribed
for tinnitus and epilepsy. It may
be used to treat hyperactivity in children. Mistletoe contain
viscotoxins that inhibit tumors and
stimulate the immune system. For this reason, research has been
carried out on its potential use
as a cancer treating plant .
MAIN PROPERTIES: Tranquilizer, reduces pain, controls blood
pressure.
49) MOTHERWORT
Leonurus cardiaca (Labiatae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native to Europe, motherworth has been used as a medicinal plant
in early Greece, where it was
used to calm pregnant women suffering from anxiety. The other
prominent use of the herb is due
to is action over the hearth by decreasing muscle spasms and
lowering blood pressure. Other uses
include the improvement of fertility, the relief of postpartum
depression and menopause.
Antispasmodic and sedative, the herb promotes relaxation rather
than drowsiness. However,
motherwort stimulate the muscles of the uterus, and is particularly
suitable for delayed periods,
period pain and premenstrual tension (especially if shock or
distress is a factor).
MAIN PROPERTIES: Nervine, emmenagogue, anti-spasmodic, hepatic,
hypotensive, cardiac
tonic.
50) MYRRH
Commiphora molmol syn. C. myrrha (Burseraceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native to north-east Africa, myrrh is mainly found in Ethiopia,
Somalia, Saudi-Arabia, Iran and
Thailand. Myrrh has been used in perfumes, incense and embalming.
Its astringent, antimicrobial
and antiseptic properties have been used to treat acne and boils
as well as mild inflammatory
conditions. It finds specific use in the treatment of infections
in the mouth such as ulcers,
gingivitis, pyorrhea, as well as catarrhal problems associated
with pharyngitis and sinusitis.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Stimulant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent,
expectorant,
antispasmodic, carminative.
51) MYRTLE
Myrtus communis (Myrtaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Myrtle is native to the Mediterranean region and is mainly cultivated
for the extraction of its
essential oil. Used in ancient Greece, the astringent, tonic
and antiseptic properties of its leaves
are used to heal wounds, or internally to remedy disorders of
the digestive and urinary systems.
The essential oil is antiseptic and anti-catarrhal, and is used
to treat chest ailments.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, astringent, expectorant.
52) NETTLE
Urtica dioica (Urticaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Nettle occurs in Eurasia and is naturalized elsewhere, including
America and is one of the most
applicable plants found. Nettles have supplied fibers for cloth
and paper since the Bronze Age
into the 20th century. Throughout Europe, it has been used as
a spring tonic and general
detoxifying remedy. Nettle leaves contain iron and vitamin C,
being used for treating anemia and
poor circulation. Tea an poultice made from nettle leaves are
used to treat eczema and skin
conditions. Its astringent properties are used to stop bleeding.
Today, nettle is used for hay fever,
arthritis, anemia, and, surprisingly, even for nettle rash.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Diuretic, tonic, astringent, prevents hemorrhaging,
anti-allergenic,
reduces prostate enlargement (root).
53) OLIVE
Olea europaea (Oleaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
The olive was probably first cultivated in Crete in around 3500
BC. The leaves have been used
since those times to clean wounds. Olive leaves lower blood
pressure and help to improve the
function of the circulatory system. They are also mildly diuretic
and may be used to treat
conditions such as cystitis. Possessing some ability to lower
blood sugar levels, the leaves have
been taken for diabetes. The oil is nourishing and improves
the balance of fats within the blood.
It is traditionally taken with lemon juice in teaspoonful doses
to treat gallstones. The oil has a
generally protective action on the digestive tract and is useful
for dry skin. Externally, it is a
good, although sticky, carrier oil for essential oils.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Digestive, diuretic, anti-inflammatory.
54) PALMETTO, SAW PALMETTO
Sabal serrulata syn. Serenoa serrulata (Palmaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Saw palmetto berries were eaten by Native North Americans and
animals. According to legend,
on seeing the animals grow "sleek and fat", European
settlers tried the berries and attributed
medicinal properties to them. The fruit pulp was used as a tonic
from the l9th century onwards,
and today it is used to help in debility, for urinary tract
problems and for reducing enlarged
prostate glands.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Tonic, diuretic, sedative, anabolic.
