Herbal Actions

Question 1

Adaptogen

Answer 1

increases the ability of the body to cope with stress. Acts on the adrenals and endocrine system

Question 2

Adrenal Tonic

Answer 2

improves tone and function of adrenals

Question 3

Alterative

Answer 3

supports the liver, kidneys, and lymph. “Blood purifier” or “metabolic tonic” - coordinates and improves the efficacy of metabolism (anabolic & catabolic)

Question 4

Analgesic/Anodyne

Answer 4

eases or relieves pain through a variety of mechanisms.

Question 5

Antacids

Answer 5

binds with and neutralizes acids

Question 6

Anthelmintic / Vermifuge

Answer 6

kills worms and parasites.

Question 7

Anti-fungal

Answer 7

kills or inhibits the growth of fungi.

Question 8

Anti-inflammatory

Answer 8

resolves / reduces inflammation

Question 9

Anti-lithic

Answer 9

reduces production of “stones” or “gravel in urinary system.

Question 10

Antimicrobial

Answer 10

kills or inhibits invading microorganisms

Question 11

Antiseptic

Answer 11

prevents bacterial growth.

Question 12

Antispasmodic

Answer 12

reduces spasm.

Question 13

Anticatarrhal

Answer 13

reduces mucous production (“catarrh” being mucous)

Question 14

Antitussive

Answer 14

reduces coughing

Question 15

Anxiolytic

Answer 15

reduces anxiety

Question 16

Astringent/Styptic/Hemostat

Answer 16

causes tissue to contract when weak, atonic or “leaking”. If used to stop bleeding they are called styptics/hemostats.

Question 17

Aphrodisiac

Answer 17

stimulates sexual desire

Question 18

Bitter

Answer 18

stimulates secretions all along the alimentary canal and glands. Improves appetite & digestion, especially of fats/oils/lipids.

Question 19

Carminative

Answer 19

reduces intestinal gas

Question 20

Cardio Tonic

Answer 20

improves the function of the heart

Question 21

Circulatory Stimulant

Answer 21

improves blood flow in the body

Question 22

Demulcent/Emollient

Answer 22

lubricates tissues, soothes inflammation, irritation and injury and can loosen/relax tissues that are tight due to dryness. Are emollient when used topically. Slimy.

Question 23

Diaphoretic

Answer 23

opens the pores of the skin and promotes perspiration

Question 24

Diuretic

Answer 24

increases the quantity of urine expelled from the body.

Question 25

Emetic

Answer 25

induces vomiting.

Question 26

Emmenagogue

Answer 26

stimulates menstrual flow.

Question 27

Expectorant

Answer 27

expels mucous/phlegm from the lungs.

Question 28

Febrifuge/Antipyretic

Answer 28

lowers body temperature.

Question 29

Galactagogue

Answer 29

increases the supply of breast milk in nursing mothers

Question 30

Hepatic/Choleretic/Cholagogue

Answer 30

Hepatic - influences the functions of the liver. Choleretic increases production of bile. Cholagogue stimulates release of bile from gallbladder.

Question 31

Hepatoprotective/Hepatoregenerative

Answer 31

protects and restores the liver

Question 32

Immune Stimulant

Answer 32

enhances immune activity

Question 33

Immunomodulator

Answer 33

balances immune activity

Question 34

Laxative/Cathartic (Purgative)/Aperient

Answer 34

stimulates evacuation of the bowels. Cathartics are forceful, while Aperients are gentle laxatives.

Question 35

Lymphatic

Answer 35

relieves lymphatic congestion

Question 36

Nervine Tonic

Answer 36

improves structure and function of nervous system

Question 37

Nootropic

Answer 37

enhances memory and learning

Question 38

Rubifacient/Counter Irritant

Answer 38

used topically - irritates the skin - causing blood and heat to come to the area.

Question 39

Sedative/Hypnotic/Soporific

Answer 39

slows activity in tissue.

Question 40

Sialagogue

Answer 40

These herbs provoke the production and flow of saliva.

Question 41

Thymoleptic

Answer 41

mood elevating

Question 42

Uterine Tonic

Answer 42

improves tone of the uterus

Question 43

Venotonic

Answer 43

improves tone and function of venous system

Question 44

Vulnerary

Answer 44

Herbs used to treat wounds.