Terminology HERBAL TERMINOLOGY Herbal medicine classifies each herb in different categories according to its physiological action. Herbal definitions are useful terms to understand and recognize. They are a succinct description of each herb’s action in the body. Many of the therapeutic terms you will encounter during your studies are listed here complete with the phonetic pronunciation. Do not panic: you are not required to memorize these terms all at once. Try to learn a few at a time: Flashcards are helpful for many students. As you work through your studies, you will gain familiarity with these terms. It is enough for now to read them carefully and understand their meaning, rather than endeavor to memorize them all. Examples of herbs are included with each definition. They are by no means a full list of herbs capable of that particular action in the body. As a study aid, add herbs under the appropriate therapeutic action as you progress through your courses. As you learn therapeutic actions in your program not listed here, you may also add them to this guide for easy reference. Use the virtual library at http://www.achs.edu/ to access an online dictionary.
TERM
Phonetic
Action
ABORTIFACIENT
Ah-bor”tifa’shent
ABSORBENT
Ab-sor’bent
ADJUVANT
Ad’ju-vant
ALTERATIVES
Awl’ter-a”tiv
ANALGESIC
An al-je’zik
ANAPHRODISIACS
Anaf-ro-diz’eak An’es-thet’ik
Herbs producing miscarriage. Pennyroyal, Rue. Herbs used to produce absorption of inflammation or diseased tissue. Mullein, Slippery Elm. An herb that is added to a formula because it aids the effect of the principle ingredient. Cayenne, Ginger. Herbs that gradually cleanse the blood, tone and regulate the eliminative organs. Burdock, Borage, Cleavers, Yarrow. Herbs used to relieve pain. Chamomile, Lobelia, Mullein, Skullcap, Stinging Nettle. See Anodynes Herbs used to lessen sexual functions and desires. Celery, Garden Sage, Hops, Skullcap. See Local anesthetic and Anodyne.
ANESTHETIC ANODYNES
An’o-dine
ANTACIDS
Ant-as’id
Herbs used to relieve pain. Chamomile, Calendula, Mullein, Mustard, Passionflower, Peppermint, Stinging Nettle, Tomato tops and ripe fruit pulp, Valerian, Wormwood (oil). Herbs used to neutralize acid in the stomach and intestinal tract. Apple, caraway, Catnip, Cloves, Elderflowers, Fennel, Parsley,
Terminology ANTHELMINTICS
An-thelmin’tik
ANTIABORTIVES
An’te-ahbor’tiv An’te-ahler’jik An’te-arthrit’ik
ANTIALLERGIC ANTIARTHRITICS ANTIASTHMATICS
An ‘te-azmat’ik
ANTIBACTERIAL
An”te-bakter’re-al
ANTIBILIOUS
An” te-bil’yus
ANTIBIOTIC
An”te-bi-ot’ik
ANTICATARRHAL
An” te-kahtar’al
ANTICOAGULANT
An”te-koag'u-lant An”te-konvul’siv An” te-depres’ iv
ANTICONVULSIVE ANTIDEPRESSIVE ANTIDIABETIC ANTIDIARRHEAL
An"te-di"ahbet'ik An”te-di”ah –re’al
ANTIEMETICS
An”te-emet’ik
ANTIEPILEPTIC
An”te-ep”e-
Peppermint, Slippery Elm. Herbs used to expel or destroy intestinal worms. Elecampane, Horehound, Hyssop, Mullein, Plantain, Pumpkin seeds, Wormwood. Herbs used to counteract abortive tendencies. Cramp Bark, Witch Hazel. Herbs used to counteract allergies. German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile. Herbs used to relieve and heal arthritic conditions. Black Cohosh, Blackberry, Burdock, Cayenne, Dandelion, Yellow Dock. Herbs used to relieve asthma. Angelica, Aniseed, Cayenne, Cleavers, Coltsfoot, Elecampane, Eucalyptus, garlic, Horehound, Lobelia, Slippery Elm. Herbs destroying or suppressing the growth or reproduction of bacteria. Calendula, Eucalyptus essential oil, Echinacea, Garlic, nasturtium. Herbs used to eliminate a bilious or jaundice condition in the body. Borage, Chamomile, Cayenne, Celandine, Cleavers, Dandelion, Fumitory, Yarrow. Herbs which can inhibit the growth of or destroy bacteria and other microorganisms. Echinacea, Eucalyptus, Hops, Manuka essential oil, Mouse Ear Hawkweed, mullein. Herbs that heal catarrhal conditions in the body. Barley, Burdock root, Cayenne, Hyssop, Lobelia, Marshmallow, Thyme, Yarrow. Suppressing, delaying or nullifying coagulation of the blood. Effective against convulsions. Skullcap. Herbs used to alleviate depression. St. John’s Wort Preventing the development of diabetes. Herbs that counteract diarrhea. Thyme. Herbs used to lessen nausea and prevent or relieve vomiting. Cayenne, Crampbark (pregnancy), Goldenseal, Cloves, Fennel, Lavender, Peach leaves, Peppermint, Spearmint, Sweet Basil. Herbs that combat epilepsy.
