Unit 1 Flashcards
Garbling
The process of removing fibrous stems and other unwanted material from the desired parts of the plant.
Marc
The waste herb material left over after the menstruum is strained from the plant material.
Grinding
The process of reducing the size of herb pieces using a mortar and pestle, blender, food processor, knife, or spice grinder.
Maceration
The process of steeping an herb in a menstruum.
Olive Oil
Common and easy-to-find. Heavy and greasier when used alone. High in fat-soluble vitamins and helps in the repair and rejuvenation of damaged, dry skin. Soothing to inflammatory skin conditions. Also used for hair and scalp conditioning.
Coconut Oil
Solid at room temperature. Can be very greasy, but very moisturizing to skin and hair. Good for all types of inflammatory skin conditions, including acne and eczema, as well as overly dehydrated or prematurely aged skin. Highly useful when making creams, lotions, and ointments. Also used for hair and scalp conditioning. Used as a sun filter in many tanning products.
Grapeseed Oil
Produced by hot extraction, so not necessarily as high-quality as others listed. Benefits include its astringent, toning, and emollient nature and non-greasy feel. It also has good extractive properties, making it useful for infused oils.
Sweet Almond Oil
A light oil, protective and nourishing without being too greasy. High in vitamin E and other fat- soluble vitamins. Good for all skin types, including baby care. Popular for massage oils.
Apricot Kernel
Light, non-greasy, with a similar feel and use as sweet almond oil, but slightly more expensive. Good for all skin types, especially prematurely aged, dry, and/or inflamed skin. Astringent and toning.
Jojoba Oil
More of a liquid wax than an oil. Famous for its resemblance to sebum and specifically indicated for acne due to its skin balancing effects. Highly penetrative. Also useful for inflammatory skin conditions and sunburn.Thought to generally aid in skin elasticity.
Shea Butter
Most commonly used like coconut oil in making of creams and ointments.Traditionally used to protect the skin from the sun and repair damaged skin. Also used for scalp and hair conditioning. Some types of shea are sold after being bleached and deodorized.
Sunflower Oil
Very common and easily obtainable with light texture and non-greasy feel. Reliable oil that can be used on a variety of skin types. Great base oil for any mix or preparation.
DOS: Fuzzy / hairy herbs
Mucous membranes with villi
Example: Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
DOS: Feathery leaves
Vascular structures
Example: Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
DOS: Lobed Leaves
Liver
Example: Liverwort (Marchantiophyta spp.)
DOS: Red Sap
Blood
Example: Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis)
DOS: Large leaves with white spots
Lungs
Example: Lungwort (Pulmonaria officinalis)
DOS: Long tube-like structures
Urinary system
Example: Cornsilk (Zea mays)
DOS: Human- shaped
Human longevity
Example: Ginseng (Panax ginseng, P. quinquefolius)
DOS: White
Bones
Example: Solomon’s seal (Polygonatum biflorum)
DOS: Yellow
Bile (gallbladder, liver)
Example: Yellow dock (Rumex crispus)
DOS: Dark green / black
Blood
Example: Nettle (Urtica dioica)
DOS: Red
Anti-inflammatory
Example: Dan shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza)
DOS: Blue
Nervous system
Example: Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)
What are commonly adulterated herbs and extracts?
Skullcap,Ginseng root
Eleuthero root,Ginkgo leaf extract
Black cohosh root,Grapefruit seed extract, Plantain leaf, Bilberry fruit extract, Saw palmetto fruit, St. John’s wort aerial parts
Explain about Mucilage?
It is Mucilaginous polysaccharides
It’s actions are anti-inflammatory, demulcent, emollient, laxative
Some examples are: Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) root and leaf, slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) inner bark, aloe (Aloe vera) leaf, plantain (Plantago spp.) leaf and seed
Most soluble in cool water.
Explain about Glycosides
It is a constituent with
a sugar combined with a therapeutic non-sugar compound; some glycosides can be toxic and must be used carefully.
It’s actions are: Antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, bitter, cardioactive, cardiotonic, laxative
Some examples are: Yellow dock (Rumex crispus) root, turkey rhubarb (Rheum palmatum) root, senna (Cassia spp.) leaf, cascara sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana) bark, hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) leaf, flower, and fruit.
Most soluble in Water, alcohol, vinegar, glycerin
Explain about Polysaccharides.
It is a complex carbohydrate comprised of sugars.
