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HERBS DEFINED Following is a table listing the most common herbs and their uses. After choosing your herb you will be taken to it's definition and uses. For most common ailments and remedies, follow the link to Herbal Remedies and you will learn how to use the herb to achieve Natural Health! If you feel like you are ready, follow the link to Making Herbal Remedies. If not, follow the link to my sponsor Mother Nature.com included at the bottom of each herb page. She has already prepared some remedies for you!!! You can purchase the herb you need in large quantities or small!! You will also find other natural products for your body and health. Congratulations on taking your first step to learning how to achieve Natural Health!!
In the Middle East, Alfalfa is known as the ‘father of all plants’. Rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, beta-carotene, vitamins A, B-12, C, D, E and K, Alfalfa has been used by the Chinese to treat kidney stones, and to relieve fluid retention and swelling. Alfalfa nourishes the digestive, skeletal, glandular, and urinary systems. Alfalfa contains chlorophyll, which is known for its unique cleansing qualities. For centuries, Native Americans ground its seeds to be used as flour or boiled its leaves and ate them like greens. Back to Top Also known as the “burn plant” it is often grown in the kitchen for quick relief of minor burns. This plant aids the facilitation of digestion, aids blood and lymphatic circulation, and aids kidney, liver and gall bladder functions. Aloe contains anti-inflammatory fatty acids that are helpful for the stomach, small intestine and colon. It naturally alkalizes digestive juices to prevent overacidity - a common cause of digestive complaints. A newly discovered compound in aloe, acemannan, is being studied for its ability to strengthen the immune system. Studies have shown acemannan to boost T-lymphocyte cells (better known as T cells) that aid natural resistance. Known to be one of Cleopatra’s secret beauty ingredients. Split the leaf and apply the gel directly to the burn, wound or insect bite. Add gel to shampoo for dandruff or itchy scalp. Back to Top Use a leaf infusion internally for headaches, poor circulation, coughs and colds. Use externally in baths for sore muscles. Make an ointment for sores or skin rashes. Use seeds in cakes and cookies. Use leaves in green salads and soups. Use with acidic fruits to reduce sugar needed. CAUTION: DO NOT USE WHEN PREGNANT. Back to Top Anise seeds remove excess mucus from the body. Chew the toasted seeds to fight bad breath and aid in digestion. They have a licorice flavor so add to baked goods. Known to stimulate milk in nursing mothers. Back to Top Barberry nourishes the liver and gallbladder and helps bile to flow freely. It also helps remove toxins from the bowels. Back to Top A culinary herb loved for its warm, spicy flavor and intoxicating scent. Used for more than 2,000 years. Use the leaves in vinegars, pesto, fish, pasta, rice, tomato sauces, egg salads, stews and more. Make an infusion for headaches, fevers, indigestion, constipation, and anxiety. Use the leaf infusion on body to repel mosquitoes. Back to Top Bayberry is a blood purifier and detoxifier. It is effective for helping to stop a cold from forming if it is taken when symptoms first start to appear. Back to Top Bilberry contains nutrients that protect eyes from eyestrain or fatigue, and can improve circulation to the eyes. Bilberry works by improving the microcirculation and regeneration of retinal purple, a substance required for good eyesight. Other properties assist in thinning the blood and stimulating the release of vasodilators. Anthocyanin, a natural antioxidant, lowers blood pressure, reduces clotting and improves blood supply to the nervous system. Bilberry is known as a remedy for poor vision and "night blindness." Back to Top Bissy nut helps relieve inflammation in ailments such as rheumatism and gout. The early Native Americans used Black Cohosh to treat snakebite and a tea from the root is reputed to soothe sore throat. It is a traditional approach for many gynecological topics, including menstrual cramps and menstruation. Black Cohosh also nourishes the respiratory system. Black Cohosh has traditionally been used to calm the nervous system by nourishing blood vessels, and balancing the hormones in menopausal women. CAUTION: WOMEN WHO ARE OR MIGHT BE PREGNANT OR WHO ARE NURSING SHOULD NOT USE THIS HERB. Back to Top Black currant oil is rich in linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This supports the body's manufacture of hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins that help the body to regulate functions of the circulatory system. GLA assists the body with its energy processes and is a structural component of the brain, bone marrow, muscles and cell membranes. Back to Top Black walnut hulls contain a substance that helps the body eliminate parasites. It is also used for poison oak, ringworm and skin ailments. Back to Top Blessed thistle acts as a tonic to the female reproductive system, and helps to balance hormones. It is also believed to strengthen the heart and the lungs and increase circulation.Back to Top Blue cohosh supports the female reproductive system. Back to Top Blue vervain nourishes the digestive, nervous and respiratory systems. It maintains balance during the winter season, and strengthens the body against the organisms that promote flu and colds. It acts as a diaphoretic, which means that it helps the body eliminate toxins through the pores during perspiration. Back to Top Burdock is a natural blood purifier and detoxifier. It is helps the body maintain healthy skin. It nourishes the urinary and respiratory systems, and supports joints and other skeletal tissues. It promotes glandular and hormone balance, removes deposits gathered on the joints. Use a root decoction for arthritis and rheumatism. Back to Top Cascara sagrada is used to help the body relieve constipation. However, it is non habit-forming. It also supports the stomach, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. It is cleansing, and nourishing to the colon. It assists with digestion, and helps the body to eliminate worms and parasites. It is known worldwide as one of the best, mild, natural laxatives. Back to Top Catnip nourishes the stomach and nerves. It calms the nervous system and is used for digestion. Catnip helps to ease symptoms of the flu such as nausea and diarrhea. Use the young leaves in salads. Make a tea to drink infusion. Known to ease colic in babies. Rat’s dislike the plant and if grown thickly enough, rats will not pass through, not even for food. Back to Top The healing properties contained in the inner bark of the cat's claw plant have shown, through centuries dating to the time of the ancient Incas, to have a positive influence on the body's defense system. Studies conducted since the 1970s at research clinics all around the world validate the traditional usage and indicates that this herb may be beneficial in fighting a host of modern day afflictions that have no answers from the orthodox medical platform. It is known to help support the body's defense, circulatory and gastrointestinal systems through its antioxidant properties. Back to Top Cayenne is a pepper well known for its benefits to the circulatory system. It aids the body to balance pressure levels and aids to resist abnormal bleeding. Cayenne also nourishes the digestive system. Use caution in handling so as to avoid open wounds or the eyes. IT WILL BURN!!!! CAUTION: NOT TO BE USED MEDICINALLY WHEN PREGNANT OR BREAST-FEEDING. Back to Top Celery seeds contain vitamins A, C and B-complex. As with all seeds, celery seeds are very high in nutrients. Use in the kitchen for salads, soups, and dressings. Back to Top Chamomile soothes the nerves and stomach. It can be used to nourish the respiratory tract and to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with menstrual problems. Ancient Egyptians and Anglo-Saxons revered it for their healing qualities. Make an infusion of the flowers and drink. CAUTION: PEOPLE ALLERGIC TO RAGWEED MAY EXPERIENCE A REACTION TO CHAMOMILE. NO MORE THAN ½ CUP OF TEA DAILY, NOT TO BE USED MORE THAN TWO WEEKS. Back to Top Chickweed helps rid the body of mucus and fatty plaque from the system. It nourishes the gastrointestinal areas. It is a natural blood detoxifier, and aids in the removal of fat accumulations. Back to Top Cilantro is known to stimulate appetite and nourishes the gastrointestinal system. It is one of the most widely used herbs in the kitchen. It was compared in the Bible to manna. Use the fresh leaves in salads, salsas, rice, pastas and vinegars. Make an infusion to used before meals to stimulate appetite or after meals for indigestion or bad breath. Crush seeds externally in poultice for hemorrhoids. Back to Top Comfrey nourishes the pituitary gland as well as the bones and skin. It strengthens the respiratory system and is said to be one of nature's great healers. Back to Top Cranberry contains a compound that prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder and the urinary tract. This prevents the bacteria from spreading and ends the possibility of infection. Using cranberry on