55) PARSLEY
Petroselinum crispum (Umbelliferae)
HISTORY AND USES
Parsley is probably native from northern and central Europe
and western Asia. It was known in
ancient Greece and Rome - but more as a diuretic, digestive
tonic and stimulant of the menstrual
flow than as a salad herb. Parsley leaves, seed and root treat
urinary tract infections and help
eliminate kidney stones. It also stimulates appetite and increases
blood flow to digestive organs,
as well as reduces fevers. Parsley was introduced into Britain
in 1548. Parsley has the unusual
ability of masking strong odors, that of garlic in particular
(which is one of reason for the herb's
frequent use as a garnish in cookery). Parsley root is more
commonly prescribed than the seeds
or leaves in herbal medicine. It is taken as a treatment for
flatulence, cystitis and rheumatic
conditions. Parsley is also valued as a promoter of menstruation,
being helpful both in
stimulating a delayed period and in relieving menstrual pain.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Digestive, diuretic.
56) PASSIFLORA, PASSION FLOWER
Passiflora incarnata (Passifloraceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Passiflora is natural from the north America. Its name comes
from its beautiful flowers, thought
to represent Christ's crucifixion - 5 stamens for the 5 wounds,
3 styles for the 3 nails and white
and purple-blue colors for purity and heaven. The herb has valuable
sedative and tranquilizing
properties and has a long use as a medicine in Central and North
American herbal traditions,
being taken in Mexico for insomnia epilepsy and hysteria. The
leaves are an ingredient in many
pharmaceutical products to treat nervous disorders such as heart
palpitations, anxiety,
convulsions and sometimes high blood pressure. It is also used
to prevent spasms from whooping
cough, asthma and other diseases.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, hypotensive
sedative, tranquilizing.
57) PATCHOULI
Pogostemon cablin syn. P. patchouli (Labiatae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native to Malaysia and the Philippines, Patchouli is now cultivated
in tropical and sub-tropical
regions around the world. Patchouli has been used extensively
in Asian medicine, apperaring in
the Chinese, Indian and Arabic traditions. The oil is widely
employed as a fragrance and, in
India, as an insect repellent. Patchouli is used in herbal medicine
in Asia as an aphrodisiac,
antidepressant and antiseptic. It is also employed for headaches
and fever. Patchouli essential oil
is used in aromatherapy to treat skin complaints. It is thought
to have a regenerative effect on
skin tone and to help clear conditions such as eczema and acne.
The oil may also be used for
varicose veins and hemorrhoids.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, aromatic, antidepressant.
58) PEONIA, WHITE PEONY
Paeonia lactiflora syn. P. albiflora (Paeoniaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native to the southern Europe and the Mediterranean, peony is
widely cultivated as a garden
plant. Peony's history of medicinal use in China stretches back
for at least 1,500 years. It is
known most widely as one of the herbs used to make "Four
Things Soup", a women's tonic, and
it is also a remedy for gynecological problems and for cramp,
pain and dizziness. Traditionally, it
is considered that women who take the herb on a regular basis
become as radiant as the flower
itself.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antispasmodic, tonic, astringent, analgesic.
59) PEPPERMINT
Mentha piperita (Labiatae)
HISTORY AND USES
Peppermint's origin is a mystery, but it has been in existence
for a long time - dried leaves were
found in Egyptian pyramids dating from around 1000 BC. It was
highly valued by the Greeks
and Romans, but only became popular in Western Europe in the
18th Century. Peppermint tea
helps with indigestion and relaxes the muscles of the digestive
tract. Peppermint's chief
therapeutic value lies in its ability to relieve wind, flatulence,
bloating and colic, though it has
many other applications. Studies have shown that it relieves
colon spasms and helps to cure
ulcers. Peppermint also eases nervous headaches. Menthol, its
main constituent, has antibacterial
properties. Externally, the essential oil is used in balms and
liniments to stimulate hot and cold
nerve endings and increase local blood flow.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Carminative, relieves muscle spasms, increases
sweating, stimulates
secretion of bile, antiseptic.
60) PEPPER
Piper nigrum (Piperaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native to south-western India, pepper is now cultivated in tropical
regions around the world.
Praised as a spice and a medicine since ancient times, pepper
was a vital commodity in world
trade for thousands of years. Pepper has a stimulant and antiseptic
effect on the digestive tract
and the circulatory system. Pepper is commonly taken, either
alone or in combination with other
herbs and spices, to warm the body, or to improve digestive
function in cases of nausea, stomach
ache, flatulence, bloating, constipation or lack of appetite.
The essential oil eases rheumatic pain
and toothache. It is antiseptic and antibacterial, and reduces
fever.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antibacterial, antiseptic, digestive, reduces
fever.