It’s actions are immune modulate and nutritive.
Some examples are: Burdock (Arctium lappa) root, shiitake (Lentinula edodes) mushroom, astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) root, echinacea (Echinacea spp.) root, seed, leaf, and flower, reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) mushroom
Most soluble in Hot Water.
Explain about Bitter Principles.
They are Volatile oils, alkaloids, iridoids, or sesquiterpene lactones with a bitter taste.
It’s actions are antimicrobial, cholagogue, cooling, digestive stimulant, hepatic, laxative, nervine.
Some examples are: Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) leaf and root, milk thistle (Silybum marianum) seed, angelica (Angelica archangelica) root, leaf, and seed, yarrow (Achillea millefolium) aerial parts, chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) flower.
Most soluble in water, alcohol, vinegar, glycerin.
Explain about Alkaloids.
They are Nitrogen-containing compounds that accumulate from nitrogen not used by a plant for growth.
Their actions are antispasmodic, bitter, emmenagogue, galactagogue, nervine, sedative, stimulant.
Examples are: Coffee (Coffea arabica) fruit, comfrey (Symphytum officinale) leaf and root, goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) root, borage (Borago officinalis) leaf, lobelia (Lobelia inflata) above ground parts.
Most soluble in alcohol, glycerin, vinegar
Explain about Saponins.
They are types of glycosides that contain a fat-soluble base joined to a water-soluble sugar molecule to create a detergent; some saponins are toxic.
Their actions are: Adaptogenic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, diuretic, expectorant, hepatoprotective, hormone modulating, hypocholesterolemic, immune modulating
Examples are: American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) root, soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) rhizome, chickweed (Stellaria media) aerial parts, licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root.
Most soluble in water, glycerin, alcohol.
Explain about Flavonoids.
They are Pigments in brightly colored plants; occur as glycosides or without a sugar molecule.
It’s actions are: Anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antispasmodic, antiviral, cardiotonic, diuretic, hypotensive.
Examples are: Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) leaf, fruit, and flower, ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) leaf, turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizome, tea (Camellia sinensis) leaf, chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) flower, red clover (Trifolium pratense) aerial parts
Most soluble in: water.
Explain about Tannins.
They are: Polyphenolic compounds that contract and dry tissues by binding with and precipitating proteins.
Their actions are: Antidiarrheal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, astringent, diuretic, hemostatic.
Examples: Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) leaf, tea (Camellia sinensis) leaf, oak (Quercus spp.) bark and gall, rose (Rosa spp.) petal, willow (Salix spp.) bark and leaf, witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) leaf and bark, plantain (Plantago spp.) leaf, yarrow (Achillea millefolium) aerial parts.
Most soluble in: Glycerin, water, vinegar, alcohol.
Explain about Volatile Oils.
They are Unstable aromatic oils that volatilize easily.
Their actions are: Antimicrobial, circulatory stimulant, decongestant, diffusive, nervine
Examples are: Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) leaf, lavender (Lavandula spp.) bud, anise (Pimpinella anisum) seed, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) aerial parts, sage (Salvia officinalis) aerial parts, rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) aerial parts, tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) leaf, valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root, ginger (Zingiber officinale) rhizome
Most soluble in: Alcohol, oil, fat.
Explain about Resins.
They are sticky substances formed from the oxidation of volatile oils.
Their actions are: Antimicrobial, antispasmodic, bitter, expectorant, relaxing, stimulating, vulnerary.
Examples are: Calendula (Calendula officinalis) flower, hops (Humulus lupulus) strobile, myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) resin
Most soluble in: Alcohol, warm oil.
Name 3 types of secondary metabolites.
Alkaloids, Terpenoids and Phenolics.
What is the alkaloids purpose in a plant as a secondary metabolite?
Defense, growth, sequester compounds harmful to plant, storage of excess nitrogen, bitter taste discourages insects and other animals from browsing on plant, some alkaloids are toxic.
What are some types of plant constituents in this class (alkaloids)
Pyrolizidine alkaloids, isoquinoline alkaloids,tropane alkaloids
Some examples of specific plant constituents in this class
Caffeine, Theobromine, Berberine, Morphine, Nicotine, Piperine, Lycopsamine.
What are alkaloids found in?
Coffee, Cacao, Goldenseal, Poppy, Tobacco, Black Pepper, Comfrey.
What is the Terpenoids purpose in a plant as a secondary metabolite?
