The HerbEquine list of Herbs and their uses, actions and constituents.

Aloe - Aloe Barbadensis

(in the Aloaceae family, previously in the Liliaceae family. Various species of Aloe can be used.)

Part used: See the information below.

Taste/smell: The whole leaf is bitter but the mucilage by itself is pleasant tasting.

Tendencies: Cooling, drying, stimulating.

Dosage: Whole aloe: small pieces about the size of your pinky finger-nail, of fresh aloe or a smidgen of the powder, have a stimulating action on the digestive tract to enhance digestion; a large dose produces a laxative effect.

Use: (a) Laxative, (b) Emmenagogue, (c) Cholagogue, (d) Choleretic, (e) Stomachic.

The aloe gel is different than the whole aloe. The gel that you generally find sold on the market has the bitter yellow latex removed from it. This removes the laxative inducing anthraquinones.

The bitter yellow latex beneath the Aloe's outer skin contains an anthraquinone, barbaloin, which is used for chronic constipation with bowel atony. The whole plant or at least the area with the bitter yellow latex is used for these actions. The constituents responsible for its laxative action are activated by intestinal flora.

The inner mucilaginous part of the plant or gel, contains a polysaccharide called glucomannan, is anti-inflammatory, antipruritic and a vulnerary. The gel is used to heal burns, wounds and gastric ulcers. It has been used successfully in the treatment of diabetes and diabetic wounds and to lower cholesterol.

Aloctin A, a constituent of aloe, has immune stimulating properties and antitumor activity. Aloe has also shown activity as an antiviral, antidiabetic and immunomodulator. One of aloe's constituents, emodin, has been shown to possess anticancer, antibacterial, diuretic, immunosuppressive, and vasorelaxant activities in research with animals.

Arnica - Arnica spp.

(in the Asteraceae or Aster family)

Parts used: Fresh whole plant or flower heads.

Taste/smell: Light and flowery.

Dosage: 1:1 fresh plant liquid extract: 1 - 10 drops 1 - 4 times per day in a little water; or externally as an oil.

Mental picture and specific indications: Arnica is specific for traumatic injury symptoms or similar conditions where there is bruising of tissues with blue and red coloration as seen in a new bruise. It is also specific for symptoms due to severe mental trauma.

Use: (a) Stimulates circulation, (b) Antiphlogistic, (c) Anti-inflammatory, (d) Bactericidal, (e) Mild analgesic activity, (f) Immune enhancing, (g) Anticoagulant, (h) Topical counter-irritant.

Arnica is used internally or externally for musculoskeletal injuries such as sprains, strains, bruises, rheumatism, varicose veins and sore muscles. Internally, it is used for angina and trauma to tissues as well as mental trauma. Some of the chemical constituents are essential oils and flavonoids.

Contraindications: Arnica may be toxic when used externally on open wounds or for long periods of time. The side effects include edematous dermatitis with pustules, eczema and even necrosis with long term use in high concentrations. It is to be discontinued with the first sign of redness. Only trained professionals should use this herb internally. The side effects seen with internal use are gastroenteritis, dyspnea or cardiac arrest. Toxicity from internal use can cause damage to the liver, kidneys and heart. It is also contraindicated in pregnancy.

Ashwaganda - Withania somnifera

(in the Solanaceae or Nightshade family)

Parts used: Root.

Taste/smell: A complex of tastes and smells: bitter, flowery and earthy.

Dosage: Decoction: 1 tablespoon of the dry root per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh plant liquid extract: 10 - 60 drops 3 - 4 times per day in a little water.

Use: (a) Sedative, (b) Hypotensive, (c) Anti-inflammatory, (d) Immunomodulating, (e) Adaptogenic, (f) Tonic.

In India, Ashwaganda is thought to instill the vitality of a horse to the consumer.The adaptogenic and tonic effects are best suited to persons who are debilitated or exhausted while agitated or under stress. The leaves have traditionally been used to treat cancerous growths. The root is used in nervous exhaustion, stress induced health conditions, anemia with emaciation, impotence with aging or due to stress, chronic inflammation, depressed white blood cell count due to cytotoxic drugs, cognitive function deficits including those with aging and hypertension.

Contraindications: Ashwaganda should not be used in pregnancy.

Astragalus - Astragalus membranaceus

(in the Fabaceae or Legume family)

Parts used: Root.

Taste/smell: Sweet, moistening.

Tendencies: Slightly warming, circulates moisture.

Dosage: Decoction: 1 heaping tablespoon or 1/2 stick of the dry root per cup of water; or 1:4 dry plant liquid extract: 10-60 drops 1-4 times per day in a little water.

Mental picture and specific indications: This herb is beneficial to weakened individuals with night sweats, prolapsing organs, frequent infectious illnesses and poor digestion and nutritional status.

Use: (a) Adaptogenic, (b) Immunomodulating, (c) Anti-tumor activity, (d) Promotes tissue regeneration, (e) Anti-inflammatory, (f) Antiviral, (g) Protects kidney function, (h) Cardiotonic, (i) Diuretic, (j) Hypotensive, (k) Protects against WBC drops during chemotherapy, (l) Antioxidant, (m) Hepatoprotective.

Astragalus has hypotensive activity which appears to be due to both vasodilator and cardiodepressor activity. It acts as a diuretic only in weakness-induced water retention. In cancer patients receiving conventional chemotherapy treatment, astragalus protects adrenal cortical function and decreases bone marrow suppression. The two most pharmacologically-active constituent groups are polysaccharides and the saponins.

Bilberry/Huckleberry - Vaccinium spp.

(in the Ericaceae or Heath family)

Part used: Leaves and berries.

Taste/smell: The leaves are astringent and the berries are sweet and tart.

Tendencies: Drying.

Dosage: Decoction: 1 tablespoon of the leaves per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh plant liquid extract of the leaves and berries: 20-40 drops 1-4 times per day in a little water.

The berries can be eaten freely.

Use: The berries, and to a lesser degree the leaves, are used for diabetes and hyperlipidemia. They are also used for circulatory problems, including varicose veins, hemorrhoids, peripheral vascular insufficiency and easy bruising. The circulatory actions are thought to be due to bilberry's ability to strengthen capillary walls and reduce capillary leakage by supporting crosslinkage of collagen and inhibiting collagenase and elastase. It also enhances microcirculation by supporting capillary walls, inhibiting platelet aggregation and acting as an antioxidant.

The berries are used to prevent cataracts, retinopathy, macular degeneration, myopia, eyestrain and night blindness. Bilberry/huckleberry/blueberry may be useful in diarrhea.

Contraindications: Large doses of the leaves may cause gastric irritation due to the tannin content.

Bloodroot - Sanguinaria canadensis

(in the Papaveraceae or Poppy family)

Part used: Root.

Taste/smell: Harsh, bitter, acrid.

Tendencies: Drying and cooling in small amounts, warming and stimulating in larger amounts.

Dosage: Decoction: 1/8 teaspoon dry root per cup of water; or 1:1.1 fresh plant liquid extract: 1-2 drops 1 - 4 times per day in a little water. Do not use more than 1-2 drops every 2-4 hours in acute phase, then 1-2 drops per day after the acute phase.

Use: (a) Antispasmodic, (b) Expectorant, (c) Topical antineoplastic, (d) Stimulates digestion and the heart in small doses, (e) Depresses digestion and the heart in larger doses, (f) Diaphoretic, (g) Diuretic, (h) Choleretic, (I) Heart sedative.

Bloodroot chiefly affects the mucous membranes, and is specifically used with burning, itching mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. Small doses of 1-2 drops are useful in periodic headaches during climacteric, especially headaches starting in the occiput and spreading over the right side of the head to the eyes, with bulging blood vessels in the temples. It is most commonly used in sub-acute or chronic respiratory illnesses where there is no active inflammation as seen in bronchitis, laryngitis, nasal catarrh and after pneumonia where debility persists. Studies show the constituent, sanguinarine, helps reduce and limit the deposition of dental plaque.

Contraindications: It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the emmenagogue effect and uterine stimulating activity of the alkaloids, berberine, protopine and chelerythrine, as reported in animal studies. Over-dosage can cause nausea and vomiting, hepatitis, vertigo, visual disturbances and prostration. Do not use this herb unless under the guidance of a trained health care practitioner. The fresh root is more dangerous than the dry root. Do not use more than 1-2 drops every 2-4 hours in acute phase, then 1-2 drops per day after the acute phase.

Burdock - Arctium lappa

(in the Asteraceae or Aster family)

Part used: Root.

Taste/smell: Sweetish initially, bitter later, slightly mucilaginous.

Tendencies: Cooling, distributes moisture around body.

Dosage: Decoction: 1 heaping tablespoon per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh liquid extract: 20-60 drops 1-4 times per day in a little water.

Mental picture and specific indications: It influences the skin, kidneys, liver, gall bladder, mucous and serous membranes to induce removal of accumulated by-products of catabolism.

Use: (a) Alterative, (b) Antibacterial, (c) Antifungal, (d) Anti-inflammatory, (e) Diuretic, especially the seeds, (f) Digestive stimulant, (g) Promotes blood and lymph circulation, (h) Liver tonic, (i) Choleretic, (j) Antimutagenic, (k) Mild laxative.

Burdock is used for chronic skin eruptions such as acne psoriasis, eczema, boils, carbuncles and sties. It is beneficial for arthritis, sciatica, urinary calculi and gout. By stimulating the natural flow of lymphatic fluid, it supports excretion of toxic by-products from cells. Burdock is commonly used to normalize the female menstrual cycle, during menopause and for mastitis.

Water soluble polysaccharides found in the herb have shown chemotactic activity for granulocytic leukocytes as well as antitumor effects against solid sarcoma tumors in mice. A methanolic extract of fresh root inhibited Ehrlich ascite carcinoma and Yoshima sarcoma in mice.

The seeds contain arctigenin, a fatty oil and the diuretic glycoside, arctiin. The root contains polysaccharides, volatile oils, inulin, mucilage, and minerals including calcium, phosphorus, sodium and iron, and vitamins including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and ascorbic acid.

Contraindications: Long term use or excessive doses of the seed can cause urinary tract irritation. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the oxytocic effect and uterine stimulant action on animal uteri.

Calendula - Calendula officinalis

(in the Asteraceae or Aster family)

Part used: Flowers prior to fully opening.

Taste/smell: Slightly bitter, salty.

Tendencies: Drying.

Dosage: Infusion: 2-3 heaping tablespoons in 1 cup of water; or 1:5 dry liquid extract: 20-50 drops 1-4 times per day in a little water. Succus of the fresh plant is optimal for topical applications on wounds.

