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Herbs and their Uses
Disclaimer: The following is
provided for information only, with no guarantee of accuracy; it is not
intended as a substitute for medical advice, nor as a claim for the
effectiveness of herbal therapy. Please remember that the use of herbs for
medicinal treatment of disease can have adverse affects and even be very
harmful. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant
medicinally whether it be for external use or consumption of herbal extracts.
Parts used: Leaves, flowers, stems
Common throughout wooded regions, this erect-stemmed plant is a member of the rose family. It has tiny yellow flowers on a long slender spike. Agrimony contains tannin, the vegetable substance required to convert animal hide into leather. It is said to symbolize gratitude and thankfulness, and is an herb that can turn back jinxes that have already been made. Both the flowers and leaves give off a faint lemony scent when crushed. After the flowers fade they leave tiny clinging "burrs" which will stick to your clothing if you brush against it. Agrimony is a bitter, mildly astringent, diuretic herb that may help control bleeding, improve liver and gall bladder functions, and have anti-inflammatory effects. Gargle tea of Agrimony for inflammation of the throat and mouth. A compound made by the infusion of the dried leaves can be used as a purifier of the blood. It can be applied as an ointment on blemishes, ulcers and wounds as well. Agrimony tea was used as a beverage in Europe where it was highly valued for its healthy properties.
Parts used: Leaves, flowers, stems Also called lucerne, Alfalfa is a very important hay and pasture plant. Its name is said to mean father of all foods. It has long been a staple forage plant. Its flowers are a showy blue. It is a member of the pea family, and the seeds taste somewhat like the pea. Alfalfa is a very nutritious food and a good source of protein. The seed is commonly used as sprouts and can be mixed with cereal flours for making a nutritional bread. The plant contains saponin-like substance and eating large quantities of the leaves may cause the breakdown of red blood cells. An excellent source of vitamins and minerals, Alfalfa is a legume that has a long history of dietary and medicinal uses. A small number of preliminary studies report that alfalfa supplements may lower blood levels of cholesterol and glucose. It is also considered to be a diuretic, estrogenic, stimulant, and tonic, and said to aid peptic ulcers, as well as urinary and bowel problems. Use as a tea for digestive disorders, gastric ulcers, and to improve appetite and gain weight. But because it also contains menstruation promoting chemicals, the seeds should not be eaten by pregnant women. It is used to encourage the clotting of blood, is valuable in the treatment of jaundice. Parts used: Leaves, berries The bearberry is an evergreen that hugs the ground in large mats. It has bright-red berries that are often half-hidden by the small leathery leaves. The berries are high in vitamin C and were used by many native tribes to fight scurvy. They were also used in the making of pemmican. The leaves were often dried in the heat of the sun or in a mud oven, then crumbled and usually mixed tobacco for smoking. Seers often blend equal parts bearberry, myrrh, damiana, and tobacco to increase their psychic powers. Use as a tea for the treatment of renal and bladder problems. When used correctly in different herbal preparations, the bearberry herb can prove to be an effective diuretic and may be used as a general urinary antiseptic. It can also be used for stones or ulcerations in the kidneys or bladder or to alleviate pain and discomfort in the case of acute urinary tract infection. The tea may change the colour of the urine, but this is quite normal and occurs because it is reducing the accumulation of uric acid in the system.
Parts used: Dried bark of root stem, sap,
leaves. Virtually every part of the birch tree has been used at one time or another. The rod has been feared by the naughty child since Romans first used a bundle of birch twigs as a symbol of authority two thousand years ago. The birch is considered a national tree of Russia, where it was once worshipped as a goddess during the Green Week in early June. The chaga mushroom is an adaptogen that grows on white birch trees, extracting the birch constituents and is used to treat cancer. The bark of all birches is characteristically marked with long horizontal lenticels, and often separates into thin papery plates, especially upon the paper birch. It is practically imperishable, due to the resinous oil which it contains. Birch-resin derived from the bark of the black-birch is used like true camphor to treat cholera, vomiting and headache. The aromatic barks have been used for tea, birch-beer and wine, which have been employed as remedies in coughs, colds and fevers, and were highly esteemed as beverages. The dried leaves were used in infusion for gout and rheumatism. An infusion of the bark has been used to treat stomach problems and difficult urination. Birch has been extensively used to promote hair growth. The American Indians handed on their knowledge about the attributes of Birch as a hair restorer, growth stimulant, conditioner and scalp cleanser. It makes a refreshing drink and can also be concentrated into a syrup. Harvest in early spring, before the leaves unfurl. The trunk is tapped by drilling a hole about 6mm wide and about 4cm deep. The sap flows best on warm sunny days following a hard frost.