Terminology ANTIFUNGAL
lep’tik An”te-fun’gal
ANTIHYDROPICS
An”te-hi-dropik
ANTI-
An”te-inflam’ah-to”-re
INFLAMMATORY
ANTILITHICS
An”te-lith’ik
ANTIMALARIAL
An”te-mahla’re-al An”te-mikro’be-al
ANTIMICROBIAL ANTIMYCOTICS ANTINEOPLASTICS ANTINEURALGIC ANTIOXIDANT
An”te-mikot-ik An”te-ne-oplas’tik An”te-nural’jik An’te-ok’sedant
ANTIPERIODICS
An”te-pe”reod’ik
ANTIPHLOGISTICS
An”te-flojis’tik
ANTIPRURITIC
(an”te-prurit’ik) An”tepi’ret’ik An”tte-rumat’ik
ANTIPYRETIC ANTIRHEUMATICS
Motherwort. Herbs that destroy fungi or suppress their reproduction or growth. Calendula, Gingko. Herbs used to eliminate excess body fluids or dropsy. Buchu, Burdock seeds and root, Couchgrass, Dandelion, Stinging Nettle. Herbs counteracting or suppressing inflammation. Slippery Elm. Herbs used to prevent the formation of calculi or gravel in the excretory passages. Buchu, Couchgrass, Elecampane, Stinging Nettle, Uva Ursi. Herbs counteraction or preventing malaria. Centaury, Goldenseal. Herbs destroying microorganisms or suppressing their multiplication or growth. German Chamomile, Licorice, Parsley. Herbs that check fungal growth. Garlic, Yellow Dock. Herbs that inhibit or prevent the development of tumors. Garlic, Periwinkle, Red Clover. Herbs relieving neuralgia (paroxysmal pain extending along one or more nerves.) Herbs hindering oxidation. Calendula. Herbs used to relieve malarial type fevers and chills. Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Fumitory, Horehound, Parsley juice, Red Raspberry, Rosemary, Rue, Shepherds’ Purse. Herbs used to reduce inflammation or swelling. Burdock root, Chickweed, Comfrey, Elder flowers and leaves, Slippery Elm. Herbs that relieve or prevent itching. Aloe Vera, Red Clover, Yellow Dock. Herbs used to reduce temperature in fevers. Elder flowers, Yarrow. Herbs used to prevent, relieve and assist rheumatism (a variety of disorders marked by inflammation, degeneration, or metabolic derangement of the connective tissue structures, specially the joints and related structures, and attended by pain, stiffness, or limited motion). Blackberry, Blue Cohosh, Burdock, Cayenne, Chickweed, Comfrey, Couchgrass, Dandelion, Horehound, Hyssop, Juniper Berry, Uva Ursi, Watercress,
Terminology ANTISCORBUTICS ANTISCROFULUS
ANTISEPTICS
ANTISPASMODICS
ANTISYPHILITICS
ANTIULCEROGENIC ANTITUSSIVE
Yellow Dock. Herbs used to prevent and assist scurvy. Chickweed, Cleavers, Dandelion, Fumitory, Marjoram, Parsley. An”te-scroHerbs used to heal swelling and congestion few’lus of the lymphatic glands. Chamomile, Cleavers, Comfrey root, Dandelion, Elder flowers, Hyssop. An’te-sep’tik Herbs used to prevent, resist, and counteract putrefaction (decay of cells and formation of pus). Burdock leaves, Cayenne, Echinacea, Eucalyptus, Garlic, Goldenseal, Myrrh. An”te-spazHerbs used to relieve nervous irritability and mod’ik reduce or prevent excessive involuntary muscular contractions and spasms. Catnip, Cayenne, Cramp Bark, Red Clover, Skullcap, Self-Heal, Valerian. An”te-sif”IHerbs used to relieve and assist syphilis or lit’ik other venereal ailments. Burdock, Cleavers, Barberry, Elder bark, leaves, and berries, Goldenseal, Hyssop, Red Clover, Marshmallow. An”te-ulsero-jenik Herbs used to assist healing ulcers and ulceration. Plantain An”te-tus’iv Herbs relieving or preventing cough. Thyme. An”te-skorbu’tik
ANTIVENOMOUS
An”te-ven-omus
ANTIVIRAL
An”te-vi’ral
ANTIZYMOTICS
An”te-zimot’ik
APERIENTS OR LAXATIVES
a-per’re-ent
APERITIVE
Ah-per’I-tiv
APHRODISIAC
Af’ro-diz’e-ak
AROMATICS
Ar-o-mat’ik
ASTRINGENTS
As-trin’jent
Herbs which act as correctives against animal, vegetable and mineral toxins. Black cohosh, Echinacea, Fennel, Garlic, Plantain. Herbs destroying viruses or suppressing their growth or multiplication. Cranesbill, St. John’s Wort. Herbs used to destroy or arrest the action of bacterial organisms. Elecampane, Garlic, Lobelia, Mullein, Thyme. Herbs used as mild evacuants or laxatives to the bowels: Borage, Burdock root, Dandelion, Licorice, Senna pods, Turkey Rhubarb. Herbs stimulating the appetite. Herbs arousing sexual impulses. Echinacea, Hops, Manuka essential oil. Herbs that are odoriferous, having a fragrant, pungent and spicy taste, and stimulate the gastrointestinal mucus membrane: Basil, Calamint, Chamomile, Lovage, Spearmint, and Sweet Cicely. Herbs that contract tissues, make them denser and firmer, and arrest discharges. Cayenne, Mullein, Red Raspberry,
