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Glossary Flashcards

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USMLE® Step 1 flashcards
1
Q

An agent that induces or causes premature expulsion of a foetus (ex: Pennyroyal, Blue Cohosh, Tansy). Their use in pregnancy is prohibited.

A

ABORTIFACIENT

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2
Q

Lack of gastric HCL

A

ACHLORHYDRIA

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3
Q

A substance that assists a living organism adapt to environmental, physical, or psychological stress

A

ADAPTOGEN

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4
Q

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)

A

ADRENERGIC (Sympathomimetic

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5
Q

An archaic term denoting a chill. Usually associated with recurrent fevers and chills in malaria patients

A

AGUE

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6
Q

An archaic term for enlargement of the spleen caused by malaria

A

AGUE CAKE

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7
Q

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 The archaic term “blood purifier” has been superceded by the terms alterative and antidyscratic (Yellow Dock, Burdock, Poke, Blue Flag)

A

ALTERATIVE

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8
Q

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)

A

AMPHOTERIC

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9
Q

Processes that cause a building up of tissue – constructive metabolism

A

ANABOLIC (Anabolism)

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10
Q

Systemic oedema with a clear, watery fluid infiltrating into the subcutaneous connective tissue

A

ANASARCA

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11
Q

A substance that reduces libido (ex: Black Willow buds)

A

ANAPHRODISIAC

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12
Q

A drug or herb which relieves or diminishes pain; syn. anodyne (ex: Willow, Indian Pipe, Jamaica Dogwood)

A

ANALGESIC

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13
Q

An agent that deadens sensation (anesthetics include Spilanthes, Menthol)

A

ANESTHETIC

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14
Q

A drug or herb which relieves or diminishes pain

A

ANODYNE

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15
Q

An agent that destroys or expels intestinal worms (ex: Wormseed, Wormwood, Pink Root)

A

ANTHELMINTIC

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16
Q

A substance that kills amoebas (ex: Elecampane, Black Walnut hulls, Quassia)

A

ANTIAMOEBIC

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17
Q

An agent that destroys or arrests the growth of micro-organisms

A

ANTIBIOTIC

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18
Q

A European term denoting similar activity to the American concept of an alterative, except that it deals to a greater extent with fluid metabolism

A

ANTIDYSCRATIC

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19
Q

A substance that counteracts nausea and relieves vomiting (ex: Ginger, Wild Yam, Black Horehound)

A

ANTIEMETIC

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20
Q

An agent which reduces inflammation (ex: Turmeric, Sarsaparilla, Willow)

A

ANTIINFLAMMATORY

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21
Q

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).

A

ANTILITHIC

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22
Q

An antiinflammatory

A

ANTIPHLOGISTIC

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23
Q

A substance that relieves itching (menthol)

A

ANTIPRURITIC

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24
Q

An agent which reduces fevers - see Febrifuge (ex: Willow, Meadowsweet, Dogwood Bark)

A

ANTIPYRETIC

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25
Q

An agent for destroying or inhibiting pathogenic or putrefactive bacteria (ex: Lavender Essential Oil, Berberine, alcohol)

A

ANTISEPTIC

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26
Q

A substance that relieves spasms or cramps (ex: Petasites, Roman Chamomile, Jamaica Dogwood)

A

ANTISPASMODIC

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27
Q

An herb or drug which suppresses and relieves coughs (ex: Loquat, Wild Cherry Bark, Sundew)

A

ANTITUSSIVE

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28
Q

A gentle, non-stimulating laxative (ex: Dandelion Root, Chicory, Bitters) that works by increasing bile secretion

A

APERIENT

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29
Q

A substance that increases elimination of water, but not electrolytes, i.e., a potassium sparing, non-irritating diuretic (ex: Dandelion Leaf, Nettles)

