Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine

Cypripedium pubesCens Habitat & Cultivation Native to the Cyperus esculentus (Cyperaceae) other medicinal plants Mediterranean region, artichoke thrives in rich Lemon grass makes loam in warm temperate climates. Commercially Chufa, 199 a soothing tea. grown plants are renewed after 4 years. The unopened flower heads and leaves are picked in Tiger Nut Parts Used Leaves, essential oil. early summer. Constituents Lemon grass contains a volatile oil Parts Used Flower heads, leaves, root. Description Erect, grass-like plant growing to with citral (about 70%) and citronellal as its main Constituents All parts of the plant contain the 20 in (50 cm). Has cylindrical brown tubers, lance- constituents. Both are markedly sedative. sesquiterpene lactone cynaropicrin (which is strongly shaped leaves, and rays of small spikes of green- History & Folklore Lemon grass is cultivated bitter) and much inulin. The leaves also contain brown flowers. for its oil, which is used as a culinary flavoring, cynarin, which has liver-protective properties. Habitat & Cultivation Native to the a scent, and medicinally. History & Folklore Artichokes were Mediterranean region, chufa was first introduced to Medicinal Actions & Uses Lemon grass greatly valued by the ancient Greeks and Romans. Spain and North Africa by the Arabs. It now grows is principally taken as a tea to remedy digestive Dioscorides (1st century ce) recommended worldwide, including in India. The tubers (called problems. It relaxes the muscles of the stomach applying the mashed roots to the armpit or “nuts”) are unearthed in winter and summer. and gut, relieves cramping pains and flatulence, and elsewhere on the body to sweeten offensive odors. Parts Used Tubers. is particularly suitable for children. In the Caribbean, Medicinal Actions & Uses Artichoke is a Constituents Chufa contains 20–36% fixed oil, lemon grass is primarily regarded as a fever-reducing valuable medicinal plant. Like milk thistle (Silybum known as chufa or tiger nut oil. herb (especially where there is significant marianus, p. 137), it benefits the liver, protecting History & Folklore Chufa nuts have been congestion). It is applied externally as a poultice or against toxins and infection. Though the leaves are found in the excavations of the earliest settlements as diluted essential oil to ease pain and arthritis. In particularly effective, all parts of the plant are in the Nile Valley, and since ancient times they have India, a paste of the leaves is smeared on patches bitter and stimulate digestive secretions, especially remained a popular food in the region. The Greek of ringworm. bile. This makes artichoke useful for the treatment physician Dioscorides, writing in the 1st century ce, Related Species C. martinii and C. nardus yield of gallbladder problems, nausea, indigestion, and mentions their ability to comfort the stomach. essential oils that are widely used in soaps and abdominal distension, with the added benefit that Medicinal Actions & Uses Chufa is regarded detergents. In Tanzania, medicine men smoke the it lowers blood cholesterol levels. A home recipe as a digestive tonic, having a heating and drying effect flowers of C. densiflorus to produce dreams from the Mediterranean region uses fresh artichoke on the digestive system and alleviating flatulence. It foretelling the future. leaf juice mixed with wine or water as a liver tonic. also promotes urine production and menstruation. Caution Do not take the essential oil internally Artichoke is also taken during the early stages of The juice is taken to heal ulcers of the mouth and without professional supervision. type 2 diabetes. It is a good food for diabetics, gums. Ayurvedic medicine classifies the nuts as as it significantly lowers blood sugar. It is also a digestive, tonic, and aphrodisiac. Cynara scolymus useful diuretic, and in France it has been used to Related Species Many other species of syn. C. cardunculus (Asteraceae) treat rheumatic conditions. Cyperus are used as foods or medicines. For Research Research with laboratory animals example, in Chinese herbal medicine C. rotundus Artichoke in the late 1990s has shown that artichoke has is used as a liver tonic, to counter indigestion and a powerful positive effect on the liver. Artichoke to promote menstruation. C. stolonifera, native to Description Perennial herb growing to 5 ft extracts, and cynaroside in particular, appear to tropical regions of Asia and Australia, is thought (1.5 m). Has large, thistle-like leaves, grey-green reduce cholesterol synthesis in the liver, while leaf to ease stomach pain and act as a heart stimulant. above and woolly white beneath, and very large extracts are strongly antioxidant and liver protective. Perhaps the most famous Cyperus species of all purple-green flower heads. is papyrus (C. papyrus). This plant provided fiber Artichoke flower heads are nourishing and beneficial for the for the first writing paper, invented by the ancient liver and digestion. Egyptians. Papyrus was also chewed like sugar cane, and used medicinally in eye compresses and to bandage wounds. Cypripedium pubescens (Orchidaceae) Lady’s Slipper, American Valerian Description Perennial orchid with several stems sheathed by broad lance-shaped leaves. Has beautiful, complex golden-yellow and purple flowers in late summer. Habitat & Cultivation This herb is native to eastern North America. Its natural habitat is woods and pastures, but due to overharvesting, it is rarely found in the wild. It is cultivated to a limited degree. www.ebook3000.com

Cytisus sCoparius Part Used Rootstock. History & Folklore Mezereon was formerly Constituents Lady’s slipper is poorly other medicinal plants well used in northern Europe, both internally as researched, but it is known to contain a volatile oil, a purgative and externally as an ointment for resins, glucosides, and tannins. cancerous sores and skin ulcers. The Swedish History & Folklore Lady’s slipper was held in naturalist Carolus Linnaeus (1707–1778) recorded high regard by Native Americans, who used it as a that the bark was applied to the bites of poisonous sedative and antispasmodic. It was commonly taken reptiles and rabid dogs. People have reportedly to ease menstrual and labor pains, and to counter died simply from eating birds that have eaten the insomnia and nervous conditions. The Cherokee highly poisonous berries. used one variety to treat worms in children. In the Medicinal Actions & Uses Today, mezereon Anglo-American Physiomedicalist tradition, lady’s is considered too poisonous to be ingested. slipper had many uses. Swinburne Clymer (in Nature’s Mezereon is used occasionally as an external Healing Agents, 1905) considered the plant “of special