Terminology BACTERICIDE
Bak-ter’I-sid
BACTERIOSTATIC
Bak-ter”re-ostat’ik Bawl-sam’ik
BALSAMIC BITTER
Bit’er
BITTER TONIC
Bit’er to”nik
BLISTER
Blis’ter
CALCEFACIENTS
Kal’-se-fashent
CALMATIVE
Kahm-ah-tiv
CARDIAC DEPRESSANT
Kar’de-ak depres’ant
CARDIAC SEDATIVE Kar’de-ak sed’ah-tiv CARDIAC STIMULANTS
Kar’de-ak stim’u-lant
CARDIAC TONIC
Kar’de-ak ton’ik Kar-min’ahtiv
CARMINATIVES
CATHARTICS
Kah-thar’tik
CAUSTICS
Kaws’tik
CELL
Sel pro-lif’er’ant
Shepherds’ Purse, Witch Hazel. Herbs that destroy bacteria. Herbs that inhibit the growth or multiplication of bacteria. Eucalyptus. Herbs that soothe and heal inflamed parts: Avocado, Clary Sage Herbs having a bitter taste and serving as stimulant tonics to the gastrointestinal membranes. Centaury, Feverfew, Hops, Horehound. Herbs with an action of the stomach and intestine, stimulating appetite and improving digestion. Dandelion, Juniper berries, Roman Chamomile. Herbs that cause inflammatory blistering of serum from the skin when applied locally: Blue Violet, Rue. Herbal agents used as diffusive stimulants, which cause increased capillary circulation, giving an external sense of warmth: Cayenne. Herbs, which have a sedative action, allaying excitement. German Chamomile. Herbs that are a sedative and lessen the action of the heart: Pleurisy root. Herbs abating the force of the heart’s action. Black Walnut. Herbs used to increase and give greater power to the heart’s action: Black Cohosh, Buchu, Comfrey, Elecampane, Flaxseed, Garlic, Hawthorn berry. Herbs that strengthen the heart’s action. Echinacea, Foxglove (digitalis), Motherwort. Herbs containing a volatile oil that stimulates intestinal peristalsis, and relieves and promotes the expulsion of gas from the gastrointestinal tract: Coriander, Cayenne, Cinnamon, Fennel, Garlic, and Yarrow. Herbs that are active purgatives to the intestinal tract, causing peristalsis, and stimulating glandular secretions producing semi-fluid bowel movements with some irritation and griping. Mountain Flax, Senna leaves, Turkey Rhubarb, Uva Ursi, Yellow Dock. Herbs that burn or destroy living tissue. Celandine juice, Lesser Celandine leaves. Herbs that promote rapid healing and restoration: Comfrey.
Terminology
PROLIFERANTS CEPHALICS
Sef’al-ic
CHOLAGOGUES
Cho’lah-gog
CICATRIZANT
Sik-at’ri-zant
CIRCULATORY STIMULANT
Ser’ku-lahto”re stim’ulant Kon’-dement
CONDIMENTS
COLORING AGENTS
CORDIALS
Kord’yal
CORRECTIVES
Ko-rec’tiv
COSMETICS
Koz-met’ik
COUNTER IRRITANTS
Kown”ter-ir’tanti
DECONGESTANT
De-kon-jestant
Herbs that are particularly healing to cerebral conditions and diseases: Catnip, Flaxseed, Garlic, Juniper berry, Lemon balm, Lily of the Valley (powerful), Red Sage, Rosemary, Stinging Nettle. Herbs used to promote the flow and discharge of bile into the duodenum by contracting the bile ducts, and produce purgation of the bowels. Dandelion, Fennel, Fumitory, Goldenseal, Parsley, Turkey Rhubarb. Herbs promoting formation of scar tissue. Cleavers. Herbs producing stimulation by causing tension on muscle fibers through nerve tissue. Herbs used to season or flavor foods: Angelica, Basil, Bay leaves, Fenugreek seed, Garlic, Lemon grass, Paprika, Rosemary, Sesame seeds, Spearmint, Thyme, Vanilla. Herbs used for coloring or dyeing purposes: Garden sage leaves: brown, Goldenseal: yellow, Calendula flowers: yellow, Yellow Dock: yellow. Herbs that combine the properties of cardiac stimulant and being warming to the stomach: Borage, Calamint, Chamomile, Costmary, Lemon grass, Rosemary, and Yarrow. Herbs used to alter and lessen the severity of the action of other herbs, especially cathartics or purgatives: Catnip, Cinnamon bark, Fennel, Flaxseed, Licorice, Peppermint, Sweet Fennel, Thyme. Herbs that are skin tonics and used to improve the complexion and beautify the skin: Comfrey, Elecampane, Elder flowers, and leaves, Witch Hazel. Herbs that cause irritation by local application in one part and therapeutically relieve pain in another more deep-seated part. Lobelia, Rue. Tends to reduce congestion or swelling.
