A to Z of herbs & herbal remedies

A

Agnus Castus (Vitex)
This traditional herbal remedy has applications in PMS, acne and fertility.

Aloe vera
Aloe vera can be used on the skin, to treat rashes, sunburn, dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis. It can also be taken internally, and is useful for conditions like colitis, arthritis, IBS, asthma, and chronic fatigue.

Angelica
Angelica archangelica

Artichoke
Cynara scolymus
Artichoke has long been eaten as a vegetable. Key uses are in cholesterol reduction, as a digestive tonic and in liver support. Other reported uses include the relief of jaundice, anaemia and dyspepsia.

Arnica

Astralagus
Astragolus membronaceous
An adaptogenic herb native to Northern China. Traditional Chinese Medicine uses this herb for night sweats, deficiency of chi (e.g., fatigue, weakness, and loss of appetite).

Avena sativa (oats)
In folk medicine, oats are used by herbalists to treat nervous exhaustion and insomnia. A tincture of oats was also uses to help with withdrawal from tobacco. Avena sativa is also used to reduce cholesterol.

B

Basil
Ocimum basilicum

Bay
Laurus nobilis

Bergamot
(Monarda didyma

Bilberry
Vaccinium myrtillus
Bilberry extracts are rich in a flavonoid known as anthocyanoside, which improves blood flow and the delivery of oxygen to the eye. The potent antioxidant effects of Bilberry also protect the eyes from free-radical damage, the causative factor involved in the development of cataracts and macular degeneration. It is also a circulatory tonic with blood sugar lowering properties.

Black Cohosh
Cimicifuga Racemosa
Native Americans valued Black Cohosh for its benefits in many conditions ranging from gynaecological problems to rattlesnake bites. Recent scientific investigation has upheld the use of black cohosh in treating both PMS and menopausal symptoms, including hot flushes, depression, joint pain, nervousness and osteoporosis.

Borage
Borago officinalis

Boswellia
Boswellia Serrate
A tree found in India, North Africa and the Middle East. Strips of bark are peeled away, yielding a gummy oleo­resin that contains oils, terpenoids, and gum. This gum resin has been used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of conditions from skin disorders to dysentery, but the most common Western application of Boswellia is in arthritic conditions due to the herb's potent anti-inflammatory action.

Buchu
Round (Agathosma betulina)
Oval (Agathosma crenulata)

Burdock
Arctium Lapps
Detoxifying and cleansing herbal with skin benefits, especially in eczema and psoriasis.

C

Calendula (Pot Marigold)
Calendula officinalis

California Poppy
Eschscholzia colifornia
California poppy is not a narcotic. In fact, rather than disorientating the user, it tends to normalise psychological function. California poppy's gently - antispasmodic, sedative, and analgesic effects make it a valuable herbal remedy for treating physical and psychological problems in children. California poppy may also prove beneficial in attempts to overcome bedwetting, difficulty in sleeping, and nervous tension and anxiety.

Caraway
Carum carvi

Catnip
Nepeta cataria

Cayenne
Capsicum frutescens

Chamomile
This popular beverage herb can calm jangled nerves, relieve stomach distress, prevent ulcers, speed their healing, and help fight infection. how to: For tea, 2 to 3 heaping teaspoons per cup, steeped 10 to 20 minutes. Up to 3 cups per day.

Chervil
Anthriscus cerefolium

Chinese ephedra
Commonly used to treat colds and asthma, Chinese ephedra (Ma Huang) can also raise blood pressure and cause insomnia and other problems. warning: Prior to using Chinese ephedra, seek advice from a health care practitioner, especially if you are pregnant or nursing. It should not be given to children under 13.

Chives
Allium schoenoprasum

Cleavers
Golium aporine
Cleavers is essentially a lymphatic alterative with useful diuretic and skin healing effects. Cleavers is a very valuable plant, being perhaps the best tonic to the lymphatic system available. As a lymphatic tonic with alterative and diuretic actions it may be used safely in a wide range of problems where the lymphatic system is involved. These include swollen glands (lymphadenitis) anywhere in the body, especially in tonsillitis and adenoid trouble.

Coleus Forskholii
Coleus activates some key enzymes at cellular level and using the body's own mechanisms can help reduce allergic response and increase cellular fat-burning. Common uses of Coleus are in psoriasis, allergies and bronchial conditions, plus weight loss.