61) RADISH
Raphanus sativus (Cruciferae)
HISTORY AND USES
Radish probably is native from southern Asia. It has been used
for medicinal purposes by the
Egyptians, Greeks, Romans and Chinese. Radish stimulates the
appetite and the digestion. The
juice of the black radish is drunk to counter gassy indigestion
and constipation. Black radish
juice has a tonic and laxative action on the intestines, and
indirectly stimulates the flow of bile.
Consuming radish generally results in improved digestion, but
some people are sensitive to its
acridity and strong action. In China, radish is eaten to relieve
abdominal distention.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Digestive, mild laxative.
62) RAUVOLFIA, INDIAN SNAKEROOT
Rauvolfia serpentina (Apocynaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Rauvolfia is native to southern and south-eastern Asia, including
India, Malaysia and Indonesia.
Indian snakeroot contains reserpine, a substance now widely
used to lower blood pressure and
lessen some symptoms of mental illness. The root has a pronounced
sedative and depressant
effect on the sympathetic nervous system. By reducing the system's
activity, the herb brings
about the lowering of blood pressure. It may also be used to
treat anxiety and insomnia, as well
as more serious mental health problems such as psychosis.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antidepressant, lowers blood pressure.
63) RHUBARB, CHINESE RHUBARB
Rheum palmatum (Polysonaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native to China and Tibet, Chinese rhubarb is now grown also
in the West. The use of Chinese
rhubarb has been reported in the 1st century AD in China and
it has been cultivated in the West
since the 18th century. Its main use is as a laxative safe even
for young children due to its gentle
action. It is also extremely effective in the treatment for
many digestive problems. Paradoxically,
it is a laxative when taken in large doses but has a constipating
effect in small measures. The
rhizome has an astringent, unpleasant taste.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Laxative, constipating, astringent, eases stomach
pain, antibacterial.
64) ROSE
Rosa gallica (Rosaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
The rose comes originally from Asia Minor, where it is cultivated
mostly in Bulgaria, Iran and
India. Rosewater was prepared by the Arab physician Avicenna
(AD 980-1037) during the
Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the rose was esteemed as a
remedy for depression. The rose is
currently little used in herbal medicine, but it is probably
time for a re-evaluation of its medicinal
benefits. The essential oil, called "attar of rose",
is used in aromatherapy as a mildly sedative,
antidepressant and anti-inflammatory remedy. Rose petals and
their preparations have a similar
action. They also reduce high cholesterol levels. Rosewater
is mildly astringent and makes a
valuable lotion for inflamed and sore eyes.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Aromatic, antidepressant,, sedative, anti-inflammatory.
65) ROSEMARY
Rosmarinus officinalis (Labiatae)
HISTORY AND USES
Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean region. Rosemary is
a well-known and greatly valued
herb that is native to southern Europe. It has been used since
antiquity to improve and strengthen
the memory. Rosemary leaves increase circulation, reduce headaches
and have anti-bacterial and
fungal properties. Rosemary improves food absorbtion by stimulating
digestion, the liver, the
intestinal tract, and the gallbladder. It also is used in antiseptic
gargles for sore throats, gum
problems and canker sores. Rosemary has a long-standing reputation
as a tonic, invigorating
herb, imparting a zest for life that is to some degree reflected
in its distinctive aromatic taste.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Tonic, stimulant, astringent, nervine, anti-inflammatory,
carminative.
66) RUE
Ruta graveolens (Rutaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Rue is native to Southern Europe. In ancient Greece and Egypt,
rue was employed to stimulate
menstrual bleeding, to induce abortion and to strengthen the
eyesight. The rutin contained in the
plant helps to strengthen fragile blood vessels and alleviates
varicose veins. Rue is also used due
to its antispasmodic properties, especially in the digestive
system where it eases griping and
bowel tension. The easing of spasms gives it a role in the stopping
of spasmodic coughs. In
European herbal medicine, rue has also been taken to treat conditions
as varied as hysteria,
epilepsy, vertigo, colic, intestinal worms, poisoning and eye
problems. The latter use is well
founded, as an infusion used as an eyewash brings quick relief
to strained and tired eyes, and
reputedly improves the eyesight.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antispasmodic, increases peripheral blood circulation,
relieves eye
tension.