counterirritant and is effective on rheumatic value in reflex functional disorders, or chorea, Broom, taken under professional guidance, helps to joints, increasing blood flow to the affected area. regulate an overly rapid heartbeat. RCautions Under no circumstances should hysteria, nervous headache, insomnia, low fevers, mezereon be taken internally. It should only be nervous unrest, hypochondria, and nervous used externally under professional supervision, depression accompanying stomach disorders.” and never on open wounds. Medicinal Actions & Uses Due to its scarcity and cost, lady’s slipper is now rarely used. A sedative and relaxing herb, it treats anxiety, stress-related Myddfai recommend broom as a means to treat disorders such as palpitations, headaches, muscular suppressed urine: “seek broom seed, and grind tension, panic attacks, and neurotic conditions into fine powder, mix with drink and let it be generally. Like valerian (Valeriana officinalis, p. 148), drank. Do this till you are quite well.” Broom tops lady’s slipper is an effective tranquilizer. It reduces have been pickled and used as a condiment similar emotional tension and often calms the mind to capers (Capparis spinosa, p. 182). sufficiently to allow sleep. Indeed, its restorative Medicinal Actions & Uses Broom is used effect appears to be more positive than that mainly as a remedy for an irregular, fast heartbeat. of valerian. The plant acts on the electrical conductivity of the Caution In view of its rarity, lady’s slipper should heart, slowing and regulating the transmission no longer be used medicinally. of the impulses. Broom is also strongly diuretic, stimulating urine production and thus countering Cytisus scoparius syn. sarothamnus fluid retention. Since broom causes the muscles of scoparius (Fabaceae) the uterus to contract, it has been used to prevent Broom blood loss after childbirth. QCautions Take broom internally only under professional supervision. Do not take during Description Tall deciduous shrub growing pregnancy, or if suffering from high blood pressure. to 61⁄2 ft (2 m). Has narrow ridged stems, small The plant is subject to legal restrictions in some countries. trefoil leaves, and bright yellow flowers in leafy terminal spikes. Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe, Daphne mezereum Mezereon was once broom is commonly found on heaths and verges, (Thymelaeaceae) used as a remedy and in open woodland. It is naturalized in many Mezereon for rheumatic joints. temperate regions, including in the U.S. The flowering tops are picked from spring to autumn. Parts Used Flowering tops. Description Hardy deciduous shrub growing Datura stramonium (Solanaceae) Constituents Broom contains quinolizidine to 4 ft (1.2 m). Has oval to lance-shaped leaves, alkaloids (particularly sparteine and lupanine), clusters of red or pink flowers, and small Thornapple red berries. phenethylamines (including tyramine), isoflavones (such as genistein), flavonoids, a volatile oil, caffeic Habitat & Cultivation Mezereon is found in Description Robust annual growing to 3 ft and p-coumaric acids, tannins, and pigments. Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, in damp (1 m). Has lobed oval leaves, long white or violet Sparteine reduces the heart rate and the mountain woodlands. It is cultivated as a garden trumpet-shaped flowers, and spiny fruit capsules. isoflavones are estrogenic. plant. The root and bark are gathered in autumn. Habitat & Cultivation Thornapple grows in History & Folklore Both the common and Parts Used Root, root bark, bark. the Americas, Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It species names of this plant indicate its usefulness Constituents Mezereon contains diterpenes is cultivated for medicinal use in Hungary, France, as a sweeper (“scopa” means “broom” in Latin). (including daphnetoxin and mezerein), mucilage, and Germany. The leaves and flowering tops are Broom’s medicinal value is not mentioned in and tannins. Though highly toxic, daphnetoxin and harvested in summer, and the seeds in early classical writings, but it does appear in medieval mezerein have antileukemic properties and have autumn when the capsules burst. 200 herbals. The 12th-century Welsh Physicians of been used to treat cancer. Parts Used Leaves, flowering tops, seeds.

Dianthus superbus Thornapple seeds and Parts Used Seeds, root, leaves. Medicinal Actions & Uses Desmodium is other medicinal plants leaves ease asthma, but are Constituents Wild carrot seeds contain chiefly a remedy for asthma and has been used as hallucinogenic in large doses. flavonoids, and a volatile oil including asarone, an antiasthmatic in Ghanaian hospitals. In France, carotol, pinene, and limonene. Cultivated carrot the herb is taken for liver disorders including viral Seeds root contains sugars, pectin, carotene, vitamins, hepatitis—both A and B—apparently having most minerals, and asparagine. Carrot leaves contain effect during the early stages. Desmodium may Constituents Thornapple contains 0.2–0.45% significant amounts of porphyrins, which stimulate also be used to relieve headache, backache, and 201 tropane alkaloids (especially hyoscyamine and the pituitary gland and lead to the release of muscle and joint pain—a decoction being taken hyoscine), flavonoids, steroidal lactones, increased levels of sex hormones. internally or applied as a lotion. withanolides, coumarins, and tannins. The tropane History & Folklore The origins of the familiar Research Ghanaian research has shown the herb alkaloids are similar to those found in deadly garden carrot are a mystery—it was cultivated as a to have antispasmodic and antiasthmatic activity. It nightshade (Atropa belladonna, p. 69), acting to nutritious and cleansing food at least as long ago as also appears to increase the resistance of liver cells reduce secretions and relax smooth muscle. ancient Greece and Rome. In the 1st century ce, the to inflammation, whether resulting from infection History & Folklore Thornapple has a long physician Dioscorides recommended the seeds to or toxicity. When taken in the early stages of history of medicinal use. If taken in sufficient doses, stimulate menstruation, to relieve urinary illness, it normalizes liver function. it causes hallucinations; the Delphic oracle in ancient retention, and to “wake up the genital virtue.” Caution In rare cases, desmodium can cause Greece and the Inca in South America may have The cultivated variety did not reach Britain until the nausea or diarrhea. used it as an aid to making prophecies. Though it is 16th century, when women used its beautiful, hallucinogenic, thornapple has traditionally been finely divided leaves to adorn their hair. Dianthus superbus used to treat insanity. Medicinal Actions & Uses