Comfrey
This plant contains allantoin, which promotes the growth of new cells and gives it value as a wound treatment. how to: Place a bruised leaf on clean cuts or scrapes. Cover with a bandage. WARNING: Do not use internally.

Coriander
Coriandrum sativum

Cranberry
Vacanium mocrocarpon
In traditional North American herbalism, Cranberry has been used to prevent kidney stones as well as to remove toxins from the blood. Cranberry is an effective cystitis remedy.

D

Dandelion
Taraxacum Ofcinale
A liver-supportive herbal with an effective diuretic action. Also has a hormone detoxifying role.
Despised as a weed, dandelion can help relieve premenstrual bloating. Preliminary studies suggest possible anti-inflammatory effects. how to: For tea, 1/2 ounce dried leaf per cup, steeped 10 minutes. Up to 3 cups per day.

Devil's Claw
Harpagophytum procumbens
Devil's Claw is native to the savannah of the Kalahari of South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. It has been widely used in Europe as a treatment for arthritis and for its pain relief properties.

Dill
Anethum graveolens

Dong Quai
Angelica sinensis
In Asia, angelica's reputation is perhaps second only to ginseng. Angelica is generally regarded as a 'female' remedy, used in such conditions as PMS and menopausal symptoms. Angelica is also used in the treatment of abdominal pain, anaemia, injuries, arthritis and migraine headache.

E

Echinacea
Echinacea Purpurea,/Echinocea Angustifolia
- Historically, Echinacea was used by the American Indians for more illnesses than any other plant. In the UK, this herb is used mainly for its immune-boosting properties.

Elderberry
Sambucus nigro
Numerous species of elder or elderberry grow in Europe and North America. Only those with blue/black berries are medicinal. Herbalists use the plant for infections, coughs and skin conditions.

Elecampane
Inula helenium
Elecampane helps with all pulmonary and catarrhal problems, having expectorant and anti-spasmodic effects making this an ideal remedy for the treatment of coughs and bronchitis. It is a specific for irritating bronchial coughs. It may be used wherever copious amounts of catarrh is formed e.g. bronchitis or emphysema.

English Mallow
Althea officinalis

Eyebright
Euphrasia Of jicinalis Exerts broad protective effects on eye health including; styes, eye fatigue symptoms, sensitivity to light, weeping, stinging, and functional eye disorders of muscular and nervous origin. Eyebright is also an excellent remedy for the problems of mucus membranes. Being astringent and anti-inflammatory it is useful for many conditions of nose, sinus and middle ear.

F

Fennel
Foeniculum vulgare

Feverfew
Tanacetum parthenium
Feverfew has a long history of use and has become very popular as a migraine remedy.
Several studies confirm feverfew's value in preventing migraines. how to: Chew two leaves a day, or take a pill or capsule containing 85milligrams of leaf material (feverfew is quite bitter). For tea, 1/2 to 1 teaspoon per cup, steeped 5 to 10 minutes. Up to 2 cups per day.

G

Garlic
Allium sativum
Garlic has been cultivated in the Middle East for more than
5,000 years. It is mentioned in the Bible and its use in China was first mentioned in A.D. 510. Garlic is now accepted as having anti-microbial, immune­boosting and cardio­supportive actions.
When chewed or chopped, garlic is a potent natural antibiotic; it also has anti-viral properties. It reduces cholesterol and helps prevent the formation of internal blood clots that trigger heart attacks. how to: In food, season to taste. For tea, steep 6 cloves in a cup of cool water for 6 hours.

Ginger
Zingiber officinale
Ginger is a perennial plant that grows in India, China, Mexico, and several other countries. The rhizome (underground stem) is used as both a spice and in herbal medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine has recommended ginger for over 2,500 years and has been used for abdominal bloating, coughing, vomiting, and rheumatism. Ginger is commonly used in the Ayurvedic system of medicine for the treatment of inflammatory joint diseases, such as arthritis and rheumatism.
Ginger prevents motion sickness and may help prevent the internal blood clots that trigger heart attacks. how to: For motion sickness, take 2 to 3 capsules of 500 milligrams 30 minutes before departure. For tea, 2 teaspoons powdered or grated root per cup, steeped 10 minutes. Up to 3 cups per day.

Ginkgo biloba
An effective tonic for the circulatory system, Ginkgo is Helpful in age­elated iemory loss, innitus, laudication and cold angers and toes. It also has a reputation as a study-aid.

Ginseng
Ginseng stimulates the immune system, helps protect the liver from toxics, and increases stamina. In one animal experiment, it also increased sexual activity. how to: Follow package directions for teas, capsules, tablets, and tinctures.