Parts used: Roots, flowers, leaves Burdock is a biennial herb with prickly seeds and is a common plant. First year plants have large leaves that lay flat on the ground. In the second year plants produce a stem with pink, white or purple flowers, then ripen into prickly balls approximately 1 inch diameter. The prickly heads of these plants are noted for easily catching on to pet fur and clothing (being the inspiration for Velcro). Burdock is used for cleansing, uncrossing, and protection. Dried burdock root can be mixed with rosemary and lemon grass to use as a cleansing floor sweep. It is said that steeping the root in olive oil and using it as a genital rub will restore male virility. Burdock is one of the foremost detoxifying herbs in both Chinese and Western herbal medicine. It is used to treat conditions caused by an 'overload' of toxins, such as throat and other infections, boils, rashes and other skin problems. The root is thought to be particularly good at helping to eliminate heavy metals from the body The decoction of burdock is considered a good blood purifier. It cleanses and eliminates impurities from the blood very quickly. It is almost always included in all remedies pertaining to skin disorders. Burdock leaves may be helpful as a skin wash for acne, poison ivy, and poison oak. They can also be used to speed healing time in natural burn treatment. Immature flower stalks may also be harvested in late spring, before flowers appear; the taste resembles that of artichoke, to which the burdock is related.
Parts used: Leaves, flower, stem A perennial plant in the Aster family, calendulas have a spicy aroma and the petals are considered edible. They are often used to add color to salads, and the extract is commonly added to chicken feed to produce darker egg yolks. Calendula is considered to be a Lucky herb. It is said that the flowers have been used by people throughout history to help bring luck in money matters. Gamblers, race track bettors, and lottery players often place a bag filled with calendula flowers under their pillow because it is said that they cause dreams of winning numbers and names. Plant studies have suggested that calendula extracts have anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. Calendula tincture is used topically to treat acne, reducing inflammation, controlling bleeding and soothing irritated tissue. Calendula has been used traditionally for abdominal cramps and constipation. It has antiseptic and antibacterial properties and is useful in digestive remedies because it stimulates the flow of bile, which is the substance necessary for proper digestion. Its anti-inflammatory properties prevent inflammation and promote healing in gastritis, enteritis and ulcers of the stomach. As a blood cleanser it is a great help in infectious hepatitis. Calendula is a most remarkable healing agent applied locally. It is especially useful for open wounds that will not heal, ulcers, etc., and promotes rapid healing.
Parts used: seeds, root, leaves, stem The
expressed juice of the plant, particularly the fleshy petioles, is the most
effective form of medicine. Celery is commonly used for arthritic and rheumatic
disorders as well as mental depression, gout, neuralgia and nervousness. A decoction of the seeds can be used for
bronchitis, rheumatism, and as a sedative for nervousness. A yellowish oil
extracted from the root can restore sexual potency impaired by illness. Celery also promotes
the onset of menstruation; take it only in moderate amounts during pregnancy.
As a salad vegetable or made into a tea, celery can be helpful also in clearing
up skin problems.
Parts used: Flowers, leaves, stem Chamomile
is a slightly bitter herb that helps soothe nerves, increase mental awareness,
settle the stomach and promote digestion. It helps with fevers, colds,
headaches, insomnia, and rheumatism. As an herbal infusion (or tea), this is an excellent
herb for relaxation and some tension reduction. It is also good for easing
colic and teething pains in infants. It is helpful in battling flatulence, diarrhea,
stomach troubles, and gastritis, menstrual disorders, insomnia, and
toothaches. An ointment is made of the
flowers and used for the treatment of wounds.
Parts used: Seeds, leaves The herb,
Coriandrum sativum, gives two distinctly different flavors. The foliage is
cilantro, a parsley-like garnish. The
dried seeds are coriander, an aromatic spice. Coriander essential oil has the properties
of being analgesic, a stimulant, anti-bacterial, anti-infectious and sedating. It also improves the flavor of the other
medicinal preparations. It can be
applied externally for rheumatism and painful joints. It can be used to eliminate toxins, stimulate
circulation, and ease migraine headaches.