Mental picture and specific indications: Calendula is indicated when the individual feels worse in damp, heavy, cloudy weather. There is a tendency to get cold easily and is greatly affected by the cold. It is specific for wounds that will not heal and lymphatic congestion with a predilection for the chest, axilla and inguinal crease.

Use: (a) Antiseptic, (b) Anti-inflammatory, (c) Lymphagogue, (d) Choleretic, (e) Demulcent, (f) Vulnerary.

Research shows the herb has in vitro anti-viral activity, supports normal connective tissue, aids in healing wounds, burns, bruises, boils, rashes and can be beneficial for infectious diseases. It can promote the formation of granulation tissue by first intention and is useful for prevention or treatment of congealed tissue or tumors.

Calendula contains essential oil, flavonol glycosides, saponins, triterpene alcohols, sterols, carotenes, xanthophylls, polysaccharides, tannins and other constituents.

Contraindications: It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to emmenagogue and abortifacient effects.

Chamomile - Matricaria recutita

(in the Asteraceae or Aster family)

Parts used: Fresh flowers prior to fully opening. Fresh or dry flowers can be used.

Taste/smell: Sweet, aromatic, slightly bitter.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 heaping tablespoon of fresh flowers per cup of water, infused 5-10 minutes; or 1:1.4 fresh + dry liquid extract: 20-75 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: This nervine is specific for neural irritability in persons with a strong and active nervous system. Mental picture is restless, irritable, sensitive, complaining, wants to have their way, argumentative, acting like a baby and cannot be comforted.

Use: (a) Antispasmodic, (b) Anti-inflammatory, (c) Anti-allergenic, (d) Analgesic, (e) Antipyretic, (f) Antiseptic, (g) Antibacterial against Strep. pyogenes(in vitro research), (h) Antifungal, (i) Carminative.

Chamomile is used for indigestion, gas and accompanying pain, gastritis and gastric ulcers and externally for burns, ulcers and wounds. Its anti-inflammatory action can partially be attributed to chamomile's ability to inhibit arachidonic acid metabolism. Being a mild sedative for nervousness and nightmares, it is especially beneficial for infants and elders who are restless when attempting to sleep. The sedative activity is thought to largely be due to the constituent, apigenin, which can produce mild sedation and decrease anxiety without producing marked depression of CNS activity. Chamomile is indicated for menstrual cramps and babies with colic or who are teething. Poultices used over the spine are helpful for viral meningitis. The ability to relieve pain may be due to its prostaglandin-inhibiting action. It contains anti-inflammatory constituents, alpha bisabolol and chamazulene. Alpha bisabolol additionally has antispasmodic and anti-ulcerogenic properties. Matricin and apigenin are also active constituents in chamomile.

Contraindications: The flowers and tea, as well as other products made from chamomile, may cause an allergenic sensitivity in susceptible individuals. It has caused contact dermatitis, anaphylaxis and other hypersensitive reactions in persons allergic to plants in the Asteraceae, formerly the Compositae, family. These reactions are rare occurrences.

Chaste tree berry - Vitex agnus castus

(in the Verbenaceae or Verbena family)

Parts used: Fruits.

Taste/smell: Pungent.

Tendencies: Drying.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 teaspoon of crushed fruits per cup of water; or 1:3 dry liquid extract: 20-75 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Female reproductive tract regulator. It is used for PMS, endometriosis, menstrual cramps, premenstrual herpes, premenstrual acne, polymenorrhea, secondary amenorrhea, PMS, menopause with hot flashes.

Chaste tree appears to increase luteinizing hormone production and inhibit the release of follicle stimulating hormone. This shifts the ratio of estrogens to progestagens in favor of the progestagens with a corpus luteum hormone effect. This progestagen effect is used in some cases to prevent miscarriages.

Prolactin is inhibited by chaste tree. The luteinizing hormone release and progesterone synthesis has been attributed to inhibition of prolactin activity. It appears to directly bind to dopamine receptors in the anterior pituitary and inhibits prolactin synthesis and release, according to animal research. It is thought to be useful in all ailments due to hyperprolactinemia and luteal phase defect.

For amenorrhea, the herb must be used for months before results are noticed.

Contraindications: Although used sometimes for prevention of miscarriages, it is generally contraindicated in pregnancy due to its emmenagogue effect. It may counteract the effectiveness of birth control pills, and other hormone therapy.

Cleavers - Galium aparine

(in the Rubiaceae or Madder family)

Parts used: Fresh succulent aerial parts in flowering or seed-forming stage.

Taste/Smell: Fresh, pleasant taste.

Tendencies: Cooling and drying.

Dosage: 1:1 fresh + dry strength liquid extract: 30-75 drops; or a handful of fresh herb added to the juicer when making fresh vegetable juice.

Mental picture and specific indications: Due to its vulnerary action, cleavers can be helpful on ulcerated surfaces and is specific for tumors and ulcers in the mouth and throat. It is also beneficial for swollen glands and cysts. Cleavers is useful for skin irritations with a predilection for flexor surfaces like the bend of the forearm, the axilla and the back of the knees.

Use: (a) Relaxing diuretic, (b) Nutritious, (c) Vulnerary, (d) Hypotensive, (e) Lymphagogue, (f) Supports the immune system, (g) Corrects inability to pass normal catabolic wastes.

It is a soothing herb used in bladder and kidney problems. Cleavers has been shown to reduce stones and fibrocystic tissue. It can also be used for enuresis in children, benign prostatic hypertrophy and eczema.

Contraindications: Information unavailable at this time.

Coltsfoot - Tussilago farfara

(in the Asteraceae or Aster family)

Parts used: Whole plant, primarily the leaves.

Taste/smell: Sweetish taste.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 tablespoon per cup of water; or 1:5 dry strength liquid extract: 10-50 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Diffusive expectorant, (b) Sedative, (c) Antispasmodic, (d) Demulcent, (e) Cardiovascular stimulant.

Coltsfoot is suitable for debilitated individuals and chronic conditions. It is indicated for chronic respiratory conditions like asthma, emphysema and silicosis and can decrease the time for bronchial cilia to recover after damage from smoking.

A compound identified as L-652-469 has been found to be a platelet activating factor antagonist and calcium channel blocker while another component, tussilagone, is a potent cardiovascular stimulant.

Contraindications: Internal use is restricted in some countries due to the content of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. The plant should not be used in excessive amounts or longer than 6 weeks per year. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the abortifacient effect and the content of hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids. It is also contraindicated in nursing, again due to the alkaloids.

Comfrey - Symphytum officinalis

(in the Boraginaceae or Borage family)

Parts used: Root and main rib of leaf have the most mucilage and allantoin.

Taste/Smell: Mucilaginous, nutritious tasting, bland.

Tendencies: Cooling and moistening.

Dosage: Used externally as a poultice, paste, or fomentation.

Use: Externally: (a) Contusions, (b) Sprains, (c) Dislocations, (e) Wounds, (f) Burns, (g) Ulcers, (h) All inflammatory skin disorders.

Comfrey's demulcent and anti-inflammatory effects have been used historically as an internal agent for soothing mucous membrane irritation in the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract and urinary tract. It acts as an anti-inflammatory when there is damage to the periosteum, promotes callus formation in fractures and decreases inflammation of tendon sheaths. It has been used for arthritis, dislocations, contusions, hematomas, thrombophlebitis, phlebitis, parotitis, and glandular swellings. Comfrey can also be used as a gargle in periodontitis and pharyngitis. But internal use is no longer advised due to the possibility of pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning inducing veno-hepato-occlusive disease.

Externally it decreases the healing time for skin wounds and irritations and has been shown to act as a mild analgesic.

Comfrey contains 6-8% allantoin, 0.02-0.07% pyrrolizidine alkaloids, 4-6% tannins, intermedine, aetylintermedine, lycopsamine, acetyllycopsamine, symphytine, mucilage, starch, triterpenes like isobauerenol and sterols like sitosterol. The constituent, allantoin, promotes cell proliferation and is thought to be the main reason for its healing action.

Contraindications: Do not use internally due to possible pyrrolizidine poisoning causing veno-occlusive disease and carcinogenic activity. It is also contraindicated in pregnancy and nursing mothers.

Cramp bark - Viburnum opulus

(in the Caprifoliaceae or Honeysuckle family)

Parts used: Bark.

Taste/smell: Astringent, aromatic.

Tendencies: Drying.

Dosage: Decoction: 1 heaping teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:5 dry strength liquid extract: 20-75 drops 1-4 times per day. For spasms: 1 teaspoon per hour, or 15 drops every 15 minutes, as needed, for several hours.

Mental picture and specific indications: Cramp bark can be used for most spasmodic pains but is specific for spasmodic and congestive conditions of the female genitourinary tract. It is indicated when pelvic pains extend down the thighs and are accompanied by nausea. The spasms are usually worse lying on the affected side, in warm rooms and in the evening; and better in open air and from resting.

Use: (a) Antispasmodic, (b) Astringent, (c) Nervine, (d) Cerebrospinal vasostimulant, (e) Hypotensive, beta 2 receptor agonist, (f) Carminative, (g) Restores sympathetic and parasympathetic balance in voluntary and involuntary muscle spasms (g) Anti-inflamatory.

Cramp bark is used for bronchial, gastrointestinal, genitourinary and skeletal muscle spasms. Due to its astringent and antispasmodic nature it is useful for menstrual cramps with excessive blood loss. Cramp bark's astringent action also benefits atonic conditions of the pelvic organs, like uterine prolapse. It is also helpful with asthma and threatened miscarriage where there is a spastic uterus and has been used to prevent habitual abortions, morning sickness, premature contractions, and hemorrhage during labor and post-partum. As a skeletal muscle relaxant, it is wonderful for leg cramps.

Viburnum prunifolium (Black haw), a relative in the Caprifoliaceae family, is used similarly although V. opulus is thought to be a stronger antispasmodic. Although research has shown dose-dependent uterine antispasmodic action both in vivo and in vitro with V. prunifolium extract V. opulus extract was shown, in vitro on rat uteri, to be four times more active than V. prunifolium at relaxing uterine contractions. V. prunifolium contains the antispasmodic constituent, esculetin, and V. opulus contains the more potent antispasmodic, viopudial. Both species have demonstrated uterine sedative activity. Initially researchers thought V. prunifolium contained salicin; which was proven later to be arbutin. Viburnum prunifolium contains beta-sitosterol which is a phytoestrogenic sterol.

A volatile oil extracted from V. opulus has uterine sedative activity.