This common (Caryophyllacaea) Medicinal Actions & Uses At low doses, vegetable is also a wonderfully cleansing medicine. thornapple is a common remedy for asthma, It supports the liver, and stimulates urine flow and Fringed Pink, whooping cough, muscle spasms, and the the removal of waste by the kidneys. The juice of symptoms of Parkinsonism. It relaxes the muscles organically grown carrots is a delicious drink and Qu Mai (Chinese) of the gastrointestinal, bronchial, and urinary tracts, a valuable detoxifier. Carrots are rich in carotene, and reduces digestive and mucous secretions. Like which is converted to vitamin A by the liver. The Description Upright perennial herb growing to deadly nightshade, thornapple may be applied raw root, grated or mashed, is a safe treatment for 32 in (80 cm) or more. Has narrow, lance-shaped externally to relieve rheumatic pains and neuralgia. threadworms, especially in children. Wild carrot leaves and large, delicate, fragrant pink or lilac flowers. Related Species D. metel and D. innoxia are both leaves are a good diuretic. They have been used to Habitat & Cultivation Fringed pink is native native to India. These plants are employed in treating counter cystitis and kidney stone formation, and to Europe and northern Asia (including China asthma, coughs, fevers, and skin conditions. to diminish stones that have already formed. The and Japan) growing at altitudes of up to 7,900 ft RQCautions Take only under professional seeds are also diuretic. They stimulate menstruation (2,400 m). It grows in clumps on hillsides and supervision. Since it is toxic at more than small and have been used in folk medicine as a treatment crevices, and is cultivated from seed in eastern doses, thornapple is subject to legal restrictions for hangovers. Both leaves and seeds relieve China. It is only harvested when in flower. in most countries. flatulence and settle the digestion. Parts Used Aerial parts. Research In a study published in 1995, a carrot Constituents Fringed pink contains saponins, Daucus carota (Apiaceae) extract was shown to protect the liver from toxicity. dianthins, tannins and flavonoids. Cautions Do not take carrot seeds during History & Folklore Fringed pink is first Carrot pregancy. Use only organic carrot juice since mentioned in the Chinese herbal known as the the root concentrates artificial fertilizers Divine Husbandman’s Classic (Shen’nong Bencaojing), Description Annual (cultivated varieties) or and insecticides. which was written in the 1st century ce. biennial (wild). Has erect stem, which grows to a Medicinal Actions & Uses Although fringed height of 3 ft (1 m), with feathery leaves, small Desmodium adscendens (Fabaceae) pink is common in Europe, there is little indication white flowers, and flat green seeds. Cultivated that people there have used it as anything other subspecies have fleshy orange taproots. Desmodium than a vegetable (the young leaves are best boiled Habitat & Cultivation Wild carrot is native or steamed). In Mongolia, it is used to promote to Europe, although cultivated subspecies are now Description Perennial, much-branched herb, contractions and childbirth, and is considered a grown around the world. The root is harvested in growing to 20 in (50 cm). Desmodium has light diuretic, hemostatic, and anti-inflammatory. In late summer, and the seeds are gathered in late purple flowers, and the leaves each have three Chinese medicine it is widely used for “damp-heat” summer or early autumn. small oval leaflets. conditions, and prescribed for kidney stones and Habitat & Cultivation A native of West urinary tract infections. Africa, including Sierra Leone, northern Liberia and Research Research, mostly conducted in Ghana. The aerial parts are harvested as required Korea and China, indicates that fringed pink has or after flowering. marked anti-inflammatory activity and possible Parts Used Leaves and stems. cancer-fighting properties. Constituents Contains indole alkaloids. Related Species The gillyflower (D. caryophyllus), History & Folklore Desmodium has long of Mediterranean origin, has similar constituents been used in West African herbal medicine as a and is traditionally prescribed in European herbal treatment for asthma, and also for jaundice. medicine for coronary and nervous disorders. www.ebook3000.com

Dictamnus albus Dictamnus albus (Rutaceae) Digitalis lutea (Scrophulariaceae) rapidly strengthens the heartbeat, but is excreted Dittany, Yellow Foxglove very slowly. Digoxin is therefore preferred as a OTHER MEDICINAL pLANTs long-term medication. Burning Bush Description Erect perennial growing to 3 ft History & Folklore In medical history, foxglove (1 m). Has narrow, lance-shaped leaves, and long is best known as the discovery of William Withering, Description Strongly aromatic, bushy, and hairy perennial growing to 32 in (80 cm). Has compound spikes of yellow, bell-shaped flowers. an 18th-century English country doctor. Curious leaves and spikes of 5-petaled white or pink flowers Habitat & Cultivation Native to western streaked with purple. and central Europe, this herb grows in woodland about the formula of a local herbalist, he explored Habitat & Cultivation This herb grows in southern and central Europe and northern Asia, areas, on roadsides, and in mountainous regions. It the plant’s potential medical uses. His work led to preferring warm, wooded areas. The flowering tops are gathered in late summer, the root is cultivated for medicinal use in Russia. The leaves the production of a life-saving medicine. generally in autumn. Medicinal Actions & Uses Foxglove has a Parts Used Root, flowering tops. are harvested in the second summer of growth. profound tonic effect on a diseased heart. Heart Parts Used Leaves. Constituents Yellow foxglove contains disease worsens when the heart’s ability to maintain cardiac glycosides (including the cardenolides normal circulation decreases. Foxglove’s cardiac alpha-acetyldigitoxin, acetyldigitoxin, and glycosides enable the heart to beat more strongly, lanatoside). All act to strengthen the beating slowly, and regularly, without requiring more oxygen. of a weakened heart. History & Folklore Unlike the closely At the same time, it stimulates urine production, related common foxglove (D. purpurea, which lowers the volume of blood, and thus lessens following entry), yellow foxglove does not the load on the heart. appear to have played a significant role in Related Species Woolly foxglove (D. lanata) is today the main source of cardiac glycosides. European herbal medicine. RQCautions Medicinal Actions & Uses Yellow foxglove Potentially fatal in is little employed in herbal medicine, but in fact overdose. Use only it is a less toxic alternative to purple foxglove and under professional woolly