a regular basis may help prevent the formation of kidney stones. Back to Top Damiana is known for its aphrodisiac properties, and has also been used for nervousness, weakness and exhaustion. It is believed to increase sperm count in men and balance’s hormones in women. Back to Top Dandelion nourishes the liver and contains vital nutrients. Dandelion root has been used to purify the blood, and to benefit the circulatory and glandular systems. Back to Top Devil's claw is well known in Europe and Africa. It is rapidly gaining popularity in the United States. It has been known for its ability to nourish the skeletal system. Studies show that its properties act similar to cortisone. It lessens the severity of pain in joints and connective tissues. Back to Top Dong Quai calms the central nervous system and nourishes the brain. It helps to balance and strengthen the female organs and regulates their functions. Back to Top Scientific studies now validate Echinacea's traditional usage as a topical agent to help the body repair skin wounds, and taken internally to enhance the immune system. The highly effective properties in Echinacea, which are thought to strengthen the body’s defense, are known as polysaccharides. Polysaccharides stimulate the activity of macrophages, white blood cells that destroy bacteria, viruses, and free radicals. It activates the body's production of interferon, a specific protein that protects cells against the invasion of viruses. Back to Top Elderberry flowers rid the body cells of toxins, helps to increase circulation and purify the blood. Back to Top This Chinese herb (Ma huang) is beneficial for fat reduction and increased energy. It facilitates energy and heat exchange for efficient metabolic function. Back to Top False unicorn is known as a tonic to the reproductive organs and relieves symptoms of headaches and depression in menopausal women. Back to Top Fennel helps to detoxify and remove waste material from the body. Make an infusion of leafs or seeds for digestion. Gargle for sore throats. Add the leaves to salads, beans, rice or vegetables. Add seeds to sausages, grains, breads and cheeses. Back to Top Fenugreek has many uses that include nourishing the skin, respiratory system, and the pancreas. It helps the body to expel mucus and toxins. It is also known to dissolve fat and is high in nutrients. Make an infusion for relief of coughs and phlegm. Back to Top Flax seed oil provides omega 3, omega 6 and omega 9 fatty acids. Omegas 3 and 6 benefit the cardiovascular system, immune and nervous systems. It also contains some beta-carotene and vitamin E. Back to Top Garcinia cambogia is a South Asian plant that is beneficial in blocking the production of fats. Scientific research conducted on this herb demonstrates that it slows the body's conversion of carbohydrates and excess calories to fat, decreasing production of harmful fats and promoting sustained energy levels by enhancing the body's production of glycogen. This reduces the body's desire for excess food. Back to Top Garlic provides nourishment for the circulatory, immune and urinary systems. It aids in providing normal circulation, nourishing stomach tissues, maintaining normal blood pressure. It also aids the body's natural ability to resist disease. Garlic is a natural antibiotic and fungicide. Eat raw or make an infusion for cold, cholesterol cough, bacterial infection or parasites. Back to Top Gentian Root nourishes and strengthens the digestive system. It stimulates the appetite, nutritionally supports the liver, and nourishes the spleen, pancreas, stomach and kidneys. Back to Top Ginger root nourishes the gastrointestinal system. It also helps the body to eliminate wastes through the skin by means of perspiration. Ginger enhances circulation and acts as a catalyst for other herbs, thereby increasing their effectiveness. It helps the body relieve congestion. It is one of the world’s favorite medicines. It is found all through diet from ginger ale to stir-fry. Use fresh rhizome in drinks, preserves, cakes, cookies, sweet potatoes, squash, peaches. Make an infusion for colds, nausea, morning sickness, motion sickness, and poor circulation. Back to Top Ginkgo biloba is one of the most highly studied natural botanicals. The herb’s beginnings are from the Orient, where it has long been valued for its effects on the challenges of aging. Ginkgo is effective in nutritionally supporting the body's systems, especially through its antioxidant properties. Aging is a process of deterioration. The hypothesis is that free radicals in the body are a direct cause of this deterioration. Recently, the benefits of antioxidant