Flavor and scent, attract pollinators, regulate growth, repel insects and herbivores.
What is the Phenolics purpose in a plant as a secondary metabolite?
Growth and reproduction, defense against herbivores and pathogenic microorganisms contribute to color, taste, and flavor of many herbs, attract pollinators, strengthen cell walls.
Some types of plant consistent in this class (terpenoids)
Monoterpenes (volatile oil components), diterpenes (oleoresins and resins), triterpenes. (saponins and steroids), sesquiterpenes (volatile oil components).
Some types of plant consistent in this class (phenolics)
Simple phenolics, phenolic acids, tannins, lignins, flavonoids, coumarins, quinones.
Some examples of specific plant constituents in this class (terpenoids)
Monoterpenes such as
Menthol
Linalool
thymol
Sesquiterpenes such as
Zingiberene
Absinthin
Saponins such as
Saponarioside A
Glycyrrhizin
Diosgenin
What are terpenoids found in?
Peppermint
Lavender
Thyme
Ginger
Wormwood
Stevia
Sage
Soapwort
Licorice
Wild Yam
Some examples of specific plant constituents in this class (Phenolics)
Simple Phenolics such as
Vanillin
Arbutin
Phenolic Acids such as
Salicylates
Tannins such as
Ellagitannins
Gallotannins
Lignans such as
Silymarin
Schizandrins
Flavonoids such as
Anthocyanin
Catechin
Quercetin
Coumarins such as
Coumarin
Cimicifugan
Quinones such as
Naphthoquinones
Anthraquinones
What are Phenolics are found in?
Vanilla
Bearberry
Willow
Raspberry leaf
Witch Hazel
Milk Thistle
Schisandra
Elderberry
Hawthorn
Tea
Sweet Woodruff
Black Cohosh
Walnut
Cascara Sagrada
True or False: Before making any herbal recipe, be sure that you have researched the known contraindications for each herb.
True
True or False: Always label your herbal preparations!
True
What is Clark’s rule?
Used to determine the dosage for a child. Divide the child’s weight by 150 to get the fraction of the adult dose that you should use.
True or False: Herbalism, which is the use of plants to support the body’s own healing, is practiced by almost everyone in some way, consciously or unconsciously.
True
True or False: Herbalism was not carried down to us from generation to generation.
False.
True or False. Herbalism doesn’t involve using what grows on the earth as food and as herbs to support wellness.
False.
True or False: There are so many ways to use herbs
True
What are some of the ways we can use plants?
- Eat (fresh, dry)
- Drink (infusion, decoction, wine or cordial)
- Consume (capsules, pills, powder form)
- Externally (poultices, ointments, salves, liniments, soaps and lotions, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, bath salts, herbal oils. make sachets out of aromatic herbs or sleep or insect repellent.
What do you look for when buying herbs?
buy organic, local, sustainably wild harvested.
make sure they are tightly sealed lid, vibrant, fresh looking color. fresh, strong scent and characteristic taste.
True or False: when you grow herbs in your garden or in pots they do not need nourishments through organic methods.
False.
True or False: weeds can be a wonderful source of herbs for your home apothecary
True
True or False: when wild harvesting you can gather plants that are within 50 feet from the edge of the road. There is no need to worry about contamination from exhaust fumes, road salt and herbicides.
False.
True or False: stay clear of public parks unless they are dog free when gathering herbs.
True
True or False: when visiting the plants in their home, be mindful of your consumption.
True.
True or False: when you do find a plentiful patch, limit your harvest to no more than 50% of individual plants and that patch as a whole.
False.
When gathering plants what percentage should you take no more of an individual plant and the patch as a whole?
15-20%
What is an herbal tea?
An infusion of plant material into water.
What is the benefit of preparing an herb with a solvent (water, alcohol, glycerin etc.)
To extract constituents from fibrous plant material that would otherwise pass through the body.
What is a simple, enjoyable and effective way to deliver water-soluble plants to the body?
Water
What is an infusion?
Steeping method used for more delicate parts of a plant such as flowers, stems and leaves.
True or False: An infusion can only be hot water.
False. Infusion can be hot, cold or sun-warmed water to extract the water-soluble constituents from herbs.
For tea what is the approximate grams of herbs to cup of water for adults?
2-5 grams.
How many cups of an infusion or decoction is recommended to drink throughout the day?