Goldenseal
Studies show that this herb has antibiotic action. how to: For tea, 1/2 to 1 teaspoon powdered root per cup, steeped 10 minutes. Up to 2 cups per day.

H

Hawthorn
Crataegus oxyacantha
The herb for the 'four corner; of the heart'. Hawthorn flowers and berries have been used primarily as heart and circulatory tonics and mild diuretics for heart disorders including congestive heart failure, angina, and hypertension.

Hop
Humulus lupulus

Horse Chestnut
Aesculus hippocastanum
Horse chestnut seed is traditionally used in the treatment of rheumatism and neuralgia and conditions of venous congestion including varicose veins and haemorrhoids.

Horseradish
Armoracia rusticana

Hyssop
Hyssopus officinalis

J

Jerusalem Artichoke
Helianthus tuberosus
This herb is a rich source of inulin, a non-digestible carbohydrate which supports good bacteria in the gut. It has applications in blood sugar regulation and weight control.

L

Lady's Mantle
Alchemilla

Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia

Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis

Licorice
Glycyrrhiza Gabra
Licorice is one of the most scientifically investigated herbal remedies. Used primarily for adrenal support, as an expectorant and mild laxative, Licorice is one of the most popular components of Chinese medicine. Its traditional uses include the treatment of peptic ulcers, bronchial conditions, pharyngitis, insomnia and infections.
Licorice can soothe sore throats and treat ulcers. how to: For sore throat, add a pinch of root to tea. For ulcers, 1/2 teaspoon of powder per cup, boiled 10 minutes. Up to 2 cups per day. warning: Large doses can be dangerous.

Lovage
Lovage is classified as an emmenagogue. Emmenagogues are herbals which have the ability to provoke menstruation. The ligustilide-containing essential oil found in Lovage has an anti-spasmodic effect on smooth muscle, and thus has been shown to be beneficial in alleviating menstrual cramps.
Some herbalists have referred to Lovage as the 'European alternative to Dong QuaP, which is appropriate given its content of ligustilide. Lovage is also beneficial in cases of infections of the urinary tract and is noted for benefits in cases of kidney and bladder stones. Lovage is used for flushing-out therapy for inflammation of the lower urinary tract and for preventing kidney gravel.

Lungwort
Pulmonaria officinalis

M

Marjoram (Sweet)
Origanum majorana

Milk Thistle
Silybum marianum
Milk thistle has shown positive effects in treating nearly every known form of liver disease, including cirrhosis, hepatitis, necroses, and liver damage due to drug and alcohol abuse.
Milk thistle detoxifies and stimulates production of new liver cells to replace old damaged ones.

Mint
Spearmint and Peppermint
For indigestion, try a cup of mint tea after eating. how to: For tea, 1 teaspoon fresh or 2 teaspoons dried per cup, steeped 10 minutes. Reheat if desired. Up to 3 cups per day. For a relaxing bath, fill a cloth bag with a few handfuls of dried or fresh leaves, and run water over it.

Motherwort
Leonurus cardioca
Used in both Chinese and traditional European herbalism for the treatment of anxiety, lack of menstruation and during the menopause, this herb has a sedative quality.

Mustard
Brassica juncea

0

Olive Leaf
Oleo europa
Leaves from the olive tree exhibit strong inhibitory effects on the growth of viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites. Olive leaf also has applications in cardio health and blood sugar lowering.

Oregano
Origanum vulgare

Oregon Grape
Berberis aquifolium
The over-harvesting of the berberine-rich natural antibiotic herb, Goldenseal , began a world-search for an alternative. Oregon grape's historical and folk use is similar to that of goldenseal. In addition, Oregon grape has been used in the treatment of chronic skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis and eczema As with goldenseal, the beneficial effects associated with Oregon grape are mainly due to the high levels of isoquinoline alkaloids present, particularly berberine.

P

Parsley
Petroselinum crispum

Plantain
Plantago lanceolata
Traditionally, plantain is most often used internally to suppress coughs and soothe mucous membrane inflammation associated with bronchitis, colds and upper respiratory congestion.

Pot Marigold
Calendula officinalis

R

Raspberry Leaf
This premier pregnancy herb is widely used to treat morning sickness and uterine irritability, and to help prevent threatened miscarriage. how to: For tea, 1 to 2 teaspoons per cup, steeped 10 minutes. Up to 3 cups per day.

