Introduction to Herbalism and Botanicals Flashcards
(177 cards)
1
Q
What are tinctures?
A
According to the CNS primer, tinctures are “liquid extracts that are not dried.” However this is an incomplete definition.
Tinctures are concentrated liquid herbal extracts made from plants and used as herbal medicine. The basic method of extraction uses alcohol, vinegar, or glycerin. Some methods also use water, these are called double-extractions.
2
Q
Briefly explain double-extraction.
A
A double-extraction is the process of using both alcohol and water to extract different properties. Some beneficial properties in mushrooms and some plants are water-soluble while other properties are alcohol-soluble. Double-extraction allows you to get the most out of these herbs.
3
Q
What do capsules and tablets contain?
A
Commercially obtained capsules and tablets contain freeze-dried or powdered extracts of whole plants or plant parts.
4
Q
What is the difference between a tea and a decoction?
A
According to the CNS primer, “teas are prepared by water-based extraction in boiling water” and “decoctions are water-based extracts that are cooked after boiling and then strained.”
However that is not exactly correct.
A tea is made with the leaves, flowers, fruit, and/or non-woody stems of an herb. The process of making a tea is to pour boiling water over the herb, cover it, and allow it to steep for a period of time. If it is purely for flavor, the tea is steeped for 5-10 min. For medicinal effects it should be steeped 15-30 min. After this time, strain the herb out and consume the tea.
A decoction is made from the tougher parts of the herb such as the root, woody stems, bark, and sometimes the fruit. For this, you must boil the herb in the water for a period of time (15-30 min) before straining and consuming.
5
Q
Using the Latin binomials, what two species of plant are commonly called Agrimony?
A
Agrimonia gryposepala
Agrimonia eupatoria
6
Q
What is Agrimony used for? And what parts are used?
A
The entire plant, including the roots, has been used to for it’s diuretic and astringent properties for sore throats, kidney stones, and jaundice. Its water extracts (infusions and decoctions) are used in the treatment of airway and urinary system diseases, digestive tract diseases, and chronic wounds.
7
Q
What are the three most common names for the plant Aletris farinosa?
A
Aletris root
Unicorn root
Whitetube stargrass
8
Q
What is Aletris Root used for? And what parts are used?
A
A poultice of leaves has been used to relieve breast soreness and the liquid from boiled roots is traditionally used to relieve digestion problems including colic, constipation, diarrhea, gas, and upset stomach, anxiety, and edema. Other traditional uses for the root include joint and muscle pain (rheumatism), muscle spasms, fluid retention, and infertility.
9
Q
What is a poultice?
A
A poultice, also called a cataplasm, is a paste made of herbs, plants, and other substances with healing properties. The paste is spread on a warm, moist cloth and applied to the body to relieve inflammation and promote healing.
10
Q
What is the Latin binomial for the herb commonly named Alfalfa?
A
Medicago sativa
11
Q
What is Alfalfa used for? And what parts are used?
A
According to the CNS primer, the leaves are traditionally powdered and mixed with cider vinegar to create a tonic beverage.
However, there is an extensive list of the uses of this herb, many with scientific evidence to support their use. Some of these include:
Improving metabolic health, reducing the symptoms of menopause (especially hot flashes), for kidney conditions, bladder and prostate conditions, and to increase urine flow. It is also used for high cholesterol, asthma, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, upset stomach, and a bleeding disorder called thrombocytopenic purpura. People also take alfalfa as a source of vitamins A, C, E, and K4; and the minerals calcium, potassium, phosphorous, and iron.
The parts most commonly used are the leaves, sprouts, and seeds.
12
Q
Using the Latin binomials, what two species of plant are commonly called Aloe?
A
Aloe vera
Aloe barbadensis
13
Q
What is Aloe used for? And what parts are used?
A
Traditional, internal, use of aloe leaf extract has been as a laxative to relieve constipation. Regular use can lead to weight loss, but with the added danger of electrolyte imbalance, aloe-induced negative energy balance, and dehydration.
The juice or gel of the leaves is useful to accelerate the healing of small skin lacerations and first-degree sunburn.
14
Q
How does Aloe’s laxative effect work?
A
Water soluble extract of the leaves are rich in 1,8-dihydrozyanthacene derivatives. Upon reaching the colon, these compounds are converted by endogenous or bacterial enzymes to aloe-emodin anthrone, an irritant to the colonic mucosa. Exposure to this irritant increases mucosal mucus secretion which stimulates colonic peristalsis.
15
Q
Using the Latin binomials, what two species of plant are commonly called Angelica?
A
Angelica atropurpurea
Angelica archangelica
16
Q
What is Angelica used for? And what parts are used?
A
Small amounts of dried seeds may be used to relieve flatulence, urinary tract infections, inappetence (lack of appetite), and fever. Preparations from the roots may be used to induce vomiting and perspiration as well as for the treatment of toothache, bronchitis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, fever, and hypomenorrhea.
