Herbal Actions

Question 1

Adaptogen

Answer 1

An herb that aids the body through a nonspecific boost in resistance to external stressors, supports the body’s ability to adapt to change, and may stimulate or modulate immunity

Question 2

Alterative

Answer 2

Herbs that work on a general level to tonify the systems of the body involved in nutrient assimilation and waste removal

Question 3

Analgesic

Answer 3

An herb that eases pain; also known as an anodyne

Question 4

Anticatarrhal

Answer 4

Herbs that thin and promote the flow of mucus/phlegm associated with such conditions as allergies, colds, or the flu.

Question 5

Antibacterial

Answer 5

An herb that destroys or inhibits the growth of bacteria

Question 6

Antiemetic

Answer 6

An herb that counteracts or soothes nausea or vomiting

Question 7

Antihydrotic

Answer 7

An herb that slows the production of excess sweat

Question 8

Antimicrobial

Answer 8

An herb that aids the body in destroying or resisting pathogens

A general term encompassing antibacterial, antifungals, and antivirals

Question 9

Antioxidant

Answer 9

An herb that inhibits oxidation and subsequent free radical damage of important chemicals, enzymes, membranes, cells, and tissues in the body

Question 10

Antiparasitic

Answer 10

An herb that destroys or inhibits the growth of parasites

Question 11

Antiperiodic

Answer 11

An herb that eases cyclic and intermittent diseases such as malaria

Question 12

Antispasmodic

Answer 12

An herb that relaxes muscle spasm and tension

Question 13

Antitussive

Answer 13

An herb that reduces the urge to cough

Question 14

Aperient

Answer 14

An herb that is mildly laxative

Question 15

Aphrodisiac

Answer 15

An herb that increases sexual desire

Question 16

Aromatic

Answer 16

An herb rich in volatile oils, often with a fragrant aroma

Question 17

Astringent

Answer 17

An herb that causes tissues to contract, typically due to its high tannin content

Question 18

Bitter

Answer 18

An herb that has a bitter taste and stimulates the release of digestive secretions through a taste bud reflex

Question 19

Calmative

Answer 19

An herb that reduces nervous system hyperactivity and has a gentle calming effect on the mind, body, and emotions

Question 20

Carminative

Answer 20

An herb that aids the body in expelling intestinal flatulance, eases bowel griping, and soothes stomach discomfort

Carminative plants are typically high in aromatic oils and are useful in a variety of digestive disorders

Question 21

Cholagogue

Answer 21

An herb that increases the flow of bile

Question 22

Choleretic

Answer 22

An herb that stimulates production of bile

Question 23

Demulcent

Answer 23

A mucilaginous herb that soothes irritated or inflamed tissues and mucous membranes

Question 24

Diaphoretic

Answer 24

An herb that promotes perspiration and is often used to help “break” a fever

Question 25

Digestive

Answer 25

An herb that strengthens or supports healthy digestive function

Question 26

Diuretic

Answer 26

An herb that increases the flow of urine. increased urine flow is useful in conditions such as water retention, kidney stagnation, and urinary tract infections

Question 27

Emmenagogue

Answer 27

An herb that stimulates menstruation

Question 28

Emollient

Answer 28

An herb applied externally to soften and soothe skin

Question 29

Expectorant

Answer 29

An herb that helps expel excess or stuck mucus from the respiratory system

Question 30

Febrifuge

Answer 30

An herb that eases fever

Question 31

Galactogogue

Answer 31

An herb that increases the flow of breast milk

Question 32

Hepatic

Answer 32

An herb that affects the liver

Question 33

Hypotensive

Answer 33

An herb that helps lower blood pressure

Question 34

Immune Stimulant

Answer 34

An herb that stimulates the immune system

Question 35

Nervine

Answer 35

An herb that affects the nervous system; may be stimulating, sedating, or relaxing

Question 36

Restorative

Answer 36

An herb that restores balance and strength to the body and its systems

Question 37

Rubefacient

Answer 37

An herb that stimulates blood flow to the skin, causing local redness

Question 38

Sialogogue

Answer 38

An herb that increases the secretion of saliva

Question 39

Styptic

Answer 39

An herb that helps to stop bleeding

Question 40

Tonic

Answer 40

An herb that strengthens the body through a general tonifying effect or through specific affinities for certain organs

Question 41

Vulnerary

Answer 41

An herb that helps promote the wound healing process