Digestive Health Herbs

Question 1

Carminative Herbs

Answer 1

herbs that reduce gas, bloating and cramping

effective for symptomatic relief, do not always go to the source of discomfort

include fennel seed, anise, ginger, peppermint, chamomile

Question 2

Bitters (Bitter Herbs)

Answer 2

stimulate digestive enzymes and activity

Here you are using herbs to get to the root of the problem

good to combine with carminative herbs

include: gentian, dandelion root, chamomile, yellow dock, barberry, wormwood

Question 3

Warming herbs

Answer 3

stimulate blood flow to the digestion

relieve congestion and stagnation

provide a digestive “fire”

include: ginger, cayenne, prickly ash, cinnamon

Question 4

Demulcent Herbs

Answer 4

soothe, calm, and protect irritated mucous membranes

good for acidity, irritation, ulcers, inflammation, constipation, hemorrhoids

include: marshmellow root, slippery elm, licorice, plantain, aloe juice, flaxseed

Question 5

Laxative Herbs

Answer 5

stimulate peristalsis- muscular contraction necessary for elimination

should only be used when absolutely necessary and only for short periods of time

best when combined with fiber, demulcents, bitters, warming herbs and carminatives so that you can heal your digestive tract, reduce side effects, and soothe tissues at the same time

include cascara sagrada, buckthorn, aloe vera (latex), senna, rhubarb root

Question 6

Hepatic Herbs

Answer 6

improve elimination via increased liver function

include: licorice root, yellow dock, dandelion root, and milk thistle

Question 7

astringent herbs

Answer 7

reduce inflammation of tissues, tightening and toning, and reducing fluid production

good for inflammation and hyper secretive states like diarrhea

include: meadowsweet, raspberry leaf, rose, plantain, oak, nettles