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Herbs, Parts Used, Properties & Uses

Herbs and their properties - this is Damiana
Common Name
Parts Used
Latin Name
Family
Properties & Uses
Chemical Constituent
Abelmosk
seeds
Hibiscus moschatus
Malvaceae
nervine, perfume, aphrodisiac, demulcent
Acacia
gum resin
Acacia senegal, A. vera
Leguminoseae
gum, sweets, adhesives, demulcent
gums, tannins
Alfalfa
leaves, sprouts
Medicago sativa
Leguminosae
nutritive
protein
Allspice
seeds
Pimenta officinalis
Myrtaceae
spice, carminative
eugenol, cineole, caryophyllene
Allspice, Carolina
bark
Calycanthus floridus
Calycanthaceae
fragrance, spice, cinnamon substitute, antispasmodic
Aloe
leaves
Aloe barbadoensis, A. vera var. officinalis
Liliaceae
antiseptic, burn ointment, purgative, GI irritant, not for pregnant
barbaloin O-pentosides, aloinosides, chrysophanic acid, cinnamic acids
Anatto
seeds
Bixa orellana
Bixaceae
tasteless yellow food dye
Angelica
root
Angelica archangelica, A. sinensis, A. spp.
Umbelliferae
spice, candies, expectorant, carminative, diaphoretic, mild stimulant, antibacterial
angleic, fumaric, caffeic, chrorogenic acids, angelicol, angelicin
Angostura
bark
Angostura febrifuga, Galipea officinalis
Rutaceae
bitter stomachic, appetite stimulant, carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, drinks
quinolines: cusparine, cuspareine, galipine, galipodine, galipoline
Anise
seeds
Pimpinella anisum
Umbelliferae
spice, carminative, diuretic, diaphoretic, expectorant
anethole
Arnica
petals
Arnica montana, A. spp.
Compositeae
vulnerary, external use only
volatile oil, arnicin, arnisterol, anthoxanthine, tannin, resin
Arrowroot
root
Maranta arundinacea
Marantaceae
culinary, sweetener, anti-diarrheal
starch
Arthritis Root
root
Harpagophytum procumbens
Pedaliaceae
alterative, llithotriptic, stimulant
Asafoetida
resin
Ferula assa-foetida
Leguminoseae
carminative, expectorant, candies
ferulic, tannic esters, pinene, vanillin, gum, oil
Astragalus
various parts
Astragalus gummifer, A. glycphyullus, A. sinicus, A. spp.
Leguminosae
Chinese medicinal (A. sinica), gums, lotions (A. gummifer), some with selenium or alkaloid toxicity
Balm-of-Gilead
buds
Populus candicans, P. balsamifera
Salicace
wound sealer, expectorant, antiseptic
propolis, sap
Balsam-Apple
fruit
Momordica balsamina
Cucurbitaceae
onamental, fragrance
Barberry
bark, fruits
Berberis vulgaris
Berberidaceae
tonic, laxative, refrigerant, antiseptic, stomachic
berberine
Basil, Sweet
leaves
Ocimum basilicum, Ocimum spp.
Labiateae
spice, mild stimulant
ocimene (an open chain C-10 terpene)
Bay Leaf
leaves
Laurus nobilis
Lauraceae
spice, carminative, astringent
long-chain esters
Bayberry
bark
Myrica cerifera, M. gale, M. pennsylvanica, M. californica, M. spp.
Myricaceae
astringent, emetic, mild stimulant, sialagogue, hemostatic, dye, insecticide, candle wax fragrance
resin, tannin, gum, starch, palmitic, myristic, lauric acids
Belladonna
whole plant
Atropa belladonna
Solanaceae
antisecretory, mydriatic, antispasmodic, stimulant-depressant, hallucinogen, psychotic, delusinogen
atropine, scopolamine
Bergamot
leaves
Monarda didyma, M. citriodora, M. spp.
Labiateae
tea, fragrance, mild stimulant, carminative
l-linalool acetic ester, d-limonene, carvacrol, cymene
Betel Nuts
seeds
Areca catechu
Palmaceae
parasympathomimetic, stimulant-depressant, dye, narcotic, can cause cardiac strain
arecolines (compounds related to the tobacco alkaloids)
Betony
leaves
Stachys officinalis
Labiateae
appetite stimulant, cordial, tea
Birch
bark, sap
Betula lenta
Betulaceae
counterirritant, antipyretic, analgesic, irritates ulcers, can cause salicylate poisoning
methyl salicylate
Birthroot
root
Trillium pendulum
Liliaceae
vaginal antihemmorragic, mucous membrane irritant
trilline, trillarin (a diglycoside resembling diosgenin)
Bloodroot
sap, root
Sanguinaria canadensis
Papaveraceae
dye, demulcent, expectorant, smooth muscle stimulant, exacerbates glaucoma
sanguinarine, chelidonine
Boldo
leaves
Peumus boldus
Monimiaceae
fragrance, tea, carminative, formerly used in hepatic dysfunction, gastric stimulant
volatile oil, boldine (an aporphine)
Boneset
leaves
Eupatorium perfoliatum
Compositeae
antimalarial, diaphoretic, mucilage, emetic, depletes blood sugars, chronic toxicity
wax, tremetrol, resin, tannin
Borage
leaves
Borago officinalis
Boraginaceae
potherb, diuretic, demulcent, emollient, may have chronic toxicity
pyrrolizidines
Buchu
leaves
Barosma betulina, Agathosma spp.