Terminology DEMULCENTS
De-mul’sent
DENTAL ANODYNES
Den’tal an’odine
DEOBSTRUENTS
Do-ob’strooent
DEODORANTS
De-o’der-ant
DEPRESSO-MOTORS
De-press”omo’tor
DEPURANTS OR DEPURATIVES
Dep’u-ra”tiv
DERMATOLOCIGAL
Der-ma-toelojical
Cleavers, Yellow Dock
DESSICANTS
Des”I-kant
DETERGENTS
De-ter’jent
DIAPHORETICS
Di”ah-foret’ik
DIGESTANTS OR DIGESTIVES
di-jes’tant or di-jes’tiv
DISCUTIENTS
Dis-ku’sheent
DISINFECTANTS
Dis”infek’tant
DIURETICS
Di”u-ret’ik
DRASTICS
Dras’tik
Herbs that are able to dry surfaces by absorbing moisture: Marshmallow, Slippery Elm powder. Herbs that are cleansing to wounds, ulcers, or the skin itself: Goldenseal, Hyssop, Plantain, and Yellow Dock. Herbs that produce perspiration and increased elimination through the skin: Black Cohosh, Elder flowers, bark, and berries, Peppermint, Yarrow (powerful). Herbs containing enzymes and acids that aid in the digestion of food: Cinnamon bark, Echinacea, Garden Sage, Garlic, Nutmeg. Herbs that dispel or dissolve tumors and abnormal growths: Blue Violet, Chickweed, Garlic, Slippery Elm, and Witch Hazel. Herbs that eliminate or destroy the noxious properties of decaying organic matter and prevent the spread of infection” Cloves, Eucalyptus, Garlic, Myrrh, Rue, Thyme. Herbs that increase the secretion and flow of urine. Buchu, Cleavers, Cornsilk, Couchgrass, Dandelion, Uva Ursi. Herbs that are potent cathartics, producing violent peristalsis, watery stools and griping
AGENT
Herbs having mucilaginous properties that are soothing and protective internally to irritated and inflamed surfaces and tissues. Blue Cohosh, Chickweed, Comfrey root, Marshmallow, Mullein, Slippery Elm. Herbs used locally to relieve pain in teeth: Cloves, Peppermint, Rosemary, Yarrow (fresh leaf). Herbs that remove obstructions from the alimentary tract and other areas of the body. Goldenseal (glandular), Lobelia, Mandrake, Plantain, Turkey Rhubarb, Red Clover. Herbs that eliminate foul odors: Blackberry, Echinacea, Lovage, and Thyme. Herbs that diminish muscular movement by action on the spinal centers. (See also “Nerve Sedatives” and “Antispasmodics”).” Lobelia. Herbs that clean or purify the blood by promoting eliminative functions: Blue Cohosh, Burdock root, Chickweed, Echinacea, Elderflowers, Dandelion.
Terminology EMETICS
e-met’ik
EMMENAGOGUES
e-men’ah-gog
EMOLLIENTS
e-mol’e-ent
ERRHINES
Er’ine
EXANTHEMATOUS
Ek”santhem’ah-tus
EXCITO-MOTORS
Ek-si”tomo’tor Eks-pek’torant
EXPECTORANTS FEBRIFUGES
Feb’-ri-fuj
GALACTAGOGUES
Gah-lak’tahgog Gal-ak-tof’Igus He”mo-stat’ik
GALACTOPHYOUS HAEMO OR HEMOSTATICS
HEMETICS
He-met’ik
HEPATICS
He-pat’ik
HERPATICS
Her-pat’ik
pain. Castor oil. Herbs that induce vomiting and cause an evacuation of stomach contents: Black Cohosh (overdose), Cayenne (overdose), Elecampane (overdose), and Lobelia. Herbs that tone the female reproductive organs and regulate the menstrual flow: Black Cohosh, Blue Cohosh, Comfrey, German Chamomile, Plantain, Red Raspberry, Wild Yam (antiabortive), and Yarrow. Herbs that are softening, soothing, and protective to external surfaces: Chickweed, Flaxseed, Garlic, Licorice, Marshmallow, and Slippery Elm. Herbs that increase nasal secretions from the sinuses: Cayenne, Lavender essential oil. Herbs that are healing to skin eruptions, or to eruptive skin problems. Calendula, Cayenne, Cleavers, Chickweed, Elecampane, Fumitory, Red Sage, St. John’s Wort. Herbs that increase motor reflex and spinal activity: Nux Vomica. Herbs that encourage the discharge of mucus from bronchio-pulmonary passages. Horehound, Garlic, Licorice, Marshmallow. Herbs that reduce fever. Dandelion, Elder flowers, Parsley seeds, Nettle, Red Sage, Yarrow. Herbs that increase the secretion of milk. Buckwheat, Fennel, Red Raspberry. Herbs that diminish the secretion of milk. Parsley (poultice), Sage, Cranesbill. Herbs that act as internal astringents and arrest hemorrhaging or internal bleeding. Black Cohosh (lungs), Cayenne (powerful), Goldenseal (uterus, rectum), Yellow Dock (lungs). Herbs rich in Iron and Manganese that help to enrich the blood. Blackberries, Comfrey, Dandelion, Fenugreek, Red Raspberry, Watercress, Yellow Dock. Herbs used to strengthen, tone, and stimulate the secretive functions of the liver, causing an increased flow of bile. Cleavers, Dandelion, Mandrake root, Yarrow. Herbs that are healing to skin eruptions and scaling ailments. Burdock, Borage, Chickweed, Cleavers, Comfrey, Fumitory, Garlic, Myrrh, Red Clover.