A

AQUARETIC

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30
Q

Weak, deficient, depleted state or constitution

A

ASTHENIC

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31
Q

An herb (usually containing tannins) that contracts organic tissue, reducing secretions or discharges (ex: Witch Hazel, Wild Geranium, Oak Bark)

A

ASTRINGENT

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32
Q

Vulvovaginal lubricatory gland

A

BARTHOLINS GLAND

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33
Q

An herb that soothes the larynx and pharynx (ex: Coltsfoot, Marshmallow)

A

BECHIC

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34
Q

Improper bile flow associated with regulatory failure of the biliary system, pancreas, duodenum, and jejunum

A

BILIARY DYSKINESIA

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35
Q

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)

A

BITTER TONIC

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36
Q

Inflammation of the eyelids, especially the follicles of the eyelashes

A

BLEPHARITIS

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37
Q

Intestinal rumbling or gurgling, usually associated with flatulence and abdominal bloating

A

BORBORYGMUS

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38
Q

Chronic inflammatory disease of the kidneys – chronic nephritis

A

BRIGHT’S DISEASE

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39
Q

Inflammation and damage to the bronchi due to chronic degenerative lung disease

A

BRONCHIECTASIS

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40
Q

A wasting condition associated with cancer, AIDS, and tuberculosis. Patients are malnourished, fatigued, weak, and debilitated

A

CACHEXIA

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41
Q

A large, often multi-cellular abscess - a severe boil

A

CARBUNCLE

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42
Q

An herb that tonifies the heart and strengthens its function (ex: Hawthorn, Cactus, Tienqi Ginseng)

A

CARDIAC TONIC

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43
Q

An herb that relaxes intestinal sphincters and helps expel gas from the intestines (Fennel, Ginger, Coriander)

A

CARMINATIVE

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44
Q

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

A

CAROTENOID

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45
Q

Processes that cause a breaking down of tissue - destructive metabolism

A

CATABOLIC (Catabolism)

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46
Q

Inflammation of a mucous membrane, with increased discharge of mucous or phlegm

A

CATARRH

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47
Q

Redness, burning, and itching of the hands or feet, caused by cold or wet conditions

A

CHILBLAINS

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48
Q

An herb that increases the flow of bile into the small intestine from the gallbladder (bitters in general, also Olive Oil, Lemon)

A

CHOLAGOGUE

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49
Q

An herb that stimulates bile production in the liver (ex: Celandine, Artichoke Leaf)

A

CHOLERETIC

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50
Q

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.

A

CHOLINERGIC (Parasympathomimetic)

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51
Q

A medicated eyewash

A

COLLYRIUM

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52
Q

An old name for a cold

A

CORYZA

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53
Q

An agent that produces local irritation to counteract stagnation or inflammation in another part of the body (ex: Bloodroot, Camphor, Mustard)

A

COUNTER-IRRITANT

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54
Q

An archaic term for any inflammatory disease of the throat where the patient has difficulty breathing – croup, quinsy

A

CYNANCHE

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55
Q

Bedsore

A

DECUBITUS ULCER

56
Q

The preparation of an herb tea by simmering it in water for a given time; usually used for roots and barks

A

DECOCTION

57
Q

A mucilaginous or soothing herb that reduces irritation of tissue, particularly mucous membranes (ex: Irish Moss, Marshmallow, Licorice)

A

DEMULCENT

58
Q

Another term for an alterative, especially used in chronic skin conditions (ex: Sarsaparilla, Blue Flag, Oregon Grape Root)

A

DEPURATIVE

59
Q

An herb that promotes perspiration (ex: Yarrow, Boneset, Ginger)

A

DIAPHORETIC

60
Q

A constitutional or hereditary disposition to a disease or condition

A

DIATHESIS

61
Q

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)

A

DIURETIC

62
Q

Impaired digestion associated with abnormal bowel flora causing flatulence, borborygmus, belching, diarrhoea or constipation

A

DYSBIOSIS

63
Q

An imbalance, usually of the blood.