Contraindications: The leaves and fruits contain a bitter principle, viburine, which may cause gastroenteritis. Cramp bark should not be taken with blood thinning agents because of the coumarin constituents in the plant. It may cause hypotension in large doses or even in average doses if given to previously hypotensive individuals. The berries have been known to cause death. Cramp bark should not be used in pregnancy unless under the guidance of a qualified health care professional.

Dandelion - Taraxacum officinalis

(in the Asteraceae or Aster family)

Part Used: Whole plant, leaves, flowers, roots.

Taste/Smell: Leaves and root are somewhat bitter but also slightly sweet taste in the root.

Tendencies: Cooling and drying.

Dosage: Decoction: 1 heaping teaspoon of root per cup of water; infusion: 1 heaping tablespoon of the leaf per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh + dry liquid extract: 1-60 drops, 1- 4 times per day in a little water.

Mental picture and specific indications: Dandelion is indicated for persons with a mapped tongue, bitter taste in the mouth and pain in the sternomastoid muscle. It is specific for low-grade internalized heat or infectious conditions, especially if related to allergies. Edema or boggy mucous membranes may be present. There is often a history of chemical insult or other environmental assaults pointing to liver involvement. The individual may feel worse from resting, sitting and lying, and feel better from touch.

Use: (a) Diuretic, whole plant, especially the leaf, (b) Stomachic, (c) Mild laxative, (d) Cholagogue, (e) Choleretic, (f) Anti-platelet aggregating action.

Dandelion is 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. Autumn roots are roasted and used as a coffee substitute.

Dandelion leaves contain aesculin that improves vascular resistance and reduces pathologically-induced capillary wall permeability. Dandelion contains bitter substances, eudesmanolides, germacranolides, triterpenes, sterols, carotenoids, flavonoids, carbohydrates (in the root), 18% fructose in spring, mucilage, 4.5% potassium found in the greens, 2% inulin in spring rising to 40% in autumn. One of the sterols, sitosterol, has anti-inflammatory effects. The diuretic action is due to inhibition of sodium reabsorption.

Contraindications: Physical contact with the fresh latex in dandelions can cause contact dermatitis. Dandelion is contraindicated in bile duct obstruction, acute gall bladder inflammation, acute gastrointestinal inflammation and intestinal blockage.

Devil's Claw - Harpagophytum procumbens

(in the Pedaliaceae family)

Parts used: Secondary storage roots.

Taste/smell: Bitter.

Dosage: Decoction: 1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:4 dry liquid extract: 10-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Anti-inflammatory, (b) Analgesic, (c) Anti-arthritic, (d) Bitter tonic.

Devil's claw is used for arthritis, bursitis, gout, neuralgia, headache and other generalized aches and pains.

The secondary storage roots contain fats, waxes, n-alkanes, iridoid glycosides, including harpagoside comprising 0.1-2.0 % of the total, also procumbide and harpagide and phenolic glycosides including acteoside and sterols. The water-soluble stachyose, raffinose, saccharose, glucose, etc., form approximately 70% of the dry herb.

Contraindications: It is contraindicated in gastric and duodenal ulcers acute gall bladder disease and pregnancy.

Echinacea - Echinacea spp.

(in the Asteraceae or Aster family)

Parts used: Root mostly, seeds and flowers also.

Taste/smell: Root is slightly sweet, pungent, aromatic, tingles the tongue with most species.

Tendencies: Cooling, drying, stimulating.

Dosage: Infusion: 1/2 - 1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh +

dry liquid extract: 10-75 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Echinacea is indicated for exhaustive states with chilliness, offensive discharges, lymphatic congestion with swollen glands, mental confusion, dull mind, dizziness, tendency to skin eruptions and low grade continuous fevers, although they can be high grade fevers.

Use: (a) Antimicrobial, (b) Anti-inflammatory, (c) Antiviral, (d) Antibacterial, (e) Antifungal, (f) Slight stimulation of the adrenal cortex, (g) Stimulates leukocytes, (h) Inhibits hyaluronidase, (i) Enhances phagocytosis.

Note: Clinical information for E. angustifolia and E. purpurea species is basically interchangeable in most circumstances.

Echinacea's purified polysaccharide, arabinogalac-tan, activates macrophages to cytotoxicity against tumor cells and microorganisms, as well as produces tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-1, interleukin-6, interferon-2 and slightly increases T-lymphocyte proliferation. It therefore enhances the immune system's resistance to infections and stimulates wound healing. The root oil has inhibited leukemia cells in vitro and in vivo.

Echinacea protects the gut from harmful micro-organisms due to its enhancement of phagocytosis. It also decreases inflammatory allergic reactions in mild food allergies and stimulates gastric healing. The constituent, echinacin, has been shown to be useful in treatment of tonsillitis in pediatric practices. Due to its specificity for infectious conditions, it is used for colds, influenza, wounds, infections, allergies, bacterial and viral disease, swollen glands and gum disease.

The plant contains 3 groups of constituents, high molecular weight polysaccharides, alkylamides and chicoric acid, that are known to act as immunomodulators.

Contraindications: Echinacea is not associated with acute or chronic toxicity. Although there have been reports that it is contraindicated in auto-immune diseases, many physicians have used it with patients who have auto-immune diseases without noticing side effects. Due to arabinogalactan's ability to increase production of TNF-alpha, there is concern about AIDS patients taking echinacea. Many clinicians give whole plant liquid extracts that contain little or no arabinogalactan to AIDS patients without any problems.

Additionally, it has been thought by many herbalists that echinacea should only be used short term because its effects stop after a period of 1-3 weeks. However there are many individuals who have used this herb long term with successful results. An 8-week double-blind study in 1989 showed echinacea was useful in prevention of respiratory infections. Another study using oral echinacea for 10 weeks showed prevention of recurrent bouts of vaginal candidiasis.

Echinacea angustifolia is becoming endangered and only organic Echinacea angustifolia should be used.

Elecampane - Inula helenium

(in the Asteraceae or Aster family)

Parts used: Root.

Taste/smell: Aromatic, pungent, sweet.

Tendencies: Slightly warming, drying, stimulating.

Dosage: Infusion: 1/2-1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh liquid extract: 10-40 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Antiseptic, (b) Expectorant, (c) Diaphoretic, (d) Bitter tonic, (e) Carminative, (f) Antiparasitic, (g) Anti-inflammatory, (h) Immunomodulating, (i) Diuretic, (j) Alterative, (k) Emmenagogue, (l) Tonifying to the lungs and digestive system, (m) Strengthening and cleansing to the respiratory tract mucous membranes.

Elecampane is used in persistent bronchial catarrhs where there is an irritable cough, especially in chronic coughs of the elderly or invalid. It is specifically used for chronic bronchitis, sinusitis, tuberculosis, silicosis, asthma and emphysematous conditions. Elecampane is used for gastrointestinal ulcers. This antiulcer activity may be partially due to both the constituent, helenin, which has hemostatic properties, as well as alantolactone, which is a vermifuge. In China it is used for some types of malignancies.

Contraindications: Large doses may cause vomiting, diarrhea, gastric spasms and symptoms of paralysis and allergic hypersensitivity. It is contraindicated in pregnancy.

Eyebright - Euphrasia officinalis

(in the Scrophulariaceae or Figwort family)

Parts used: Aerial parts.

Taste/smell: Slightly bitter, slightly sweet.

Tendencies: Drying.

Dosage: Infusion: 1-2 teaspoons of herb in one cup of water; or 1:4 dry liquid extract: 10-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Eyebright has an affinity for the eyes. It is used for conjunctivitis symptoms with yellow, thick exudate and swollen, red eyes that are encrusted in the morning. The specific indication is acrid, watery discharge from the eyes with a bland discharge from the nose.

Use: (a) Astringent, (b) Expectorant, (c) Anti-inflammatory, (d) Antiseptic, (e) Decongestant.

Eyebright is used for external and internal conjunctivitis, sinus congestion, nasal congestion, hay fever and other allergies. It is specific for congestive conditions of the eyes with profuse watery discharge and inflammation and discharges from the nose.

It contains the glycoside, aucuboside, a tannin, aucubin, caffeic and ferulic acids, sterols, choline and a volatile oil.

Contraindications: Information unavailable at this time.

Fennel - Foeniculum vulgare

(in the Apiaceae, previously Umbelliferae, or Parsley family)

Parts used: Seed.

Taste/smell: Aromatic, sweet, spicy.

Tendencies: Warming.

Dosage: Infusion: crush 1 teaspoon to one tablespoon of seeds per cup of water; or 1:4 dry liquid extract: 10-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Mild expectorant, (b) Antispasmodic, thought to act on beta 2 receptors which effect vasodilation, intestinal relaxation, uterus relaxation, bronchodilation and bladder relaxation, (c) Anti-inflammatory, (d) Galactagogue, (e) Phytoestrogen, (f) Carminative, (g) Flavoring.

The root is useful as a diuretic when used in crude form or liquid extract but does not have a diuretic effect as a tea. In animal research, the seed was shown to have diuretic, analgesic, antipyretic and antimicrobial activities. It is beneficial for indigestion, gas and coughs.

Fennel contains fixed oil, flavonoids, 2-6% essential oil consisting of 50-70% of the sweet trans-anethole and up to 20% of the bitter and camphoraceous (+)-fenchone. It also contains methylchavicol, anisaldehyde, alpha-pinene, alpha-phellandrene and limonene. The seeds contain a fixed oil, protein, organic acids and flavonoids.

Contraindications: An overdose of the essential oil can cause nausea, vomiting, seizures and pulmonary edema. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the emmenagogue effect and phytoestrogen activity unless under the guidance of a qualified health care practitioner.

Fenugreek - Trigonella foenum-graecum

(in the Fabaceae or Legume family)

Parts used: Seed.

Taste/smell: Mucilaginous, bitter, maple-like taste.

Dosage: Freshly powdered herb: 1/2 -1 teaspoon per cup of cold water, let sit for a few hours and drink; decoction: 1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:3 dry liquid extract: 10-50 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: The specific indication for fenugreek is cold damp swelling and stagnation in the legs. It also disperses cold and alleviates pain.

Use: (a) Demulcent, (b) Anti-inflammatory, (c) Hypolipidemic, (d) Hypoglycemic, (e) Diuretic, (f) Galactagogue, (g) Antiatherosclerotic.

It is used in gastrointestinal inflammation, coughs, colic, diarrhea in infants, cholesterol level reduction, diabetes and as an eye wash for inflamed eyes. Externally, it can be used as a poultice for inflamed, irritated skin conditions. Research has shown antifertility and antiandrogenic effects on male rats who were fed a fenugreek extract.

