Herbal Energetics

Question 1

Bitter

Answer 1

cooling (often), draining/ drying, downward directing, stims. peristaltic motion, often contains alkaloids

[Examples include: gentian, motherwort]

Question 2

Sour

Answer 2

cooling (often), astringent, sometimes drying, often contains flavonoids and antioxidants such as Vitamin C

[Examples include: schisandra, bilberry, lemon]

Question 3

Sweet

Answer 3

demulcent (mucilaginous), building and nourishing, immunomodulating (polysaccharides)

[Examples include: marshmallow, licorice]

Question 4

Salty

Answer 4

softening, soothing and grounding (mother ocean), contains minerals [Examples include: nettles, seaweed]

Question 5

Pungent

Answer 5

warming, stimulating, drying, and dispersing, often contains resins or essential oils

[Examples include: ginger, cayenne]