A

DYSCRASIA

64
Q

Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath (SOB)

A

DYSPNEA

65
Q

Painful or difficult urination

A

DYSURIA

66
Q

A medicated liquid in a honey base. Also a cough drop

A

ELECTUARY

67
Q

An agent that causes vomiting (ex: Ipecac, Lobelia, Mustard seed, Boneset)

A

EMETIC

68
Q

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.

A

EMMENAGOGUE

69
Q

An agent used externally to soften and soothe the skin (ex: Marshmallow, Olive Oil, Comfrey)

A

EMOLLIENT

70
Q

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

A

ENTERIC BRAIN

71
Q

Involuntary urination, as in bedwetting

A

ENURESIS

72
Q

A substance that causes a mucus discharge from the nose and sinuses, i.e., snuff

A

ERRHINE

73
Q

A corrosive, tissue-eating substance (ex: Zinc chloride, Celandine, Mayapple)

A

ESCHAROTIC

74
Q

An herb or drug that promotes the discharge of mucus from the respiratory passages (ex: Elecampane, Lobelia, Mullein)

A

EXPECTORANT

75
Q

An agent that reduces a fever

A

FEBRIFUGE

76
Q

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)

A

FLAVONOID

77
Q

A hot/moist poultice applied to an area to relieve pain or inflammation

A

FOMENTATION

78
Q

“Skin crawling” usually associated with menopause

A

FORMICATION

79
Q

A disease that alters the function of an organ or tissue without any damage or change in the structure or anatomy

A

FUNCTIONAL DISEASE

80
Q

An herb that encourages or increases the secretion of breast milk (ex: Fennel, Blessed Thistle, Goat’s Rue)

A

GALACTAGOGUE (LACTAGOGUE):

81
Q

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.

A

GLYCERITE

82
Q

Vomiting blood

A

HAEMATEMESIS

83
Q

Blood in the urine

A

HAEMATURIA

84
Q

An agent that stops bleeding (ex: Witch Hazel, Yarrow, Cinnamon)

A

HAEMOSTATIC

85
Q

Coughing blood

A

HAEMOPTYSIS

86
Q

An herb that improves liver function (ex: Dandelion Root, Oregon Grape Root)

A

HAEPATIC

87
Q

A substance that protects the liver against damage caused by toxins or viruses (ex: Milk Thistle, Turmeric, Picrorhiza, Schisandra)

A

HAEPATOPROTECTIVE

88
Q

Excess production of gastric HCL

A

HYPERCHLORHYDRIA

89
Q

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

A

HYPERINSULINEMIA (Syndrome X or Metabolic Syndrome)

90
Q

A substance that lowers levels of cholesterol in the blood (ex: Gum Guggul, Garlic, Red Rice yeast)

A

HYPOCHOLESTEROLEMIC

91
Q

An agent that lowers blood sugar levels (ex: Blueberry leaf, Devil’s Club, American Ginseng, Fenugreek)

A

HYPOGLYCEMIC

92
Q

Jaundice, yellowing of the skin or sclera

A

ICTERUS/ICTERIC

93
Q

Studies done in a test tube or petri dish

A

IN VITRO (in glass) RESEARCH

94
Q

Studies done in living organisms - may be animals or humans

A

IN VIVO (in a living organism ) RESEARCH

95
Q

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

A

INFUSION

96
Q

Influenza

A

LA GRIPPE

97
Q

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)

A

LAXATIVE

98
Q

“Middle pain” – ovulatory pain

A

MITTLESCHMERZ

99
Q

Characterised by a slimy or gelatinous consistency (ex: Slippery Elm, Marshmallow)

A

MUCILAGINOUS

100
Q

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)

A

NARCOTIC

101
Q

Agents that slow the heart rate, increasing rest intervals (cardiac glycosides-Convallaria, Digitalis)