Fenugreek contains alkaloids 0.2-0.36% trigonelline, gentianine, carpaine, 45-60% carbohydrate which is chiefly the mucilage galactomannans, 20-30% protein and 6-10% fixed oil. It is rich in tryptophan and poor in sulfur containing amino acids. There are also several steroidal saponins, flavonoids and 0.015% essential oil.

Contraindications: Oral drugs or herbs taken at the same time as fenugreek may have delayed absorption due to mucilage content. Since experimental research has shown fenugreek to stimulate animal uteri and due to its emmenagogue and abortifacient effects, it is contraindicated in pregnancy unless used under the guidance of a qualified health care practitioner.

Flax seed - Linum usitatissimum

(in the Linaceae or Flax family)

Parts used: Seed.

Taste/smell: Mucilaginous, oily.

Tendencies: Moistening.

Dosage: 1 tablespoon of crushed seeds per cup of cold water. Let partially dissolve, then drink, followed by a second cup of water. Externally, used as a poultice by powdering the herb and adding enough water to make a paste. Do not powder seed until time of use. The oils in the seed will become rancid faster when stored in powder form.

Use: (a) Mucilaginous agent, (b) Bulking agent, (c) Lubricating agent, (d) Anti-inflammatory.

Flax seed is used in chronic constipation. It is indicated for the treatment of many chronic diseases, including arthritis, psoriasis and prevention of arteriosclerosis.

It is high in omega-3 fatty acids.

Contraindications: Flax should always be taken with adequate liquid. Oral drugs or herbs taken at the same time as flax may have delayed absorption due to its mucilage content. Flax is contraindicated in bowel obstruction.

Garlic - Allium sativa

(in the Liliaceae or Lily family)

Parts used: Cloves.

Taste/smell: Pungent, warm.

Tendencies: Heating, stimulating, and drying.

Dosage: 1:1 fresh strength liquid extract: 30-60 drops 1-4 times per day. Note: It is best to use fresh cloves, especially for a bacterial or parasitic infection. Capsules and tinctures can also be used in other conditions.

Mental picture and specific indications: Garlic stimulates digestion and cardiovascular circulation. It is indicated for dyspepsia, hypertension, arthritic pain and individuals with catarrhal affections. The tongue is pale with red papillae.

Use: (a) Antibacterial, (b) Antifungal, (c) Antiparasitic, (d) Diuretic, (e) Carminative, (f) Natriuretic, an agent that increases excretion of sodium in urine, (g) Anticoagulant, (h) Antithrombotic, (i) Hypotensive, (j) Antispasmodic, (k) Hypoglycemic, (l) Diaphoretic, (m) Cholagogue, (n) Inhibits tumor growth, (o) Supports immune function, (p) Protects the liver, (q) Lowers cholesterol and triglycerides, (r) Increases HDL.

Garlic is used to decrease plaque in atherosclerosis and is beneficial for infectious conditions, high blood pressure, dysentery, peripheral vascular diseases, diabetes and liver disease.

Contraindications: Garlic may cause gastrointestinal disturbance in sensitive individuals and should be avoided by persons with hot constitutions. It is contraindicated with acute inflammation, insomnia, dehydration, hypoglycemia, brittle diabetes, pemphigus, impending surgery, organ transplants and concomitant use with anticoagulants. Large amounts can decrease the uptake of iodine by the thyroid.

Ginger - Zingiber officinalis

(in the Zingiberaceae or Ginger family)

Parts used: Root.

Taste/smell: Aromatic and spicy. Note: The dried root is considered hotter than the fresh root.

Tendencies: Heating, stimulating and drying.

Dosage: Fresh infusion: Ginger, approximately 2-3 centimeters in length, per cup of water. Infusion: teaspoonful of dry ginger per cup of water.; or 1:1 fresh + dry liquid extract: 10-60 drops in a little water. Note: For the anti-emetic effect, 2 grams has been shown to be effective, for example, 3 - 4 capsules or 1/2 - 1 teaspoon liquid extract.

Mental picture and specific indications: Ginger is indicated for cold and congestive conditions with digestive, genitourinary or respiratory debility.

Use: (a) Carminative, (b) Decreases platelet aggregation, (c) Antiatherosclerotic, (d) Diaphoretic, (e) Cardiotonic, (f) Antipyretic, (g) Antitussive, (h) Expectorant, (i) Stomachic, (j) Anti-inflammatory, (k) Antimicrobial, (l) Antispasmodic, (m) Diuretic, (n) Anti-emetic, (o) Choleretic, (p) Hypolipidemic, (q) Analgesic, (r) Antioxidant.

Ginger is useful for digestive disturbances that involve flatulence, burping and colic. It is useful for a slow digestive system as well as circulatory sluggishness and can inhibit digestive ulcers. The stimulating diaphoretic quality is wondeful for colds as a hot tea and is gentle enough for both elderly and children to use. It has been used to abort migraine headaches and is well known for its use in motion sickness, post operative nausea and nausea of pregnancy. Research with chemotherapy-induced vomiting showed ginger tea to be ineffective while the tincture (liquid extract) was very effective. The fresh juice is used to treat first and second degree burns. As a heating herb, it is indicated for disorders due to cold conditions. Ginger has a positive inotropic effect on the heart. It possesses a fibrinolytic quality. Fibrin is deposited in tissue near varicose veins and causes skin to become hard and lumpy because of the presence of fibrin and fat. It also decreases the risk of thrombus formation in thrombophlebitis and inhibits production of prostaglandins which cause physical pain.

Ginger is rich in volatile oils, including zingiberene, zingiberole, gingerol, shogoal, phellandrene, borneol, cineole, as well as citral, starch, mucilage and resin. Different varieties of ginger contain different essential oils.

Contraindications: Large doses are contraindicated in pregnancy. Animal studies have shown a potential for CNS depression and cardiac arrhythmias when the animals are given large overdoses. This has not been seen in human studies.

Ginseng - Panax quinquefolius (American) & Panax ginseng (Asian)

(in the Araliaceae or Ginseng family)

Parts used: Root.

Taste/smell: Sweet with a slight bitterness.

Tendencies: American ginseng is cooling and slightly moistening while the Asian ginseng is warming due to the processing of the herb.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 teaspoon per cup of water, infused 25-30 minutes; or 1:1 fresh or 1:4 dry liquid extract: 20-60 drops 1-4 times per day in a little water.

Mental picture and specific indications: Ginseng is indicated for "adrenal burnout" with mental, nervous, emotional and physical exhaustion. The individual cannot adapt to stressful situations. Dry mucous membranes, hypotension and low blood sugar are often part of the symptoms.

Use: (a) Adaptogen, (b) General tonic, (c) Antitumor, (d) Antiviral, (e) Antioxidant, (g) Hepatoprotective, (h) Antispasmodic, (i) Anti-inflammatory, (j) Anti-ulcer, (k) Analgesic, (l) Supports the nervous system, (m) Supports the endocrine system, (n) Antifatigue activity, (o) Enhances endurance, (p) Blood sugar balancing activity, (q) Reduces LDL while raising HDL cholesterol, (r) Enhances metabolic activity in the brain, (s) Stimulates the pituitary secretion of adreno-corticotropic hormone, (t) Enhances production of interferon, (u) Minimizes cell damage from radiation, (v) Enhances the recovery process after radiation exposure.

Ginseng is used to enhance stamina and memory, increase appetite, treat anemia, general weakness, nervous agitation, forgetfulness and impotence. Research shows possible protection from cerebral ischemia as well as treatment benefits for cerebral ischemia. Panax ginseng has been shown to be hypoglycemic by acting on the pancreas to enhance secretion of insulin and increasing cellular sensitivity to insulin. Panax ginseng has been found to be useful in treating the adverse actions of morphine. It has also been shown to bind to progestin, mineralcorticoid and glucocorticoid receptors. This herb and other herbs in the Araliaceae family are used as adaptogens to assist the innate ability to adapt to environmental influences and decrease susceptibility to illness.

Contraindications: Concurrent use with the drug phenelzine has resulted in manic-like symptoms.

Goldenrod - Solidago spp.

(in the Asteraceae or Aster family)

Parts used: Aerial parts in the bud stage.

Taste/smell: Slightly bitter, aromatic with floral aroma.

Tendencies: Slightly warming and drying.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 tablespoon per cup of water; or 1:0.9 fresh + dry strength liquid extract: 10-50 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Goldenrod is indicated for mental weakness, physical exhaustion, chilliness alternating with heat, sub-acute nasopharyngeal catarrh and acute or subacute kidney infections or debilitated, chronically inflamed kidneys.

Use: (a) Astringent, (b) Stimulating diaphoretic, (c) Diuretic, (d) Antiseptic, (e) Anti-inflammatory, (f) Analgesic.

It is used for influenza, repeated colds, bronchitis with purulent expectoration, tonsillitis, sinusitis and allergies.

Contraindications: A qualified health care practitioner should be consulted before using goldenrod if chronic kidney disorders are present. Since the diuretic effect causes mainly water, not salt, to be excreted, it is contraindicated in edema from heart failure or kidney failure.

Goldenseal - Hydrastis canadensis

(in the Ranunculaceae or Buttercup family)

Parts used: Root.

Taste/smell: Bitter, astringent.

Tendencies: Cooling and drying.

Dosage: Decoction: 1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:4 dry or 1:1 fresh + dry liquid extract: 10-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Goldenseal is indicated for relaxed, atonic mucous membranes with thick yellowish secretions. It is useful for debilitated individuals with poor digestion and constipation. The tongue is atonic, slightly pallid, enlarged, scalloped at the edges, with slight yellow coating, ulcerations and fissures. The person feels depressed and hypersensitive and may have a dull frontal headache or sinus headache. The symptoms are worse with heat of the sun, bright lightsshining on the person, while stooping and with the sound of moving water.

Use: (a) Alterative, (b) Astringent, (c) Laxative in small doses, (d) Adrenolytic, (e) Styptic, (f) Bitter tonic, (g) Antimicrobial.

Goldenseal is used in colds, flu, sore throats, acute and chronic middle ear infections, conjunctivitis, vaginitis and a variety of other mucous membrane problems. It is used in atonic chronic mucosal problems with pale relaxed tissues as well as subacute mucosal membrane problems with red, engorged tissues. Small doses have a stimulating, tonifying effect upon the gastric tissues. It decreases passive bleeding. It also stimulates the normal action of the liver and gall bladder.