Rutaceae
tea, fragrance, weak diuretic, urinary antiseptic, diaphoretic
diosphenol, volatile oils, flavonoids
Burdock
roots, leaves, stems
Arctium lappa
Compositae
diaphoretic, diuretic, demulcent
volatile oils, inulin, tannin, arctiin (a glycoside)
Burnet, Salad
leaves
Sanguisorba officinalis (Poterium sanguisorba)
Rosaceae
vulnerary, salad herb, tonic, astringent, hemostatic, diaphoretic, herb beer, cordials
Burra Gokeroo
seeds
Pedalium murex
Pedaliaceae
GI antiseptic, ganglial stimulant, male aphrodisiac, tonic, antispasmodic
Calamus
root
Acorus calamus
Araceae
anthelmintic, stimulant, carminative, mild hallucinogen, carcinogen
asarone, eugenol, pinene, camphene, caryophyllene
Calendula
flowers
Calendula officinalis
Compositeae
vulnerary, astringent, diaphoretic, antispasmodic
carotenoids, calendulin, a saponin of calendin
California Poppy
sap
Eschscholtzia californica
Papaveraceae
sedative, smooth muscle stimulant, exacerbates glaucoma
coptisine, sanguinarine
Calumba
root
Cocculus palmatus, Jateorrhiza palmata
Menispermaceae
bitter tonic, toxic?, smooth muscle stimulant, exacerbates glaucoma
C. indicus contains picrotoxin, menispermine, cocculine, quarternary berberine-type alkaloids
Camphor
bark
Cinnamomum camphora
Lauraceae
incense, counter-irritant, anaesthetic, antiseptic, narcotic, abuse can cause liver and kidney damage
2 – bornanone, a C-10 terpene
Capers
seeds
Capparis spinosa
Capparidaceae
spice, seasoning
Caraway
seeds
Carum carvi
Umbelliferae
spice, carminative, anti-griping agent, pedullicide, mild CNS depressant
carvone, limonene
Cardamon
seeds
Elettaria cardamomun
Zingiberaceae
spice, carminative
cineole, terpineole, terpinyl acetate
Carob
roasted seeds
Ceratonis siliqua
Leguminoseae
spice, condiment, sweetener
Carrot
whole plant
Daucus carota
Umbelliferae
spice, diuretic, purgative for bladder, antilithic
vitamin A, caryophyllene
Cascara sagrada
bark
Rhamnus purshiana
Rhamnaceae
bitter tonic, strong laxative
anthraquinone glycosides
Castor Bean
bean oil
Ricinus communis
Euphorbiaceae
purgative, source of castor oil
triglycerides of fatty acids, mostly ricinoleic and stearic
Catnip
leaves
Nepeta cataria
Labiateae
tea, feline sex stimulant, antispasmodic, nervine, mild CNS stimulant
nepetalactone, citral, limonene, geraniol, citronellal, nerol
Celery
seeds
Apium graveolens
Umbelliferae
spice, digestive aid, antiseptic, CNS agent, antispasmodic
sedonic anhydrides, nitrates
Centaury
whole herb
Centaurium erythraea, C. umbellatum, C. spp., Erythraea centaurium
Gentianaceae
aromatic, appetite stimulant, bitter tonic, stomachic, blood-purifier
erythro-centaurin (bitter principle), eritaurin, valeric acid
Chamomile, Roman
flowers
Anthemis nobilis (Chamaemelum nobile)
Compositeae
tea, mild stimulant, appetite stimulant, bitter tonic, emetic
anthemides, tiglic esters
Chamomile, German
flowers
Matricaria chamomilla
Compositeae
tea, sedative, antipyretic, mild CNS depressant
azulenes, sesquiterpenes, alpha-bisabolol
Chapparal
leaves
Larria mexicana, L. divaricata
Zygophyllaceae
antiseptic, alterative, expectorant, diuretic, antibiotic, antioxidant
NDGA (a powerful antioxidant)
Cherry, Wild
bark
Prunus serotina
Rosaceae
aroma, tea, expectorant, cough syrup, stomachic
cyanogenic glycosides, emulsin
Chervil
leaves
Anthriscus cerefolium
Umbelliferae
spice, salad herb
anise-like terpenes
Chia
seeds, sprouts
Salvia hispanica, S. columbariae
Labiateae
bulk former, nutritive
Chickweed
above-ground parts
Stellaria media, S. spp.
Caryophyllaceae
demulcent, refrigerant, poultice, nutritive
Chicory
roasted root
Cichorium intybus
Compositeae
coffee additive
fructosans
Chives
roots
Allium schoenoprasum
Amaryllidaceae
spice, potherb
allyl disulfides
Chrysanthemum, Edible
leaves
Chrysanthemum coronarium
Compositae
oriental vegetable, potherb
Chufa
rhizomes
Cyperus esculentus
Cyperaceae
flour substitute
starch
Cilantro
leaves
Coriandrum sativum
Umbelliferae
culinary herb, see Coriander for seed
linalool, malic acid, tannin, mucilage
Cinnamon
bark
Cinnamomum zeylanicum
Lauraceae
spice, tea, fragrance, perfume
cinnamaldehydes
Citronella
leaves
Cymbopogon nardus
Gramineae
insect repellant, perfume
citronellal
Citrus
peel
Citrus aurantium, C. limon
Rutaceae
candies, nutritive, spice, carminative
flavonoids, limonene, wax, ketonic acids, aldehydes, esters, alcohols
Clover, Red
tops
Trifolium pratense
Leguminoseae
tea, vitamin, protein
proteins
Cloves
dried flower buds
Syzygium aromaticum, Caryophyllus aromaticus
Myrtaceae
spice, dental anaesthetic, antiseptic, aphrosidisiac, stimulant, ~allergen
eugenol
Cocoa
woody fruit
Theobroma cacao
Sterculiaceae
cocoa drinks, candies, emollient butter, demulcent, CNS stimulant, can produce nervousness, sleeplessness
fat, mucliage, theobromine (a xanthine)
Coffee
roasted beans
Coffea arabica
Rubiaceae
CNS stimulant, can cause nervousness, irritates ulcers & mucous membranes
caffeine
Cohosh, Black
root
Cimifuga racemosa
Ranunculaceae
pesticide, bitter astringent, mild emetic, sedative
ferulic, palmitic, oleic acids, resin, tannin, cimifugin
Cohosh, Blue
root
Caulophyllum thalictroides
Berberidaceae
oxytocic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, diuretic, not for pregnant
leontin, caulophylline, saponins, resins
Cola Nuts
fruit
Cola nitida, C. acuminata
Sterculiaceae
analeptic, aphrodisiac, CNS stimulant, diuretic, astringent, irritates ulcers & mucous membranes, can cause nervousness
xanthines, gum, catechols
Coltsfoot
leaves
Tussilago farfara
Compositeae
demulcent, expectorant, emollient, smokable
tannin, saponins, resin, pectin, caotchouc
Comfrey
leaves
Symphytum officinale
Boraginaceae
poultices, internal demulcent, diuretic, laxative, ~allergen
pyrrolidizines, allantoin, mucilage, tannin
Coriander
seeds
Coriandrum sativum
Umbelliferae
spice, carminative, antipyretic, see Cilantro for leaf
linalool, malic acid, tannin, mucilage
Costmary
whole herb
Chrysanthemum balsamita
Compositae
fragrance, teas, herb pillows, soups, bitter stomachic, tonic, blood purifier
Cramp Bark
bark
Viburnum opulus
Caprifoliaceae
PMS antispasmodic, astringent, nervine
Cubeb
dried unripe fruit
Piper cubeba
Piperaceae
spice, aphrodisiac, to heal mucous membranes (as a counterirritant?)
