Glossary Flashcards
An agent that induces or causes premature expulsion of a foetus (ex: Pennyroyal, Blue Cohosh, Tansy). Their use in pregnancy is prohibited.
ABORTIFACIENT
Lack of gastric HCL
ACHLORHYDRIA
A substance that assists a living organism adapt to environmental, physical, or psychological stress
ADAPTOGEN
A substance that produces effects similar to epinephrine (adrenaline),which stimulates the sympathetic nervous system. This stimulates heartbeat, respiratory rate, raises blood pressure, and increases cortisol levels and glucogenesis (ex: Ephedra)
ADRENERGIC (Sympathomimetic
An archaic term denoting a chill. Usually associated with recurrent fevers and chills in malaria patients
AGUE
An archaic term for enlargement of the spleen caused by malaria
AGUE CAKE
A substance which produces gradual beneficial change in the body, usually by improving elimination. Increases the activity of major eliminatory organs, i.e., liver, kidneys, skin, large intestines, lungs or lymph. The archaic term “blood purifier” has been superceded by the terms alterative and antidyscratic (Yellow Dock, Burdock, Poke, Blue Flag)
ALTERATIVE
Correctives – normalizes hyper or hypo function of an organ or tissue - usually by improving nutrition (Ganoderma, Grifola – Immune System; Helonias – Female Reproductive System; Hawthorn – Cardiovascular System)
AMPHOTERIC
Processes that cause a building up of tissue – constructive metabolism
ANABOLIC (Anabolism)
Systemic oedema with a clear, watery fluid infiltrating into the subcutaneous connective tissue
ANASARCA
A substance that reduces libido (ex: Black Willow buds)
ANAPHRODISIAC
A drug or herb which relieves or diminishes pain; syn. anodyne (ex: Willow, Indian Pipe, Jamaica Dogwood)
ANALGESIC
An agent that deadens sensation (anesthetics include Spilanthes, Menthol)
ANESTHETIC
A drug or herb which relieves or diminishes pain
ANODYNE
An agent that destroys or expels intestinal worms (ex: Wormseed, Wormwood, Pink Root)
ANTHELMINTIC
A substance that kills amoebas (ex: Elecampane, Black Walnut hulls, Quassia)
ANTIAMOEBIC
An agent that destroys or arrests the growth of micro-organisms
ANTIBIOTIC
A European term denoting similar activity to the American concept of an alterative, except that it deals to a greater extent with fluid metabolism
ANTIDYSCRATIC
A substance that counteracts nausea and relieves vomiting (ex: Ginger, Wild Yam, Black Horehound)
ANTIEMETIC
An agent which reduces inflammation (ex: Turmeric, Sarsaparilla, Willow)
ANTIINFLAMMATORY
An herb which reduces or suppresses the formation of urinary calculi (gravel) and helps to expel small stones that have formed (Gravel Root, Hydrangea, Parsley Piert).
ANTILITHIC
An antiinflammatory
ANTIPHLOGISTIC
A substance that relieves itching (menthol)
ANTIPRURITIC
An agent which reduces fevers - see Febrifuge (ex: Willow, Meadowsweet, Dogwood Bark)
ANTIPYRETIC
An agent for destroying or inhibiting pathogenic or putrefactive bacteria (ex: Lavender Essential Oil, Berberine, alcohol)
ANTISEPTIC
A substance that relieves spasms or cramps (ex: Petasites, Roman Chamomile, Jamaica Dogwood)
ANTISPASMODIC
An herb or drug which suppresses and relieves coughs (ex: Loquat, Wild Cherry Bark, Sundew)
ANTITUSSIVE
A gentle, non-stimulating laxative (ex: Dandelion Root, Chicory, Bitters) that works by increasing bile secretion
APERIENT
A substance that increases elimination of water, but not electrolytes, i.e., a potassium sparing, non-irritating diuretic (ex: Dandelion Leaf, Nettles)
AQUARETIC
Weak, deficient, depleted state or constitution
ASTHENIC
An herb (usually containing tannins) that contracts organic tissue, reducing secretions or discharges (ex: Witch Hazel, Wild Geranium, Oak Bark)
ASTRINGENT
Vulvovaginal lubricatory gland
BARTHOLINS GLAND
An herb that soothes the larynx and pharynx (ex: Coltsfoot, Marshmallow)
BECHIC
Improper bile flow associated with regulatory failure of the biliary system, pancreas, duodenum, and jejunum