Goldenseal contains the alkaloids, berberine and hydrastine. Berberine, found in gold thread (Coptis chinensis), goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) and Oregon grape root (Mahonia spp.), is a choleretic shown to triple bile secretion for 1.5 hours and is effective against bacteria, yeast and protozoa. Clinically, berberine has been used to treat giardia, cholera, amebiasis, as well as visceral and cutaneous leishmaniasis.

Contraindications: Goldenseal may exacerbate "adrenal burnout" symptoms such as hypoglycemia, shakiness and hypotension. The fresh plant may cause mucosal irritation. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to uterine stimulation from berberine, hydrastine, canadine and hydrastinine in animal uteri studies, unless used under the guidance of a qualified health care practitioner. Goldenseal has become endangered. Only organic goldenseal should be used.

Gotu kola - Centella asiatica

(in the Umbelliferae or Parsley family)

Parts used: Whole plant.

Taste/smell: Spicy, fragrant.

Tendencies: Cooling.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 tablespoon per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh strength liquid extract: 20-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Gotu kola has a calming and supportive effect on the nervous system and calms the brain of mental chatter. It also supports connective tissue.

Use: (a) Anti-inflammatory, (b) Adaptogen, (c) Analgesic, (d) Diuretic, (e) Laxative, (f) Vulnerary, (g) Antiseptic, (h) Circulatory stimulant.

Externally and internally it is used to accelerate the healing time for wounds, burns and ulcers and internally to decrease scar tissue buildup after injuries. Gotu kola is used for sluggish digestion and to improve memory. It is an anti-stress herb that has been shown to decrease adrenal enlargement and possesses corticosteroid-sparing effects in rats under stressful conditions. Gotu kola also reduces stress-induced ulcers.

It is indicated for numerous conditions, including high blood pressure, abscesses, rheumatism, fever, ulcers, leprosy, general skin eruptions, incontinence, varicose veins, nervous disorders and jaundice. Gotu kola promotes hair and nail growth, and increases endurance and energy. It normalizes the metabolism of connective tissue and enhances connective tissue by stimulating glycosaminoglycan synthesis without promoting excessive collagen synthesis.

Gota kola contains an essential oil, a tannin and a triterpenic saponoside, asiaticoside, which is antimicrobial.

Contraindications: It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to emmenagogue and abortifacient effects, unless used under the guidance of a qualified health care practitioner.

Gymnema - Gymnema sylvestre

(in the Asclepiadaceae or Milkweed family)

Parts used: Aerial parts.

Taste/smell: Sweetish taste.

Tendencies: Cooling.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:3.5 dry strength liquid extract: 5-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Hypoglycemic, (b) Hypolipidemic, (c) Antiatherosclerotic.

Gymnema is primarily used for diabetes. It is believed to act directly on the pancreas but research is not conclusive.

Contraindications: Do not use in cases of hypoglycemia. Bood sugar must be monitored for rapid drops after taking this herb. Often the oran hypoglycemic or insulin dosages need to be decreased when Gymnema is used. Gymnema will desensitize the taste buds to sweet and bitter tasting foods for 3 hours.

Hawthorn - Crataegus spp.

(in the Rosaceae or Rose family)

Parts used: Flowers, leaves and berries.

Taste/smell: Fragrant flowers, astringent leaves, sweet and sour as well as slightly astringent berries. Note: It is best to use a mixture of berries and flowers, but berries or flowers can be used alone.

Tendencies: Warming.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 tablespoon per cup of water; or 1:5 dry strength liquid extract: 60-120 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Hawthorne is indicated for irritable, nervous heart conditions, heart conditions related to an emotional heartache or spiritual heartache from a disconnection with the spirit, in conjunction with weak or slow digestion. It helps open the heart to forgiveness of others or forgiveness of life events that may be keeping a person from healing. It is specific for all heart-related ailments. This herb is a source of nutrition and support for the heart. Symptoms are worse in a warm room and better in fresh air with quiet and rest.

Use: (a) Diuretic, (b) Mucilaginous (berries), (c) Astringent (especially the leaves), (d) Antioxidant, (e) Nutritious, (f) Cardiotonic, (g) Cardioprotective, (h) Trophorestorative for the heart.

Hawthorn is not used for acute illnesses. It is an adaptogen specific for the circulatory system and is used in numerous circulatory system problems. It is a slow acting, nourishing plant which needs to be taken long term for best effects, 3 months or more. It helps maintain healthy arteries, veins and heart by enhancing the connective tissue structure of the endothelial lining of the heart, blood and lymphatic vessels. This gives these structures resiliency against injury, disease and the normal wear and tear of aging. It improves cardiac function in general. It is used for functional and organic heart disorders with pain, dyspnea, precordial oppression, rapid and feeble heart action, valvular insufficiency, cardiac hypertrophy, angina, venous stasis, endocarditis, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, cerebral circulatory disturbances, hypertension, hypotension and hemorrhoids. Hawthorne improves coronary blood flow, reducing the likelihood of anginal attacks and relieving anginal symptoms. The increased blood supply directly affects the cardiac cells, enhancing nutrition to the cells and their activity. It also decreases peripheral vascular resistance. These actions assist in lowering high blood pressure.

Arrhythmias are normalized with the use of this herb. Most chronic heart diseases can be affected by use of this herb. Research has shown objective proof of efficacy in patients with cardiac insufficiency.

The flavones affect the calcium metabolism of the myocardium by inhibiting phosphodiesterase. This increases its ability to contract and support a normal rhythm. Hawthorne can most certainly be called a cardiovascular tonic, improving overall cardiac function. It contains two main groups of active principles, flavonoids, including hyperoside, vitexin 2"rhamnoside and rutin and oligomeric procyanidins.

Contraindications: Hawthorn can decrease the need for cardiac drugs like digitoxin, digoxin and other cardiac glycosides. Herbs with cardiac glycosides include pheasant's eye (Adonis) lily of the valley (Convallaria), fox glove (Digitalis), false hellebore (Helleborus), Strophanthus and Urginea.

Hops - Humulus lupulus

(in the Cannabaceae or Hemp family)

Parts used: Strobile.

Taste/smell: Drying, bitter.

Tendencies: Cooling.

Dosage: Infusion: 2 teaspoons per cup of water; or 1:1.5 fresh + dry liquid extract: 10-60 drops 1-4 times per day in a little water.

Mental picture and specific indications: Hops is indicated for irritable digestive tract and nervous system. It is specific for nervousness with twitching or muscular irritability, indigestion and sleeplessness.

Use: (a) Antispasmodic, (b) Sedative, (c) Anti-inflammatory, (d) Anodyne, (e) Stomachic, (f) Anaphrodisiac for men, (g) Nervine.

Hops is used for indigestion due to nervousness or poor dietary habits. It is helpful for colic in babies, for nervous exhaustion, anxiety, to promote sleep and for neuralgias.

Over 100 constituents have been identified in Hops. Hops is useful for dysmenorrhea, especially when taken prior to the onset of pain. In vitro experiments on rat uteri with an alcohol extract, induced a strong antispasmodic effect. The alcohol extract shows sedative and anti-inflammatory effects in animal experiments. The sedative-hypnotic effect of hops is partially due to 2-methyl-3-buten-2-ol. Considered a phytoestrogen.

Contraindications: Its sedative activity has increased the sleeping time induced by the drug pentobarbital.

Juniper berry - Juniperus communis

(in the Cupressaceae or Pine family)

Parts used: Berries.

Taste/smell: Sweet, pungent, aromatic.

Tendencies: Drying, stimulating.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 teaspoon of crushed berries per cup of water; or 1:4 dry liquid extract: 10-30 drops 1-4 times per day in a little water.

Mental picture and specific indications: Juniper helps bring clarity in confusing situations and is specific for atonic conditions of the gastrointestinal, respiratory and urinary tract.

Use: (a) Stimulating diuretic acting on the glomerulus to increase filtration rate, (b) Carminative, (c) Antiseptic, (d) Stomachic, (e) Hypoglycemic, (f) Renal vasodilator.

It is used in chronic bladder and kidney infections with atony, for edema from renal suppression, renal congestion, amenorrhea or dysmenorrhea from atonic, sluggish conditions, atonic liver conditions, digestive atony, arthritis, gout and sciatica. The ability to relieve the pain of inflammation in arthritis, gout and other diseases may be due to its prostaglandin-inhibiting action. Juniper is used as a flavoring in gin.

Contraindications: It is contraindicated in acute or chronic inflammatory conditions of the kidneys due to kidney irritation by hydrocarbon volatile oil components like pinenes and cadinene. Chronic over-dosage may cause kidney damage. Since animal studies show the essential oil prevents implantation of fetus on days 0-4 of pregnancy in mice, it is contraindicated in pregnancy. Additionally, juniper is a uterine stimulant due to reflex activity from urinary tract irritation. It should be used in small dosages and combined with a mucilaginous demulcent like marshmallow to counter the possible urinary tract irritation. Diuretic action is through stimulation of the glomerulus with little excretion of sodium. Therefore it is not beneficial as a diuretic in hypertension.

Licorice - Glycyrrhiza glabra

(in the Fabaceae or Legume family)

Part used: Root.

Taste/smell: Sweet, nutritious.

Tendencies: Moistening.

Dosage: Decoction: 1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:3 dry strength liquid extract: 20-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Demulcent, (b) Adrenalmodulator, (c) Antibacterial, (d) Antiviral, (e) Antimutagen, (f) Anti-allergenic, (g) Expectorant with secretolytic and secretomotor activity, (h) Anti-inflammatory, (i) Nutritive, (j) Spasmolytic, (k) Antioxidant, (l) Estrogenic, (m) Immunomodulator, (n) Mild laxative, (o) Hepatoprotective.

Licorice is most known for its soothing effect on inflamed mucous membranes of the throat, lungs, stomach and intestines. The root is used for coughs, all throat and bronchial irritations, urinary tract irritation, adrenal fatigue, immune deficient states, allergies, gastric and duodenal ulcers, liver disorders, exhaustion due to adrenal stress, and dermatological detoxification. It is effective for chronic hepatitis, useful in HIV and is specific for conditions like mononucleosis, where the patient has abnormally high liver enzymes, a sore throat and needs immune system support. It is also a wonderful herb for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Due to its sweet taste, licorice makes a nice addition to formulas that are unpalatable.

Experiments with both methanol extract of licorice and the constituent glycyrrhizin appear to activate glucuronidation and suggest the possibility that it may influence detoxification of xenobiotics in the liver. Subdural injection of licorice root has inhibited RC mammary carcinoma and lymphosarcoma 150 in mice. A number of constituents in licorice have shown anti-tumor activity in animal research.

