Herbal Medicine: Herbs for the brain/nervous system Flashcards
What are the key herbal actions that support the nervous system?
Nootropic (enhances brain function), nervine (relaxes the nervous system), thymoleptic (lifts mood), sedative (relaxes nerves and promotes sleep), anxiolytic (alleviates anxiety).
What part of Ginkgo is used medicinally?
The leaves.
What are the key constituents of Ginkgo?
Flavonoids, diterpenes.
What are the main actions of Ginkgo and its uses?
Antioxidant, neuroprotective, nootropic, circulatory stimulant; enhances memory and concentration, useful for Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, and other conditions.
What is the recommended intake of Ginkgo?
2 teaspoons daily; follow product label.
What is a safety consideration for Ginkgo?
Use caution with anti-clotting drugs; discontinue 1 week prior to surgery.
What part of Lavender is used for medicinal purposes?
The flowers.
What are the key constituents of Lavender?
Volatile oils.
What are the main actions of Lavender?
Nervine, antidepressant, anxiolytic, antispasmodic, carminative, antimicrobial; effective for depression, anxiety, insomnia, PMS, and stress headaches.
What is the recommended intake of Lavender?
3–6 g/day dried flower (infusion); essential oil for baths.
What is a safety consideration for Lavender?
Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What part of Passionflower is used for medicinal purposes?
Leaves and flowers.
What are the key constituents of Passionflower?
Flavonoids, alkaloids.
What are the main actions of Passionflower and its uses?
Anxiolytic, antispasmodic, mild sedative, hypnotic; useful for insomnia, anxiety, agitation, and muscle pain.
What is the recommended intake of Passionflower?
1–2 teaspoons of dried herb 2–3 times daily (infusion).
What is a safety consideration for Passionflower?
Avoid during pregnancy and lactation.
What part of Rosemary is used for medicinal purposes?
Leaves and twigs.
What are the key constituents of Rosemary?
Volatile oils, flavonoids.
What are the main actions of Rosemary and its uses?
Circulatory stimulant, cardiotonic, nootropic, antioxidant; supports memory, concentration, and mental performance.
What is the recommended intake of Rosemary?
1–2 teaspoons dried herb 3 times daily (infusion).
What is a safety consideration for Rosemary?
Avoid high doses during pregnancy.
What part of St John’s Wort is used for medicinal purposes?
Leaves and flowering tops.
What are the key constituents of St John’s Wort?
Hypericin, hyperforin, flavonoids.
What are the main actions of St John’s Wort?
Antidepressant, nervine tonic, antiviral, antimicrobial; effective for mild to moderate depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
What is the recommended intake of St John’s Wort?
2 teaspoons infused 3 times daily, or as per label.
What is a safety consideration for St John’s Wort?
Not suitable as sole treatment for severe depression; caution with sun exposure and drug interactions (can increase liver clearance of various drugs).