terpenes, sesquiterpenes, furanobenze, dipentene, cadinene
Cumin
seeds
Cuminum cyminum
Umbelliferae
spice, liniment
para-substituted isopropylbenzenes, cuminaldehyde
Damiana
leaves
Turnera aphrodisiaca, T. diffusa
Turneraceae
tea, smokable, aphrodisiac, euphoriant, antipyretic, tonic, purgative, GI irritant
volatile oil
Dandelion
whole plant
Taraxacum officinale
Compositeae
hepatic tonic, diuretic, stomachic, antilithic, astringent, cholagogue
taraxerol, choline, levulin, inulin, pectin
Devil’s Club
roots, bark, leaves
Oplopanax horridus
Araliaceae
stomachic, antispasmodic, vulnerary, toothache agent, tonic, charm
Dill
seeds, flowers
Anethum graveolens
Umbelliferae
spice, carminative, stomachic, nervine
dillapiole
Dita
bark
Alstonia scholaris (Echites scholaris)
Apocynaceae
tonic, astringent, anthelmintic, antimalarial, hallucinogen
chlorogenine, echitamine, echitenine, alsonine, porphyrine
Dittany, Maryland
leaves
Cunila origanoides
Labiateae
spice, herb, tea
Dittany of Crete
leaves
Origanum dictamnus
Umbelliferae
spice, antiseptic, preservative
carvacrol, thymol
Dragon’s Blood
tree resin
Daemonorops draco
Palmaceae
charm, dye, tannin source
sap
Echinacea
rhizome
Echinacea purpurea, E. angustifolia, E. spp.
Compositeae
alterative, contact parisiticide, antiseptic, sialogogue, analgesic, immune system stimulant
inulin, sucrose, 2-methlytetradecadienes, echinacein, caffeic glycoside
Elderberry
flowers, fruits, bark
Sambucus nigra, S. canadensis, S. cerulea
Caprifoliaceae
aperient, diuretic, dye, diaphoretic, cough syrup, PMS antispasmodic, sedative, HCN toxicity, esp. in bark of N. Am. spp.
cyanogenic glycoside, sambuline, viburnic acid, tyrosine, tannic acid
Elecampane
root
Inula helenium
Compositeae
tonic, charm, expectorant, diuretic, astringent
inulin, alantol, helenin, alantic acid, resin
Epazote
leaves
Chenopodium ambrosioides
Chenopodiaceae
seasoning, anthelmintic, toxic in quantity
Eucalyptus
leaves, pods
Eucalyptus globulus
Myrtaceae
spice, astringent, anti-diarrheal, expectorant
volatile oil, resins, tannin, eucalyptic acid, rutin
Evening Primrose
leaves
Oenothera biennis, O. spp.
Onagraceae
astringent, sedative, anti-aging agent, PMS treatment, potherb
gamma-linoleic acid (GLA,a prostaglandin precursor)
Eyebright
leaves
Euphrasia officinalis
Scrophulariaceae
alterative, astringent for eye strain
tannin, bitter principle
False Unicorn
root
Helonias dioica (Chamaelirium luteum), H. luteum
Liliaceae
formerly used for conception, sexual tonic, emetic, sialogogue, parisiticide, ~toxic to livestock
Fennel
seeds
Foeniculum vulgare
Umbelliferae
spice, digestive aid, carminative, expectorant, mild stimulant, cold treatment
anethole
Fenugreek
leaves
Trigonella foenum-graecum
Leguminoseae
spice, bulk laxative, horse’s cure-all, demulcent, aphrodisiac, astringent, emollient, tonic, expectorant, galactagogue, GI irritant
protein, choline, phosphates, trigonelline, volatile oil
Feverfew
whole plant
Pyrethrum parthenium, Chrysanthemum parthenium
Asteraceae
tonic, emmenagogue, anthelmintic, mild stimulant, emetic, can cause headache & CNS disturbances
pyrethrins, insecticidal compounds
Flax
seeds
Linum usitatissimum, L. spp.
