Herbal Pharmacy Flashcards
What should we consider when choosing herbs?
-Environmental, sociological, and ethnobotanical impact.
-Time of year
-Quality
-How to dry/process
-How to store
What is an infusion?
Water-based extraction using the delicate plant parts (leaves, flowers, green stems)
Which herb requires a cold water extraction?
Marshmallow root
What is a decoction?
Water- based extraction that takes longer time and more heat. Uses the hard and woody parts of plants (roots, wood, bark, nuts & seeds)
When is the best time to harvest Aerial plants? Why?
Early spring to late summer. Energy and nutrients are pushed up.
When is the best time to harvest roots?
Autumn. Nutrients settle back down for the dormant season.
When is the best time to harvest bark?
Early spring when the sap rises.
When is the best time to harvest fruits and seeds?
Ripened from end of summer to autumn.
What is a fomentation?
Compress
What is a compress?
Topical application of cloth STEEPED in either a herbal infusion or decoction applied directly to desired area.
When is a compress useful?
Sprains, strains, skin irritations, infections, muscle cramping or spasms.
What herbal actions do the herbs typically used in compresses contain?
Vulnerary, astringents, rubefacients and circulatory stimulants.
What is a poultice?
Applying fresh, dried or powdered herb directly to the body. Hot or cold.
When is a poultice typically used?
Ease nerve or muscle pain, sprains, broken bones, heal damaged skin, reduce skin irritation, draw pus from infected wounds, boils or ulcers.
Common herbs used for poultice?
comfrey leaf and root, chickweed, plantain, calendula, witch hazel
What is a tincture?
Alcohol-based preparation
Which is stronger: a tincture, an infusion, or a decoction?
A tincture.
What are the 3 methods to make a tincture?
1.) Folk Method
2.) Maceration (Mathematical) method
3.) Percolation
What is menstruum?
The liquid solvent (alcohol & water) used in a tincture
When are vinegars used?
To promote digestion and support liver health. Or for children to avoid alcohol of a tincture.
What is an oxymel?
When honey is added to a vinegar based mix.
What medicinal actions do lozenges & pastilles have?
Demulcent, soothing expectorant, or antimicrobial effect on the mouth, throat, and upper respiratory tract.
What can a steam inhalation be used to treat?
Sinusitis, congestion, hay fever, URTI
What is a liniment?
Liquids for external use only. Used on sprains, strains, and sore muscles.
1 part almond oil or alcohol and 2 parts tincture
What is a glycerite?
Herb steeped in glycerine
What is a salve?
Beeswax or thickening agent added to herbal oil to produce a solid product
When should you take a cleansing, detoxifying herb?
On an empty stomach
When should you take a digestion stimulating or nervous condition herb?
Before a meal
When should you take a herb for gas or indigestion?
After a meal