Parts used: Flower, leaves, root Cowslip Wine made from the flowers is an excellent
sedative. It has a gentle relaxing effect on the nervous system that allows
the body to shut down of its own choosing because the anxiety has been
removed. The herb is also used to counter
convulsions, spasms, restlessness and insomnia. Cowslip is said to strengthen the
heart and nerves, and lesson the pain of migraines and nervous headaches. A decoction or tincture of the root can be
used for bronchitis and whooping cough and an ointment of the flowers can be
used to relieve sunburn.
Parts used: Leaves, flower, stem, root
Dandelion
can be used for arthritis, gout, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, edema
and abnormal blood sugar levels. It is indicated for many female problems and
skin diseases due to its action on the liver. The whole plant, especially the
root, is beneficial to the liver but is slow in producing the desired action. While
influencing the liver, dandelion purifies the blood thereby assisting with
conditions such as acne, itchy, scaly rashes, and eczema. Leaves are rich in potassium. They are used
as an effective diuretic, often used for fluid retention, as well as being a
useful digestive tonic. Physical contact with
the fresh latex in dandelions can cause contact dermatitis.
Parts used: The Root Echinacea
boosts the immune system and is used in treating colds and flu and fighting
infections. It has also been used to speed wound healing, and reduce
inflammation. For hundreds of years, the
Plains Indians used it as an antiseptic, an analgesic, and to treat poisonous
insect and snakebites, toothaches, sore throat, wounds and communicable
diseases such as mumps, smallpox, and measles. It is successful in treating
wounds, abscesses, psoriasis, whooping cough and ear infections, viral
infections, bacterial infections, and reducing inflammation.
Parts used: Leaves, flowers, stem Epilobium
is used to treat inflammation of the prostate gland, bladder and kidney
disorders. For women
suffering from cystitis, kidney and bladder problems a daily dose is very
effective for them as it is for men with prostate disorders. The leaves
in poultice are a valuable remedy for ulcers. It has been recommended for its
antispasmodic properties in the treatment of whooping cough, hiccough and
Parts used: The Herb It
promotes clear vision and its antiseptic properties fight eye infections.
It helps prevent conjunctivitis, cataract formation, glaucoma, and weak
eyesight. It prevents secretion of fluids and relieves discomfort from
eyestrain. It is good for allergies, itchy and/or watery eyes, and runny
nose. Euphrasia combats hay fever and stimulates the liver to cleanse the
blood. A note of warning. If you intend to bathe eyes with eyebright,
remember the solution must be very weak and should be combined with chamomile,
valerian, ladys mantle, and golden seal. It can also be used for problems of
the mucous membranes. Its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties make it
relevant in many conditions.
Parts used: The fruit, seeds Fennels properties help to counter flatulence, acidic
stomachs, cramps, colic and spasms. For
colic in infants and small babies, fennel is an excellent remedy. Because fennel is also suitable for producing
milk in nursing mothers, it can be fed to breast-fed infants through their
mothers. Like many other aromatic herbs, Fennel appears to relax the smooth
muscle lining of the digestive tract to help expel gas. European research shows
it also kills some bacteria, lending support to another of its traditional
uses-to treat diarrhea.
Parts used: The Herb Feverfew is
given for migraine headaches, arthritis, painful menstruation, and after birth
to help restore the womb. This herb is stimulating and is good for many disorders
common to females. It promotes the passage of urine, and removes obstructions
in those parts. It is also recommended for allaying nausea and vomiting,
relieving the inflammation and pain of arthritis, promoting restful sleep,
improving digestion and relieving asthmatic attacks. It is a superior tonic for
the stomach, relieving colic, flatulence, and general indigestion.
Parts used: The Bulb
Garlic
stimulates the activity of the digestive organs and therefore relieves various
problems associated with poor digestion. It also helps in reducing blood
cholesterol levels. It is the most popular over-the-counter remedy available
today. Good for the treatment of infections, especially respiratory infections
(bronchitis, colds, influenza; pneumonia) hypertension, high cholesterol,
peripheral vascular disease diabetes, and
external infections such as fungal infections, ear infections, vaginal
candidiasis, respiratory infections (topically).