Linaceae
demulcent, emmollient, bulk former, mucilage, laxative
mucilage, wax, tannin, gum, cyanogenic glycosides
Fleeceflower
root
Polygonum multiflorum
Polygonaceae
general and reproductive female tonic, diuretic
oxalates
Frankincense
gum resin
Boswellia carteri
Burseraceae
perfume, incense
volatile oil, resins, gum, bassorin
Galangal
rhizome
Alpinia galanga, A. officinarum, Kaempferia galanga
Zingiberaceae
respiratory stimulant, toothache agent, demulcent, antibacterial, hallucinogen
flavonoids
Ganja
flowering tops
Cannabis sativa
Cannabinaceae
appetite stimulant, antiemetic, euphoriant, mild hallucinogen, can cause tachycardia, lowers blood pressure
tetrahydrocannibinol (THC), an oxygenated terpene derivative
Garlic
bulbs
Allium sativum
Amaryllidaceae
spice, bacteriostat, alterative, antibiotic, expectorant, antihypertensive, antihyperlipidemic, used for heart benefits, GI irritant
allyl disulfides
Gentian
root
Gentiana lutea
Gentianaceae
bitter tonic, stomachic, appetite mild stimulant, digestive aid
water-soluble phenolic glycosides, gentiopicrin, gentiamarin, gentiin
Geranium, Scented
leaves
Pelargonium odoratissimum
Geraniaceae
mouthwash, ointment
geraniol esters, citronellol, linalool
Gill-Over-The-Ground
leaves
Glechoma hederacea
Labiateae
mild stimulant, tonic, beer flavoring
Ginger
root
Zingiber officinale
Zingiberaceae
spice, carminative, diaphoretic, mild stimulant, GI irritant
citral, zingerone, sesquiterpenes, bisabolene
Ginger, Wild
rhizomes
Asarum canadense, A. caudatum
Aristolochiaceae
mild stimulant, stomachic
methyl eugenol
Ginkgo
leaves, seeds
Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgoaceae
roasted seeds as a culinary, leaves as a memory enhancer
Ginseng
root
Panax ginseng
Araliaceae
tea, mental stimulant, alterative, stomachic, tonic, can lower blood sugar
gingenosides, sapogenins, ginsenin, mucilage, resin
Goldenrod, Sweet
leaves
Solidago odora
Compositae
teas
anise-like volatile oil
Goldenseal
root
Hydrastis canadensis
Ranunculaceae
astringent, hemostatic, douche, antibiotic, emmenagogue, antiseptic, smooth muscle stimulant, dyspeptic, hypotensive
hydrastine, berberine-type alkaloids
Goldthread
root, plant
Coptis trifolia, C. groenlandica, C. spp.
Ranunculaceae
bitter tonic, oral hemostatic
berberine, coptine
Gotu-Kola
above-ground parts
Hydrocotyle asiatica var. minor, (Centella asiatica)
Umbelliferae
memory stimulant, nervine, psychic energizer, alterative, antipyretic, tonic, diuretic
Grains of Paradise
seeds
Aframomum melegueta
Zingiberaceae
spice, cordial
Gravel Root
root
Eupatorium purpureum
Compositeae
bitter, strong antilithic, diuretic, astringent
Guarana
leaves
Paulinia cupana
Sapindaceae
mild CNS stimulant, can cause nervousness, irritates ulcers, mucous membranes
xanthines
Hawthorn
fruit
Crataegus monogyna, C. spp.
Rosaceae
cardiac tonic, diuretic, astringent, antispasmodic, sedative
triterpene acids, flavonoids, choline, acetylcholine, ascorbic acid
Henna
leaves
Lawsonia inermis, L. alba, L. spinosa
Lythraceae
hair dye, externally for impotence, fungicide, ~allergen
lawsone
Hibiscus
stems, flowers
Hibiscus spp.
Malvaceae
tea, mild stimulant, fiber mats, rope
flavonoids
Hops
leaves
Humulus lupulus
Cannabinaceae
tea, used in brewing beer, antiseptic, stomachic, diuretic, nervine, carminative, anodyne, cholagogue, sedative, smokable
humulene (a sesquiterpene), lupulon
Horehound
leaves
Marrubium vulgare
Labiateae
expectorant, carminative, mild stimulant, charm, diaphoretic, tonic, candy
tannin, marrubin (a bitter hydroxy diterpene lactone)
Horse Mint
whole plant
Collinsonia canadensis
Labiateae
gentle tonic, mild stimulant, diuretic, anti-diarrheal
resin, saponin, tannin, mucilage
Horseradish
roots
Armoracia lapathifolia, A. rusticana, Rorippa armoracia, Cochleria amoracia
Brassicaceae
spice, herb, diaphoretic, diuretic, stomachic, expectorant
myrosin, sinigrin, choline esters of allylisothiocyanates, N-sulfates
Horsetail
foliage
Equisetum arvense, E. spp.
Equisetaceae
astringent, abrasive, diuretic, mineral source, can cause muscle weakness, abnormal pulse, hypertension
silica, nicotine, aconitic acid, equisitine
Hyssop
leaves
Hyssopus officinalis
Labiateae
pungent spice, poultice, expectorant, mild stimulant, diaphoretic
pinene, sesquiterpenes
Indigo, Wild
root, leaves
Baptisia tinctoria
Leguminoaeae
purgative, emetic, vulnerary, can cause heart arrythmias
glucosides: baptisin, baptitoxine (cytisine), alkaloid
Iris
root
Iris X florentina
Iridaceae
purgative, floral fixative, ~toxic, ~allergen
iridin, oleoresin, tannin, gum, camphoraceous substance
Irish Moss
whole plant
Chondrus crispus (various seaweeds)
Gigartinaceae (seaweed)
demulcent, nutrient, diet aid, bulk former, emollient
polysaccharides
Jalap
root
Ipomoea purga
Convolvulaceae
drastic purgative
resin, gum, sugar
Jasmine
flowers
Jasminum officinale
Oleaceae
tea, incense, florals
jasmone
Jujube
fruit
Zizyphus jujuba, Ziziphus jujuba
Rhamnaceae
flavoring for candies
Juniper
fruits
Juniperus communis
Pinaceae
urinary and general antiseptic, flavoring for gin, diuretic, overdose can cause kidney and personality disorders, convulsions, catharsis
terpinenol, alpha-pinene, camphene, cadinene
Kava-kava
root
Piper methysticum
Piperaceae
stimulant tea, or narcotic when thoroughly chewed, causes skin lesions amongst the habituated
methysticin, yangonin, dihydrokawain
Kelp
whole plant
Laminaria spp., Fucus spp., Sargassum spp., Macrosytica spp., etc.