67) SAGE, CLARY
Salvia sclarea (Labiatae)
HISTORY AND USES
Clary sage has been perceived both as a weaker version of its
close relative, sage (S. officinalis),
and as a significant herb in its own right. Since the seeds
were once commonly used to treat eye
problems, it was also known as "clear eye". An antispasmodic
and aromatic plant, clary sage is
used today mainly to treat digestive problems such as wind and
indigestion. It is also regarded as
a tonic, calming herb that helps relieve period pain and premenstrual
problems. Owing to its
estrogen-stimulating action, it is most effective when levels
of this hormone are low.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Astringent, antiseptic, aromatic, carminative,
estrogenic, reduces
sweating, tonic.
68) SAGE
Salvia officinalis (Labiatae)
HISTORY AND USES
Sage grows from north to central Spain to the west of Balkans
and Asia Minor. It was used in
Crete in 1600 AD to clear throat inflammation, one of its most
popular uses today. Its leaves are
a well-known cold germ and flu fighter. It has been found to
be very effective to reduce many
physical emissions like sweating and is an excellent remedy
for sore throats, poor digestion and
irregular periods. It is also taken as a gently stimulating
tonic. It has a slightly warm, noticeably
bitter and astringent taste.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Astringent, antiseptic, aromatic, carminative,
estrogenic, reduces
sweating, tonic.
(69)WHITE SAGE
Salvia Apiana
HISTORY AND USES
White sage can be found throughout Mediterranean areas where
development has not encroached
on its habitat. In southern California, it grows in stands in
plant communities of coastal sage
scrub, and is often the dominant species. It is one of the most
aromatic of the Salvias; the scent
coming from the fuzzy, thick, silvery-green leaves rather than
the flowers. Leaves are 1" to 4"
long, opposite with short petioles that wrap around the 4-sided
stems to join the leave on the
opposite side. Leaves form thick rosettes at the ends of the
stems, though leaves along the stem
are fairly sparse. The 4-sided stems are typical of all members
of the mint family. S. apiana's
stems are sticky and as thick as leaves and petioles.
MAIN PROPERTIES
Native American women used the thick leaves as sanitary napkins.
The plant also makes a nonlathering
shampoo and rinse that leaves the hair soft and beautiful (I
will encourage the use of
white sage as shampoo!) Native Americans made the leaves into
smudge sticks and burned them
during prayer and ceremonies. The seeds--a staple food of Native
Americans--were ground into
flour, and the young shoots were eaten as greens. The leaves
can be brewed into a beverage tea.
Aside from culinary usage, white sage was used in combination
with other aromatic herbs to
repel ants and other insects--either as a powder for dusting,
or as a spray.
70) SANDALWOOD
Santalum album (Santalaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native to eastern India, sandalwood is cultivated in South-East
Asia for the extraction of wood
and essential oil. Sandalwood's aroma as been highly esteemed
in China and India for thousands
of year. The heartwood is most often used in perfumery, but
it has also been taken as a remedy in
China since around AD 500. Sandalwood and its essential oil
are used for their antiseptic
properties in treating genito-urinary conditions such as cystitis
and gonorrhea. In India, a paste of
the wood is used to soothe rashes and itchy skin. In China,
sandalwood is held to be useful for
chest and abdominal pain.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, aromatic.
71) SARSAPARILLA
Smilax spp. (Liliaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Sarsaparilla is found in the tropical forest of the world, especially
in Mexico, Peru and Brazil.
There are more than 200 known species. Brought from the New
World to Spain in 1563,
sarsaparilla was heralded as a cure for syphilis. In Mexico,
the herb has traditionally been used to
treat a variety of skin problems. Sarsaparilla is anti-inflammatory
and cleansing, and can bring
relief to skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis and general
itchiness, and help treat
rheumatism, rheumatoid, arthritis and gout. Sarsaparilla also
has a progesterogenic action,
making it beneficial in pre-menstrual problems, and menopausal
conditions such as debility and
depression. In Mexico the root is still frequently consumed
for its reputed tonic and aphrodisiac
properties. Native Amazonian peoples take sarsaparilla to improve
virility and to treat
menopausal problems.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Diuretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic.
72) SCOTS PINE
Pinus sylvestris (Pinaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native to the mountainous regions of Europe and north and west
Asia. Its oil, extracted from the
leaves, is added to disinfectants and other preparations. Scots
pine leaves, taken internally, have
a mildly antiseptic effect within the chest, and may also be
used for arthritic and rheumatic
problems. Essential oil from the leaves may be taken for asthma,
bronchitis and other respiratory
infections, and for digestive disorders such as wind. Scots
pine branches and stems yield a thick
resin, which is also antiseptic within the respiratory tract.