foxglove (D. lanata). It has similar medicinal supervision. This actions but its alkaloids are more readily metabolized plant is subject to legal restrictions. and flushed out by the body. Like other foxgloves, this plant supports a weakened or failing heart, increasing the strength of contraction, slowing and steadying the heart rate, and lowering blood pressure by strongly stimulating the production Dittany flowers were formerly used to make a preparation of urine, which reduces overall blood volume. that was sniffed up the nose as a treatment for head colds. Related Species Common foxglove (following entry). Constituents Dittany’s potent volatile oil RQCautions Excessive doses of yellow contains estragol and anethole, and a toxic foxglove can prove fatal. Use only under alkaloid, dictamnin. professional supervision. This plant is subject History & Folklore Dittany exudes such large to legal restrictions in some countries. amounts of volatile oil that in hot, dry conditions, a match held close will cause the whole plant to burst Digitalis purpurea into flames. The plant has been used to flavor (Scrophulariaceae) liqueurs and has been brewed as a tea in parts of Siberia. In European folk medicine, dittany was Common Foxglove,considered an antidote to poison, pestilence, and the bites of all types of venomous animals. Purple Foxglove Medicinal Actions & Uses Very rarely used Description Perennial growing to 5 ft (1.5 m). by herbalists today, dittany has an action similar to that of rue (Ruta graveolens, p. 265), in that Has a single erect stem, broad lance-shaped leaves, it strongly stimulates the muscles of the uterus, and bell-shaped, purple-pink or white flowers in inducing menstruation and sometimes causing long spikes. abortion. By contrast, its effect on the Habitat & Cultivation This herb is native to gastrointestinal tract is antispasmodic. Dittany western Europe. Though it is also cultivated, the relaxes the gut and acts as a mild tonic for the wild plant is considered superior. The leaves are stomach. The plant has also been used as a picked in summer. Common foxglove Parts Used Leaves. enables the heart treatment for nervous conditions. Constituents Foxglove contains cardiac glycosides RQCautions This herb is toxic. Take only (including digoxin, digitoxin, and lanatosides), to beat more under professional supervision. Do not take evenly and is an 202 during pregnancy. anthraquinones, flavonoids, and saponins. Digitoxin invaluable remedy for heart disease.

Echium vulgarE Dipsacus fullonum (Dipsacaceae) Constituents Ammoniacum contains a resin Sundew was once considered a refreshing herb because OTHER MEDICINAL pLANTs (60–70%), gum, volatile oil (including ferulene and it maintained its “dew” even in full sun. Teasel linalyl acetate), free salicylic acid, and coumarins. 203 History & Folklore Ammoniacum’s medicinal Habitat & Cultivation Sundew grows in Description Perennial with a spiny ridged stem value has been appreciated since ancient times, and Europe, Asia, and North America, and is found growing to 61⁄2 ft (2 m), lance-shaped leaves, and is mentioned by Hippocrates (460–377 bce). The in marshy ground at altitudes up to 5,900 ft lilac-colored flowers blooming from hooked heads. herb’s common name reputedly derives from (1,800 m). Formerly it was picked while in flower Habitat & Cultivation Common throughout the Temple of Jupiter Ammon in Libya, in an area in summer. As it is now rare, it should not be Europe and western Asia, teasel thrives on open where it was commonly collected. gathered from the wild. areas, roadsides, and banks. It is cultivated only on a Medicinal Actions & Uses Used in both Parts Used Aerial parts. small scale. The root is unearthed in late summer. Western and Indian medicine, ammoniacum is still Constituents Sundew contains naphthaquinones, Part Used Root. listed in the British Pharmacopoeia as an antispasmodic enzymes, flavonoids, and volatile oil. The Constituents Teasel contains inulin, bitter and as an expectorant that stimulates the coughing naphthaquinones are antimicrobial, antispasmodic, substances, and a scabioside. up of thick mucus. It is a specific treatment for and also cough-suppressing. History & Folklore Traditionally, the root chronic bronchitis, asthma, and persistent coughs. History & Folklore In the 16th and 17th was used to treat conditions such as warts, fistulas Ammoniacum is also occasionally used to induce centuries, sundew was thought to be a remedy (abnormal passages opening through the skin), and sweating or menstruation. for melancholy. In his Irish Herbal (1735), K’Eogh cancerous sores. The water that collects in the leaf Other Species Ammoniacum is medicinally advised using sundew to “eat away rotten sores.” was called “Venus’s bath” by early herbalists, and was similar to asafoetida (Ferula assa-foetida, p. 210) Medicinal Actions & Uses Sundew is of thought to be very beneficial for the eyes. and galbanum (Ferula gummosa, p. 211). greatest value in the treatment of spasmodic chest Medicinal Actions & Uses Teasel root is conditions such as whooping cough, bronchial little used medicinally today, and its therapeutic Dorstenia contrajerva (Urticaceae) asthma, and asthma. In relaxing the muscles of the applications are disputed. It is thought to have respiratory tract, the plant eases breathing, relieves diuretic, sweat-inducing, and stomach-soothing Contrayerva wheezing, and lessens the spasms of whooping properties, cleansing the system and improving cough. Commonly mixed with thyme in a syrup, digestion. Due to its apparent astringency, teasel is Description Stemless perennial herb growing sundew is a helpful remedy for coughs in children. considered helpful in diarrhea. It is also thought to to 1 ft (30 cm). Has palm-shaped leaves and long- The herb is also prescribed for gastric problems. increase appetite, to tone the stomach, and to act on stalked greenish flowers. the liver, helping with jaundice and gallbladder Habitat & Cultivation Native to Central Echium vulgare (Boraginaceae) problems. A new application of teasel, so far and South America and the Caribbean islands, unsubstantiated, is in the treatment of Lyme disease. contrayerva is generally gathered from the wild. Viper’s Bugloss Part Used Rhizome. Teasel was traditionally used to treat warts and fistulas. History & Folklore Contrayerva means Description Abundantly hairy perennial growing “antidote” in Spanish, indicating its traditional use up to 3 ft (1 m). Has narrow prickly leaves and pink Dorema ammoniacum (Apiaceae) in the treatment of poisoning and venomous bites. to violet clusters of flowers in dense spikes. The herb was employed in Mayan and Aztec Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe, Ammoniacum medicine for a variety of