Seaweed
nutritive, mineral source, demulcent, bulk laxative, can cause water retention
iodine, bromine, alginic acid
Khat
fresh leaves
Catha edulis
Celastraceae
CNS & spinal stimulant, can cause tachycardia & nervousness
choline, cathine, cathinone, d-norpseudoephedrine
Khus-Khus
roots
Vetiveria zizanioides, Andropogon muricatus
Gramineae
perfume fixative, insect repellant
vetiverone, a C-15 terpene, vetivenoids, palmitic, benzoic acids
Kinnikinnick
leaves
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Ericaceae
smokable, diuretic, antiseptic, GI astringent, mild CNS depressant
arbutin (hydrolyses to hydroquinolone), flavonoids, gallic, malic acids
Kuthmithi
whole plant
Wiltharia somnifera
Solanaceae
sedative, tranquilizer, tonic
somniferine, possibly other toxic alkaloids
Labrador Tea
leaves
Ledum palustre, L. groenlandicum, L. glandulosum
Ericaceae
bitter astringent, vulnerary, can cause cause kidney disorders
ledol
Lad’s Love
leaves
Artemisia abrotanum
Compositeae
culinary, astringent, bitter tonic
Lady’s Mantle
leaves
Alchemilla vulgaris
Rosaceae
astringent, hemostatic, vulnerary
tannins
Lady’s Slipper
root
Cyprepedium pubescens, Cypripedium spp.
Orchidaceae
nervine, antispasmodic, sedative, overharvesting is leading to species endangerment
tannin, resins
Lavender
flowers
Lavandula vera, Lavandula spp.
Labiateae
sachets, perfumes, bath oils
eucalyptol, borneol, camphor, linalool, terpineol
Lemon Balm
leaves
Melissa officinalis
Labiateae
spice, herb, fragrance, diaphoretic, sedative
citral, linalool, geraniol
Lemon Grass
leaves
Cymbopogon citratus
Gramineae
incense, pesticide, perfume, carminative
methyl heptenone, citronellal, terpene alcohols
Lettuce, Wild
leaves
Lactuca virosa, Lactuca quercina
Compositeae
mild narcotic, analgesic, sedative
lactucarine
Licorice
root
Glycyrrhiza glabra
Leguminoseae
aphrodisiac, stomachic, aperient, expectorant, antispasmodic, androgenic steroid agent, can cause mineral retantion, hypertension
glycyrrhizin (a mild mineral corticoid), gum, tannin, pentacyclic terpenes
Life Everlasting
leaves
Gnaphalium polycephalum
Asteraceae
astringent, vulnerary for mouth
Linden
flowers, leaves
Tilia europaea, T. spp.
Tiliaceae
stomachic, sialogogue
Lobelia
leaves
Lobelia inflata
Lobeliaceae
expectorant, stimulant-depressant, emetic, can cause tolerance
Alpha-lobeline (a di-(hydroxy-ethyl-phenyl) – 2 – piperidine, a compound related to tobacco alkaloids)
Lotus
flower capsules
Nelumbo spp.
Nelumbonaceae
culinary, soup thickener
starch
Lovage
root
Ligusticum levisticum, Levisticum officinale
Umbelliferae
mild stimulant, carminative, emmenagogue, stomachic
Love Vine
whole plant
Cuscuta spp.
Cuscutaceae
laxative
Ma-Huang
leaves
Ephedra sinica
Gnetaceae
decongestant, CNS stimulant, can cause nervousness, hypertension
ephedrine
Madder
roots
Rubia tinctorum
Rubiaceae
alizarin crimson dye
anthraquinones
Magnolia
bark
Magnolia glauca
Magnoliaceae
bitter tonic, diaphoretic
Maha
flowers
Quararibea funebris
Bombacaceae
perfume, flavoring for chocolate drinks at funerals & festivals, hallucinogen
5 – membered cyclic enols and enamines
Malva
flowers
Malva spp.
Malvaceae
black potpourri color
pectin, tannin
Marjoram
leaves
Origanum vulgare
Labiateae
spice, carminative, digestive aid
limonene, other terpenes
Marshmallow
root
Althea officinalis
Malvaceae
demulcent, emollient, poultice
asparagine, mucilage, sugar, pectin
Matico
leaves
Piper angustifolium
Piperaceae
astringent, sex stimulant, urinary antiseptic (GI irritant?)
Matico camphor, asarone
Mistletoe
stems
Phoradendron flavescens
Loranthaceae
charm, emetic, hemorragic, can cause CV collapse, weak pulse, vasodilation, smooth muscle contractions
tyramine, phenethylamines
Mormon Tea
whole plant
Ephedra vulgaris, E. trifurca, E. spp.