Red Clover
Trifolium pratense
Red clover contains high levels of isoflavones, which have weak oestrogen-like properties - and thus may help alleviate menopausal symptoms. Recent research indicates that red clover has a protective effect on cardiovascular health through the menopause and on cell health generally.

Rhodiola rosea
Also known as 'arctic root'. As a powerful adaptogen rhodiola offers broad mood­boosting effects- and supports
overall body function particularly via adrenal stress. Anecdotal benefits include as a libido enhancer and an overall energy booster.

Rose Hips
The "hip" is the part that remains when the petals fall off the flower. Rose hips contain vitamin C. how to: For tea, 2 to 3 teaspoons per cup, steeped 10 minutes. Drink as needed.

Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis

Rue
Ruta gaveolens

S

Sage
Salvia officinalis
In the UK herbalists employ sage to treat symptoms of menopause, such as hot flushes. A study with patients suffering from excessive perspiration found that sage reduced sweating by as much as 50%.

Scented Geranium
Pelargonium

Southernwood
Artemesia abrotanum

Senna
This herb is a powerful laxative. Senna tastes terrible, so most herbalists recommend a tincture or a commercial product. To avoid abdominal distress, do not take more than the package directions specify.

Slippery Elm Bark
Historically used to soothe sore throats, coughs, and upset stomachs, this beneficial bark is still available in bulk and in herbal cough drops and throat lozenges. how to: For tea, 1 to 3 teaspoons of powdered bark per cup, boiled and simmered 15 minutes. Up to 3 cups per day.

St John's Wort
Hypericum per foratum
A very popular herbal much researched and publicised for its anti-depressive properties.

Saw Palmetto
Serenoa repens
Considerable research shows that this herbal offers excellent protection and treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BHP) a common ailment in men over 50.

Schisandra
Schisandra chinensis
An adaptogenic, mood and energy-boosting herbal much revered in the East.

Summer Savory
Satureja hortensis

Sweet Cicely
Myrrhis odorata

Sweet Flag
Acorus calamus

T

Tarragon
Artemisia dracunculus

Thyme
Thymus vulgaris

Turmeric
Curcuma Conga
Turmeric is a perennial herb of the ginger family with cell­protective, antioxidant properties.

U

Uva Ursi
Research has shown that this bitter herb has diuretic and urinary antiseptic effects. Use it in addition to mainstream medical treatment. how to: One teaspoon per cup, boiled 10 minutes. Up to 3 cups per day.


V

Valerian
Valerians ofcinalis
A calmitive to the central nervous system, Valerian's primary traditional use has been as a sedative for the relief of insomnia, anxiety, and conditions associated with pain.

Verbascum (Mullein)
Verbascum

Vervain
Verbena officinalis
Vervain is a herb that will strengthen and restore the nervous system whilst relaxing any tension and stress. It can be used ease depression and melancholia, especially when this follows illness such as influenza.

W

White Willow
Salix alba
The bark of the white willow tree has been used in China for centuries as a medicine because of its ability to relieve pain and lower fever. The active ingredient in white willow is salicin, which the body converts into salicylic acid-the same active as was used in aspirin. All aspirin is now chemically synthesized. It is not surprising, then, that white willow bark is often called "herbal aspirin."

Wood Betony
Stachys betonica
Wood Betony is described as a nervine herb with traditional applications in anxiety and various types of nerve pain. It is also used in traditional European herbal medicine as an anti-inflammatory remedy for people with sinusitis and for the treatment of heartburn and gastritis.

Y

Yarrow
Achillea millefolium


Potentially Hazardous Herbs:

A basic tenet of pharmacology is: "The dose makes the poison." Most drugs that are beneficial in therapeutic doses can cause problems and sometimes death, in overdose. This is as true for medicinal herbs as it is for pharmaceuticals.

But in general, herbs have been the victims of unjustified safety scares. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, pharmaceuticals caused a total of 809 fatalities and 6,407 major non-fatal poisonings in 1988 and 1989 combined. During the same period, plants caused two fatalities and 53 major poisonings. The most hazardous plants were not herbal medicines, but houseplants.

Although most commonly used medicinal herbs are safe for ingestion in recommended amounts, pregnant and nursing women should consult a health professional before taking any medicinal herbs (or pharmaceuticals), and everyone else should use the following herbs cautiously, if at all: Chinese ephedra; herbal laxatives such as buckthorn, cascara sagrada, and senna; and all herbal oils.