The saponin known as glycyrrhizin, also known as glycyrrhizic acid or glycyrrhizinic acid, is the main ingredient in licorice root. It and its aglycone, glycyrrhetinic acid, exert most of the medicinal effects and are essential active components. Glycyrrhetinic acid is formed from glycyrrhizin via hydrolysis that is assisted by intestinal flora enzymes. It decreases inflammation by enhancing movement of leucocytes towards inflamed areas. Glycyrrhizin also increases interferon production and inhibits the activity of phospholipase A and the formation of prostaglandin E2 in activated peritoneal macrophages. Additionally it inhibits the effect of several tumor promoters. It contains 3-dehydro-18 beta-glycyrrhetinic acid, 2-15% triterpenoid saponins, largely glycyrrhizin that is ammonium and calcium salts of glycyrrhizinic acid and 24-hydroxyglycyrrhizin. Glycyrrhizinic acid hydrolyzes to diglucuronic acid and the aglycone glycyrrhetinic acid. There are other triterpenoid saponins, including sitosterol and stigmasterol, flavonoids and isoflavonoids, coumestans, coumarins, resins, gums, tannin, starch and a bitter principle. The isoflavone in licorice called formononetin, has very weak estrogenic activity compared with natural estrone or synthetic DES. Phytoestrogens can behave like anti-estrogens by competing with estradiol for cytoplasmic receptors in estrogen-sensitive tissues, possibly acting as protection against stronger estrogenic action from estradiol and protecting against cancers that are estrogen receptor positive.

Since licorice inhibits 5-beta-reductase that regulates cortisol and aldosterone metabolism, it may retard the metabolic excretion of corticosteroids and extend the biological half-life of cortisol and aldosterone.

Contraindications: Licorice is contraindicated in high blood pressure, heart failure, kidney disease, liver cirrhosis and cholestatic liver disorders. Chronic licorice use mimics aldosteronism by increasing sodium resorption and potassium excretion by the kidneys. This action is due to glycyrrhizin content. De-glycyrrhinized licorice has been investigated for its clinical use and safety. Its use has been controversial. There is 2-9% glycyrrhizin in licorice root. The de-glycyrrhinized root extract has a maximum of 3% glycyrrhizin in it.

Linden flower - Tilia spp.

(in the Tiliaceae or Tilia family)

Part used: Flower and leaves.

Taste/smell: Slightly sweet, aromatic, slightly astringent, pleasant smelling and tasting.

Dosage: Infusion: 1-2 teaspoons per cup of water; or 1:5 dry strength liquid extract: 20-40 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Linden flower is indicated for hypertension associated with arteriosclerosis. The individual is worse in the afternoon and evening, in a warm room and heat of bed and better in a cool room and with motion.

Use: (a) Diaphoretic, (b) Diuretic, (c) Stomachic, (d) Antispasmodic, (e) Antidepressant, (f) Calmative.

Linden has been found to shorten the duration of infectious viral conditions. It is a relaxing remedy for nervous tension and prophylactic against the development of arteriosclerosis and hypertension. Animal research has shown linden to protect against stress-induced ulcers and act as an anti-stress remedy. It specifically decreases adrenal enlargement and possesses corticosteroid-sparing effects in rats under stressful conditions. Linden is useful for hypertension and palpitations due to stress. The flowers and leaves contain a volatile oil, quercetin glycosides, kaempferol glycosides and mucilage.

Contraindications: Information unavailable at this time.

Marshmallow - Althea officinalis

(in the Malvaceae or Mallow family)

Part used: Root.

Taste/smell: Mucilaginous, nutritious, slightly sweet.

Tendencies: Moistening, cooling.

Dosage: Decoction: 1 tablespoon per cup of water; or 1:2 fresh strength liquid extract: 30-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: It is specific for inflammatory conditions.

Use: (a) Antispasmodic, (b) Anti-inflammatory.

Marshmallow is used for soothing mucous membrane irritation in the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract and urinary tract. Its anti-inflammatory activity appears to potentiate the effects of topical steroids. Internally, it is used for acute respiratory tract disorders, inflammation of the mouth, throat, stomach, intestines, bladder, kidney and urethra. Externally, it is used for wounds, burns, ulcers and all inflammatory skin disorders.

It contains polysaccharides, mucilage (25%-35% in root), (6-9% in leaves), starch, pectin, saccharose, flavonoids, phenolic acids and coumarins.

Contraindications: None known.

Meadowsweet - Filipendula ulmaria

(in the Rosaceae or Rose family)

Part used: Flowers, upper aerial parts.

Taste/smell: Astringent, bitter, sweet.

Tendencies: Cooling, drying.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 tablespoon per cup of water; or 1:5 dry strength liquid extract: 10-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Burning and inflammation is a prevalent part of symptomology.

Use: (a) Diaphoretic, (b) Diuretic, (c) Astringent, (d) Anti-inflammatory, (e) Antibacterial with in vitro activity against Staph. aureus, Staph. hemolyticus, Strep pyogenes, Strep hemolyticus, E. coli, Shigella flexneri, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Bacillus subtilis.

Meadowsweet is used in colds, flu, chronic gastritis, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammation of the nerves, muscles and skin. Part of the anti-inflammatory activity appears to be due to its ability to inhibit complement activation and T-cell proliferation and interfere with reactive oxygen species (ROS) or ROS production by PMN confirmed by in vitro studies. Due to the small amounts of salicylates in the herb, it is unknown if they contribute to the anti-inflammatory activity.

It contains flavonoids like spiraeoside and other quercetin and kaempferol derivatives, essential oils composed of salicylaldehyde, methyl salicylate, anisaldehyde, benzyl alcohol and phenylethyl alcohol.

Contraindications: Meadowsweet may cause allergic hypersensitivity in persons sensitive to salicylates.

Milk thistle - Silybum marianum

(in the Asteraceae or Aster family)

Part used: Seed.

Taste/smell: Bitter.

Dosage: Decoction: 1-2 teaspoons of crushed seed per cup of water; or 1:2.5 dry strength

liquid extract: 20-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: It is specific for congestion and inflammation of the liver, spleen and kidneys accompanied by hemorrhagic tendencies. There is a dull aching pain over the spleen, passing up to the left scapula and pain in the right side. It is indicated for weak and congested veins, pelvic congestion, prolapse of organs and blood stasis leading to hemorrhage. The individual displays pronounced debility.

Use: (a) Antioxidant, (b)Hepatoprotective, (c) Hepatotrophorestorative, (d) Gastroprotectant.

It is used for most liver diseases, including hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis, liver protection and/or regeneration immediately after exposure to liver toxins although it is best used as a protectant before exposure to liver toxins.

The constituent silymarin shows antifibrotic effects in early and advanced biliary fibrosis secondary to complete bile duct obliteration in rats. In patients with diabetes and alcohol-induced cirrhosis, silymarin has been shown to lower lipoperoxidative damage, blood glucose levels, glycosylated hemoglobin values and exogenous insulin requirements. Milk thistle contains 1.5-3% silymarin, a complex of flavonolignans, that mostly consists of silybin (silibinin, silychristin and silydianin). Silymarin is incorporated in cell membranes and increases the resistance of the membranes against injurious influences, probably by changing the physiochemical properties. It prevents the uptake of the mushroom toxins amanitin and phalloidin by competitive inhibition of receptors at the outer cell membrane and protects the liver against poisoning by organophosphate insecticides. It also stimulates RNA polymerase A, polymerase I, which enhances ribosome protein synthesis and activates the regenerative capacity of the liver cells. Silibinin has been used on lab rats to protect them from glomerular and tubular damage from cisplatin. Milk thistle prevents liver damage from butyrophenones, phenothiazines, acetaminophen, halothane, dilantin and ethanol due to membrane-stabilizing and free radical scavenging effects of silymarin.

Contraindications: Information unavailable at this time.

Mugwort - Artemisia vulgaris

(in the Asteraceae or Aster family)

Part used: Flowering tops.

Taste/smell: Aromatic, bitter, spicy.

Tendencies: Warming.

Mental picture and specific indications: In small doses, mugwort strengthens the digestive and nervous system. It is specific for coldness, stiffness and spasms.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh strength liquid extract: 1-20 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Vermifuge, (b) Bitter tonic, (c) Antibacterial, (d) Antifungal, (e) Emmenagogue, (f) Abortifacient.

Mugwort promotes proper digestion and appetite and regulates menstruation.

Contraindications: All Artemisia species may be toxic in large doses or with chronic use. It is contraindicated in pregnancy.

Mullein - Verbascum thapsus

(in the Scrophulariaceae or Figwort family)

Part used: Flowers, leaves. Note: Flowers are used for the nervous system, flowers and leaves for the kidneys and respiratory system.

Taste/smell: Pleasant odor, sweet, bitter, mucilaginous.

Mental picture and specific indications: It is indicated for dry, harsh, hacking coughs, weak lungs, kidneys and nervous system. Symptoms are worse with a change of temperature, talking, sneezing and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:5 dry strength liquid extract: 10-40 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Demulcent, (b) Expectorant, (c) Astringent, (d) Alterative.

The flowers are more demulcent and the leaves are more astringent. Mullein is used in hoarseness, coughs, bronchitis, whooping cough, asthma, hay fever and other respiratory conditions. It is also used in colic, constipation, facial neuralgia and urinary tract irritation. Externally, the oil is used for earaches.

Contraindications: Information unavailable at this time.

Oat - Avena sativa

(in the Gramineae or Grass family)

Part used: Milky oat seeds.

Taste/smell: Sweet, nutritious.

Tendencies: Moistening.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 heaping tablespoon of crushed milky oat seeds per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh + D strength liquid extract: 20-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: It is indicated in nervous states with exhaustion, inability to concentrate, melancholy, diminished strength of limbs or numbness of limbs, occipital headache extending down spine, as well as into head, lack of control over urination and sexual exhaustion or impotence from sexual excesses.

Use: (a) Nervine, (b) Alterative, (c) Sedative, (d) Nutritive to the nervous system, (e) Cerebral trophorestorative.

Oat has been used for treating addictive habits like morphine, opium, alcohol, nicotine, coffee, etc. It is also indicated for insomnia and nervous system irritation from exhaustion or stress. Rolled oats are used in baths for itchy skin conditions.

It contains iron - 39 mg/kg dry weight, manganese - 8.5 mg/kg, zinc and 19.2 mg/kg, calcium and magnesium.

Contraindications: Oats antagonize the antinociceptive effect of morphine and the pressor response to nicotine.

Parsley - Petroselinum crispum

(in the Umbelliferae or Parsley family)

Part used: Parsley root, seed.

