Herbal Medicine II - Herbal actions

Question 1

Actions

Answer 1

‘Actions’ describe the effects of herbs on tissues, organs and systems, due to different plant chemicals.
For example:
* Tannins have a drying and toning effect on tissues. Astringent action e.g. witch hazel.
* Volatile oils relax smooth muscles in the GIT. Carminative action e.g. peppermint leaf.
* Mucilage supports skin and mucous membrane healing. Demulcent action e.g. linseeds.

Question 2

Primary and Secondary Actions:

Answer 2

Medicinal plants contain a range of chemicals, so they normally have a range of actions:
* Most herbs have ‘primary’ actions which guide clinical use, plus ‘secondary’ actions providing additional benefits.
* Thus, herbs treat on different levels, e.g.:
o Chamomile calms the nerves (nervine action), relieves gas and bloating (carminative action), reduces inflammation (anti-inflammatory action).
o This makes it ideal for nervous indigestion and IBS.