17
Q
What is the Latin binomial for Anise?
A
Pimpinella anisumIn. In some texts, anise is referred to as Anisum vulgare or A. officinarum. Do not confuse with the “Chinese star anise” (Illicium verum).
18
Q
What are the uses of Anise? And what parts are used?
A
Hot tea brewed from the seeds may relieve flatulence, colic, cough, bronchitis, and oral inflammation. Anise is well known as a carminative and traditionally as an expectorant. In high doses, it is used as an antispasmodic and an antiseptic and for the treatment of cough, asthma, and bronchitis. Research reveals no clinical data regarding the use of anise as an expectorant or as an antimicrobial. The oil of anise has been used for the treatment of lice, scabies, and psoriasis.
19
Q
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Arnica? Name some other common names of this herb.
A
Arnica montana, also known as wolf’s bane, leopard’s bane, mountain tobacco, and mountain arnica.
20
Q
What are the uses of Arnica? What parts are used?
A
Arnica is used topically for a wide range of conditions, including bruises, sprains, muscle aches, wound healing, superficial phlebitis, joint pain, inflammation from insect bites, and swelling from broken bones. More recent studies suggest it may also be helpful in the treatment of burns.
The most common preparations are creams made from decoctions of the dried flowers.
21
Q
True or False?
All parts of Arnica are safe for internal use.
A
False.
Some preparations have been approved by the FDA as natural flavoring agents for alcoholic beverages. However, all parts of this herb contain a highly poisonous sesquiterpenoid lactone (helenalin) as well as inulin, betaine, choline, coumarins, quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin, caffeic acid, and chamissonolid. While some of these compounds are safe and can be beneficial, others make this herb unsafe for human consumption or internal therapeutic use.
22
Q
What is Asafoetida?
A
Asafoetida is the dried sap, or gum resin, obtained from the roots of Ferula plants. The Latin binomial associated with this herb is Ferula spp. It is also a common Indian culinary herb called Hing.
23
Q
What are the uses of Asafoetida?
A
The gummy resin from the roots is used as an antispasmodic. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is used to aid digestion and gas, as well as treat bronchitis and kidney stones. In the Middle ages, it was also worn in a bag around the neck to “ward off” influenza and the common cold.
24
Q
The Chinese herb Huang-Qi is also known commonly as what? Also give the Latin binomial.
A
Astragalus is the common name. Astragalus membranaceus is the Latin binomial.
25
What are the alternative Latin binomials for Bacopa monniera? What are the Sanskrit?
Alternative Latin binomials: Bacopa monnieri and Herbpestis monnieri
Sanskrit: Brahmi and Jala-Brahmi
26
What are the most common uses of the herb Astragalus?
The extract of the root is used as an antiviral, antioxidant, fibrinolytic, hepatoprotective, and immunostimulatory. It may also help to reverse drug and/or alcohol-induced memory impairment, increase cardiac output, and improve gastrointestinal smooth muscle tone and motility.
27
What are the most common uses for the herb Brahmi?
Leaf extracts have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine as a "nerve tonic for impairment of memory" and as a "cure for mental disorder." Common uses include as a treatment for epilepsy, insanity, bronchitis, laryngitis, headache, and insomnia. In adults, dried Brahmi powder may produce reductions in anxiety, mental fatigue, nervousness and irritability, and may work to increase concentration, short-term memory, and feelings of well-being.
28
What are the two most common names of the herb Myrica cerifera?
Bayberry and Southern Wax Myrtle
29
What are the more common uses of the herb Bayberry and what parts are used?
A decoction of the root bark has been used to treat uterine hemorrhage, jaundice, dysentery, and canker sores. Fluid from the boiled leaves has been used to treat fever and intestinal parasites.
30
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Bearberry?
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi. Sometimes commonly called Uva Ursi.
31
What are the common uses of Uva Ursi?
Fluid from the boiled leaves has been used as a diuretic and to treat strains, stomach pains, incontinence, and inflammation from contact with poison oak.
32
Though not strictly an herb, what natural remedy consists of a mixture of plant pollens, plant nectar, and worker bee saliva?
Bee pollen
33
What is bee pollen used for?
The ingestion of been pollen may offer some protection against radiation injury. It may also be useful to help reduce inflammation, as an antioxidant, to ease the symptoms of menopause, reduce stress, strengthen the immune system, and improving liver health.
34
What are the possible side effects of bee pollen?
Individuals who are allergic or sensitive to bees may develop pruritis, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, bronchospasm, and anaphylaxis. Individuals who are not allergic or sensitive to bees may develop hypereosinophilia, memory loss, headaches, nausea, or diarrhea.
35
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Black Cohosh?
Cimicifuga racemosa
36
What are the common uses of the herb Black Cohosh?
A decoction of the rhizomes and roots has been used to treat sore throat, rheumatoid arthritis, kidney infections, and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. The latter effect may result from suppression of luteinizing hormone secretion or from direct relaxation of the uterus.
