Herbal Actions & Properties (TERMS) Flashcards
Become familiar with the terminology used to describe the ways herbs affect the body and how we experience them. These are common terms herbalists use to describe the actions and properties of herbs.
These herbs support the body’s stress response and help it return to balance.
adaptogen
These herbs support detoxification through supporting the liver, lymph, kidneys, and/or the skin. Strengthen and nourish the body by helping it to eliminate waste.
alterative
These herbs relieve pain.
analgesic
These herbs kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria by either direct action or by encouraging immune response.
antibacterial
These herbs relieve symptoms of depression.
antidepressant
These herbs reduce inflammation through a variety of actions.
anti-inflammatory
These herbs inhibit the growth of fungus by either direct action or by encouraging immune response.
anti fungal
These herbs reduce spasms in smooth or skeletal muscles.
antispasmodic
These herbs contain essential oils and are also antimicrobial, carminative, and/or diaphoretic.
aromatic
These herbs cause tissues to contract. Tightens the weave. Toning action.
astringent
A taste that aids in digestion and stimulates digestive secretions such as bile to aid in fat digestion
bitter
The herbs support digestion, relieve bloating and gas, and are often aromatic.
carminative
These herms stimulate bile production and release from the liver and gallbladder
cholagogue
These herbs soothe irritates and inflamed mucosal tissue internally.
demulcent
These herbs induce sweating. Used tor educe febers.
diaphoretic
These herbs promote urine production to help the body eliminate excess fluid.
diuretic
These herbs induce vomiting.
emetic
The herbs stimulate menses.
emmenagogue
These herms are soothing and moistening to external tissues.
emollient
These herbs aid in the expulsion of mucus from the lungs.
expectorant
These herbs increase the flow of breast milk.
galactagogue
These herbs tone and support the liver.
hepatic
These herbs are powerful sedatives which depress the heat rate and respiration and cause sleepiness.
hypnotic
These herbs raise blood pressure.
hyper-tensive
These herbs lower blood pressure.
hypo-tensive
These herbs up or down regulate the immune system and encourage a proper immune response. Stimulate immune response to illness and reduce overactive immune response such as those seen in autoimmune conditions and allergies.
immunomodulator
These herbs stimulate bowel movements and moisten or loosen stool.
laxative
These herbs encourage lymphatic flow to relieve congestion.
lymphatic
These herbs are slippery when wet and are used internally as a demulcent.
mucilaginous
This category of herbs strengthens, relax, or stimulate the nervous system.
nervine
These herbs ease contraction and constriction of tissues.
relaxant
These herbs produce redness in the skin by increasing blood circulation and dilating the capillaries.
rubefacient
These herbs reduce excitability and irritability and slow the energy of the body.
sedative
These herbs increase cellular activity.
stimulant
These herbs slow bleeding.
styptic
These herbs have restorative properties and are used to increase energy and strengthen organ function.
tonic
These herbs are used to promote the healing of wounds of the skin, mucosa, or other body tissues. ie calendula
vulnerary
These herbs induce miscarriage or premature removal of a fetus.
abortifacient
The herbs aid the action of a medicinal agent.
adjuvant