Gnetaceae
nasal decongestant, CNS stimulant, can cause nervousness
ephedrine
Morning Glory
seeds
Ipomoea violacea, Argyriea nervosa
Convolvulaceae
hallucinogen, purgative, abortifacient, can cause gangrene
lysergamides
Motherwort
above-ground parts
Leonurus cardiaca
Labiateae
nervine, cardiac tonic, emmenagogue, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, laxative, PMS nervine
Mugwort
leaves, flowers
Artemisia vulgaris
Compositeae
acupuncture moxybustion, dream herb, nervine, diuretic, diaphoretic
Muira Pauma
wood shavings
Liriosma ovata, Acanthea virilis
Olacaceae
aphrodisiac
aromatic resin, muirapaumine, fat
Mullein
leaves
Verbascum thapsus
Scrophulariaceae
smokable, demulcent, rubefacient, astringent, counter-irritant, expectorant
saponins
Mustard
seeds
Brassica nigra
Cruciferae
spice, poultice, counterirritant, carminative, rubefacient
myrosin, sinigrin, choline esters of allylisothiocyanates, N-sulfates
Myrrh
gum resin
Commiphora myrra
Burseraceae
incense, local stimulant, antiseptic, expectorant, mouthwash, embalming fluid, carminative
resin, acetic, formic, myrrholic acids
Myrtle
leaves
Myrtus communis
Myrtaceae
fragrance, infusion, gargle
eucalyptol, d-pinene
Neem
seeds, leaves
Azadirachta indica (Melia azadirachta)
Meliaceae
timber, antibacterial, antiemetic, soap, toothpaste, insecticide, antipyretic, vulnerary
glycerides, nimbin, a terpenic ester, bitters
Nettles
leaves
Urtica dioica
Labiateae
potherb, vitamin, protein, alterative, antiseptic, hemostatic, nutritive
vitamins, A, C, protein
Nutmeg
seed, aril (as mace)
Myristica fragrans
Myristaceae
emmenagogue, spice, aphrodisiac, mild stimulant, mild hallucinogen
myristicin, elemicin, eugenols
Oat Straw
stems, leaves
Avena sativa
Gramineae
nutrient, demulcent, antidepressant, nervine, tonic, antispasmodic, digestive aid, motor ganglial stimulant
albumin, gum, protein, saponin, avenin
Onion
bulbs
Allium sativum
Amaryllidaceae
culinary, spice
allyl disulfides
Oregano
leaves
Origanum major, O. vulgare
Labiateae
spice, seasoning herb
terpenes
Osha
roots
Ligusticum porteri
Umbelliferae
stomachic, respiratory agent, antipyretic, snakebite agent
Parsley
leaves, seeds
Petroselinum crispum
Umbelliferae
herb, diuretic, can raise blood pressure
pinene, apiole
Passion Flower
leaves
Passiflora incarnata, P. edulis
Passifloraceae
smokable, spinal depressant, respiratory stimulant, nervine, antispasmodic, sedative, diaphoretic
beta-carbolines, cyanogenic glycosides, contains HCN
Patchouli
leaves
Pogostemon cablin
Labiateae
incense, cosmetic
patchoulene, azulene, eugenol, benzaldehyde, cinnamaldehyde, sesquiterpene
Pau d’Arco
Tabebuia impetiginosa
Bignoniaceae
immune stimulant, anti-allergen, anti-carcinogen, anti-fungal, avoid if pregnant
Pennyroyal
leaves
Mentha pulegium
Labiateae
herb, carminative, diaphoretic, pedicullicide, mild CNS depressant, overdose can cause kidney damage
pulegone
Pepper, Red
fruit
Capsicum tetragonum, C. annuum, C. frutescens, C. spp.
Solanaceae
spice, GI stimulant, nerve ending stimulant, counter-irritant, irritates ulcers and mucous membranes
vanillyl noneamides, carotenoids
Peppercorns
fruit
Piper nigrum
Piperaceae
spice, digestive stimulant, mucous membrane irritant
piperidines, piperazines
Peppermint
leaves
Mentha piperita
Labiateae
tea, spice, candies, antispasmodic, carminative
menthol, terpenes
Pink Root
root
Spigelia marilandica
Loganiaceae
anthelmintic, can cause dizziness, heart palpitations
spigeline, resin, tannin
Plantain, Narrow
leaves
Plantago lanceolata
Plantaginaceae
ointment for exzema, burns, hemmorroids, bowel pain, laxative, see Psillium for Plantago seed
xylin (a xylopyranose derivative related to cellulose)
Pollen
pollen from bees
Apis mellifera
Insect product
sweetener, vitamin, nutrient
sugars, vitamins B & C, minerals, hormones
Poppy
seeds
Papaver somniferum
Papaveraceae
culinary herb
albuminoids, ethiodol, lipiodol, devoid of morphine alkaloids
Prickly Ash
stem bark
Zanthoxylum (Xanthoxyllum) americanum, Z. clava-herculis
Rutaceae
tonic, antispasmodic, flavoring, alterative, rubefacient, emmenagogue, diaphoretic, circulatory stimulant
Prickly Poppy
leaves
Argemone mexicana
Papaveraceae
smooth muscle stimulant, causes capillary dilation, can irritate glaucoma, emetic, purgative
protopine, berberine, dihydrosanguinarine, sanguinarine
Prince’s Pine
whole plant
Chimaphila umbellata, C. spp.
Ericaceae
alterative, diuretic, astringent, tonic
chimaphilin, arbutin, erecolin, tannins
Psillium
fruit, husks
Plantago ovata
Plantaginaceae
antidiarrheal, bulk demulcent, laxative, emollient, expectorant, astringent, see plantain for Plantago leaf
colloidal mucilage
Pumpkin
seeds
Cucurbita pepo
Cucurbitaceae
GI stimulant, sexual hormone production stimulant
protein, unsaturated fatty acids, carbohydrate, phosphorus
Raspberry
leaves
Rubus ideaus, Rubus spp.
Rosaceae
nutritive tea, antispasmodic, astringent
citric acid, tannins
Rhubarb
stalks
Rheum officinale, R. palmatum
Polygonaceae
laxative, astringent, sialogogue, stomachic
anthraquinones
Rose
fruits (hips)
Rosa canina, R. spp.