37
What plant is Blackcurrant Seed Oil (also known as Blackcurrant Oil) derived from?
Black Currant or Ribes nigrum.
38
What two fatty acids are contained in Blackcurrant Oil?
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) - About 15-20% by weight
Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) - About 12-14% by weight
39
What role does the fatty acid content of Blackcurrant Oil play?
The GLA and ALA present in Blackcurrant Oil may produce anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic effects. However it is not hypocholesterolemic and the oil may interact, synergistically, with anticoagulant medications.
40
What is the Latin binomial for Black Walnut?
Juglans nigra
41
What are the common uses of the herb Black Walnut? And what parts are used?
The inner bark of the tree has been used as a mild laxative. The husk of the nut has been used for treating intestinal parasites, ulcers, syphilis, and fungal infections. The leaves have been used to treat bedbug infestations.
42
What are the common names associated with Rubus spp.?
This genus is home to a variety of Brambles including Blackberry, Brambleberry, Dewberry, & Raspberry.
43
Briefly describe Rubus spp.
Rubus is a large and diverse superspecies of flowering plants in the rose family, Rosaceae, subfamily Rosoideae, with 250–700 species. In general, these herbs are thorn-covered viny perennials with large white flowers and red or black fruit.
44
What are the common uses for Brambles?
Teas made from the roots have been used in the treatment of nasal catarrh and teas made from the root bark, leaves, or whole berries have been used for dysentery.
45
What is the Latin binomial for Red Raspberry?
Rubus idaeus
46
What are the specific uses for Red Raspberry?
The chemicals in red raspberry might have antioxidant effects and help relax blood vessels. They might also cause muscles to contract or relax, depending on the dose and the muscle involved. This is the theory behind red raspberry's use in easing labor and delivery. A tea brewed from the leaves of red raspberry are used for labor, diarrhea, diabetes, as a uterine tonic, for motion sickness, and to ease menstrual cramping.
Don't confuse red raspberry with black raspberry, blackberry, or raspberry ketone.
This herb may not be safe during the first two trimesters of pregnancy.
47
What is the Latin binomial for Blessed Thistle?
Cnicus benedictus
48
What are the common uses of the herb Blessed Thistle?
The juice of the leaves and flower tops have been used in the treatment of cancer and respiratory infections, to induce sweating and urination, and to reduce fever. The seeds are used to induce vomiting.
49
What is the common name of the herb Eupatorium perfoliatum?
Boneset
50
What are the common uses of Boneset?
Boneset is used to reduce fever, increase urine output, cause vomiting, and treat constipation. Boneset is also used to treat influenza, swine flu, the common cold, malaria, acute bronchitis, nasal inflammation, joint pain (rheumatism), fluid retention, dengue fever, and pneumonia. It has also been used as a stimulant and to induce sweating.
51
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Borage?
Borago officinalis
52
What are the common uses for the herb Borage?
Oil from the leaves contain gamma-linolenic acid and has been used to increase sweating, as a diuretic, to soothe intestinal cramps, and to reduce swelling.
53
What is the common name for Rutacaea spp?
Buchu
54
What are the common uses of the herb Buchu?
A tincture of the dried leaves has been used to treat genital and urinary tract infections, indigestion, edema, and diabetes.
55
What is the common name for the herb Rhamnus purshiana?
Buckthorn, Cascara Buckthorn, Cascara Sagrada, Cascara, or Bearberry
56
What are the common uses for the herb Cascara Sagrada?
The bark and berries have been used as a laxative to relieve the symptoms of constipation and hemorrhoids as well as for gallstones, liver ailments, and cancer.
57
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Burdock?
Arctium minus
58
What are the common uses for the herb Burdock?
Fluids from the roots have been used to treat coughs, asthma, and stomachache as well as to stimulate menstruation.
59
What are some common names for the herb Acorus calamus?
Calamus or Sweet Flag
60
What are some common uses for the herb Calamus?
The roots have been chewed to clear phlegm and ease stomach gas and cramps. Calamus is also commonly used for stomach problems, skin problems, earache, and to remove the smell of tobacco.
61
What is the common name for the herb Nepeta cataria?
Catnip
62
What are the common uses (for humans) for the herb Catnip?
Extracts from the entire plant have been used to treat colds, nervous disorders, stomach ailments, respiratory ailments, swelling, infant colic, and hives.
63
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Cat's Claw?
Uncaria tomentosa
64
What are the common uses for the herb Cat's Claw?
Extracts from the root have anti-inflammatory activity and inhibit platelet aggregation. Hirsutine, an alkaloid in cat's claw root extract, inhibits stimulated increase in intracellular free calcium concentrations in myocardial cells and may exert antihypertensive effects.
65
What is the common name associated with the herb Capsicum spp.?
Cayenne
66
What are the common uses for the herb Cayenne?