Terminology HYDRAGOGUE
Hi’drah-gog
HYPERTENSIVE
Hi”perten’siv
HYPERTENSOR
Hi”perten’sor Hip-not’ik
HYPNOTICS HYPOTENSIVE
Hi”po-ten-siv
HYPOTENSORS
Hi”po-ten’sor
IMMUNO-
Immun’o’mo d’ u’la’tor
MODULATING
INSECTICIDES
In’sek-te-side
IRRITANTS
Ir-I-tant
LAXATIVES
Laks’ah-tiv
LITHOTRIPTICS
Lith”o-trip’tik
LOCAL ANESTHETICS
Lo’kal an’esthet’ik
MATURATING
Mat-u’-rat’ing
MUCILAGES
Mu”si-lij
MYDRIATICS
mid”re-at’ik
MYOTICS OR MIOTICS
mi-ot’ik
NARCOTICS
Nar-kot’ik
Cathartic herbs producing a watery stool. Celandine, Dwarf Elder root. Herbs characterized by or causing increased tension or pressure such as abnormally high blood pressure Celandine. Herbs producing increased blood pressure. Echinacea. Herbs that are powerful nervine relaxants and induce sleep. Mistletoe, Passion flower, Valerian. Herbs characterized by or causing diminished tension or pressure such as abnormally low blood pressure or a person with abnormally low blood pressure. Cleavers, Parsley. Herbs that lower blood pressure. Calendula, Cayenne. A substance that acts to alter the immune system by increasing or reducing the ability of the immune system to produce specifically modified antibodies that recognize and react with the antigen that initiated their production. Plantain. Herbs that are used to destroy insects. Black Cohosh, Rue, Tansy, Pennyroyal. Herbs that produce vascular stimulation when applied to the surface of the skin. See also “Rubefacients” “Blister” and “Counterirritants”. Elder bark (fresh), Rue. Mild cathartic or aperient. Olive oil, Licorice, Mountain Flax. Herbs that dissolve or expel gravel or stones from the urinary passages. Buchu, Cleavers. Herbs that produce loss of sensation when applied directly to the surface. Caraway oil, Clove oil, Eucalyptol, Thymol. Herbs that help to bring tumors, boils and ulcers to a head. Burdock root, Chickweed, Comfrey. Herbs having mucilaginous properties. Chickweed, Comfrey, Couchgrass, Marshmallow, Slippery Elm. Herbs that cause dilation of the pupil of the eye. Belladonna. Herbs that cause contraction of the pupil of the eye. Jaborandi. Herbs that are powerful anodyne-hypnotic. Mullein, Passion flower, Valerian.
Terminology NAUSEANTS
Naw’se-ant
Herbs that produce nausea. Vervain.
NEPHRITICS
Ne-frit’ik
NERVINES
Ner’vine
NERVINE TONICS
Ner’vine ton’ik Nu’tri-tiv
OPTHALMICS
Op-thal’mik
OREXIGENICS
o-rek’si-jen’ik
OXYTOCICS
Ok”se-to-‘sik
PARASITICIDES
Par”ah-sit’Iside
PARTURIENTS
Par-tu’re-ent
PECTORALS
Pek’to-ral
PERISTALTICS
Per”e-stal’tik
PROTECTIVES
Pro-tek’tiv
PUNGENTS
Pun’jent
PURGATIVE
Pur’gah-tiv
REFRIGERANTS
Re-frij’er-ant
RELAXANT
Re-lak’sant
Herbs that have a beneficial healing influence on the kidneys. Cayenne, Cornsilk, Couchgrass, Uva Ursi. Herbs that tone and heal the nerves. Lady’s Slipper, Lobelia, Valerian. Herbs that increase the tone of the nervous system. Skullcap. Herbs that nourish and build the body. Comfrey, Mullein, Slippery Elm, Sage, Sweet Basil, Watercress. Herbs that are healing to disorders of the eyes. Chickweed, Cornflower, Dandelion, Eyebright, Violet. Herbs which increase or stimulate the appetite. More powerful than an appetizer. Herbs that promote labor by stimulating contractions. Herbs that destroy animal and vegetable parasites within the body. Blackberry, Cloves, Rue. Herbs that stimulate uterine contractions, which induce and assist labor. Squaw Vine, Red Raspberry. Herbs that are healing to complaints of the lungs. Borage, Chickweed, Comfrey, Goldenseal, Pleurisy root, Yarrow. Herbs that stimulate and increase peristalsis or muscular contraction. Turkey Rhubarb. Herbs that serve as protective coverings to inflamed surface when applied locally. Castor oil, Flaxseed, Marshmallow, Olive oil. Herbs that cause a sharp prickling sensation. Cayenne, Coriander, Rue, Self-Heal. Cathartic herb causing evacuation from the bowels. Aloe, Mandrake, Mountain Flax, Senna. Herbs that have cooling properties, lower body temperatures, and relieve thirst. Borage, Burnet, Chickweed, Cleavers, Elderflowers, Strawberries. Herbs that relieve and lessen tension. Tansy.
RESPIRATORY STIMULANT
Re-spir’ah-tore stim’u-lant
Herbs specifically increasing respiratory movement. Lobelia.
RESOLVENTS
Re-zol’vent
Herbs that help disperse inflammation. Chickweed, Horehound, Calendula flowers.