Rosaceae
vitamin C source, tea, astringent, aperient
vitamin C, geraniol, citronellol
Rosemary
leaves
Rosmarinus officinalis
Labiateae
spice, herb, carminative, GI irritant
pinene, camphene, borneol, & esters
Rue
leaves
Ruta graveolens
Rutaceae
nervine, anthelmintic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, rubefacient, skin and kidney irritant
methyl nonyl ketone & esters, ketones, tannins, methyl anthranilate
Rue, Syrian
seeds
Peganum harmala
Zygophyllaceae
hallucinogen
beta-carbolines
Safflower
flowers
Carthamus tinctorius
Compositae
floral, food dye, diaphoretic
carthamin
Saffron
flower stigmas
Crocus sativus
Iridaceae
spice, dye, respiratory stimulant, aphrodisiac, rubefacient, can cause bradycardia
alpha-crocin (a gentobiose of crocetin)
Sage, Garden
leaves
Salvia officinalis
Labiateae
spice, antisecretory, insect repellant, anthelmintic, astringent, perfume
thujone, camphor, salvene
Sagebrush
leaves
Artemisia tridentata
Compositae
perfume, antibacterial
camphor
Saint John’s Wort
tops
Hypericum perforatum, H. spp.
Hypericaceae
external astringent, alterative, nervine, sedative, antidepressant, antiviral, can cause dermatitis through ultraviolet light sensitivity
hypericin, an 8-ringed compound
Sandalwood
wood chips
Santalum album
Santalaceae
incense, fumigant
santalol and esters, bicyclic C-15 terpenes
Sarsaparilla
roots
Smilax officinalis, S. regelii, S. ornata, S. spp.
Liliaceae
toothache, male hormone adjunct, tonic, diaphoretic, alterative
resin, oxalates, phytosterols, adrenal hormones
Sassafrass
root bark
Sassafrass albidum
Lauraceae
spice, tea, tonic, alterative, carcinogen
safrole
Savory, Summer
leaves
Satureja hortensis
Labiateae
herb, garnish
carvacrol
Savory, Winter
leaves
Satureja montana
Labiateae
herb, stronger than summer savory, liquers
carvacrol
Saw Palmetto
fruits
Serenoa repens, S. serrulata
Palmaceae
GI stimulant, glandular stimulant, bladder analgesic, tonic, antiseptic, can cause diarrhea
fatty acids and esters
Schisandra
fruits
Schisandra glabra, S. sp.
Schisandraceae (Magnoliaceae)
ornamental, tonic, sedative
Sea Holly
leaves
Eryngium maritmum
Umbelliferae
aphrodisiac, candies, nervine, alterative, carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, mild stimulant, expectorant, used in kidney & bladder disease
Senna
leaves, pods
Cassia species
Leguminoseae
laxative, anthelmintic, anti-griping agent, can cause dermatitis
sitosterol, anthraquinone glycosides, chrysophanic, flavonoids, emodins
Sensitive Plant
leaves
Mimosa pudica
Leguminoseae
smokable, sexual stimulant when touched (!)
tryptamines
Serpolet
leaves
Thymus serpyphyllum
Labiateae
spice, antispasmodic, nervine, especially for genital nerves
Sesame
seeds
Sesamum orientale, S. indicum
Pedaliaceae
spice, aphrodisiac
oil, Calcium
Shiso
leaves
Perilla frutescens
Labiateae
sushi ginger spice, herb
Skullcap
whole plant
Scutellaria lateriflora
Labiateae
smokable, sedative, antispasmodic, nervine
scutellarin (a flavonoid), tannins
Slippery Elm
bark
Ulmus fulva
Ulmaceae
astringent, nutritive for invalids, demulcent
mucilage, starch, oxalates, polysaccharides, tannins
Snakeroot, Indian
root
Polygala senega
Polygalaceae
purgative, expectorant, stimulates secretions
Snakeroot, Indian
roots
Rauwolfia serpentina
Apocynaceae
strong tranquilizer, strong depressant action sometimes fatal
rauwolfine, serpentine
Snakeroot, Virginia
root
Aristolochia serpentaria
Aristolochiaceae
aromatic bitter, snakebite agent, emetic, can cause vertigo, abortifacient
aristolochic acid, an aromatic nitrate
Solomon’s Seal
root
Convallaria multiflora
Liliaceae
tonic, demulcent, astringent, emetic, contains potent and dangerous cardioactive glycosides
constituents unknown, same genus contains cardiac glycosides
Spearmint
leaves
Mentha viridis
Labiateae
carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, herb
carvone, limonene, pinene
Speedwell
flowers
Veronica officinalis
Scrophulariaceae
tonic, alterative, diuretic, expectorant, diaphoretic
Spicebush
leaves, twigs
Lindera benzoin
Lauraceae
tea, perfume, anthelmintic, antipyretic
Spikenard, American
root
Aralia racemosa, A. spinosa
Araliaceae
mild stimulant, alterative, expectorant, flavoring
starch, pectin, resin, active compound not isolated
Star Anise
seeds
Illicium verum
Magnoliaceae
spice, mild stimulant, carminative
anethole, phellandrene
Stevia
leaves
Stevia rebaudiana
Compositae
sweetener
stevioside (a diterpene glycoside)
Storax
gum resin
Liquidambar styraciflua
Hammamelidaceae
breath sweetener
storesin, benzoates, cinnamates, cinnamic acid, styrene
Strawberry
leaves
Fragaria vesca, F. spp.
Rosaceae
mild astringent, nutritive, antihistamine catalyst
vitamin C, minerals, catechins
Strychnine
seeds
Strychnos nux-vomica
Loganiaceae
catalyst, spinal stimulant, tonic, can can cause rapid pulse, convulsions, death
strychnine
Sumac
fruits
Rhus glabra, R. aromatica, R. typhina, R. spp.
Anacardiaceae
tea, astringent
albumin, gum, tannin, resin, malic acid
Sweet Cicely
root
Osmorrhiza odorata, O. spp., Myrrhis odorata
Umbelliferae
aromatic, carminative, expectorant, stomachic
anise-like volatile oil
Tamarind
seed pulp
Tamarindus indica
Leguminosae
sour flavoring, soup thickener, curries, chutneys
citric, malic acids, potassium, gum, pectin, grape sugar
Tansy
herb
Tanacetum vulgare
Compositae
bitter tonic, anthelmintic, abortifacient, can cause convulsions
resins, thujone, camphor, borneol
Tarragon
leaves
Artemisia dracunculus, A. dracunculoides
Compositae
herb
Tea
leaves
Thea sinensis, Camellia sinensis
Theaceae, Ternstroemiaceae
CNS stimulant, anticarcinogen, can cause nervousness, can cause cardiac strain
xanthines
Tea Tree
foliage
Melaleuca quinquenervia, M. cajuputi, M. alternifolia, M. spp., Leptospermum ericoides, L. petersonii, L. scoparium, L. spp.