The seeds contain capsaicin, which is hyperemic and reduces pain. Cayenne has also been used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean medicines as an oral remedy for stomach problems, poor appetite, and circulatory problems. It has also been applied to the skin for arthritis and muscle pain.
67
What is the common name for the herb Apium graveolens?
Celery
68
What are the common uses of the herb Celery?
The seeds may act as a diuretic, sedative, or as a flatulence suppressant. Some practitioners of Chinese medicine use celery and celery extracts to reduce blood pressure.
69
Using Latin binomials, what are the two species of herb commonly referred to as Chamomile?
Matricaria chamomilla (German Chamomile) and Anthemis nobilis (Roman Chamomile)
70
True or False?
For most applications, German Chamomile and Roman Chamomile can be used interchangeably.
True
Medicinally, both varieties are used for calming and soothing skin, inflammation, fevers, and the nervous and digestive systems, as well as inducing perspiration to flush out toxins, allergens and infections. Both are pain relieving, antibiotic, anti-bacterial, and sedative. It’s in their chemical properties and more specific uses that we begin to see where they differ.
GERMAN CHAMOMILE
-Contains chamazulene, giving the essential oil a deep blue color, and anti-inflammatory and infection fighting properties.
-Maintains normal skin; calms dry, irritated or flaky skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis; promotes healing and regeneration of damaged skin tissue.
-Stimulates liver, kidneys and gall bladder to improve digestion, remove toxins and infections.
-Calms mind and body for menstrual and menopausal problems, including PMS.
ROMAN CHAMOMILE
-Contains high level of esters and is anti-spasmodic, anti-fungal and highly calming.
-Provides restful sleep, relief from sore muscles, arthritis, headaches and migraines.
-Effective at calming irritation, rage, mood swings. For children, it’s useful for teething, colic, and temper tantrums.
71
What are the common uses for Chamomile?
Tea made from the flowers is often as a calming and gentle sedative. This herb is also used for calming and soothing skin, inflammation, fevers, and the nervous and digestive systems, as well as inducing perspiration to flush out toxins, allergens and infections. It is also has pain relieving qualities as well as antibiotic, and anti-bacterial.
72
The herb Vitex agnus-castus, sometimes simply referred to as Vitex, is commonly called what?
Chaste Tree or Chaste Berry
73
What are the common uses of the herb Vitex?
An extract of the berries inhibits follicle stimulating hormone secretion, prolactin secretion, and lactation. People often use Vitex for conditions related to the menstrual cycle such as breast pain and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It is also used for bone fractures, infertility, and menopause symptoms.
74
What is the Latin binomial of the herb commonly known as Chickweed?
Stellaria media
75
What are the common uses of the herb Chickeweed?
A poultice made from the entire plant in full bloom as been used to treat sores, ulcers, infections, and hemorrhoids. People take chickweed internally for constipation, stomach and bowel problems, blood disorders, asthma and other lung diseases, obesity, a vitamin C deficiency disease called scurvy, a skin condition called psoriasis, rabies, itching, and muscle and joint pain.
76
What is the Latin binomial of the herb commonly known as Chicory?
Cichorium intybus
77
What are the common uses of the herb Chickory?
Dried leaves and roots increase appetite and relieve dyspepsia. They are also used in food flavoring. The roasted and dried root can also be used as a coffee substitute.
78
What is the common name associated with Allium schoenoprasum?
Chives
79
What are some common medicinal uses of Chives?
Chives contain alkyl cysteine sulfoxides that may have anthelmintic properties. Traditional medicinal uses of chives include treating intestinal parasites, boosting immune systems, promote good digestion, and in the treatment of anemia.
80
Using the Latin binomials, which two species of the green algae known as Cholorella are most often used therapeutically?
Chlorella vulgaris and Chlorella pyrenoidosa
81
What are the common uses for the herb Cholorella?
The ingestion of intact algae may be anticarcinogenic, immunostimulatory, and hypolipidemic. Gastric mucosal resistance to irritant stimuli may be enhanced. Side effects of chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) may be attenuated.
82
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Cinnamon?
Cinnamomum zeylanicum
83
What are the common therapeutic uses for the herb Cinnamon?
In addition to being an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anticancer, lipid-lowering, and cardiovascular-disease-lowering compound, cinnamon has also been reported to have activities against neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. It has also been used to help lower blood sugar in some patients.
84
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Cleavers?
Galium aparine
85
What are the common uses for Galium aparine?
The entire flowering plant has been used to increase urine formation, stimulate appetite, reduce fever, and remove freckles.
86
What is the common name associated with Sygyzium aromaticum?
Cloves
87
What are the common therapeutic uses for Sygyzium aromaticum?
The flower bud has been used to promote salivation and gastric secretion, reduce abdominal pain nausea and vomiting, relieve arthritis, lumbago, toothache, muscle cramps, and neuralgia.
88
What is the common name for the herb Asarum canadense?
Canada Wild Ginger or Colt's Foot (do not confuse it with the herb Coltsfoot)
89
What are some common uses of the herb Canada Wild Ginger?