Parts used: Rootstock, rhizome This is a
very warming herb, so be careful of using it if you have sensitivity to
"heat" or "flushing". It is a good circulatory stimulator,
and ideal for colds and chills. It is often used to treat nausea and vomiting
as a result of air or car sickness. Ginger
may reduce the severity and length of time that cancer patients feel nauseous
after chemotherapy. Ginger has been studied as a possible treatment for
osteoarthritis. Ginger has also been suggested as a
possible weight loss aid.
Parts used: Fruits, seeds, leaves
The leaves
are good for varicose veins, hemorrhoids and leg ulcers. The seeds are
considered to act on the lungs and kidneys, and are traditionally used for
asthmatic disorders and coughs. They also have a tonic effect on the urinary
system, so are used for incontinence and excessive urination. Ginkgo leaf
extract has been used to treat a variety of ailments and conditions, including
asthma, bronchitis, fatigue, and tinnitus (ringing or roaring sounds in the
ears). People use ginkgo leaf extracts hoping to improve memory; to treat or help
prevent Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia; sexual dysfunction,
and multiple sclerosis.
Parts used: The Root Goldenseal
is another in the long list of powerful herbs introduced to the world by the
American Indians who used it as a tonic, stomachic and for sore eyes and ulcers
as well as squeezing the yellow dye from the plant to colour their clothes and
weapons. Goldenseal has gained a
reputation as a herbal antibiotic and immune system enhancer. Traditionally it
was used for treatment of inflammatory conditions of the mucus membranes,
especially those of the digestive system. Its uses include treatment of peptic
ulcers, gastritis, dyspepsia and colitis. It has proven its value in cases of
diarrhea, hemorrhoids and habitual constipation. It is said to stimulate
appetite and generally have a toning effect on the whole body.
Parts used: The herb
Since ancient
Egypt, horehound has been used as an expectorant. Native American and
Australian Aboriginal medicines have traditionally used horehound to treat
respiratory conditions. Studies suggest that horehound may lower blood sugar
levels. Horehound has been used for diabetes in some countries as well. Horehound is used for the treatment of
heartburn and lack of appetite. It may also lower cholesterol and triglyceride
blood levels. Because it is so bitter horehound is frequently mixed with honey
to make it more palatable. External
application of horehound is said to help with various skin diseases.
Parts used: Cornsilk Corn can be
used for a variety of problems, including prostate disorders, a diuretic, as
well as for bedwetting and obesity. It
can aid in reducing stone formation in kidneys and help with bladder and kidney
problems. It also has been known to counter edema, fluid in the heart and
acidosis. It can be employed to combat
chronic or acute cystitis, nephritis, gout and rheumatism.
Parts used: Leaves, flower, stem Its tannins
are the reason for its styptic and stringent effect and it is especially
effective on the uterine wall. Lady's Mantle helps reduce pains
associated with periods as well as excessive bleeding. It also helps in easing
the changes of menopause. Its astringency helps with the treatment of diarrhea
and as a mouthwash for sores and ulcers and as a gargle for laryngitis. Any
skin troubles such as inflamed wounds or rashes should also be bathed with a
liquid from this herb. It battles vomiting and eases bruises and ruptures.
Parts used: Flowers This herb is
highly regarded for its fragrance in soap, and potpourris, but lavender is also
an important medicinal herb. The oil from the flower can be used to protect
cloths and stored linens from moths. Oil distilled from the flower has
applications as a stimulant, tonic, headache relief, and for relief of
intestinal gas. It is also used to quiet coughs and disinfect wounds. Applied
as a compress, lavender oil provides relief from neuralgic pains, rheumatism,
sprains, and sore joints. Lavender can be used for flatulence, migraines, fainting and dizziness. It has
a long history of being used as an antiseptic. A decoction of the leaves is a
useful remedy for stomach problems, nausea and vomiting.
Parts used: Leaves, flower, stem Lemon
balm has been used for insomnia, nervousness, and for stomach problems. It contains chemicals that fight
bacterial infection as well as an anaesthetic to help relieve external pain.
Balm is an excellent calming herb ideal for nervous people, and is used in a
cream to counter cold sores and genital herpes. As a natural sedative it
relieves spasms in the digestive tract, abdominal cramps, dyspepsia, flatulence
and colic. Used for migraines, hysteria,
melancholia, tension, depression and stress related reactions.