3-4 cups
True or False: Dried herbs lack the moisture content of fresh plants, and thus are considered more concentrated.
True.
What factors are used to determine the dosage for a person?
A person’s constitution, desired effect, weight, age, illness and medications.
What menstrual is simple and delicious way to adapt teas for a longer shelf life and quicker administration using just a couple of additional ingredients.
Syrups.
True or False: Tincutres are herbal preparations that use alcohol as a solvent.
True.
What is Garbling?
The process of removing fibrous stems, seed heads, and other unwanted material by stripping them away from the desired parts of the plant.
At least how much alcohol is required to preserve a tincture?
25%
80-100 proof alcohol is sufficient for what type of herb?
Dried Herb
150 proof or higher alcohol is sufficient for what type of herb?
Fresh Herb.
True or False: Folk Method Tinctures use measuring instruments.
False.
Mathematical Tinctures rely on the use of what?
Scale and Graduated Cylinder.
What is the clearest benefits to doing Mathematical Tinctures?
To provide consistency from batch to batch on the same measured recipe.
Weight to Volume ratio when making tincture is calculated how?
Using the metric system whereby 1 gram or water is equated to 1 milliliter of water.
True or False: herbs range widely in their water content.
True
True or False: Fresh plant material with the folk method will affect their weight and the menstrual volume calculations.
False. This is true in the mathematical method.
When making a tincture, What should you do in the event of the menstruum not covering the plant material?
Mix the herb with the menstrual in a blender as it will decrease the volume of the herb enough so that it stays below the surface of the menstruum.
What do you need to make your own herbal capsules?
vegetable based or gelatin capsules, herbs and capsule machine (which is optional)
when filling the capsules what should you be sure to do?
make sure to measure the amount of the herbal powder that goes into each one to have an accurate dose.
What are infused oils used for?
to create salves and balms
why are salves applied topically?
to provide an emollient, soothing base that protects and nourishes the skin.
What is a balm?
A salve that retains much of the delightful aroma of the herbs used.
What are some great herbs for crushing/chewing and applying to the skin?
Yarrow, Plantain, Calendula
What is a poultice?
an herbal material that is made into a paste using hot liquids. it is then spread thickly onto a cloth and applied, while hot, directly to the body.
True or False: most poultices are applied warm to ease pain and relax tissue and this is the only way.
False. cool poultices can be used to burns and inflammatory conditions.
the actions of a poultice will depend on the type of herb you use. name that types of herbs.
Emollient, Rubefacient and Therapeutic.
what do emollient poultices do?
supply moisture and a soft and soothing quality to ease inflammation, lubricate tissues, and support the healing process.
What are herbs and foods used for emollient poultices?
flaxseed meal, oatmeal, bran, bread and milk, plantain leaf, violet leaf, marshmallow leaf/root, mashed vegetables such as cabbage, turnip, potato and carrot.
What do rubefacient poultices do?
Rubefacient herbs draw blood from within the body to the surface to move congestion and soothe inflammation.
What are herbs used for rubefacient poultices?
ginger, mustard, cayenne, garlic, rosemary.
What are therapeutic poultices do?
to stave off infection, calm the pain of wounds or arthritis and ease swellings.
What herbs can be used as therapeutic poultices?
plants with astringent, styptic, vulnerably, anodyne, and antimicrobial actions may make effective therapeutic poultices.
What is a good idea to do before applying herbs topically?
conduct a patch test before fully applying.
What are Adaptogen herbs?
Adaptogen herbs enable the body to adapt more efficiently to stress and to maintain homeostasis through stressful shifts in the environment. Adaptogens improve resistance to and recovery from stressors, are generally safe for most people, and have non-specific activity (instead of affecting one area of the body, they have a general effect on increasing the resistance to stressors on the body as a whole
What are Alterative herbs?
Alterative herbs work on a general level to tonify the systems of the body involved in nutrient assimilation and waste removal. Alteratives may specifically promote elimination of waste through the kidneys, liver, colon, skin, or lungs. Alteratives are typically used for skin issues, arthritis, chronic conditions, and as a general “tune-up” for the body.
What are Analgesic Anodyne herbs?
Analgesic herbs, also known as anodynes, reduce the sensation of pain perceived by the brain or reduce the inflammation that causes pain. Analgesic/anodyne herbs can be used internally or externally.
What are Antibacterial herbs?
Antibacterial herbs aid the body in destroying bacteria.
What are Anticatarrhal herbs?