NUTRITIVES
Terminology RUBEFACIENTS
Roo”befa’shent
SECRETOMOTOR
Se-kre”to mo’tor Sed’ah-tiv
SEDATIVES SIALAGOGUES
Si-al’o-gog
SPASMOLYTIC
Spaz”molit’ik So”po-rif-ik
SOPORIFICS STERNUTATORIES
Sternu’tah’tor”e
STIMULANTS
Stim’u-lant
STOMACHICS
Sto-mak’ik
STYPTICS
Stip’tik
SUDORIFICS
Su”dor-if’ik
TAENIFUGES, TAENICIDES TONICS
Ton’ik
UTERINE STIMULANT
U’ter-in stim’u-lant
VASODILATOR
Vas”o-dilat’or Ver-mi’fuge
VERMIFUGE
Herbs that stimulate capillary dilation and cause skin redness when applied locally. They draw blood from deeper tissues and organs, relieving congestion and inflammation. Garlic, Rue, Stinging Nettle. Herbs that excite or stimulate secretions within the nervous system. Thyme. Herbs that calm and tranquilize the nerves. Chamomile, Passion flower, Skullcap, Valerian. Herbs that promote the secretion and flow of saliva. Cayenne, Echinacea, Licorice. Herbs that check spasms. Antispasmodic. Herbs that induce a relaxing sleep. Catnip, Passion flower, Valerian. Herbs that irritate the mucous membranes in the nasal passages and cause sneezing. Cayenne. Herbs that increase functional activity and energy in the body. Blue Cohosh, Dandelion, Horseradish, Lobelia. Herbs that stimulate and tone the stomach. Lovage, Dandelion, Rue, Turkey Rhubarb. Herbs that stop local bleeding and hemorrhaging when applied externally. Blackberry, Comfrey, Plantain, Self-Heal, Stinging Nettle, Witch Hazel. Herbs that stimulate the sudoriferous glands and increase perspiration. Cayenne, Garlic, Sage. Herbs that expel (fuges) or kill (cides) tapeworms in the intestinal tract. Pumpkin seeds, Santonica. Herbs that stimulate, energize, and strengthen the body. Chicory, Comfrey, Dandelion, Sarsaparilla, Thyme, Yarrow. Herbs that stimulate uterine contractions or menstruation. Rue. Herbs causing dilation of the blood vessels, particularly the arterioles. Echinacea. Herbs with the power to expel worms. Aloe, Blue Cohosh, Hyssop, Mandrake, Tansy, Wormwood.
Terminology VULNERARIES
Vul’ner-er”e
Herbs that promote healing of fresh cuts or wounds. Aloe, Buchu, Chickweed, Cleavers, Comfrey, Common Daisy leaves, Calendula flowers, Elecampane, Evening Primrose, Hollyhock, Horehound, Hyssop, Marshmallow, Mullein, Parsley, St. John’s Wort, Sage, Tansy, Thyme.
Index Antipruritic, 3 Antirheumatics, 3 Antiscorbutics, 4 Antiscrofulus, 4 Antiseptics, 4 Antispasmodic, 11 Antispasmodics, 4, 7 Antisyphilitics, 4 Antitussive, 4 Antivenomous, 4 Antiviral, 4 Antizymotics, 4 aperient, 9 Aperients, 4 Aperitive, 4 Aphrodisiac, 4 appetite, 4, 10 Apple, 1 Aromatics, 4 arrest discharges, 4 arthritic conditions, 2 as stimulant tonics, 5 asthma, 2 Astringents, 4, 8 Avocado, 5 bacteria, 2, 5 bacterial organisms, 4 Bactericide, 5 Bacteriostatic, 5 Balsamic, 5 Barberry, 4 Barley, 2 Basil, 4, 6 Bay leaves, 6 Belladonna, 9 bile, 8 bilious, 2 Bitter, 5 Bitter Tonic, 5 Black Cohosh, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9 Black Walnut, 5 Blackberries, 8 Blackberry, 2, 3, 7, 10, 11 bleeding, 11 Blister, 5, 9 blistering, 5 blood, 1, 2, 7, 8 blood pressure, 9
abnormal growths, 7 Abortifacient, 1 abortive tendencies, 2 Absorben, 1 action of other herbs, 6 active purgatives, 5 Adjuvant, 1 allergies, 2 Aloe, 10, 11, 12 Alteratives, 1 Analgesic, 1 Anaphrodisiacs, 1 Anesthetic, 1 Angelica, 2, 6 Aniseed, 2 Anodyne, 1 anodyne-hypnotic, 9 Anodynes, 1 Antacids, 1 Anthelmintics, 2 Antiabortives, 2 Antiallergic, 2 Antiarthritics, 2 Antiasthmatics, 2 Antibacterial, 2 Antibilious, 2 Antibiotic, 2 Anticatarrhal, 2 Anticoagulant, 2 Anticonvulsive, 2 Antidepressive, 2 Antidiabetic, 2 Antidiarrheal, 2 Antiemetics, 2 Antiepileptic, 2 Antifungal, 3 Antihydropics, 3 Anti-inflammatory, 3 Antilithics, 3 Antimalarial, 3 Antimicrobial, 3 Antimycotics, 3 Antineoplastics, 3 Antineuralgic, 3 Antioxidant, 3 Antiperiodics, 3 Antiphlogistics, 3
