Herbal Glossary Flashcards
A substance that causes or promotes abortion
ABORTIFACIENT
An herb that acts in a non-specific way to strengthen the body and increase resistance to disease and stress with few side effects
ADAPTOGEN
A medication used to relieve pain
ANALGESIC
An agent that reduces the heat, redness, and swelling of inflammation
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
A chemical compound that protects against cell damage from molecules called oxygen-free radicals, which are major causes of disease and aging
ANTIOXIDANT
A substance that discourages the growth of microorganisms
ANTISEPTIC
An agent that causes contraction or shrinkage of tissues; it is used to decrease secretions or control bleeding
ASTRINGENT
An agent that relieves and removes gas from the digestive system
CARMINATIVE
A substance that increases the flow of urine from the body
DIURETIC
A substance that stimulates the removal of mucus from the lungs
EXPECTORANT
Agents used to relieve severe constipation, often with intense effects
CATHARTIC
Medicine used to calm the nerves
NERVINE
A substance used to increase the flow of milk in
women
GALACTAGOGUE
An agent used to produce vomiting
EMETIC
A medicinal agent that promotes the discharge of bile from the system, purging it downward
CHOLAGOGUE