The powdered roots have been used to reduce flatulence, induce sweating and relieve headache. The powder contains mucin that reduces inflammation of the throat and pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are antibacterial, carcinogenic, and hepatotoxic.
90
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Comfrey?
Symphytum officinale
91
What are the common uses for the herb Comfrey?
Root extract suppresses leukocyte infiltration during acute inflammation. The roots and leaves have been used for treating pneumonia, coughs, diarrhea, osteoporosis, colds, sores, ulcers, arthritis, gallstones, headaches, hemorrhoids, gout, burns, kidney stones, anemia, and tuberculosis.
92
What is common name for Taraxacum officinale?
Dandelion
93
What are the common uses of Taraxacum officinale?
The roots have been used as a diuretic, laxative, stimulator of bile acid secretion, and appetite stimulant. The roasted roots can also be used as an alternative to coffee. Tea from the flowers has been used for cardiovascular diseases. A paste of green leaves and bread dough has been used to accelerate healing of bruises.
94
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Echinacea?
Echinacea purpurea
95
What are the common uses of Echinacea?
The roots contain immunostimulatory polysaccharides (4-O-methylglucuronylarabinoxylans), glycoproteins, and caffeic acid derivatives with generally bactericidal and wound healing properties. Root extracts have been used in the treatment of ulcers, boils, syphilis, snakebites, skin disease, and blood poisoning, as well as to increase resistance to infectious disease.
96
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Eucalyptus?
Eucalyptus globulus
97
What are some common uses for the herb Eucalyptus?
Oil distilled from the leaves has antiseptic value and is used to accelerate healing of open wounds and ulcerations.
A word of caution: Eucalyptus oil is extremely stimulating to certain portions of the brain and can induce seizures in those with epilepsy.
98
What is the common name for Oenthera biennis?
Evening Primrose
99
What are the common uses for Oenthera biennis?
The seeds of Evening Primrose contain an oil (evening primrose oil) that contains large amounts of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) giving this oil anti-inflammatory properties. This herb may also be effective in providing symptomatic relief in premenstrual syndrome, menopausal flushing, and fibrocystic breast disease.
100
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Eyebright (or Indian Tobacco)?
Lobelia inflata
101
What are some common uses for Lobelia inflata?
The entire plant, in full bloom, has been used in the treatment of whooping cough, asthma, epilepsy, pneumonia, hysteria, and convulsions.
102
Using the Latin binomials, what are the two species of plants associated with the common name of Fennel?
Foeniculi fructus and Foeniculi vulgare
103
What are some common therapeutic uses of the herb Fennel?
Extracts of the seeds have a long history of supporting gastrointestinal tract function. They have been used as a carminative, to reduce flatulence, and for their spasmolytic action to relieve intestinal cramps (such as those caused by laxatives). Fennel tea (or tincture) may also stimulate the production of bile.
104
What is the common name of Trigonella foenum-graceum?
Fenugreek
105
What are some common uses for Trigonella foenum-graceum?
The seeds are made into a poultice for wounds and a gargle for the treatment of sore throat. Ingested powder of the whole dried seeds is hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic. In North Africa, Asia, and southern Europe, fenugreek was traditionally used for diabetes and to increase milk supply in women who were breastfeeding. Today, fenugreek is promoted as a dietary supplement for diabetes, menstrual cramps, and other conditions and to stimulate milk production during breastfeeding.
106
What is the Latin binomial of the herb Feverfew?
Tanacetum parthenium
107
What are some common uses for Tanacetum parthenium?
Feverfew contains anti-inflammatory sesquiterpene lactones that inhibit platelet aggregation and prostaglandin synthesis. This herb is also used to alleviate headaches, arthritis, and allergies.
108
What is the Latin binomial of the herb Flax, also commonly known as Linseed?
Linum usitatissimum
109
What are the common uses for the herb Flax?
Ground flaxseed mixed with boiling water has been made into a poultice for use on burns, boils, carbuncles, and sores.
110
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Garlic?
Allium sativum
111
What are the common therapeutic uses for the herb Garlic?
Mashed garlic has been eaten to expel parasites or to treat coughs, hoarseness, and asthma. The bulb has been applied directly to the gums for toothache. Garlic extracts are antimicrobial, antiviral, hypolipidemic, and fibrinolytic. They increase intracellular glutathione concentration, inhibit platelet thromboxane formation, and increase the cytotoxicity of natural killer cells. Adverse reactions associated with the ingestion of garlic have included headache, nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness.
112
What are the active compounds in garlic?
The active compounds in garlic are thought to be the alliins (particularly allylalliin, propenylallin, and methylalliin) and their gamma-glutamyl conjugates.
113
What is the Latin binomial associated with the herb Gentian?
Gentiana villosa
114
What are the common uses for Gentiana villosa?
The roots have been used in the treatment of indigestion, gout, and arthritis as well as in the induction of vomiting.