Parts used: The root It acts as a
very gentle laxative and lowers stomach acid levels thereby relieving
heartburn. Licorice is soothing to
irritated membranes, an expectorant, and stimulates mucous secretions of the
trachea. It is said to have anti-inflammatory effects, a protective effect on
the liver against toxic substances and anti-allergic activity. One of the
better known folk uses of licorice in Europe has been in the treatment of
gastric ulcers. It is a widely used remedy for coughs with its soothing,
expectorant and anti-spasmodic properties.
It can be taken for coughs, hoarseness, mucous congestion and chest
complaints and it is very effective in helping to reduce fevers. Herbalists
also tend to add Licorice to a mixture of tinctures to help combat some other
bitterness from the other ingredients.
Parts used: The herb Mentha piperita is one of the most popular tonic herbs known. It is used as a flavoring agent. Peppermint has been a popular home remedy for digestive ailments. It can be taken for poor digestion, heartburn, nausea, and diarrhea. It also makes a marvellous drink for sufferers of a clogged head as a result of a cold or flu. Breathing becomes easier and respiratory passages are cleared. Peppermint and its main active agent, menthol, are effective decongestants. As menthol thins mucus, it acts as a good expectorant. It is also soothing and calming for sore throats and dry coughs. Peppermint, when applied topically has a soothing and cooling effect on skin irritations.
Parts used:
Leaves and Flower
Parts used: The Leaves Salvia
officinalis has been used in herbal medicine for many centuries. It can be used
to balance mood swings and improve cognitive performance. An extract of the
plant Salvia officinalis is reported to have antibiotic, anti-hypertensive,
anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and astringent properties. It has wonderful
antiseptic properties for use with sore throats, laryngitis, tonsillitis, and
ulceration of the mouth as a warm gargle. It may also lower blood sugar. Studies have
shown that powdered sage or sage tea helped to prevent blood clots from
forming, making it useful in the treatment of general coronary pains. Some
people have used a sage infusion, cooled and strained to relieve intense
itching of the skin.
Parts used: The herb Thyme is a commonly used domestic
remedy, used especially for its antiseptic properties and its beneficial effect
on the digestive system. Thyme was used as an incense in religious ceremonies
and as a funeral herb. It was often placed in the coffin or planted on a grave
to give rest to a departed soul. The dried flowers are also used to repel moths
from clothing. Internally, it is taken in the treatment of bronchitis, laryngitis,
flatulent indigestion, painful menstruation, colic and hangovers. Externally,
it is applied to minor injuries, mouth, throat and gum infections. Thyme is
also a recommended remedy for alcoholism while thyme syrup is supposed to
counter colds.
Parts used: The root Valerian has
been used as a sedative in all sorts of nervous conditions such as insomnia,
anxiety, hysteria, migraines, and palpitations. As an antispasmodic it is an excellent remedy
for nervous dyspepsia, stomach cramps and irritable bowel. It is also good for menstrual cramps. The
essential oils in valerian appear to provide its sedative activity, while the
valepotriates exert a regulatory effect on the autonomic nervous system.
Parts used: Leaves, roots, young shoots
Watercress is very rich in vitamins and minerals, and
has long been valued as a food and medicinal plant. Considered a cleansing
herb, its high content of vitamin C makes it a remedy that is particularly
valuable for chronic illnesses. The freshly pressed juice has been used
internally and externally in the treatment of chest and kidney complaints,
chronic irritations and inflammations of the skin. It is also beneficial for
tuberculosis, anaemia, and eczema. Applied
externally, it has a been used as an effective hair tonic, helping to promote
the growth of thick hair.
Parts used: Leaves, flower Dead Nettle
is an astringent herb that has a well-established function as a styptic and in
arresting dysentery. It can also be used
for urinary complaints, bladder troubles, kidney disorders and fluid retention in
the heart. Decoction of flowers works as a blood purifier to eliminate skin
rashes and eczema. A compress made from
the infusion is beneficial for the treatment of ulcers and varicose veins.
Parts used: Flowering plant In the past the dried plants were used to stuff
mattresses, as the scent of the plants acts as a flea killer. The flowers were
also used to coagulate milk in cheese manufacture, and the flowering tips,
distilled with water, are said to produce an acid liquor which forms a summer
drink. The plant can also be used to make red and yellow
dyes. With its diuretic and alterative actions, it is excellent as a remedy in urinary
diseases. It can be useful in the treatment of mild skin disorders.
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