BILIARY DYSKINESIA
An herb characterised by a bitter principle which acts by stimulating saliva flow and digestive secretions (i.e., stomach, liver, small intestine, and pancreas) to increase appetite and promote digestion and absorption (ex: Gentian, Balmony, Artichoke Leaf)
BITTER TONIC
Inflammation of the eyelids, especially the follicles of the eyelashes
BLEPHARITIS
Intestinal rumbling or gurgling, usually associated with flatulence and abdominal bloating
BORBORYGMUS
Chronic inflammatory disease of the kidneys – chronic nephritis
BRIGHT’S DISEASE
Inflammation and damage to the bronchi due to chronic degenerative lung disease
BRONCHIECTASIS
A wasting condition associated with cancer, AIDS, and tuberculosis. Patients are malnourished, fatigued, weak, and debilitated
CACHEXIA
A large, often multi-cellular abscess - a severe boil
CARBUNCLE
An herb that tonifies the heart and strengthens its function (ex: Hawthorn, Cactus, Tienqi Ginseng)
CARDIAC TONIC
An herb that relaxes intestinal sphincters and helps expel gas from the intestines (Fennel, Ginger, Coriander)
CARMINATIVE
A group of yellow, orange, and red pigments found in plant and animal tissues. Carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, beta-zeaxanthin, astaxanthin, lutein, and lycopene, have antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties
CAROTENOID
Processes that cause a breaking down of tissue - destructive metabolism
CATABOLIC (Catabolism)
Inflammation of a mucous membrane, with increased discharge of mucous or phlegm
CATARRH
Redness, burning, and itching of the hands or feet, caused by cold or wet conditions
CHILBLAINS
An herb that increases the flow of bile into the small intestine from the gallbladder (bitters in general, also Olive Oil, Lemon)
CHOLAGOGUE
An herb that stimulates bile production in the liver (ex: Celandine, Artichoke Leaf)
CHOLERETIC
A substance that enhances the effects of acetylcholine in the central or peripheral nervous systems. The parasympathetic nervous system is entirely cholinergic, it slows the heart rate, stimulates peristalsis, and acts as a vasoconstrictor and bronchoconstrictor.
CHOLINERGIC (Parasympathomimetic)
A medicated eyewash
COLLYRIUM
An old name for a cold
CORYZA
An agent that produces local irritation to counteract stagnation or inflammation in another part of the body (ex: Bloodroot, Camphor, Mustard)
COUNTER-IRRITANT
An archaic term for any inflammatory disease of the throat where the patient has difficulty breathing – croup, quinsy
CYNANCHE
Bedsore
DECUBITUS ULCER
The preparation of an herb tea by simmering it in water for a given time; usually used for roots and barks
DECOCTION
A mucilaginous or soothing herb that reduces irritation of tissue, particularly mucous membranes (ex: Irish Moss, Marshmallow, Licorice)
DEMULCENT
Another term for an alterative, especially used in chronic skin conditions (ex: Sarsaparilla, Blue Flag, Oregon Grape Root)
DEPURATIVE
An herb that promotes perspiration (ex: Yarrow, Boneset, Ginger)
DIAPHORETIC
A constitutional or hereditary disposition to a disease or condition
DIATHESIS
An agent that increases the secretion and elimination of water and electrolytes via the kidney; non-irritating stimulant diuretics (ex: Corn Silk, Couch Grass, Marshmallow); irritating diuretics (ex: Juniper Berry, Buchu, Cubeb Berry)
DIURETIC
Impaired digestion associated with abnormal bowel flora causing flatulence, borborygmus, belching, diarrhoea or constipation
DYSBIOSIS
An imbalance, usually of the blood.
DYSCRASIA
Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath (SOB)
DYSPNEA
Painful or difficult urination
DYSURIA
A medicated liquid in a honey base. Also a cough drop
ELECTUARY
An agent that causes vomiting (ex: Ipecac, Lobelia, Mustard seed, Boneset)
EMETIC
A substance that promotes menstrual flow and may in some cases act as an abortifacient (ex: Pennyroyal, Blue Cohosh, Rue). Their use in pregnancy is prohibited.