Gentian is a bitter herb and exhibits the shared properties of these herbs such as stimulating the production and release of bile.
115
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Ginger?
Zingiber officinale
116
What are the common therapeutic uses for Zingiber officinale?
The rhizomes are used as an expectorant and in the treatment of flatulence, the common cold, and sore throats. Acetone extracts of the root provide significant protection for the gastric mucosa against HCL-ethanol erosive damage and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID, including aspirin) ulceration. In addition to supporting gastric health, ginger increases small intestinal activities of the digestive enzymes lipase, sucrase, and maltase, stimulating gastric emptying and gastrointestinal motility, and increasing bile secretion. In clinical trials, ginger extract has also been observed to relieve "morning sickness" associated with pregnancy and reduce the severity of seasickness.
117
What is the common name for the herb Ginkgo biloba?
Ginkgo
118
What are the common uses for Ginkgo?
Compounds present in the extract exhibit antioxidant, antiplatelet activating factor, cerebrovasodilatory, neuroreceptor modulating, and pro-lipolytic activities.
Overall, this herb is often used to improve circulation and as a tonic to promote cardiovascular health.
119
What is the common name of the plant Panax quinquefolia?
Ginseng, or specifically American Ginseng
It is often interchangeable with Panax ginseng which is also known as Asian Ginseng.
120
What are the common uses for Ginseng?
The roots are used as a stimulant and in the treatment of convulsions, dizziness, vomiting, colds, fevers, headaches, and arthritis. Ginseng stimulates lipolysis in fat depots and accelerates the cellular uptake of glucose, enhancing glucose tolerance.
121
What is the common name for the herb Solidago odora?
Goldenrod or Sweet Goldenrod
Any species of Goldenrod (or Solidago spp.) can be used interchangeably. Don't confuse these herbs with Verbascum densiflorum, which is sometimes called “goldenrod.”
122
What are the common uses for the herb Solidago odora?
Dried Goldenrod leaves have been used as a stimulant and diuretic.
Goldenrod is used to reduce pain and swelling (inflammation), as a diuretic to increase urine flow, and to stop muscle spasms. It is also used for gout, joint pain (rheumatism), arthritis, as well as eczema and other skin conditions. Goldenrod is also used to treat tuberculosis infections that have become active again after a period of inactivity (latency), diabetes, enlargement of the liver, hemorrhoids, internal bleeding, hay fever, asthma, and an enlarged prostate.
123
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Goldenseal?
Hydrastis canadensis
124
What are the common uses of the herb Goldenseal?
Fluid from the roots has been used as an appetite stimulant. Powdered roots have been applied to open lacerations. Fresh roots have been chewed for mouth sores. The plant contains berberine which inhibits the growth of Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia, Trichomonas vaginalis, Shigella dysenteriae, Salmonella spp., Klebsiella spp., Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and Helicobacter pylori. Berberine also may protect against enterotoxins secreted by Vibrio cholerae and Escherichia coli and prevents the adherence of Streptococcus pyrogens and E. coli to the inte4stinal mucosa.
125
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Gymnema?
Gymnema sylvestre
126
What are the common uses for Gymnema?
Gymnema sylvestre reduces sugar cravings. When consumed prior to a sugary food or beverage, gymnemic acid found in this herb blocks the sugar receptors on your taste buds.
As a supplement, it has been used in combination with other diabetes medications to lower blood sugar.
Gymnema sylvestre may stimulate insulin production in your pancreas, promoting the regeneration of insulin-producing islet cells. This can help lower your blood sugar levels.
127
What is the common name of the herb Paullinia cupana?
Guarana
128
What are the common uses of the herb Guarana?
The seeds are high in caffeine content (3%-6% by weight).
Guarana is used for weight loss, to enhance athletic performance, as a stimulant, and to reduce mental and physical fatigue. It is a frequent addition to energy and weight loss products. Some people also use guarana to treat low blood pressure and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and to prevent malaria and dysentery.
129
What is the Latin binomial for the herb commonly called Hawthorne?
Crataegus oxycantha
130
What are the common uses for the herb Hawthorne?
Commonly used as a heart or cardiac tonic, Hawthorne berries contain procyanidins and flavonoids that increase coronary blood flow and are mildly antiarrhythmic. This herb has also been reported to alleviate angina pectoris, heart valve defects, weak heartbeat and congestive heart failure as well as to reverse atherosclerosis.
131
What is the Latin binomial of the poisonous herb called Hemlock?
Conium maculatum
132
What acceptable uses does Hemlock have?
None.
This herb has traditionally been used, in an extremely diluted form (often referred to as a drop dosage) or in homeopathy, to treat certain cervical cancers. There is currently no scientific evidence to support this use.
133
What is the common name for the herb Humulus lupulus?
Hops or Hop
134
What are some common uses of the herb Hops?
Hops has been used in a poultice for boils and as a beverage for the treatment of fever, parasites and arthritis, and to induce diuresis and sedation in individuals with nervousness or insomnia.