Taste/smell: Root is sweetish, seed is spicy.

Tendencies: Cooling to neutral, drying root, warming, drying seed.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 scant teaspoon of seeds or one tablespoon of root per cup water; or 1:3 dry strength liquid extract of root: 10-50 drops 1-4 times a day; or seed liquid extract: 10-30 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Strong diuretic, (b) Galactagogue, (c) Emmenagogue, (d) Abortifacient, (e) Smooth muscle antispasmodic.

The root is a good diuretic but not as strong as the seed. The seed contains an essential oil that can cause gastric, cardiac, liver and kidney irritation in large doses.

Contraindications: Do not use the essential oil internally unless under the guidance of a qualified health care practitioner. The constituent, apiole, in the essential oil can cause kidney inflammation. Parsley is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the emmenagogue effect and uterine stimulation reported in animal research.

Passionflower - Passiflora incarnata

(in the Passifloracea or Passion flower family)

Part used: Flowering herb.

Taste/smell: Bland, slight aromatic scent.

Tendencies: Cooling.

Dosage: Infusion: 2 teaspoons per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh + dry strength liquid extract: 10-40 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: It is indicated for conditions where there is restless agitation and exhaustion with muscular twitching or tendency towards spasms. The tongue is not coated.

Use: (a) Antispasmodic, (b) Hypotensive, (c) Nervine, (d) Sedative, (e) Anti-inflammatory, (f) Cerebral vasorelaxant, (g) Anodyne.

This is a relaxing nervine that relieves cerebral irritation. It is used for heart palpitations and sleep disturbances due to nervousness. The constituents of passionflower are the flavonoids, apigenin and luteolin.

Contraindications: It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the uterine stimulants, harman and harmoline. Additionally, passionflower contains the cyanogenic glycoside, gynocardin. The constituent, maltol, has a sedative action and increases sleeping time induced by the drug, hexobarbital.

Pau d' arco - Tabebuia impetiginosa

(in the Bignoniaceae family)

Part used: Bark.

Tendencies: Drying, slightly warming.

Taste/smell: Astringent, aromatic.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 tablespoon per cup of water; or 1:3.5 dry strength liquid extract: 10-50 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Lymphagogue, (b) Antifungal, (c) Antibacterial, (d) Antiviral, (e) An tiparasitic, (f) Anti-inflammatory.

Pau d'arco is used for lymphatic congestion, cancer, diabetes, rheumatism and as an immune system modulator. It can be used internally and externally for fungal infections.

Contraindications: Information unavailable at this time.


Peppermint - Mentha piperita

(in the Lamiaceae or Mint family)

Part used: Leaf.

Taste/smell: Sweet, spicy, aromatic, cooling.

Tendencies: Cooling and drying.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 tablespoon per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh strength liquid extract: 10-30 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Peppermint is specific for spasmodic conditions of the respiratory, digestive and urinary tracts.

Use: (a) Antispasmodic, (b) Cholagogue, (c) Choleretic, (d) Carminative, (e) Mild disinfectant, (f) External analgesic, (g) Diaphoretic.

It is used for colic, flatulence, irritable bowel syndrome, general indigestion, nausea, vomiting, common cold and flu and desolution of gallstones. Topically, pepperment is applied to insect bites, stings and itchy skin in general. The spasmolytic effect appears to be due to its menthol, a calcium antagonist agent.

Contraindications: It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the emmenagogue effect, acute gallstones due to the choleretic effect and hiatal hernias due to the relaxing effect on the lower esophageal sphincter. Peppermint is used in pregnancy under the guidance of qualified health care practitioners.

Plantain - Plantago spp.

(in the Plantaginaceae or Plantain family)

Part used: Leaf.

Taste/smell: Nutritious, mucilaginous, slightly bitter, salty.

Tendencies: Cooling and drying.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 tablespoon per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh strength liquid extract: 15-40 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Antiseptic, (b) Antibacterial with in vitro activity against Staph aureus, (c) Astringent, (d) Diuretic, (e) Anti-inflammatory, (f) Vulnerary.

The mucilaginous, fresh leaf is used topically for wounds, insect bites, stings and in cough syrups. This is one of my favorite first aid remedies. The fresh leaves can be masticated and used as a poultice on wounds or to draw out splinters. Internally it can be used as a demulcent for urinary tract infections and respiratory tract infections.

Contraindications: Information unavailable at this time.

Psyllium - Plantago arenaria/ovata/asiatica

(in the Plantaginaceae or Plantain family)

Part used: Seed.

Taste/smell: Mucilaginous, bland, no noticeable smell.

Tendencies: Moistening with ingestion of water, drying without ingestion of water.

Dosage: Soak 1- 2 teaspoons of seeds in a cup of water, drink, followed by a second cup of water.

Use: (a) Demulcent, (b) Bulking agent, (c) Soothes gastrointestinal mucosa.

Psyllium is used for both constipation and diarrhea. If constipated, drink 2 glasses of water after taking the herb.

Contraindications: It is contraindicated in bowel obstruction, abnormal intestinal narrowing and esophageal stenosis. It is of utmost importance to drink adequate liquid with the seeds. Oral drugs or herbs taken at the same time as psyllium seeds may have delayed absorption due to its mucilage content.


Pulsatilla - Anemone vulgaris and pratensis

(in the Ranunculaceae or Buttercup family)

Part used: Whole plant.

Taste/smell: Slightly acrid, bitter.

Tendencies: Cooling.

Dosage: 1:2 fresh strength liquid extract: 5-10 drops 1-3 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Often the person who responds to pulsatilla will have nervous conditions like fearfulness, general nervousness, dejection, and weep easily. The individual is gentle, with a yielding disposition, and has changeable symptoms and moods. The body discharges are usually yellow. The person needing pulsatilla can be comforted while the person needing chamomile cannot.

Use: (a) Anti-inflammatory, (b) Sedative, (c) Analgesic.

Pulsatilla stimulates gastrointestinal and hepatic functions. It is indicated for menstrual complaints in women who are anemic, intolerant of fatty foods, have coated tongues, cold extremities and a feeble pulse. It is specific for amenorrhea following wet cold feet, acute endometriosis, ovarian neuralgia and congestive ovaritis with inflammation, dull, nagging, aching, tearing pains; not cramping pains. Animal research has indicated pulsatilla reduces uterine contractions in vitro, has a sedative and analgesic activity in vivo and an antibacterial action in vitro.

Contraindications: An overdose can cause toxicity with sensations of burning in the mouth and throat, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, slowed pulse and breathing, hypo-thermia, sensory and motor depression, stupor, coma and convulsions. Because it is a uterine stimulant, it is contraindicated in pregnancy.

Red clover - Trifolium pratense

(in the Fabaceae or Legume family)

Part used: Flowers.

Taste/smell: Sweet.

Tendencies: Cooling.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 tablespoon per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh + dry strength liquid extract: 10-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specifics: It is indicated for debilitated individuals and children with spasmodic coughs, salivary gland congestion, pharyngeal inflammation and chronic skin eruptions. Red clover is specific for swollen hard nodes, especially for single nodes and a stiff neck with cramping in the sternomastoid muscles that is relieved by heat and massage.

Use: (a) Mild antispasmodic, (b) Sedative, (c) Expectorant, (d) Blood thinner, (e) Mild alterative with a special affinity for the lungs, throat and salivary glands.

Water-soluble polysaccharides in red clover showed antitumor activity and chemotactic effects for leukocytes, mostly granulocytic, when administered by intraperitoneal injection in mice with peritoneal sarcoma 37 ascites tumor cells. Red clover contains large amounts of the estrogenic isoflavone compounds, formononetin and biochanin A. These isoflavones have very weak estrogenic activity compared with natural estrone or synthetic DES. Phytoestrogens can act as anti-estrogens to compete with estradiol for cytoplasmic receptors in estrogen-sensitive tissues.

Contraindications: It is contraindicated in pregnancy and for individuals using blood thinning agents. Red clover's action as a blood thinner will potentiate the effect of other blood thinning agents.

Raspberry leaf - Rubus idaeus

(in the Rosaceae or Rose family)

Part used: Leaf.

Taste/smell: Bitter, aromatic, astringent.

Tendencies: Cooling.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 tablespoon per cup of water; or 1:4 dry strength liquid extract: 10-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Mild, soothing astringent, (b) Preparatory parturient, (c) Uterine tonic, (d) Improves uterine tone and blood supply.

Red raspberry is often used during pregnancy. A strong tea can be made into ice cubes and given as ice chips to the women during labor. It will help prevent post-partum hemorrhage. It is used to improve digestion. This herb is also useful in passive uterine hemorrhage, menorrhagia and symptoms of diarrhea.

Contraindications: None known.

Sarsaparilla - Smilax officinalis

(in the Liliaceae or Lily family)

Part used: Root.

Taste/smell: Soapy.

Tendencies: Drying.

Dosage: Decoction: 1-2 teaspoons per cup of water; or1:4 dry strength liquid extract: 10-40 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Alterative, (b) Diuretic, (c) Diaphoretic, (d) Emetic.

Sarsaparilla is used in hormonal imbalances, psoriasis and rheumatism. It binds to bacterial endotoxins in the gut, prohibiting absorption. This action can effect many disease processes. It contains 1.8-2.4% steroid saponins, sarsaparilloside and smilasaponin, the glycosides of the steroids aglycone, sarsapogenin and isosarsapogenin, smilagenin and pollinastanol.

Contraindications: It is contraindicated in pregnancy.

Saw palmetto - Serenoa repens

(in the Palmaceae or Palm family)

Part used: Whole ripe fruit.

Taste/smell: Aromatic, sweet, soapy taste.

Tendencies: Drying, nutritious.

Dosage: Decoction: 1-2 teaspoons per cup of water; or 1:2.5 dry strength liquid extract: 10-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Saw palmetto is indicated for wasting of sexual organs, underdeveloped breasts and lack of sexual desire.

Use: (a) Diuretic, (b) Decongestant, (c) Anti-inflammatory, (d) Antispasmodic (123), (e) Male reproductive tract tonic, (f) Alterative.

Saw palmetto supports tissue nutrition of the urinary tract and has been widely used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The mode of mechanism is uncertain but it is thought to decrease conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, which promotes growth of the prostate and is implicated in BPH. It may also interfere with binding of dihydrotestosterone receptors in the prostate. It additionally may have an antiestrogenic effect. It is indicated for atony of pelvic organs, urethritis, impotence and all wasting diseases of the male pelvic organs. It is beneficial for undeveloped mammary glands, enuresis or incontinence in children and the elderly, interstitial cystitis, chronic bladder infections and respiratory conditions like head colds, sore throats and bronchitis. This herb may be useful in women with polycystic ovaries, Stein Levanthal disease, hirsuitism, cysts on the ovaries, anovulatory cycles and menstrual irregularities. It contains butyric acid.