Myrtaceae
timber, tea, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, antiseptic, anthelmintic, mild stimulant, vulnerary, expectorant, various essential oils (cajuput, niaoli from Leptospermum spp., tea-tree oil from Melaleuca spp.), counter-irritant, elevates blood pressure
cineol, terpineol, valeric, benzoic and butyric aldehydes
Teaberry
fruit
Gaultheria procumbens
Ericaceae
tea, spice, carminative, anti-rheumatic, anticarcinogen, diuretic
methyl salicylate
Thyme
leaves
Thymus vulgaris
Labiateae
carminative, antiseptic, expectorant, rubefacient
thymol, carvacrol, cymene, pinene
Tobacco
leaves
Nicotiana tobaccum, N. attenuata, N. spp.
Solanaceae
stimulant-depressant, can cause dependance, lung cancer, heart disease
nicotine
Tonka Bean
seeds
Coumarouna odorata
Leguminoseae
perfumes, vanilla adulterant, toxic, hemmorragic
coumarins
Turmeric
rhizomes
Curcuma longa, C. domestica
Zingiberaceae
curries, condiments, dye
curcumin, cinnamoids, turmerone, alpha-phellandrene, sabinene, cineol, borneol
Valerian
root
Valeriana officinalis, V. spp.
Valerianaceae
narcotic, antispasmodic, tranquilizer, sedative
low MW bornyl esters, camphene, velerines, pinene, limonene, valepotriat
Vanilla
pods
Vanilla planifolia
Orchidaceae
spice, fragrance
vanillin, vanillic acid
Vanilla Grass
leaves
Heirochloa odorata
Gramineae
fragrance, liquers, hemmorragic
coumarins
Verbena, Lemon
leaves
Lippia citriodora, Aloysia triphylla
Verbenaceae
teas, potpourris, sachets, drinks, garnish
Vervain
flowers, leaves
Verbena officinalis
Verbenaceae
antipyretic, diaphoretic, expectorant, astringent, antispasmodic, vulnerary, galactagogue, aphrodisiac, tea
verbenalin
Violet, Sweet
above-ground parts
Viola odorata, Viola spp.
Violaceae
dye, perfume, aperient, acid-base indicator, anticarcinogen, cough syrup, nutritive, anodyne
flavonoids, salycilates
Wasabi
root
Wasabi japonica
Cruciferae
spice and condiment used in Japanese cuisine
Water Eryngo
root
Eryngium aquaticum
Umbelliferae
diuretic, mild stimulant, diaphoretic, expectorant, emetic in large doses)
Willow
bark
Salix alba, S. spp.
Salicaceae
astringent, analgesic, antipyretic, ornamental, aromatic tonic, sedative, can cause ulcers
salicylates
Witch Hazel
twigs
Hammamelis virginiana
Hammamelidaceae
externally as astringent, hemostatic
gallitannins
Woodruff, Sweet
whole plant
Asperula odorata
Rubiaceae
pot pourri fixative, May wine flavor, hemmorragic, vitamin K antagonist
coumarins, asperuloside, tannins
Wormseed
tops
Chenopodium botrys
Chenopodiaceae
dried arrangements, pot pourri, anthelmintic, ~toxic
ascaridiol
Wormwood
tops, leaves
Artemisia absinthium
Compositae
cordials, narcotic, anthelmintic, antiseptic, diaphoretic
thujone
Yarrow
flowering tops
Achillea millefolium
Compositae
antiseptic, astringent, hemostatic, tonic, anti-itching agent
Yerba de Maté
leaves
Ilex paraguaiensis
Aquifoliaceae
CNS stimulant, can cause nervousness
caffeine, theobromine
Yerba de Santa
leaves
Eriodictyon californicum
Hydrophyllaceae
expectorant, tonic, cough syrup
eriodictyol
See also  Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) Effective Against Herpes Simplex 1 and 2

Source: researchgate.net

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4 thoughts on “Herbs, Parts Used, Properties & Uses”

  1. I’ve not yet seen any detailed information on FASTING. Does dr Sebi or you recommend cold turkey with only water, a progressive fasting to water only or a water and tea fast, what is the process to come out of fasting, short to long fasting, long to short fasting, intervals of fasting? Really wish there was a DONATE/PITCH IN button. You are providing priceless information. I look forward to my financial situation shifting in a manner that will support my lifestyle adjustments as it regards fueling my body. Amazing work. Many thank yous!!!

    1. Hi ClassyGlobal, sorry for the late response. I wouldn’t recommend cold turkey water fasting unless you are already on a plant-based diet. Dr Sebi actually recommended fasting using the herbs, especially incorporating the Green Food Plus. He noted in a video that everyone should fast at least 12 days per year, using the Green Food Plus and also drinking juices. That being said, water fasting is very effective. If you have never fasted before it could be tough – but, because of it’s ability to help the body heal faster, it’s worth doing. For longer periods of water fasting (beyond 7 days) make sure you have supportive people around you. Some people have to build up to a longer fast, while some people prefer to just go for it. If you are eating a standard diet, then do at least one week raw, then a week of smoothie and juices, then go into your water fast. If you’re already on a plant based diet, do 3 to 7 days all fruits or juice or smoothie before doing your water fast.

      If you need more personal help, please feel free to email me at [email protected].

      Love and blessings 🙂

      NB. In future I will put a donate button up, thank you.

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