Cautions have been published regarding the use of hops in people with depression because the known sedative effects may heighten depressive symptoms and potentiate the soporific effects of antidepressant drugs; however, studies suggest that hops may have an overall beneficial mood-enhancing effect without significant adverse/side effects in treatment-naïve individuals presenting with symptoms of both depression and anxiety/stress.
135
What is the common name of the herb Marribium vulgare?
White Horehound or simply Horehound
136
What are the common uses of Marribium vulgare?
Decoctions of the leaves, stems, and bark have traditionally been used to treat coughs, asthma, hoarseness, diarrhea, menstrual irregularity, and kidney disease. The bitter ingredients of this herb (marrubiin and premarrubiin) stimulate secretion of gastric and bile acids.
137
What is the Latin binomial for the herb commonly known as Huckleberry or Sparkleberry?
Vaccinium arboreum
138
What are the common uses of Vaccinium arboreum?
Decoctions of the leaves and root bark have been used to treat sore throat and diarrhea.
139
What is the common name of the herb Hysoppus officinalis?
Hyssop
140
What are the common uses of Hysoppus officinalis?
Fluids from the leaves are antimicrobial, antiviral, and mildly spasmolytic. They have been used to treat coughs, tuberculosis, asthma, cuts, and bruises.
141
What is the Latin binomial for Common Juniper?
Juniperus communis
142
What are the common uses of Juniper?
The berries have been used for their diuretic actions, to induce menstruation, relieve gas, and treat both snakebites and intestinal parasites.
143
What is the common name for the herb Piper methysticum?
Kava Kava
144
What are some common uses for the herb Kava Kava?
The roots contain lactones that are anxiolytic, analgesic, anticonvulsive, and muscle relaxing.
Use of this herb should be avoided by individuals with clinical depression.
Many people who take this herb report an increase in lucid and vivid dreams.
145
What is the common name for the herb Melissa officinalis?
Lemon Balm
146
What are the common uses for Melissa officinalis?
Lemon Balm leaves have been used as a carminative, diaphoretic, febrifuge, and mild sedative for individuals with nervous agitation and difficulty sleeping.
Lemon Balm can reduce thyroid hormone production so use of this herb should be avoided by those with hypoactive thyroid.
147
What is the Latin binomial for Licorice?
Glycyrrhiza lepidota
148
What are some common uses for Glycyrrhiza lepidota?
An extract of Licorice root has been used in the treatment of stomach ulcers, arthritis, induction of menstrual flow, reduction of fever, and expulsion of the placenta. This herb is often used to flavor formulas for children as it is sweet and most children consider it a pleasant flavor.
Licorice root may cause excessive sodium retention and hypertension in some individuals.
149
What is the common name for the herb Ephedra sinica?
Ma Huang. It is also commonly referred to as simply Ephedra.
150
What are some common uses of Ephedra?
The stems are a botanical source of ephedrine and pseudoephedrine protoalkaloid compounds. Many individuals respond to extracts of Ma Huang with hypertension and tachycardia.
It is good to note that due to it's ephedrine content, some states (like Florida) have severely restricted the use of this herb along with any herb containing ephedrine.
151
What is the common name for Althaea officinals?
Marshmallow
152
What are some common uses for the herb Marshmallow?
Marshmallow extract alleviates local irritation, stimulates phagocytosis, accelerates glucose clearance from the circulation, and exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunostimulatory activities. Crushed roots have been used in cough remedies and ass an effective gargle for inflammation of the mucous membrane of the moth and throat.
A personal note:
After working with this herb for several years I have learned a few tricks for preparing it for maximum effectiveness. The mucilage responsible for soothing actions, especially on mucosal membrane, is rendered less effective when extracted with heat. A cold, overnight infusion, is the most effective method of extraction if you are wanting to use this herb for these properties.
153
What are the two most common Latin binomials for the herb Milk Thistle?
Silybum marianum and Carduus marianus
154
What are some of the common uses for the herb Milk Thistle?
The compounds found in the seeds help protect hepatocytes by altering the hepatocyte cell membrane, blocking toxin binding sites, and by inducing increased synthesis of glutathione. They also inhibit the inflammatory responses of Kupffer cells, reducing hepatic inflammation.
155
What is the common name for Leonurus cardiaca?
Motherwort
156
What are some of the common uses for Leonurus cardiaca?
The entire plant, except the roots, has traditionally been used as both a stimulant and diuretic.
157
What is the Latin binomial for Mullein?
Verbascum thapsus
158
What are the common uses for Verbascum thapsus?
Fluids from Mullein leaves have been used to treat dysentery, asthma, hemorrhoids, inflammation, and sunburn. The boiled roots have been used in the treatment of croup. Oil made with the flowers has been used to treat earache.
159
What is the common name of the herb Muristica fragrans?
Nutmeg
160
What are some common, therapeutic uses for Nutmeg?