vitamins in reducing free radicals in the body have been widely published. Ginkgo is a very potent free- radical scavenger. By slowing down the deterioration of our body systems, we can enjoy fitness and vitality all through our lives. Back to Top The most famous of all Chinese herbs. A Chinese text dating from the First Century A.D. describes ginseng as “enlightening to the mind and increasing the wisdom.” Russian folklore promotes ginseng as a stimulant and immunity booster. It has been valued for over 7000 years for it’s therapeutic benefit. Ginseng is nutritionally beneficial for the immune system. Ginseng is believed to enhance physical and mental endurance, increase energy, reduce cholesterol, to support adrenal function, to reduce stress and regulate blood sugar. CAUTIION: AVOID CAFFEINE WHEN TAKING GINSENG. DO NOT TAKE WHEN PREGNANT. Back to Top Golden seal is used both internally and externally to help the body fight infections. It helps the body soothe inflammations of the mucous membranes and balance their function. This herb nourishes the liver, glandular and respiratory systems. It also helps cleanse the system of foreign organisms. Back to Top Gotu kola nourishes the nervous system, in particularly the brain. It is said to help improve memory and enhance vitality. This herb is known for helping the body to balance blood pressure levels and assist in the healing of wounds. Gotu Kola is known in India as a "longevity" herb. Back to Top Hawthorn is known for its strong and powerful effect on the circulatory system, particularly the heart. Today it remains a favorite among herbalists as a cardiac tonic. Hawthorn is valued for nourishing blood pressure and circulation. Back to Top Hops helps the body with pain and insomnia. Hops is believed to nourish the nervous system. This plant is considered both a tonic and relaxant. Hops is used for flavoring beer. Eat the young shoots raw or steamed. Flowers can be eaten raw in salads. Back to Top Horehound root is soothing to the respiratory system and is a natural expectorant. Use as a leaf infusion, syrup or candy for coughs or sore throats. Back to Top Horsetail is rich in nutrients that nourish the nails, skin, hair, bones and the connective tissue. It benefits the glands and urinary tract. Horsetail helps heal fractured bones because of its rich supply of nutrients. Back to Top Ho Shou Wu nourishes the glandular, nervous, and skeletal systems. It is believed to enhance the health of the liver and kidneys. Its properties of are said to be similar to Golden Seal, Chamomile and Ginseng. It is known to help improve health, stamina and resistance to diseases. Back to Top Hydrangea has traditionally been used to strengthen the urinary tract and help regulate its function. Hydrangea also works like a natural inflammation reliever and cleanses the joint areas. Back to Top Hyssop has been used for hundreds of years as an herbal remedy for the respiratory system. It soothes throats and nourishes the lungs. Hyssop has a strong camphor like odor and is used in many commercial liqueurs. Use the flowers in salads. Use the leaves in salads when served with oily fish, game, sausages, and stews. Make a leaf infusion for sore throat, respiratory infection and indigestion. CAUTION: DO NOT USE MEDICINALLY WHEN PREGNANT. Back to Top Irish moss nourishes the glandular system, lungs, and kidneys. It purifies the body's cells and strengthens the thyroid gland. Back to Top Juniper berries strengthen the urinary system and helps eliminate excess water and toxins. Back to Top Kava kava is known to soothe the nerves. Back to Top Kelp contains properties that nourish the glands (especially the thyroid and pituitary). Kelp, also known as seaweed, grows in the ocean beds, below pollution levels. It is very high in nutrients. It is known to nourish the sensory nerves, brain membranes, also spinal cord and brain tissue. Kelp contains alginic acid that can help protect the body against the effects of radiation. Back to Top Lemon Verbania is known to nourish and soothe the nervous system and gastrointestinal system. Has been used in essential oils for perfume since the eighteenth century. Use the leaves in oil for hand lotions and creams. Use a leaf infusion as a sedative tea or for nasal congestion.Back to Top Licorice root supports the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, heart and spleen. This herb can help the body get rid of unwanted mucus with its expectorant properties. It stimulates the adrenal glands and helps the body cope with stress. Egyptian records date this back 3,000 years. Use a root decoction for colds, sore throat, constipation or stomach