purposes, including as viper’s bugloss is commonly found on uncultivated a poultice to draw pus. land, by roadsides, and in low-lying and coastal Description Very large perennial herb growing Medicinal Actions & Uses Contrayerva regions. The flowering tops are gathered in to a height of 10 ft (3 m), with a stout stem, rhizome is considered aromatic, stimulant, and late summer. compound leaves, and umbels of white flowers. sweat-inducing. Occasionally used in the early Parts Used Flowering tops. Habitat & Cultivation Ammoniacum is native stages of serious fevers such as typhoid, it is also Constituents Viper’s bugloss contains to central Asia, Iran, and northern Russia. When given for gastrointestinal problems such as pyrrolizidine alkaloids, allantoin, alkannins, and pierced, the stem exudes a milky gum, which is diarrhea and dysentery. There is no scientific mucilage. In isolation, pyrrolizidine alkaloids are pressed into blocks and then ground into a powder. substantiation of its reputation as an antidote. toxic to the liver. The alkannins are antimicrobial Part Used Oleo-gum-resin. Related Species D. convexa, native to Zaire, is and allantoin helps wounds to heal. used as a wound healer; D. klainei is used in tropical Africa as a gargle. Drosera rotundifolia (Droseraceae) Sundew Description Evergreen, insectivorous perennial growing to 6 in (15 cm). Has small white flowers. The hinged, spoon-shaped leaves edged with spines secrete a sticky fluid (“sundew”), which traps insects. They are digested when the leaf closes. www.ebook3000.com

Eclipta prostrata other medicinal plants History & Folklore As its name suggests, Eclipta prostrata syn. E. alba Embelia ribes (Myrsinaceae) viper’s bugloss was once considered a preventative (Asteraceae) and remedy for viper bite. In his 1656 The Art of Embelia Simpling, herbalist William Coles described the Trailing Eclipta plant: “its stalks all to be speckled like a snake or Description Climber with short, elliptical leaves, viper, and is a most singular remedy against poison Description Multi-branched annual growing white or white-green flowers, and round red or and the sting of scorpions.” Four years earlier, the to 2 ft (60 cm). Has lance-shaped leaves and black fruits. English herbalist Nicholas Culpeper had praised its Habitat & Cultivation Native to India and action against “the biting of vipers.” white flowers. Southeast Asia, embelia grows in hilly regions. Medicinal Actions & Uses In many respects, Habitat & Cultivation Trailing eclipta is The fruit is harvested when ripe. viper’s bugloss is similar to borage (Borago officinalis, native to Africa, Asia, and Australia. It is now found Part Used Fruit. p. 179), in that both herbs have a sweat-inducing Constituents Embelia contains naphthaquinones, and diuretic effect if taken internally. Viper’s bugloss throughout the tropics, being particularly common including embelin. Embelin stimulates the production has also been taken to treat chest conditions, as its of estrogen and progesterone, and it may have a mucilage soothes dry coughs and encourages in India, China, and Queensland and New South contraceptive effect. expectoration. The significant mucilage content in Medicinal Actions & Uses Embelia has viper’s bugloss has also proved helpful in treating Wales in Australia. It is harvested in early autumn. been used in Asia as a home remedy for expelling skin conditions. Prepared in a poultice or plaster, Parts Used Aerial parts. worms. The herb is also diuretic and relieves it is an effective balm for boils and carbuncles. In Constituents Trailing eclipta contains flatulence, and is used for indigestion, colic, recent times, this herb has fallen out of use, due triterpenoid saponins, including ecliptine and constipation, and debility. partly to lack of interest in its medicinal potential, QCautions Use only under professional and partly to its pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which in alpha-terthienylmethanol, isoflavonoids, supervision. Do not take during pregnancy. isolation are toxic. Viper’s bugloss may be safely used externally on unbroken skin. and phytosterols. Emblica officinalis RCaution Do not take internally. (Euphorbiaceae) Indian Gooseberry Description Deciduous tree with feathery leaves, pale green flowers, and round pale green or yellow fruit. Also known as amla. Trailing eclipta is taken in India and China to stop premature Habitat & Cultivation Indian gooseberry graying of the hair. grows in China, India, and Southeast Asia and is widely cultivated for its fruit. History & Folklore Trailing eclipta is first Part Used Fruit. Constituents Indian gooseberry contains mentioned in herbal literature in the Chinese Tang Materia Medica of 659 ce. The herb contains a tannins, polyphenols, flavonoids, a fixed oil, and black pigment that has been used to color the hair a volatile oil. in India, and mothers wash babies’ heads in a History & Folklore The Indian gooseberry decoction of the leaves to encourage hair growth. features in a 7th-century Ayurvedic medical text. It is also used as an ink for tattooing. The leaves The sage Muni Chyawan reputedly restored his are also eaten as a vegetable. vitality with this fruit. Medicinal Actions & Uses Trailing eclipta has Medicinal Actions & Uses The astringent remarkably similar uses in Ayurvedic and Chinese Indian gooseberry is given to allay the effects of herbal medicine. In both of these traditions, a aging and to restore the organs. In Ayurvedic decoction is used to invigorate the liver, to prevent medicine, the fruit juice is given to strengthen premature graying of the hair, and to staunch the pancreas of diabetics. It is one of the three bleeding, especially from the uterus. In the Chinese herbs in the classic Ayurvedic herbal formula tradition, the herb is considered a yin tonic; known as “Triphala.” in Ayurvedic medicine it is thought to prevent Research Recent research suggests that Indian aging. In the Caribbean, the juice is sometimes gooseberry might have a remarkably wide range taken for asthma and bronchitis. Trailing eclipta of potential medicinal benefits. A study in Kerala, is also used there as a treatment for enlarged India, showed that it may have protective activity glands, as well as for dizziness, vertigo, and against liver cancer. Other studies indicate blurred vision. potential anti-inflammatory and fever-inhibiting Research Several laboratory experiments effects, and a cholesterol-lowering action. Viper’s bugloss makes a have shown that eclipta regulates enzyme levels A study undertaken in Bombay concluded that soothing poultice for treating within the liver and exerts a protective activity the fruit might prove useful in the treatment of 204 boils and carbuncles. on it. acute pancreatitis.