Can act as a synthetic testosterone, therefore may be useful in building muscle tone and increasing energy.

Contraindications: Saw palmetto is contraindicated in pregnancy.

Siberian ginseng - Eleutheroccocus senticosus

(in the Araliaceae or Ginseng family)

Part used: Root bark or cortex.

Taste/smell: Bitter.

Tendencies: Neutral to slightly warming.

Dosage: Decoction: 1-2 teaspoons of dry herb per cup of water; or 1:1 dry strength liquid extract: 20-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Eleutherococcus is indicated for conditions resulting from stressful situations where the individual is unable to adapt.

Use: (a) Adaptogen.

It helps the body to adapt to stressful situations, from either internal or external causes. It increases endurance, concentration, enhances oxygen metabolism in tissues and organs, strengthens the digestion, the kidneys and enhances overall resistance to disease. It is supportive to the adrenal system and other bodily functions. Eleutherococcus is useful in acute kidney infections, chronic fatigue, immune dysfunction syndrome and general exhaustion and weakness. It has been shown to bind to progestin, estrogen, mineralcorticoid and glucocorticoid receptors and be effective in clinical research with hypotension, malignant arrhythmias, radiation recovery, diabetes and hyperlipidemia. It also boosts physical endurance levels.

Contraindications: Eleutherococcus enhances the action of antibiotics and the effect of hexobarbital due to inhibition of its metabolic breakdown.

Slippery elm - Ulmus spp. (rubra, fulva)

(in the Ulmaceae or Elm family)

Part used: Inner bark.

Taste/smell: Similar to maple syrup without the sweetness, astringent, mucilaginous.

Tendencies: Moistening with ingestion of water, drying without ingestion of water.

Dosage: 1 tablespoon of powdered herb per cup of water, mixed into a slurry.

Use: (a) Mucilaginous demulcent, (b) Diuretic, (c) Anti-inflammatory.

Slippery elm is indicated for soothing mucous membrane irritation in the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract and urinary tract. Internally, it is used for inflammatory respiratory tract disorders, inflammation of the mouth, throat, stomach, intestines, bladder and urethra and externally for wounds, burns, ulcers, and all inflammatory skin disorders.

Contraindications: When consumed in dry form, this herb should always be taken with water.

Thyme - Thymus vulgaris

(in the Lamiaceae or Mint family)

Part used: Leaves and flowers.

Taste/smell: Aromatic.

Tendencies: Warming, drying.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:1.5 fresh + dry strength liquid extract: 10-30 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Thyme is indicated for spasmodic conditions of the respiratory and urinary tract with infectious symptoms.

Use: (a) Expectorant, (b) Spasmolytic, (c) Bronchodilator, (d) Carminative, (e) Antioxidant, (f) Antibacterial with in vitro activity against Staph aureus, (g) Antifungal, (h) Diuretic, (i) Vermifuge.

Thyme is specific for whooping cough, bronchitis and other respiratory tract conditions. It can be used both internally and externally on the chest. Additionally thyme is beneficial for urinary tract infections.

Contraindications: An overdose of the essential oil can cause abdominal pain and temporary collapse and should not be used internally except under the guidance of a qualified health care practitioner. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the emmenagogue effect.

Turmeric - Curcuma longa

(in the Zingiberaceae or Ginger family)

Part used: Rhizome.

Taste/smell: Bitter, pungent and aromatic.

Tendencies: Cooling, stimulating.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:0.85 fresh strength liquid extract: 10-40 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Tumeric is indicated for mental dullness or confusion, mania, congestion in the pelvis, liver or gastrointestinal tract.

Use: (a) Anti-inflammatory, (b) Antiarthritic, (c) Antioxidant, (d) Topical antibacterial and antifungal, (e) Antifertility action, (f) Hypotensive, (g) Anti-atherosclerotic, (h) Tumor-preventing activity, (i) Cholagogue, (j) Choleretic, (k) Emmenagogue, (l) Lowers cholesterol, (m) Stimulates digestive enzymes, (n) Carminative, (o) Hepatoprotective, (p) Vulnerary, (q) Anticoagulant.

Turmeric inhibits platelet aggregation and prevents cataracts. It is used for flatulence, jaundice, menstrual difficulties, gallstones, hemorrhage, toothache, bruises, colic, arthritis, sprains, wounds and as an anticancer agent. It contains the polysaccharides, ukonan-A (a phagocytosis-activating factor) and ukonan-D (a reticuloendothelial system-potentiating activity), 4-5% orange-yellow volatile oil, mainly composed of turmerone, atlantone and zingiberone, 0.3-5.4% curcumin (an antioxidant and antiedemic) and the disaccharides, glucose 28%, fructose 12% and arabinose 1%. It also contains various resins, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Contraindications: It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the uterine stimulant effect. It is also contraindicated in bile duct obstruction due to cholagogue activity.

Valerian - Valeriana officinalis

(in the Valerianaceae or Valerian family)

Part used: Root.

Taste/smell: Aromatic, sweet, spicy.

Tendencies: Slightly warming.

Dosage: Infusion: 1-2 teaspoons per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh + dry strength liquid extract: 10-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Valerian is specific for support of atonic and functional nervous disorders and situations arising from cerebral vascular insufficiency. The individual may have a tendency to personality changes, feel light, as if floating in air, oversensitive, and experience hallucinations at night. There may be symptoms of itching and muscle spasms at night and rheumatic pains in limbs with sciatica and jerking.

Use: (a) Sedative, (b) Relaxing nervine, (c) Antispasmodic, (d) Anticonvulsant, (e) Hypotensive.

Valerian is used for restlessness, hysteria, emotional stress, pain, insomnia, anxiety, nervous palpitations, nervous irritation, cardiovascular arrhythmias, attention deficit and hyperactivity syndromes, gastrointestinal cramping, menstrual cramps, shingles and backaches. It has shown antispasmodic activity in vitro on animal uteri. Valerian contains many constituents with pharmacological activity. They include the essential oil, sesquiterpenoids (valerianic acid) and epoxy iridoid esters (valepotriates) and their decomposition products. Additionally Valerian contains the amino acids (arginine,GABA, glutamine, tyrosine) and alkaloids.

Contraindications: The volatile components of valerian increase sleeping time induced by pentobarbital. It has been shown to potentiate the action of barbituates in general.

Vervain - Verbena officinalis

(in the Verbenaceae or Verbena family)

Part used: Aerial herb during flowering stage.

Taste/smell: Bitter.

Tendencies: Drying.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:5 dry strength liquid extract: 5-15 drops 1-3 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Vervain is indicated for nervous symptoms due to mental or physcial overexertion with spasms in general, especially in the neck and back due to overexertion. The individual is usually strong-willed.

Use: (a) Alterative, (b) Astringent, (c) Diuretic, (d) Antispasmodic, (e) Antidepressant.

This herb is a relaxing and stimulating nervine with specific influence on hepatic and renal autonomic functions. It is used for nervous depression, acute spasms of bronchitis and whooping cough, amenorrhea and dysmenorrhea.

Contraindications: Vervain is contraindicated in pregnancy.

White Willow Bark- Salix spp.

(in the Salicaceae or Willow family)

Part used: Bark.

Taste/smell: Astringent, bitter.

Tendencies: Cooling, drying.

Dosage: Decoction: 1-2 teaspoons per cup of water; or 1:5 dry strength liquid extract: 10-60 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications: Willow is indicated for sores on the mucosa or skin, diarrhea, ulcers, fever with intermittent chills, arthritic pain, sexual irritability and excessive passion, mental irritation, bitterness and tiredness.

Use: (a) Astringent, (b) Anti-inflammatory, (c) Analgesic.

The various willows have been commonly used for fevers, headaches and rheumatism. The main active constituents are thought to be salicin and the salicyl glycosides that create a salicylic acid-like reaction in the body. The conversion of the herb into the usable form, saligenin, by gastric flora can take hours; but once absorbed, it is effective for several hours. For this reason willow is not very effective for acute pain relief. The benefits are available over a more protracted period of time.

Contraindications: It is contraindicated in cases of bleeding disorders like hemophilia or in conjunction with other blood thinning agents.

Yarrow - Achillea millefolium

(in the Asteraceae or Aster family)

Part used: Flowers, leaves.

Taste/smell: Bitter, aromatic, pungent.

Tendencies: Cooling, drying.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:1 fresh strength liquid extract: 10-30 drops 1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specifics: The individual has vertigo when moving slowly and feels as if something is forgotten. The head seems full of blood. Yarrow is specific for the urinary system and exerts a tonic influence on the venous system and mucous membranes. It is best for atonic and relaxed tissues where there is free discharge or massive bleeding of bright red blood, or diarrhea.

Use: (a) Bitter tonic, (b) Antiseptic, (c) Antifungal, (d) Astringent, (e) Styptic, (f) Stimulating diaphoretic, (g) Anti-inflammatory, (h) Anodyne.

A hot infusion of yarrow produces a stimulating diaphoretic effect and a col d infusion produces a diuretic effect or tones gastric organs. Some of the ability to relieve pain may be due to its prostaglandin-inhibiting action. It is used in the initial stages of colds or fevers, bleeding hemorrhoids, excessive menstrual flow with uterine atony or uterine spasms and vaginitis with vaginal atony. It contains achilletin and achilleine (hemostatics), B-iso-thujone, coumarin, chamazulene, apigenin and steroidal B-sitosterol.

Contraindications: The constituent, B-iso-thujone, can cause vomiting, stomach and intestinal cramps, retention of urine, and in serious cases, renal damage, vertigo, tremors, and convulsions. B-iso-thujone is alcohol soluble, but aqueous extracts contain less of it. Allergic contact dermatitis can occur with external use of yarrow on sensitive individuals. Discontinue if a rash occurs. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the emmenagogue and abortifacient effects.

Yucca - Yucca spp.

(in the Agavaceae family)

Part used: Root.

Taste/smell: Astringent, slightly acrid, soapy.

Tendencies: Cooling.

Dosage: Infusion: 1 teaspoon per cup of water, infused 25 minutes; or 1:3 dry strength liquid extract: 10-50 drops 1-4 times per day.

Use: (a) Antispasmodic, (b) Anti-inflammatory.

This herb is commonly used for arthritis.

Contraindications: Yucca is contraindicated in pregnancy unless used under the guidance of a qualified health professional.