The seeds yield an essential oil with
diuretic and respiratory-stimulant properties.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, diuretic and anti-rheumatic.
73) SESAME
Sesamum indicum (Pedaliaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native to Africa, sesame is now cultivated in many tropical
and sub-tropical areas of the world.
In ancient Egypt, the seeds were eaten and also pressed to yield
oil, which was burned in lamps
and used to make ointments. Sesame is used in China to redress
afflictions of the liver and
kidneys. The seeds are prescribed for problems such as dizziness,
tinnitus (ringing in the ears),
and blurred vision. Owing to their lubricating effect within
the digestive tract, the seeds are also
considered a remedy for constipation. Sesame seed oil benefits
the skin and is used as a base for
cosmetics. A decoction of the root is used in various traditions
to treat coughs and asthma.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Digestive, aromatic, antispasmodic.
74) ST JOHN'S WORT
Hypericum perforatum (Guttiferae)
HISTORY AND USES
The plant is native to Europe but is widely cultivated elsewhere.
St. John's wort flowers at the
time of the summer solstice, and in medieval Europe it was considered
to have powerful magical
properties that enabled it to repel evil. The most well-known
action of St. John's wort is in
repairing nerve damage and reducing pain and inflammation. It
is taken to relieve the pain of
menstrual cramps, sciatica and arthritis. Th oils is applied
to inflammations, sprains, bruises and
varicose veins. St. John's wort is also used to treat circulation
problems, bronchitis and gout.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antidepressant, antispasmodic, astringent,
sedative, relieves pain, antiviral.
75) TARRAGON
Artemisia dracunculus (Compositae)
HISTORY AND USES
Tarragon is probably native of southern Europe or the steppes
of Asia. Historians believe that
tarragon reached Europe brought into Spain by invading Mongols.
Tarragon is widely used as a
herb in cooking. In French, it is sometimes known as herbe au
dragon, because of its reputed
ability to cure serpent bites. While tarragon stimulates the
digestion, it is reputed to be a mild
sedative and has been taken to aid sleep. With its mild menstruation-inducing
properties, it is
taken if periods are delayed. The root has traditionally been
applied to aching teeth.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Anti-inflammatory, digestive.
76) TEA TREE
Malaleuca alternifolia (Myrtaceae)
Tea tree is native to Australia and is now cultivated extensively.
Tea tree, and in particular its
essential oil, is one of the most important natural antiseptics.
Useful for stings, burns, wounds
and skin infections of all kinds, the herb merits a place in
every medicine chest. Its therapeutic
properties were first researched during the 1920s and it is
now widely used in Europe and the
US, as well as in Australia.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral.
77) THYME
Thymus vulgaris (Labiatae)
HISTORY AND USES
Thyme occurs in the west Mediterranean to the southwest Italy.
The herb was known to the
Sumerians, used by the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. Thyme was
praised by the herbalist
Nicholas Culpeper (1616-1654) as "a notable strengthener
of the lungs". Its main medicinal
application is in treating coughs and clearing congestion. Many
current formulas for mouth
washes and vapor rubs contain thymol, one of the constituents
found in thyme. It also improves
digestion, destroys intestinal parasites and is an excellent
antiseptic and tonic.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, tonic, relieves muscle spasm, expectorant.
78) TURMERIC
Curcuma longa syn. C. domestica (Zingiberaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Turmeric is native to India and southern Asia where it is extensively
cultivated. Best known for
its bright yellow color and spicy taste to lovers of Indian
food, its medicinal value is not so well
known. However, recent research has confirmed the effects traditionally
associated in ancient
practices in the treatment of digestive and liver problems.
The herb has also been shown to
inhibit blood-clotting, relieve inflammatory conditions and
help lower cholesterol levels.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Stimulates secretion of bile, anti-inflammatory,
eases stomach pain,
antioxidant, antibacterial.
79) VALERIAN
Valeriana officinalis (Valerianaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Valerian is native to Europe and western Asia. The medicinal
properties of valerian were well
known at least since Roman times. Valerian root is a general
tranquilizer used for relieving
nervous tension, insomnia and headaches. Valerian decreases
muscular spasm, being useful in
cases of nervous digestion, bowel syndrome, stomach and menstrual
cramps. Valerian helps
relieve stress and has become an increasingly popular remedy
in recent decades. It is a safe, nonaddictive
relaxant that reduces nervous tension and anxiety and promotes
restful sleep.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Sedative, relaxant, relieves muscle spasm,
relieves anxiety, lowers blood
pressure.