Ervatamia coronaria Entada phaseoloides (Fabaceae) tied to the tails of livestock to help them ward off Cautions Horsetail breaks down vitamin B1 other medicinal plants flies. It was long considered a wound-healing herb. (thiamine) and should generally be taken long Matchbox Bean The English herbalist John Gerard, writing in 1597, term only in tandem with a B vitamin supplement. recounted: “Dioscorides saith, that the horse-taile Description Woody vine with compound being stamped and laid to, doth perfectly cure Eriodictyon californicum leaves and clusters of pea-type flowers. Huge, wounds, yea although the sinues be cut in sunder, as (Hydrophyllaceae) flat brown seed pods, containing black glossy Galen addeth.” seeds, grow to 5 ft (1.5 m) in length, making Medicinal Actions & Uses As its traditional Yerba Santa them the largest-growing legumes in the world. usage indicates, horsetail is an excellent clotting Habitat & Cultivation Matchbox bean is agent. It staunches wounds, stops nosebleeds, and Description Sticky evergreen shrub growing native to Australia and tropical regions of Asia reduces the coughing up of blood. In addition, to 8 ft (2.5 m). Its narrow lance-shaped leaves are and Africa. The seeds are collected when the horsetail has an astringent effect on the shiny green on the upper side and hairy white pods are ripe. genitourinary system, proving especially valuable underneath. Trumpet-shaped white or blue Parts Used Seeds. where there is bleeding within the urinary tract, flowers grow in clusters. Constituents Matchbox bean contains and in cases of cystitis, urethritis, and prostate Habitat & Cultivation Native to California significant amounts of saponins. disease. Horsetail helps to speed the repair of and Oregon in the U.S., and northern Mexico, History & Folklore The young leaves and damaged connective tissue, improving its strength yerba santa flourishes on dry mountain slopes. roasted bean are eaten as vegetables, whereas and elasticity. The herb is also prescribed to treat It grows at altitudes of up to 3,900 ft (1,200 m). fiber from the stems is made into nets, ropes, and problems related to rheumatic and arthritic Parts Used Leaves. sails. Due to the plant’s high saponin content, it is problems, for chest ailments (such as emphysema), Constituents Yerba santa contains a volatile used as a shampoo. for chronic swelling of the legs, and for various oil, flavonoids (including eriodictyol), and resin. Medicinal Actions & Uses Australian other conditions. A decoction of the herb’s aerial History & Folklore The name yerba santa Aborigines use the seeds to treat female parts added to a bath benefits slow-healing sprains (holy weed) was given to this plant by Spanish sterility and indigestion, and as a painkiller. and fractures, as well as colonists who learned of its medicinal virtues In the Philippines, juice made from the bark certain irritable skin from Native Americans. Traditionally, the leaves is used to treat conjunctivitis. conditions such were infused and taken for coughs, colds, sore as eczema. throats, mucus, and asthma. The infusion was Equisetum arvense (Equisetaceae) also used as a wash to ease fever, and the mashed Dried aerial parts leaves were applied as a poultice to treat sores. Horsetail, Medicinal Actions & Uses An aromatic herb with a pleasant sweet taste, yerba santa is Bottlebrush a valuable expectorant that can be used to treat tracheitis, bronchitis, and asthma, and similar Description Perennial plant with a yellowish respiratory tract ailments. fruiting stem growing to 14 in (35 cm), followed by a sterile segmented and toothed stem growing Horsetail staunches bleeding, Ervatamia coronaria (Apocynaceae) 205 to 2 ft (60 cm). The latter has whorls of needle- and is astringent and diuretic. shaped leaves. Grape Jasmine, Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe, North Africa, northern Asia, and the East Indian Rosebay Americas, horsetail is a common plant, preferring damp soil. The sterile stems are harvested in Description Perennial shrub growing to 61⁄2 ft summer and carefully dried, all discolored parts (2 m). Has dark green, elliptical leaves and being discarded. Parts Used Aerial parts. strongly perfumed white flowers. Constituents Horsetail contains large amounts Habitat & Cultivation Grape jasmine is of silicic acid and silicates (about 15%), flavonoids, grown in India, Malaysia, and Indonesia. phenolic acids, alkaloids (including nicotine), and Parts Used Root, leaves, latex. sterols. Much of the therapeutic effectiveness of Constituents Grape jasmine contains alkaloids this herb is due to its high silica content, a large and resins. proportion of which is soluble and can be Medicinal Actions & Uses In Ayurvedic absorbed. Silica supports the regeneration medicine, the root and the latex are used to of connective tissue. History & Folklore Horsetail is a primitive expel worms. The root is also chewed to relieve plant that is descended from huge trees that lived during the Palaeozoic era (600–375 million toothache. The latex is used to treat cataracts years ago). The herb’s high silica content makes it abrasive, and in the past it was used to polish metal (especially in the early stages), eye inflammations, and wood. Its common name, bottlebrush, indicates another of its uses. Horsetail was also and poor eyesight. The leaf juice makes a soothing treatment for skin irritations and wounds. QCaution Use grape jasmine only under professional supervision. www.ebook3000.com