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Blue Cohosh, 3, 7, 8, 11 Blue Violet, 5, 7 body fluids, 3 boils, 9 Borage, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 bowels, 10 bronchio-pulmonary passages, 8 Buchu, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12 Buckwheat, 8 Burdock, 1, 2, 3, 4, 8 Burdock leaves, 4 Burdock root, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9 burn or destroy living tissue, 5 Burnet, 10 Calamint, 4, 6 Calcefacients, 5 calculi, 3 Calendula, 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 12 Calendula flowers: yellow, 6 calm, 11 Calmative, 5 capillary dilation, 11 caraway, 1 Caraway oil, 9 Cardiac Depressant, 5 Cardiac Sedative, 5 cardiac stimulant, 6 Cardiac Stimulants, 5 Cardiac Tonic, 5 Carminatives, 5 Castor oil, 7, 10 catarrhal conditions, 2 cathartic, 9 Cathartic herb, 10 Cathartic herbs, 9 Cathartics, 5, 6, 7 Catnip, 1, 4, 6, 11 Caustics, 5 Cayenne, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11 Celandine, 2, 9 Celandine juice, 5 Celery, 1 Cell Proliferants, 5 Centaury, 3, 5 Cephalics, 6 cerebral conditions and diseases, 6 Chamomile, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 11 Chickweed, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12 Chicory, 11 Cholagogues, 6 Cicatrizant, 6 Cinnamon, 5
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Cinnamon bark, 6, 7 circulation, 5 Circulatory Stimulant, 6 Clary Sage, 5 cleansing, 7 Cleavers, 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12 Clove oil, 9 Cloves, 1, 2, 7, 10 Coloring Agents, 6 coloring or dyeing purposes, 6 Coltsfoot, 2 Comfrey, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 Comfrey root, 4, 7 Common Daisy leaves, 12 complexion, 6 Condiments, 6 congestion, 6, 11 contract tissues, 4 contraction of the pupil, 9 contractions, 10, 11 convulsions, 2 cooling properties, 10 Cordials, 6 Coriander, 5, 10 Cornflower, 10 Cornsilk, 7, 10 Correctives, 6 Cosmetics, 6 Costmary, 6 Couchgrass, 3, 7, 9, 10 cough, 4 Counter Irritants, 6 Counter-irritants, 9 Cramp Bark, 2, 4 Crampbark, 2 Cranesbill, 4, 8 Dandelion, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11 Decongestant, 6 Demulcents, 7 Dental Anodynes, 7 Deobstruents, 7 Deodorants, 7 depression, 2 Depresso-motors, 7 Depurants, 7 Depuratives, 7 Dessicants, 7 Detergents, 7 diabetes, 2 Diaphoretics, 7 diarrhea, 2 diffusive stimulants, 5
Digestants, 7 digestion, 5, 7 Digestives, 7 dilation of the blood vessels, 11 dilation of the pupil, 9 Discutients, 7 Disinfectants, 7 Diuretics, 7 Drastics, 7 dropsy, 3 Dwarf Elder root, 9 Echinacea, 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11 Elder bark, 9 Elder bark, leaves, and berries, 4 Elder flowers, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8 Elder flowers and leaves, 3 Elderflowers, 1, 7, 10 Elecampane, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 12 eliminative organs, 1 Emetics, 8 Emmenagogues, 8 Emollients, 8 energize, 11 energy, 11 epilepsy, 2 Errhines, 8 Eucalyptol, 9 Eucalyptus, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 Eucalyptus essential oil, 2 evacuants, 4 Evening Primrose, 12 Exanthematous, 8 Excito-Motors, 8 excretory passages, 3 Expectorants, 8 Eyebright, 10 eyes, 10 Febrifuges, 8 female reproductive organs, 8 Fennel, 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8 Fenugreek, 8 Fenugreek seed, 6 fever, 8 Feverfew, 5 fevers, 3 Flaxseed, 5, 6, 8, 10 flow and discharge of bile, 6 formation of scar tissue, 6 foul odors, 7 Foxglove, 5 Fumitory, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 fungal growth, 3
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fungi, 3 Galactagogues, 8 Galactophyous, 8 Garden, 1 Garden Sage, 7 Garden sage leaves: brown,, 6 garlic, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11 gastrointestinal membranes, 5 gastrointestinal mucus membrane, 4 gastrointestinal tract, 5 German Chamomile, 2, 3, 5, 8 Ginger, 1 Gingko, 3 Goldenseal, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 10 Goldenseal: yellow, 6 Haemo, 8 Hawthorn berry., 5 heart, 5 heart’s action, 5 Hemetics, 8 hemorrhaging, 8, 11 Hemostatics, 8 Hepatics, 8 Herpatics, 8 high blood pressure, 9 Hollyhock, 12 Hops, 1, 2, 4, 5 Horehound, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12 Horseradish, 11 Hydragogue, 9 Hypertensive, 9 Hypertensor, 9 Hypnotics, 9 Hypotensive, 9 Hypotensors, 9 Hyssop, 2, 3, 4, 7, 11, 12 infection, 7 inflamed, 7 inflamed parts, 5 inflamed surface, 10 inflammation, 1, 3, 10, 11 Insecticides, 9 insects, 9 internal bleeding, 8 intestinal peristalsis, 5 intestinal tract, 1, 5 intestinal worms, 2 Iron, 8 Irritants, 9 irritated, 7 irritation, 6 Jaborandi, 9