cramps. CAUTION: DO NOT TAKE MEDICINALLY WHILE PREGNANT. Back to Top Lobelia has been known for its soothing properties that nourish the nervous system. Lobelia enhances the function of the respiratory system and has antispasmodic effects. It has been used in mixtures designed to lessen one's desire for nicotine. Back to Top Male fern helps the body get rid of tapeworms. Back to Top Mandrake works with the liver, gallbladder and all aspects of digestion. Back to Top Marshmallow is best known for nutritionally supporting the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. Back to Top Milk thistle extract is a potent antioxidant. Being so, it prevents harm from free radicals. It also adds nutritional support to the liver and has been a remedy for liver problems for hundreds of years. Make a seed infusion to help the liver to renew cells and combat damage by drugs or chemicals. Back to Top Mullein is a bone, flesh, and cartridge builder. Mullein is known to soothe the lungs and irritations associated with the respiratory tract. It also nourishes the lymphatic and glandular systems. Use a decoction to clear lungs.Back to Top Myrrh resin has been highly favored for soothing muscles and wounds. Myrrh nourishes mucous membranes with its cleansing effects. The extract, when combined with water, is excellent as a gargle for a scratchy throat. Back to Top The Noni plant is known for many folk-remedy uses. It is fabled among the Polynesian people to help support the body's respiratory, immune, digestive, and structural systems. Back to Top Oatstraw contains high amounts of bone-building materials. Back to Top Papaya helps the body break down protein. Back to Top Parruva brava nourishes the thermogenic processes of the body. It is a cleanser and purifier as it helps the body by promoting perspiration. Back to Top Parsley is revered as a blood builder and a cleanser. Parsley also displays properties that aid in regulating pressure. Rich is vitamin C and Iron. Natural breath freshener. Use leaves with salads, eggs, vegetables, soups, stews, vinegars or butters.Back to Top Passionflower has been used to help the body reduce anxiety, hysteria and nervousness. Passionflower has been traditionally used in both herbal and homeopathic medicine in the treatment for pain, insomnia, nervous exhaustion, asthma and ADD. This can be taken during the daytime without fear of dulling the brain. Back to Top Peppermint calms the stomach, intestinal tract, and the nervous system. It helps with digestion. It also soothes the nervous system. Back to Top Periwinkle helps relieve congestion and aids in maintaining balanced circulation. Back to Top Pippali fruit has been used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine to combat digestive disorders and obesity. Back to Top Prickly Ash enhances circulation throughout the body. Back to Top Queen of the Meadow is traditionally valued to help heal strains and sprains. It nourishes the ligaments and tendons, and helps to restore their normal function. Back to Top Red raspberry leaf is known to strengthen the uterus wall and regulate menstrual flow. It is also highly valued for its soothing properties to the stomach and intestinal tract. Raspberry leaf is a nutrient-rich herb that helps balance the body to relieve constipation and diarrhea. Back to Top Rhubarb helps to dissolve mucus adhering to the walls of the colon. Back to Top The flowers of the safflower plant are used to nourish the liver, gallbladder and respiratory system. Safflower can also help to balance cholesterol in the body. It helps break up phlegm in the lungs and soothes the digestive system.Back to Top Sage helps remove excessive mucus in the body. Known for years for properties in soothing the nervous system. It was a main ingredient for tea in America before Chinese and Indian teas were introduced. The Chinese can’t understand why we purchase so much of their tea when sage grows in this country. They consider sage far superior in it’s healing properties. Excellent for nervous exhaustion. Pour one pint of boiling water on sage leaves as a tea. Back to Top In Sarsaparilla, the root is used and is the herbal ingredient in root beer. Sarsaparilla contains substances that are similar to the male hormone testosterone and the female hormone progesterone. It can safely help increase the metabolic rate and provides balance to the glandular system. Use a decoction to treat urinary tract problems, arthritis and rheumatism.Back to Top Saw palmetto berry is known for it’s nourishing properties to glandular tissue, and has been used by herbalists to support the prostate gland. Back to Top Schizandra Chinensis