Eryngium maritimum other medicinal plants Eryngium maritimum (Apiaceae) Erythraea centaurium Erythronium americanum (Gentianaceae) (Liliaceae) Sea Holly, Centaury Trout Lily Eryngo Description Biennial herb growing to 91⁄2 in Description Perennial growing to 10 in (25 cm) Description Evergreen perennial growing (24 cm) with a basal rosette of leaves and from a small, bulblike corm. Has two oblong leaves to 2 ft (60 cm). Has spiny silver leaves, and tiny flowers in summer. 5-petaled pink flowers in clusters. mottled with purple and a large, bright yellow Habitat Sea holly is found in coastal areas Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe of Europe, preferring sandy soils. The root is and southwestern Asia, centaury is now found in lily flower. unearthed in autumn. Habitat & Cultivation Native to North Part Used Root. temperate regions throughout the world. The plant America, trout lily is found mainly in the east, Constituents Sea holly contains saponins, coumarins, flavonoids, and plant acids. is harvested in summer when just about to flower. from New Brunswick to Florida. It prefers damp Parts used Aerial parts. Constituents Centaury contains many bitter woodland and open ground. The leaves are constituents, including secoiridoids, also found in gathered in summer. gentian (Gentiana lutea, p. 99). Parts Used Leaves. History & Folklore In classical myth, the Constituents Very little is known about centaur Chiron used this herb to treat a poisoned the constituents of this plant. It contains alpha- arrow wound. methylenebutyrolactone. Medicinal Actions & Uses One of the most History & Folklore Trout lily was little used useful bitter herbs, centaury has a relatively mild by Native Americans. European settlers considered bitter action, stimulating appetite as well as digestive its medicinal properties to be similar to those of secretions from the salivary glands, stomach, meadow saffron (Colchicum autumnale, p. 193). intestines, and gallbladder. With increased Trout lily was listed in the Pharmacopoeia of the digestive juices, food is processed and United States from 1820 to 1863 as a treatment broken down more effectively, leading for gout. Medicinal Actions & Uses An infusion of to better absorption of nutrients. For the leaves is taken for skin problems such as ulcers best results, centaury should be taken and tumors, and for enlarged glands. The leaves over several weeks. The preparation (or the whole plant) may also be applied as a should be slowly sipped so that the poultice for skin conditions. The fresh leaves are components (detectable at a dilution of strongly emetic. QCaution Take trout lily only under up to 1:3,500) can stimulate reflex activity professional supervision. throughout the upper digestive tract. Self-help Uses Weak digestion, p. 306; Gas & bloating, p. 306. Sea holly has distinctive silver Erythroxylum coca (Erythroxylaceae) leaves and is often seen in Erythrina variegata (Fabaceae) coastal areas of Europe. Coca Indian Coral Tree, History & Folklore In 17th-century England, Description Evergreen shrub growing to 10 ft (3 m). Has alternate oval leaves, small white sea holly root was candied and eaten as a Dadap (Hindi) sweetmeat. It was also consumed as a means of flowers, and small red berries that each contain preventing scurvy. In his Irish Herbal (1735), K’Eogh Description Deciduous tree growing to 59 ft a single seed. Habitat & Cultivation Native to Peru and states that the herb “provokes urination and (18 m). Has prickly stems, leaves with triangular Bolivia, coca grows in high-rainfall areas of the menstruation, encourages flatulence, and removes leaflets, and pea-like red flowers. eastern Andes to altitudes of 4,900 ft (1,500 m). obstructions of the liver, kidneys, and bladder.” In Habitat & Cultivation Indian coral tree It is mostly cultivated for the illegal market. The K’Eogh’s time, sea holly was a popular medicinal grows in deciduous forests throughout much leaves are picked when they begin to curl. Parts Used Leaves. herb, and was considered helpful in the treatment of the Indian subcontinent. Constituents Coca contains cocaine and various other alkaloids, a volatile oil, flavonoids, of a wide array of neurological conditions, including Parts Used Bark, leaves. Constituents Indian coral tree contains vitamins A and B2, and minerals. The plant’s paralysis and convulsions. stimulant and anesthetic action is due largely Medicinal Actions & Uses In contemporary alkaloids, isoflavonoids, triterpenoids, and lectins. to cocaine. History & Folklore The indigenous peoples European herbal medicine, sea holly is used as a The alkaloids are anti-inflammatory and analgesic, of the Andes carry pouches containing coca leaves diuretic. It is prescribed as a treatment for cystitis and the isoflavonoids display antibacterial activity. and lime, which they chew throughout the day. and urethritis, and taken as a means to alleviate Medicinal Actions & Uses In Ayurvedic Early European travelers noted that individuals kidney stones. It is unlikely that the herb actually medicine, Indian coral tree is used to treat chewing coca never had tooth or gum problems, dissolves established stones, but it probably helps inflammatory conditions, period pain, and retard their formation. Sea holly is also used problems related to eating and digestion, including to treat enlargement or inflammation of the anorexia, flatulence, colic, and worms. The bark is prostate gland, and may be of benefit in treating used to treat skin problems and fever. A paste 206 chest problems. made from the leaves is applied to heal wounds.