80) VERBENA
Verbena officinalis (Verbenaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native of Europe, verbena is extensively cultivated in other
countries. Verbena has long been
credited with magical properties and was used in ceremonies
by the Romans, Druids of ancient
Britain and Gaul. It is a traditional herbal medicine in both
China and Europe. Verbena is used in
mouth washes for infected gums and as a poultice for hemorrhoids.
A tea has been used as a
nerve tonic, to treat insomnia and to help digestion. It has
tonic, restorative properties, and is
used to relieve stress and anxiety, and to improve digestive
function.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Nervine, tonic, mild sedative, stimulates bile
secretion, mild bitter.
81) WHITE WILLOW
Salix alba (Salicaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
White willow is native to Europe but is also found in North
Africa and Asia. White willow is an
excellent remedy for arthritic and rheumatic pain, affecting
the joints like knees and hips.
Famous as the original source of salicylic acid, first isolated
in 1838 and synthetically produced
in the laboratory in 1899, white willow and closely related
species have been used for thousands
of years in Europe, Africa, Asia and North America to relieve
joint pain and manage fevers. The
Greek physician Discorides in the 1st century AD, suggested
taking "willow leaves, mashed with
a little pepper and drunk with wine" to relieve lower back
pain.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, reduces fever,
anti-rheumatic, astringent.
82) WORMWOOD
Artemisia absinthium (Compositae)
HISTORY AND USES
Native to Europe, wormwood was called absintium by the Romans,
what means "bitter".
Wormwood leave's primary uses is to stimulate the gallbladder,
help prevent and release stones,
and to adjust digestive malfunctions. It also increases bile
secretion and is useful in expelling
intestinal worms. It is taken in small doses and sipped, the
intensely bitter taste playing an
important part in its therapeutic effect. In the past, wormwood
was one of the main flavorings of
vermouth (whose name derives from the German for wormwood).
MAIN PROPERTIES: Aromatic bitter, stimulates secretion of bile,
anti-inflammatory,
eliminates worms, eases stomach pains, mild antidepressant.
83) WILD THYME
Thymus serpyllum (Labiatae)
HISTORY AND USES
Thyme is native to the west Mediterranean to southwest Italy.
Like its close relative thyme
(Thymus vulgaris), wild thyme is strongly antiseptic and anti-fungal.
It may be taken as an
infusion or syrup to treat flu and colds, sore throats, coughs,
whooping cough, chest infections,
and bronchitis. Wild thyme has anti-catarrhal properties and
helps clear a stuffy nose, sinusitis,
ear congestion and related complaints. It has been used to expel
thread worms and roundworms
in children, and is used to settle wind and colic. Wild thyme's
antispasmodic action makes it
useful and is used to settle wind and colic. Wild thyme is also
used in herbal baths and pillows.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, anti-fungal, antispasmodic.
84) YARROW
Achillea millefolium (Compositae)
HISTORY AND USES
Yarrow is a native European plant, with a long history as a
wound healer. In classical times, it
was known as herba militaris, being used to staunch war wounds.
It has long been taken as a
strengthening bitter tonic and all kinds of bitter drinks have
been made from it. Yarrow helps
recovery from colds and flu and is beneficial for hay fever.
It is also helpful for menstrual
problems and circulatory disorders.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antispasmodic, astringent, bitter tonic, increases
sweating, lowers blood
pressure, reduces fever, mild diuretic and urinary antiseptic.
85) YLANG -YLANG
Canananga odorata syn. Canangium odoratum (Annonaceae)
HISTORY AND USES
Ylang-ylang is native to Indonesia and the Philippines. The
flowers are a traditional adornment
in the Far East. Their scent is thought to have aphrodisiac
qualities. The flowers and essential oil
are sedative and antiseptic. The oil has a soothing effect,
and its main therapeutic uses are to
slow an excessively fast heart rate and to lower blood pressure.
With its reputation as an
aphrodisiac, ylang-ylang may be helpful in treating impotence.
MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, aromatic, regulates blood pressure
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Libraries
are on this row
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INDEX
Page 3
(Main Section, Medicine Wheel, Native Languages &
Nations, Symbology)
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INDEX
Page 5
(Sacred Feminine & Masculine, Stones & Minerals)
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©
Copyright: Cinnamon Moon & River WildFire Moon (Founders.)
2000-date
All rights reserved.
Site
constructed by Dragonfly
Dezignz 1998-date
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