Anticatarrhal herbs help the body remove excess mucus, especially from the sinuses.
What are Antifungal herbs?
Antifungal herbs aid the body in destroying fungi.
What are anti-inflammatory herbs?
Anti-inflammatory herbs support efficiency of the body’s inflammatory response. Some anti-inflammatory herbs have a local effect on tissue (for example, mucilaginous herbs, defined below, soothe infmallation of mucosal marshmallow). Other anti-inflammatory herbs, like willow, work directly on specific receptor sites in the body (similar to what NSAIDs do), inhibiting the body’s productioon of inflammatory molecules.
What are anti-microbial herbs?
Also sometimes called antiseptics, antimicrobial herbs aid the body in destroying pathogens and are general in their action, having an effect on bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.
What are antioxidant herbs?
Antioxidant herbs inhibit oxidative damage to healthy tissues and cells in the body by scavenging the free radicals produced as metabolic waste.
What are antispasmodic herbs?
Also known as spasmolytics, antispasmodic herbs help relax the autonomic nervous system and ease spasms in skeletal or smooth muscle, helping to ease tension without causing drowsiness.
What are antiviral herbs?
Antiviral herbs aid the body in destroying viruses.
What are anxiolytic herbs?
Anxiolytic herbs help reduce anxiety by acting on the nervous system and neurotransmitters.
What are aromatic herbs?
Aromatic herbs contain volatile oils, which act on the nervous and digestive systems to help stimulate or relax the body. They are associated with their antimicrobial, carminative, and nervine actions.
What are bitter herbs?
Simply put, bitter herbs taste bitter. That bitter taste has a direct effect on the nervous system and the gut. Bitter herbs stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system and increase digestive secretions.
What are carminative herbs?
Carminative herbs are rich in aromatic volatile oils that ease digestion. Carminatives can soothe the wall of the gastrointestinal tract, ease cramping in the intestines, and help to remove gas from the digestive tract.
What are cholagogue herbs?
Cholagogue herbs stimulate the flow of bile, supporting digestive processes.
What are choleretic herbs?
Sister to cholagogues, choleretic herbs stimulate production of bile in the liver. Some herbs are both cholagogue and choleretic.
What are circulatory stimulant herbs?
Circulatory stimulant herbs incrase the flow of blood throughout the body and improve the perfusion of tissues with blood. These are particularly helpful for people who run cold or who always have cold hands on feet.
What are demulcent emollient herbs?
Demulcent herbs soothe and protect irritated internal tissues, while emollients are used topically to soothe irritated external tissue. What exposed to water, these herbs become slippery and slimy due to a substance called mucilage that coats tissues.
What are diaphoretic herbs?
Diaphoretic herbs are rich in aromatic volatile oils and promote perspiration, aiding the elimination of waste from pores in the skin. Diaphoretics also aid in breaking a fever.
What are diuretic herbs?
Diuretic herbs increase the flow of urine.
What are emmenagogue herbs?
Emmenagogue herbs impact the menstrual process by stimulating and regulating menstrual flow and normalizing hormonal levels, often through their action on the liver.
What are expectorant herbs?
Expectorant herbs aid in the removal of mucus from the lungs and soothe bronchial spasms. Expectorant herbs are particularly helpful for dry, irritating, non-productive coughs.
What are galactagogue herbs?
Galactagogue herbs increase the production of breast milk.
What are Hypo-cholesterolemic herbs?
Hyprocholesterolemic herbs also known as hypolipidemics, help decrease the level of cholesterol in the blood.
Whare are hypoglycemic herbs?
Hypoglycemic herbs help lower blood sugar levels when they are elevated.
What are hypotensive herbs?
hypotensive herbs help lower blood pressure by various mechanisms, including dilating blood vessels, reducing oxidative stress, reducing blood volume, and acting on hormone levels.
What are immune stimulant herbs?
Immune stimulant herbs stimulate the function of the immune system and are especially helpful when taken at the onset of a cold/flu or when virus exposure is high.
What are immunomodulant herbs?
Immunomodulant herbs have a more general effect than immune stimulants, tonifying and strengthening the immune system.
What are laxative herbs?
Laxative herbs stimulate the movement of the bowels. An aperient is a mild laxative.
What are lymphatic herbs?
Lymphatic herbs aid in the flow of lymph through the lymphatic system.
What are nervine herbs?