jaundice, 2 Juniper berries, 5 Juniper Berry, 3, 6 kidney, 10 labor, 10 Lady’s Slipper, 10 Lavender, 2 Lavender essential oil, 8 Laxatives, 4, 9 Lemon balm, 6 Lemon grass, 6 Lesser Celandine leaves, 5 Licorice, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11 Lily of the Valley, 6 Lithotriptics, 9 liver, 8 Lobelia, 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11 Local anesthetic, 1 Local Anesthetics, 9 loss of sensation, 9 Lovage, 4, 7, 11 low blood pressure, 9 lungs, 10 lymphatic glands, 4 malaria, 3 malarial type fevers and chills, 3 Mandrake, 7, 10, 11 Mandrake root, 8 Manganese, 8 Manuka essential oil, 2, 4 Marjoram, 4 Marshmallow, 2, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12 Maturating, 9 menstrual flow, 8 menstruation, 11 microorganisms, 3 Miotics, 9 Mistletoe, 9 Motherwort, 2, 5 motor reflex, 8 Mountain Flax, 5, 9, 10 Mouse Ear Hawkweed, 2 Mucilages, 9 mucilaginous properties, 7, 9 mucous membranes, 11 Mullein, 1, 2, 4, 7, 9, 10, 12 muscular contraction, 10 muscular contractions, 4 muscular movement, 7 Mustard, 1 Mydriatics, 9 Myotics, 9
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Myrrh, 4, 7, 8 Narcotics, 9 nasal secretions, 8 nasturtium, 2 nausea, 2, 10 Nauseants, 10 Nephritics, 10 Nerve Sedatives, 7 nerves, 10, 11 nervine relaxants, 9 Nervine Tonics, 10 Nervines, 10 nervous irritability, 4 nervous system, 10, 11 Nettle, 8 neuralgia, 3 nourish, 10 Nutmeg, 7 Nutritives, 10 Nux Vomica, 8 Olive oil, 9, 10 Opthalmics, 10 Orexigenics, 10 oxidation, 3 Oxytocics, 10 pain, 1, 7 pain in teeth, 7 Paprika, 6 parasites, 10 Parasiticides, 10 Parsley, 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12 Parsley juice, 3 Parsley seeds, 8 Parturients, 10 Passion flower, 9, 11 Passionflower, 1 Peach leaves, 2 Pectorals, 10 Pennyroyal, 1, 9 Peppermint, 1, 2, 6, 7 peristalsis, 5, 10 Peristaltics, 10 Periwinkle, 3 perspiration, 7, 11 Plantain, 2, 4, 7, 8, 11 Pleurisy root, 5, 10 protective, 7, 8 Protectives, 10 Pumpkin seeds, 2, 11 Pungents, 10 Purgative, 10 purgatives, 6
Squaw Vine, 10 St. John’s Wort, 2, 4, 8, 12 Sternutatories, 11 Stimulants, 11 stimulate, 8, 11 stimulating appetite, 5 stimulating glandular secretions, 5 stimulation, 6 Stinging Nettle, 1, 3, 6, 11 stomach, 1, 8, 11 Stomachics, 11 Strawberries, 10 strengthen, 8 Styptics, 11 sudoriferous glands, 11 Sudorifics, 11 Sweet Basil, 2, 10 Sweet Cicely, 4 Sweet Fennel, 6 swelling, 3, 6 syphilis, 4 Taenicides, 11 Taenifuges, 11 Tansy, 9, 10, 11, 12 tapeworms, 11 tension, 10 thirst, 10 Thyme, 2, 4, 6, 7, 11, 12 Thymol, 9 tissues, 7 Tomato, 1 tone, 8 Tonics, 11 tranquilize, 11 tumors, 3, 7, 9 Turkey Rhubarb, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11 ulcers, 7, 9 urinary passages, 9 urine, 7 Uterine Stimulant, 11 Uva Ursi, 3, 5, 7, 10 Valerian, 1, 4, 9, 10, 11 Vanilla, 6 vascular stimulation, 9 Vasodilator, 11 venereal ailments, 4 Vermifuge, 11 Vervain, 10 violent peristalsis, 7 Violet, 10 viruses, 4 vomiting, 2, 8
putrefaction, 4 rapid healing, 5 Red Clover, 3, 4, 7, 8 Red Raspberry, 3, 4, 8, 10 Red Sage, 6, 8 Refrigerants, 10 Relaxant, 10 relieve pain, 6 remove obstructions, 7 Resolvents, 10 respiratory movement, 10 Respiratory Stimulant, 10 restoration, 5 rheumatism, 3 Roman Chamomile, 2, 5 Rosemary, 3, 6, 7 Rubefacients, 9, 11 Rue, 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11 Sage, 1, 8, 10, 11, 12 saliva, 11 Santonica, 11 Sarsaparilla, 11 scurvy, 4 season or flavor foods, 6 secretion of milk, 8 Secretomotor, 11 sedative action, 5 Sedatives, 11 Self-Heal, 4, 10, 11 Senna, 10 Senna leaves,, 5 Senna pods, 4 Sesame seeds, 6 sexual functions, 1 sexual impulses, 4 sharp prickling sensation, 10 Shepherds’ Purse, 3, 4 Sialagogues, 11 sinuses, 8 skin, 7, 8, 9, 11 skin tonics, 6 Skullcap, 1, 2, 4, 10, 11 sleep, 9, 11 Slippery Elm, 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 10 Slippery Elm., 3 sneezing, 11 soothing, 7, 8 Soporifics, 11 Spasmolytic, 11 spasms, 4, 11 Spearmint, 2, 4, 6 spinal activity, 8
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Vulneraries, 12 warming to the stomach, 6 Watercress, 3, 8, 10 watery stool, 9 watery stools, 7 Wild Yam, 8 Witch Hazel, 2, 4, 6, 7, 11
worms, 11 Wormwood, 1, 2, 11 wounds, 7, 12 Yarrow, 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11 Yellow Dock, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8 Yellow Dock: yellow, 6
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