The seeds have been used in the treatment of nausea, vomiting, and hemorrhoids.
161
What is the Latin binomial for Papaya?
Carica papaya
162
What are the common therapeutic uses for Papaya?
The leaves of the Papaya have been used to treat wounds. The fruit contains proteolytic enzymes (including papain) that may aid in digestion. In addition, papain is antimicrobial, anthelmintic, and anti-ulcerative.
163
What is the common name for the herb Petroselinum crispum?
Parsley
164
What are the common therapeutic uses for the herb Parsley?
The roots exhibit diuretic effects. The fruit is an abortifacient. The leaves are used for their aromatic properties.
Some people use parsley for conditions such as bladder infections (UTIs), kidney stones (nephrolithiasis), gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, constipation, skin conditions, and many others.
When taken by mouth: Parsley is LIKELY SAFE when consumed in amounts commonly found in food. Parsley is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults when taken as medicine, short-term. In some people, parsley can cause allergic skin reactions. But consuming very large amounts of parsley is LIKELY UNSAFE, and can cause other side effects like anemia and liver or kidney problems. Do not use in medicinal quantities during pregnancy as even the leaf, when taken in larger doses, can exhibit abortifacient properties.
When applied to the skin: Applying parsley seed oil directly to the skin is LIKELY UNSAFE. It can cause the skin to become extra sensitive to the sun and cause a rash.
165
What is the common name for Passiflora incarnata?
Passion Flower or Maypop
166
What are some common uses for Passiflora incarnata?
The crushed flowers have been used to treat bruises and injuries. Passion flower tea (made from the leaves and the tendrils of the vine) may act as a mild sedative and help induce sleep.
167
What is the Latin binomial for Peppermint?
Mentha piperita
168
What are the common therapeutic uses for Mentha piperita?
Fresh mint leaves have been rubbed into the skin to relieve pain. Oil extracted from the leaves reduces nausea and headache and may be antiviral.
Personal Note:
Peppermint is a wonderful carminative and helps to relieve digestive symptoms, such as gas, bloating, and indigestion. When used in aromatherapy, the essential oil can help to subtly increase energy levels and improve cognitive function.
169
There are two different plants that share the same common name of Plantain and both are used medicinally. The CNS primer has them listed as a single herb, but they are used in very different ways. What are their Latin binomials and what are the descriptions of each?
Plantago spp.
Plantago spp. is a genus of low-growing flowering plants. Each of the leaves have parallel venation, though they are not monocots, and when broken apart the veins appear to be stretchy and string-like. The leaves grow in a rosette and from the center, a flower spike will grow. The flowers are small and greenish-brown. The most commonly used Plantago is Plantago major, though each species in this genus can be used interchangeably.
Musa paradisiaca
This plantain is very similar to a banana and often eaten as a starchy vegetable or made into a sweet dessert. Hundreds of cultivars of M. paradisiaca are known, possessing characteristics that are highly variable, but broadly intermediate between the ancestral species. They are typically 2–9 meters (7–30 ft) tall when mature. The above-ground part of the plant is a "false stem" or pseudostem, consisting of leaves and their fused bases. Each pseudostem can produce a single flowering stem. After fruiting, the pseudostem dies, but offshoots may develop from the base of the plant.
170
What are the common uses for Plantago spp.?
Plantago major contains several active compounds such as flavonoids, polysaccharides, terpenoids, lipids, iridoid glycosides and caffeic acid derivatives, and is used in treatment of various diseases such as constipation, coughs, wounds, infection, fever, bleeding and inflammation.
171
What are the common uses for Musa paradisiaca?
The flower of this Plantain is used to treat ulcers, dysentery, and bronchitis and cooked flowers are good food for diabetics. The astringent ashes of the unripe banana peel and leaves are used in the treatment of dysentery and diarrhea and also for the treatment of malignant ulcers.
172
What are the two most common names for the herb Asclepius tuberosa?
Pleurisy Root and Butterfly Milkweed
173
What are some common uses for Pleurisy Root?
Small amounts of the dried root, taken orally, have been used as a diaphoretic, diuretic, and expectorant. Fresh ground roots have been applied to skin sores.
174
What is the common name for Cucurbita pepo?
Pumpkin or Field Pumpkin
175
What are the common uses for Pumpkin?
The seeds contain delta-7 sterols that mimic dihydrotestosterone and may reduce prostate hyperplasia.
176
What is the Latin binomial for the herb Queensdelight?
Stillingia sylvatica
177
What are the common uses of Stillingia sylvatica?
Queensdelight roots have been used to treat infectious diseases.
It was used traditionally in Native American medicine and by the Eclectic physicians in the early 1900s to support skin health, the upper respiratory system and occasional constipation. Small pieces of the root were chewed to in winter to support a healthy throat and upper respiratory system. This herb is not often used in modern herbalism. However, Stillingia has been used to support the lymphatic system, and it also supports the natural detoxification functions of the mucous membranes, liver and lymphatic tissues.