EMMENAGOGUE
An agent used externally to soften and soothe the skin (ex: Marshmallow, Olive Oil, Comfrey)
EMOLLIENT
A recently discovered “gut brain” that has over 100 million neurons and receptors for all neurotransmitters. It produces almost 85% of our serotonin and can function independently of CNS control
ENTERIC BRAIN
Involuntary urination, as in bedwetting
ENURESIS
A substance that causes a mucus discharge from the nose and sinuses, i.e., snuff
ERRHINE
A corrosive, tissue-eating substance (ex: Zinc chloride, Celandine, Mayapple)
ESCHAROTIC
An herb or drug that promotes the discharge of mucus from the respiratory passages (ex: Elecampane, Lobelia, Mullein)
EXPECTORANT
An agent that reduces a fever
FEBRIFUGE
A large group of secondary plant metabolites commonly found throughout the plant kingdom that gives colour to some flowers, all berries, and some leaves, roots, and seeds. These compounds [and related compounds including flavonones, flavonols, proanthocyanadins, and other polyphenolics (condensed tannins)] act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents (Ginkgo Leaf, Blueberries, Green Tea, and Milk Thistle Seeds)
FLAVONOID
A hot/moist poultice applied to an area to relieve pain or inflammation
FOMENTATION
“Skin crawling” usually associated with menopause
FORMICATION
A disease that alters the function of an organ or tissue without any damage or change in the structure or anatomy
FUNCTIONAL DISEASE
An herb that encourages or increases the secretion of breast milk (ex: Fennel, Blessed Thistle, Goat’s Rue)
GALACTAGOGUE (LACTAGOGUE):
A glycerin and water extract of an herb, mostly used for children or alcohol-sensitive people. Glycerin is generally a poor solvent and is not highly effective as a preservative.
GLYCERITE
Vomiting blood
HAEMATEMESIS
Blood in the urine
HAEMATURIA
An agent that stops bleeding (ex: Witch Hazel, Yarrow, Cinnamon)
HAEMOSTATIC
Coughing blood
HAEMOPTYSIS
An herb that improves liver function (ex: Dandelion Root, Oregon Grape Root)
HAEPATIC
A substance that protects the liver against damage caused by toxins or viruses (ex: Milk Thistle, Turmeric, Picrorhiza, Schisandra)
HAEPATOPROTECTIVE
Excess production of gastric HCL
HYPERCHLORHYDRIA
A cell level insulin resistance with compensatory elevated insulin levels. Clinical manifestations include elevated triglycerides, decreased HDL cholesterol, elevated cortisol levels, abdominal obesity, and a host of cardiovascular and systemic illnesses (atherosclerosis, hypertension, type II diabetes, PCOD). The causes of Syndrome X include excess caloric intake, excess carbohydrate intake, excess Omega 6 fatty acids relative to Omega 3 fatty acids, mineral deficiencies (Magnesium, Chromium) and lack of exercise
HYPERINSULINEMIA (Syndrome X or Metabolic Syndrome)
A substance that lowers levels of cholesterol in the blood (ex: Gum Guggul, Garlic, Red Rice yeast)
HYPOCHOLESTEROLEMIC
An agent that lowers blood sugar levels (ex: Blueberry leaf, Devil’s Club, American Ginseng, Fenugreek)
HYPOGLYCEMIC
Jaundice, yellowing of the skin or sclera
ICTERUS/ICTERIC
Studies done in a test tube or petri dish
IN VITRO (in glass) RESEARCH
Studies done in living organisms - may be animals or humans
IN VIVO (in a living organism ) RESEARCH
An herb tea made by pouring boiled water over the herb and letting it steep for a given time; this process is usually used for leaves and flowers
INFUSION
Influenza
LA GRIPPE
An herb or chemical that stimulates peristalsis and bowel function; stimulant laxatives (ex: Cascara sagrada, Senna, Buckthorn); bulk laxatives (ex: Psyllium or Flax Seed, Aloe Gel)
LAXATIVE
“Middle pain” – ovulatory pain
MITTLESCHMERZ
Characterised by a slimy or gelatinous consistency (ex: Slippery Elm, Marshmallow)
MUCILAGINOUS
A drug which relieves pain and induces sleep when used in medicinal doses; in large doses narcotics produce convulsions, coma or death (ex: Opium, Jamaica Dogwood, Morphine)
NARCOTIC
Agents that slow the heart rate, increasing rest intervals (cardiac glycosides-Convallaria, Digitalis)
NEGATIVELY CHRONOTROPIC