Nervine herbs are essentially plants that “calm the nerves.” Most nervines contain volatile oils, which in part, are responsible for the nervine effect. Nervines can be tonifying and/or relaxing to the nervous system.
What are Orexigenic herbs?
Orexigenic herbs stimulate the appetite.
What are Rubefacient herbs?
Rubefacient herbs help stimulate circulation, bringing fresh blood supply to the skin, helping to ease inflammation or congestion.
What are sedative herbs?
Sedative herbs help calm and induce sleep.
What are sialogogue herbs?
Sialogogue herbs stimulate the salivary glands to promote the production and flow of saliva.
What are syptic herbs?
Styptic herbs, also known as hemostatics, help to stop bleeding.
What are trophorestorative herbs?
Trophorestorative herbs nourish and build tissue and often have an affinity for specific tissues.
What are vasodilatory herbs?
Vasodilatory herbs dilate the blood vessels, improving circulation to the periphery and reducing blood pressure.
List 3 vulnerary herbs.
Calendula
Comfrey
Lavender
Plantain
Yarrow
List 3 vasodilatory herbs.
Cayenne Fruit
Garlic Bulb
Ginger Rhizome
Hawthorne Fruit
Yarrow
List 3 Styptic herbs
Lady’s Mantle Aerial parts
Raspberry Leaf
Shepherd’s Purse Aerial parts
Usnea
Lichen,
Yarrow aerial parts
List 3 Trophorestorative herbs
Ashwagandha root
Hawthorne Fruit
Milk Thistle Seed
Oat Milky Seed
List 3 Sialogogue herbs.
Black Pepper Fruit,
Cayenne Fruit,
Echinacea Root,
Ginger Rhizome,
Spilanthes whole plant
List 3 Sedative herbs
California Poppy Whole Plant
Hops Strobiles
Passionflower aerial parts
Valerian root
List 3 Rubefacient Herbs.
Cayenne Fruit
Ginger Rhizome
Rosemary Aerial parts
peppermint leaf
List 3 Orexigenic herbs.
Angelica root
Orange peel
wormwood aerial parts
List 3 nervine herbs.
Catnip aerial parts
Hawthorne aerial parts
lavender bud
lemon balm aerial parts
linden bract and flower
passionflower aerial parts
skullcap aerial parts
List 3 lymphatic herbs.
Burdock root
Calendula flower
cleavers leaf
red clover aerial parts
List 3 Laxative herbs.
Cascara sagrada bark
marshmallow root
turkey rhubart root
yellow dock root
List 3 aperient herbs.
Artichoke leaf
barberry root
dandelion root
don quai root
What is an aperient herb?
a mild laxative.
List 3 immunomodulant herbs.
Astragalus root
Codonopsis root
eleuthero root
reishi mushroom
turkey tail mushroom
List 3 Immune Stimulants
Boneset aerial parts
echinacea root
Spilanthes whole plant
Usnea lichen
List 3 Hypotensive herbs.
Garlic Bulb,
Hawthorn fruit, leaf and flower
Linden bract and flower
motherwort aerial parts
passionflower aerial parts
valerian root
List 3 Hypoglycemic herbs.
Bilberry leaf
Burdock root
Cinnamon bark
Codonopsis root
Tulsi aerial parts
List 3 Hypocholesterolemic herbs.
Artichoke leaf
eleuthero root
reishi muchroom
tumeric rhizome
tulsi aerial parts
List 3 Galactagogue Herbs.
Fennel Seed
Fenugreek Seed
Nettle Leaf
Milk Thistle Seed
List 3 Expectorant herbs
Elecampane root
licorise root
orange peel
thyme aerial parts
violent aerial parts
list 3 emmenagogue herbs.
Blue Cohosh root
black cohosh root
motherwort aerial parts,
parsley root
rosemary aerial parts
yarrow aerial parts
vitex fruit
list 3 diuretic herbs
corn silk
couchgrass rhizome
dandelion leaf
goldenrod aerial parts
nettle leaf
list 3 diaphoretic herbs
bee balm aerial parts
boneset ap
catnip ap
elder flower
ginger rhizome
hyssop ap
linden bract and flower
peppermint leaf
list 3 demulcent herbs.
chia seed
cinnamon bark
comfrey root
corn silk
couchgrass rhizome
licorise root
marshmallow root
list 3 circulatory stimulant herbs
cayenne fruit
cinnamon bark
ginger rhizome
lavender bud
turmeric rhizome
list 3 new choleretic herbs.
