Botanical Classifications By Action

Question 1

Alterative

Answer 1

Produces gradual beneficial change, without any noticeable specific effect, often through improved nutrition (often through gut)

Question 2

Analgesic

Answer 2

Pain diminishing effect

Question 3

Anodyne

Answer 3

Relieves pain

Question 4

Anthelminthic

Answer 4

Expels or destroys intestinal helminths

Question 5

Antibiotic

Answer 5

Destroys or arrests the growth of bacteria or Protozoa (examples garlic, goldenseal)

Question 6

Antiemetic

Answer 6

Counteracts nausea and relieves vomiting

Question 7

Antipyretic

Answer 7

Prevents or reduces fever

Question 8

Antiseptic

Answer 8

Inhibits the growth of bacteria

Question 9

Antispasmodic

Answer 9

Prevents or reduces the intensity of spasticity, tremors, or muscle cramps

Question 10

Antitussive

Answer 10

Relieves coughing

Question 11

Aperient

Answer 11

Stimulates the bowels (gentle laxative)

Question 12

Aphrodisiac

Answer 12

Increases sexual arousal

Question 13

Astringent

Answer 13

Contracts tissue, reducing bleeding or fluid exudate on mucous membranes

Question 14

Balsam

Answer 14

Soothing or healing agent, usually made from resinous substance derived from trees

Question 15

Bitter

Answer 15

Stimulates the stomach, gallbladder, and appetite due to its bitter qualities

Question 16

Carminative

Answer 16

Expels gas from the intestines

Question 17

Cathartic

Answer 17

Very strong laxative effect, intended to empty the bowel

Question 18

Cholagogue

Answer 18

Increases the flow of bile into the intestine (by gallbladder contractions)

Question 19

Choleretic

Answer 19

Supports formation of bile

Question 20

Demulcent

Answer 20

Soothes irritated tissue, especially mucous membranes

Question 21

Depurative

Answer 21

Cleanses and purifies the system, especially the blood

Question 22

Diaphoretic

Answer 22

Promotes perspiration

Question 23

Diuretic

Answer 23

Increases the output of urine

Question 24

Emetic

Answer 24

Induces vomiting

Question 25

Emmenagogue

Answer 25

Promotes menstrual flow

Question 26

Emollient

Answer 26

Used externally to soften and smooth

Question 27

Expectorant

Answer 27

Promotes the discharge of mucous from the lungs

Question 28

Galactagogue

Answer 28

Increases activity of the mammary ducts

Question 29

Hemostatic

Answer 29

Stops bleeding (usually same as astringent but not always)

Question 30

Hepatic

Answer 30

Affects the liver

Question 31

Laxative

Answer 31

Promotes bowel activity

Question 32

Lymphagogue

Answer 32

Promotes movement of lymphatic fluids

Question 33

Narcotic

Answer 33

Relieves pain and induces sleep when used in medicinal doses (usually has higher toxicity)

Question 34

Nervine

Answer 34

Calming or soothing effect on the nerves

Question 35

Purgative

Answer 35

Strong laxative effect

Question 36

Restorative

Answer 36

Restores normal physiologic activity

Question 37

Rubefacient

Answer 37

Local irritant that promotes erythema

Question 38

Sedative

Answer 38

Calming effect on the nervous system, usually with some reduction in alertness

Question 39

Stimulant

Answer 39

Enhances a physiological process or organ, system or person’s vitality in general

Question 40

Stomachic

Answer 40

Strengthens, stimulates, or tones the stomach

Question 41

Styptic

Answer 41

Astringent effects, specifically in regards to controlling bleeding

Question 42

Tonic

Answer 42

Strengthens an organ or the person’s vitality in general

Question 43

Vermicide

Answer 43

Destroys helminths

Question 44

Vermifuge

Answer 44

Hastens the expulsion of helminths

Question 45

Vulnerary

Answer 45

Heals wounds