An herb that has a calming or soothing effect on the nerves (ex: Scullcap, Linden Flowers, Fresh Oat)
NERVINE
A substance used to treat conditions of the eye and eyelid
OPHTHALMIC
A disease which alters the structure of the affected organ or tissue
ORGANIC DISEASE
An agent that stimulates contraction of the uterine muscle and so facilitates or speeds up childbirth (ex: Blue Cohosh)
OXYTOCIC
A mild remedy for pulmonary or other chest diseases (ex: Coltsfoot, Mullein, Wild Sarsaparilla)
PECTORAL
A vaginal suppository or bolus
PESSARY
The effects of herbs, drugs, or foods on the body – they can have a synergistic, antagonistic, or a neutral effect
PHARMACODYNAMICS
The effect of the body on drugs, herbs, or foods (ADME) – absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion
PHARMACOKINETICS
The study of organic (vegetable & animal) drugs
PHARMACOGNOSY
A highly concentrated, standardised plant extract that no longer represents the full spectrum of an herb’s constituents. These products are more like Western pharmaceuticals than crude herb extracts (ex: Coleus forskohlii, Milk Thistle extract)
PHYTOPHARMACEUTICAL
Abnormally frequent urination
POLLAKIURIA
Agents that increase myocardial contractility and are used to strengthen the heart beat in cases of congestive heart failure (cardiac glycosides-Convallaria, Digitalis)
POSITIVELY INOTROPIC
A paste or wet mass of herbs applied topically to enhance circulation, reduce swelling, pain, and draw out infection. Poultices can be made from crushed fresh plants
POULTICE
Itching usually associated with dry skin or skin conditions
PRURITIS
An agent that produces a vigorous emptying of the bowels (see Cathartic)
PURGATIVE
An older term for periodontal disease
PYORRHEA
An herb that cools the body (ex: Watermelon, Lemon Balm)
REFRIGERANT
A topical irritant that produces reddening of the skin to stimulate local circulation (see counterirritant)
RUBEFACIENT
Tuberculosis of the cervical lymph glands
SCROFULA
A substance that suppresses the central nervous system, inducing relaxation, sleepiness, reduced pain, anxiety, and nervousness (ex: Passion Flower, Hops, Valerian)
SEDATIVE
An agent that stimulates the secretion of saliva (ex: Echinacea)
SIALAGOGUE
A strong, robust, or excess state or constitution
STHENIC
An herb or drug that excites or quickens the activity of physiological processes (ex: caffeine, Green Tea, Red Ginseng)
STIMULANT
An agent that improves digestion and appetite (see bitters)
STOMACHIC
Difficult urination where the urine drips slowly and painfully
STRANGURY
An agent that contracts tissues; astringent; specifically a haemostatic agent that stops bleeding by contracting the blood vessels (see Haemostatic)
STYPTIC
Same as a diaphoretic
SUDORIFIC
The “soil”, the cellular and constitutional health of a patient. By strengthening the patient’s terrain, you enhance their ability to heal
TERRAIN
A system of formula construction developed by William LeSassier, utilizingherbs that nourish (+), tonify (0), and eliminate (-) wastes or stress from each organ or tissue treated
TRIUNE (Triangle) SYSTEM
An herb that nourishes, strengthens, and tonifies a specific organ or function. Considered “food for the organ”. Hawthorn, with its specificity for the heart and circulatory system, is a cardiovascular trophorestorative; Nettle Seed - Kidney; Fresh Oat - Nervous System
TROPHORESTORATIVE
An agent that constricts the blood vessels, thus raising blood pressure , reducing bleeding, and excessive secretions
VASOCONSTRICTOR
An agent that dilates the blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure (ex: Ginkgo). Vasodilators can affect the entire organism or specific tissue such as broncho-vasodilators or peripheral vasodilators.
VASODILATOR
A substance that causes the expulsion of intestinal worms (see Anthelmintic)
VERMIFUGE
The healing power of nature, the innate ability of an organism to heal itself
VIS MEDICATRIX NATURAE
Herbs used for topical application for wounds, stings, and bruises (ex: Chickweed, Plantain, Witch Hazel, Calendula)
VULNERARY