artichoke leaf
dandelion root
genitian root
goldenseal root
oregon grape root
barberry root
list 3 cholagogue herbs.
artichoke leaf
boneset ap
elecampane root
gentian root
lavender bud
mugwort ap
list 3 carminative herbs.
bee balm ap
cardamom seed
catnip ap
chamomille flower
fennel seed
peppermint leaf
tulsi ap
list 3 bitter herbs
angelica root
blue vervain ap
burdock root
dandelion root
gentian root
mugwort ap
yarrow ap
yellow dock root
list 3 aromatic herbs
fennel seed
lavender bud
lemon balm ap
peppermint leaf
rosemary ap
sage ap
list 3 anxiolytic herbs
kava root
motherwort ap
skullcap ap
st. john’s wort ap
valerian root
list 3 antiviral herbs
elderberry
lemon balm ap
licorise root
st. john’s wort ap
list 3 antispasmodic (also known as spasmolytics)
chamomille flowers
cramp bark bark
fennel seed
ginger rhizome
lavender bud
lemon balm ap
peppermint leaf
valerian root
wild yam root
list 3 antioxidant herbs
ginger rhizome,
ginko leaf
goldenrod ap
hawthorn fruit, leaf and flower
reishi mushroom
tulsi ap
turmeric rhizome
list 3 antimicrobial herbs.
bee balm ap
goldenseal root
sage ap
thyme ap
list 3 anti-inflammatory herbs
chamomille flower
ginger rhizome
goldenrod ap
licorise root
marshmallow root
tulsi ap
turmeric rhizome
willow bark
list 3 antifungal herbs.
calendula flower
cardamom seed
spilanthes whole plant
wormwood ap
list 3 anticatarrhal herbs
black pepper fruit,
catnip ap
ginger
goldenrod ap
red clover ap
sage ap
thyme ap
list 3 antibacterial herbs
goldenseal root
hyssop ap
spilanthes whole plant
yarrow ap
list 3 analgesic herbs
california poppy root
catnip ap
clove bud
ginger rhizome
meadowsweet ap
willow bark
list 3 alterative herbs
Alfalfa leaf
burdock root
cleavers leaf
dandelion lead and root
nettle leaf
red clover ap
yellow dock root
list 3 adaptogen herbs
ashwagandha root
astragalus root
codonopsis root
eleuthero root
asian ginsent root
american ginsent root
licorise root
rhodiola root
schisandra berry
shatavari root
tulsi ap
True or False: Different herbs are chosen for different people with the same condition.
True! It depends on the constitution of the individual and the specific way that the condition is manifesting in their body.
True or False: When choosing an herb, or a set of herbs, to support an individual, the energetics of that person and the energetics of herbs should be considered
True
True or False: Cooling herbs don’t soothe hot conditions.
False. For example: If the body is physically hot (from sunburn, inflammation, fever, etc.), cooling herbs are able to help tame that heat.
True or False: Anti-inflammatory and bitter herbs tend to be cooling.
True.
Some herbs have a warming effect on the body.
True
What do warming herbs do to the body?
They may cause sweating, increase circulation, or balance out a generally cool constitution.
What are some examples of warming herbs?
Diaphoretics, rubefacients, circulatory stimulants, and adaptogens tend to be warming.
True or False: Individuals with drier constitutions or with a dry condition may benefit from incorporating moistening foods and herbs into their diet.
true
True or False: Individuals with a moist constitution or condition may benefit from using drying herbs and foods.
true
True or False: herbs can be relaxing or stimulating?
true
What are some examples of tension in the tissues?
Muscle spasms, headaches, digestive cramping, anxiety
What are some examples of Laxity in the tissues of the body?
poor digestion, cold clammy skin, or poor circulation
Those with excess tension can benefit from what types of herbs?
Nervines for calmer mental state. Carminatives to relax digestive cramping or vasodilators to ease constriction in blood vessels.
Those with excess stagnation can benefit from what types of herbs?
stimulating herbs to increase mental alertness, bitters to stimulate digestion, and warming herbs to stimulate circulation.
What is one of the oldest western energetic systems?
Greek Four Element Theory
What is the greek four element theory comprised of?