helps the body to adapt to stress and it nourishes the nervous system. Back to Top Scullcap is one of the most powerful herbs known for promoting a good nights sleep. It calms the nervous system, relaxes the muscles, and helps balance blood pressure. Make an infusion of one-pint boiling water to one oz. of the herb, strain when cooled. Back to Top Senna assists in expelling waste from the intestines and kills parasitic worms. Back to Top Siberian ginseng nutritionally supports the glandular system. It is referred to as an "adaptogen", which means that it helps the body adapt to any situation that would normally alter its function. Siberian Ginseng has a beneficial effect on the heart and circulation. It stimulates the entire body to overcome stress, fatigue, and weakness. Studies suggest that it may help reduce blood sugar levels, balance blood pressure levels, and enhance the immune system by boosting the body's production of natural killer cells. Back to Top Slippery elm helps the body eliminate mucus from the lungs. It is also known to strengthen the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. Back to Top Squaw vine is believed to strengthen the uterus. Studies show that it may help strengthen the defense against vaginal infections. Back to Top Suma is an adaptogen herb, which means it helps the body adapt to stress, and acts as a tonic to the entire system. By enhancing the body's immune system, Suma aids in preventing free-radical damage to the body. Suma contains significant amounts of Germanium, a trace mineral that stimulates the immune system and helps promote oxygen flow to cells. Some of Suma's other beneficial nutrients include vitamins, minerals and essential amino acids. The Japanese investigated Suma in trials against specific types of tumor cells. They discovered that six saponins called pffaffosides A, B, C, D, E, and F are the chemicals present in Suma that inhibit tumor cell growth. Brazilian researchers studies show that Suma is both safe and effective for altered-immune disorders. Back to Top Thyme is known as a powerful antiseptic and a general tonic. It is known to be used in cases of anemia, bronchial and intestinal disturbances. Use leaves in salads, soups, stews, stuffing’s, vinegars, sausages, butters, rice and beans. Make leaf infusion for indigestion, coughs and colds, hay fever, insomnia, hangovers or poor circulation. Use externally in baths for muscle or joint pain, fungal infections, hair rinse for dandruff, and use as a mouthwash. Back to Top Uva ursi strengthens the urinary system and helps the body eliminate excess water. Back to Top Valerian root nourishes the nervous system. Valerian is a safe and natural sleeping aid. It helps soothe nerves and assists in relieving insomnia. Properties of the plant have demonstrated to give calming relief to muscles, the nerves and blood vessels. Used by the Romans as a safe, non-addictive relaxant with no “day after” side effects. Make a root decoction for all nervous or exhaustion symptoms. Back to Top White oak bark helps nourish and strengthen injured areas of the body. Back to Top White willow benefits the stomach, kidneys, bowels, and intestines. It works like a mild and natural analgesic that is gentle on the stomach. Back to Top Wild Cherry Bark is used as an expectorant. Back to Top Wild yam is known for it’s many effective uses. It is known to relax the muscles and promote glandular balance in women. Wild Yam contains natural plant components known as phytochemicals that help the body balance hormone levels. Wild Yam nourishes the digestive system and the nerves. Back to Top Wood betony has properties to help relieve migraine headaches. An old author tells us “ the wort that one names betony is produced in meadows and on clean soils; it is good for man’s soul and for his body; it shields him against monstrous nocturnal visitors and against visions and dreams.” Culpepper wrote, ‘This is a precious herb well worth keeping in your home. It is so wholesome it cannot be misused.’ Make a betony tea by simmering 2 oz. of the dried herb in a quart of water until 1-½ pints remain. A wineglass full should be taken three times daily. Back to Top Wormwood helps the body to eliminate worms and parasites. Back to Top Yellow dock root is a bitter herb known for its high iron content. It nourishes the skin, stimulates the production of bile, tones the liver and gallbladder and purifies the blood. Back to Top Yerba santa acts as an expectorant to expel mucus from the respiratory tract. It is known as a blood purifier and strengthener of the digestive system. Back To Top
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