A

NEGATIVELY CHRONOTROPIC

102
Q

An herb that has a calming or soothing effect on the nerves (ex: Scullcap, Linden Flowers, Fresh Oat)

A

NERVINE

103
Q

A substance used to treat conditions of the eye and eyelid

A

OPHTHALMIC

104
Q

A disease which alters the structure of the affected organ or tissue

A

ORGANIC DISEASE

105
Q

An agent that stimulates contraction of the uterine muscle and so facilitates or speeds up childbirth (ex: Blue Cohosh)

A

OXYTOCIC

106
Q

A mild remedy for pulmonary or other chest diseases (ex: Coltsfoot, Mullein, Wild Sarsaparilla)

A

PECTORAL

107
Q

A vaginal suppository or bolus

A

PESSARY

108
Q

The effects of herbs, drugs, or foods on the body – they can have a synergistic, antagonistic, or a neutral effect

A

PHARMACODYNAMICS

109
Q

The effect of the body on drugs, herbs, or foods (ADME) – absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion

A

PHARMACOKINETICS

110
Q

The study of organic (vegetable & animal) drugs

A

PHARMACOGNOSY

111
Q

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)

A

PHYTOPHARMACEUTICAL

112
Q

Abnormally frequent urination

A

POLLAKIURIA

113
Q

Agents that increase myocardial contractility and are used to strengthen the heart beat in cases of congestive heart failure (cardiac glycosides-Convallaria, Digitalis)

A

POSITIVELY INOTROPIC

114
Q

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

A

POULTICE

115
Q

Itching usually associated with dry skin or skin conditions

A

PRURITIS

116
Q

An agent that produces a vigorous emptying of the bowels (see Cathartic)

A

PURGATIVE

117
Q

An older term for periodontal disease

A

PYORRHEA

118
Q

An herb that cools the body (ex: Watermelon, Lemon Balm)

A

REFRIGERANT

119
Q

A topical irritant that produces reddening of the skin to stimulate local circulation (see counterirritant)

A

RUBEFACIENT

120
Q

Tuberculosis of the cervical lymph glands

A

SCROFULA

121
Q

A substance that suppresses the central nervous system, inducing relaxation, sleepiness, reduced pain, anxiety, and nervousness (ex: Passion Flower, Hops, Valerian)

A

SEDATIVE

122
Q

An agent that stimulates the secretion of saliva (ex: Echinacea)

A

SIALAGOGUE

123
Q

A strong, robust, or excess state or constitution

A

STHENIC

124
Q

An herb or drug that excites or quickens the activity of physiological processes (ex: caffeine, Green Tea, Red Ginseng)

A

STIMULANT

125
Q

An agent that improves digestion and appetite (see bitters)

A

STOMACHIC

126
Q

Difficult urination where the urine drips slowly and painfully

A

STRANGURY

127
Q

An agent that contracts tissues; astringent; specifically a haemostatic agent that stops bleeding by contracting the blood vessels (see Haemostatic)

A

STYPTIC

128
Q

Same as a diaphoretic

A

SUDORIFIC

129
Q

The “soil”, the cellular and constitutional health of a patient. By strengthening the patient’s terrain, you enhance their ability to heal

A

TERRAIN

130
Q

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

A

TRIUNE (Triangle) SYSTEM

131
Q

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

A

TROPHORESTORATIVE

132
Q

An agent that constricts the blood vessels, thus raising blood pressure , reducing bleeding, and excessive secretions

A

VASOCONSTRICTOR

133
Q

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.

A

VASODILATOR

134
Q

A substance that causes the expulsion of intestinal worms (see Anthelmintic)

A

VERMIFUGE

135
Q

The healing power of nature, the innate ability of an organism to heal itself

A

VIS MEDICATRIX NATURAE

136
Q

Herbs used for topical application for wounds, stings, and bruises (ex: Chickweed, Plantain, Witch Hazel, Calendula)

A

VULNERARY

Medical actions (1 decks)

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