Fire, Air, Water and Earth
According to G4 element theory, Fiery herbs can be used to balance what type of condition(s) and constitutions?
watery (moist and cold)
According to G4 element theory, Airy herbs can be used to balance what type of conditions and constitutions?
cool and dry
According to G4 element theory, Herbs containing the water element can be used to balance what type of conditions and constitutions?
hot and dry conditions
According to G4 element theory, Herbs containing the earth element can be used to balance what type of conditions and constitutions?
Moist and Hot
True or False: The taste of an herb is another way to consider the herb’s energetics.
True!
What are the 9 herbal tastes?
Bitter, Sweet, Pungent, Sour, Salty, Acrid, Bland, Spicy and Astringent.
What does sour tell us about an herb?
A sour taste indicates that a substance may be astringent, stimulating to digestion, anti-inflammatory, and/or antioxidant.
What are examples of sour tasting herb
Lemons, fermented foods, and herbs such as hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) berries, rose (Rosa spp.) hips, and schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) berries have a sour taste.
What does bitter taste tell us about an herb?
A bitter taste indicates that a substance may be useful to help stimulate digestion.
What are examples of bitter tasting herb?
Bitter herbs include dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) leaf and root, gentian (Gentiana lutea) root, Oregon grape (Berberis aquifolium) root, and motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) aerial parts.
True or False: An herb with a bitter taste may also be a cholagogue, choleric, and/or alterative.
True.
True or False: Bitter herbs are generally cooling and drying
True
True or False: Bitterness can also indicate toxicity
True
What are examples of sweet tasting herb?
Sweet herbs include licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root, astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) root, and burdock (Arctium lappa) root and have a moistening quality in the body.
What does a sweet taste tell us about an herb?
Sweet herbs are often nutritive and tonic, and can also be adaptogenic, demulcent, and/or immunomodulant.
True or False: Sweet herbs have a moistening quality in the body?
True
What does salty taste tell us about an herb?
Salty herbs are generally nutritive—rich in both major and trace minerals. Salty herbs may also be diuretic, tonic to the kidneys, and astringent.
What are examples of salty tasting herbs?
Nettle (Urtica dioica) leaf, seaweeds, and chickweed (Stellaria media) leaf. According to Western herbal energetics, salty substances are cooling and drying to the body.
What effect does salty herbs do for the body?
Has a cooling and Drying effects.
What effect does sweet herbs do for the body?
Has a moistening effect on the body.
What effect does bitter herbs do for the body?
Has a cooling and drying effects.
What effect does pungent herbs do for the body?
Warming and Drying
What are examples of pungent types of herbs?
Pungent herbs such as garlic (Allium sativum) bulb, onion (Allium cepa) bulb, horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) root, ginger (Zingiber officinale) rhizome, elecampane (Inula helenium) root, and cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) seed.
What are examples of spicy types of herbs?
Volatile oils and terpenes lend herbs such as cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum) fruit and mint family plants like rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) leaf, thyme (Thymus vulgaris) leaf, and oregano (Origanum vulgare) leaf their spiciness.
What are the effects of spicy herbs on the body?
Many spicy herbs have an affinity for the digestive, circulatory, respiratory, and nervous systems; they also tend to have an antimicrobial action.
True or False: Note that many cultural traditions such as the six tastes of Ayurveda or the five tastes of Chinese medicine do not differentiate between pungent, spicy, and the following taste, acrid, though there are subtle differences.
True
What is acrid “taste”?
More of a sensation than an actual taste, the acrid nature of plants is felt as an irritation in the mouth or throat, from mild to intense.
What types of herbs have an acrid
“taste” to them?
Kava kava (Piper methysticum) root, lobelia (Lobelia inflata) herb, and black cohosh (Actaea racemosa) root a
What effects does acrid do to the body system?
which are often analgesic and antispasmodic.
What effects does astringent do for the body system?
Astringent herbs are toning to the skin and mucous membranes and can help stop bleeding (externally or internally) as well as diarrhea.
What are some examples of astringent herbs?
Astringent herbs include black tea (Camellia sinensis) leaf, red raspberry (Rubus idaeus) leaf, bayberry (Myrica cerifera) root, witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) bark and leaves, and rose (Rosa spp.) petal.
What does astringent tell us about the herb?
It has a “tightening” quality
Where does the astringency come from?
Tannins
What is the effect of bland herbs on the body?
Cooling, demulcent, anti-inflammatory and laxative in nature.
What is an example of bland herbs?
Slippery Elm Bark and Marshmallow Root