Eucommia ulmoidEs and local folk medicine traditionally considered the Research A French study confirmed the other medicinal plants plant a treatment for toothache. Coca leaf extract traditional usage of California poppy by showing is still used as a flavoring for cola drinks—but that extracts were sedative, reduced anxiety levels, cocaine has long been banned from the formulas. and were non-toxic. Medicinal Actions & Uses In Bolivia and Peru, coca leaves play an important part in the Eucalyptus smithii (Myrtaceae) culture and herbal medicine of the indigenous Aymara and Quechua peoples. High altitudes, Gully Gum cold, and an impoverished diet place great physical demands on the population. Coca leaves, chewed Description Aromatic evergreen tree growing with lime or ashes, release small amounts of the to 165 ft (50 m). active constituents, which act as a tonic and help Habitat & Cultivation Native to Australia, block the effects of cold, exhaustion, and poor eucalyptus now grows in temperate and subtropical nutrition. Coca leaves are also used in South zones across the globe. It prefers moist soil, and so American herbal medicine to treat nausea, is found in swamps, gullies, and at the foot of slopes. vomiting, and asthma, and have been used to Part Used Essential oil. speed convalescence. Cocaine extracted from Constituents The volatile oil contains about coca leaves is used legally in conventional medicine 70% eucalyptol (1, 8-cineole), as well as pinene, as a local anesthetic. It is also taken illegally as a limonene, alpha-terpineol, and linalool. While it is narcotic, stimulant drug. As an isolated chemical, similar to the oils of related species, this oil appears cocaine is extremely addictive. to be better tolerated by the skin. QCautions Take only under professional Medicinal Actions & Uses Eucalpytus smithii supervision. Coca is subject to legal restrictions oil is an antiseptic and decongestant, and is used in most countries. for inhalations as well as aromatherapy massages. See eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus, p. 96) for further details. Cautions Though less toxic than the oils of other eucalyptus species, E. smithii essential oil should be used with care. Follow the label instructions, or take on professional advice. California poppy contains a Eucommia ulmoides latex that has sedative, pain- (Eucommiaceae) killing, and antispasmodic properties. It is a gentle Eucommia Bark, remedy, suitable for children. Du Zhong (Chinese) Coca is cultivated in the Andes and chewed as a tonic to help History & Folklore Native American 207 counter the effects of cold. peoples were known to use the sap of California Description Deciduous tree growing to 65 ft poppy for its pain-killing properties, particularly (20 m). Has elliptical leaves, with male flowers in Eschscholzia californica for toothache. The leaves were also eaten as a (Papaveraceae) vegetable. Early settlers used California poppy loose clusters and solitary female flowers in the for sleep problems, especially in children, and for California Poppy whooping cough. It is California’s state flower. leaf axils. Medicinal Actions & Uses Though the Habitat & Cultivation Eucommia bark grows Description Annual or perennial growing to California poppy is a close relation of the opium in temperate zones in China. It is cultivated, but 2 ft (60 cm). California poppy has finely cut leaves poppy (Papaver somniferum, p. 244), it has a and bright orange, yellow, pink, or red flowers. significantly different effect on the central only in small amounts. Habitat & Cultivation California poppy nervous system. California poppy is not a Part Used Bark. is native to western North America. Widely narcotic. In fact, rather than disorienting the user, Constituents Eucommia bark contains gutta- cultivated as a garden plant, it prefers sandy soils. it actually tends to normalize psychological percha, alkaloids, flavonoids, iridoids and other Parts Used Aerial parts. function. California poppy’s gently antispasmodic, Constituents California poppy contains iso- sedative, and analgesic effects make it a valuable glycosides, and phenolic compounds. quinoline alkaloids (including protopine, crypto- herbal medicine for treating physical and History & Folklore The herb is mentioned pine, and chelidonine) and flavone glycosides. psychological problems in children. The herb in the Chinese herbal, the Divine Husbandman’s may prove beneficial in attempts to overcome nervous tension and anxiety, bedwetting, and Classic (Shen’nong Bencaojing), which was written difficulty in sleeping. in the 1st century ce. Medicinal Actions & Uses Eucommia bark is considered an excellent tonic for the liver and kidneys. Eucommia bark is said to “tonify the yang,” to improve the circulation, and also to prevent miscarriage in women who are weak or suffering from back pain. www.ebook3000.com

Euonymus atropurpurEus other medicinal plants Research Much interest has been aroused Eupatorium cannabinum Medicinal Actions & Uses Hemp agrimony by eucommia bark’s ability to reduce high blood (Asteraceae) has been employed chiefly as a detoxifying herb pressure, which it is thought to do by increasing Hemp Agrimony for fever, colds, flu, and other acute viral conditions. nitrous oxide levels within the arteries. In a clinical The root is laxative and diuretic, and the whole trial in China involving 119 people, 46% of those Description Perennial growing to a height of herb is considered to be tonic. Recently, hemp treated with the herb showed a significant blood 5 ft (1.5 m). Has a red stem, downy leaves, and pressure reduction. However, eucommia bark agrimony has found use as an immunostimulant, appears to have little effect in cases of severe dense bunches of pink to mauve florets. hypertension. Recent studies indicate that eucommia Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe, helping to maintain resistance to acute viral and bark is an antioxidant and may help to prevent the hemp agrimony is now also found in western Asia onset of type 2 diabetes. A small clinical trial in other infections. Japan published in 1996 concluded that an infusion and North Africa. It grows in damp woods, ditches, Related Species See also boneset of eucommia bark reduced the body’s exposure (E. perfoliatum, following entry) and gravel root to mutagen-forming compounds naturally present marshes, and in open areas, and is gathered when within the diet. (E. purpureum, subsequent entry). in flower in summer. QCaution In view of hemp agrimony’s Parts Used Aerial parts, root. pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, take only under Constituents Hemp agrimony contains a volatile oil (with alpha-terpinene, p-cymene, thymol and professional supervision. Euonymus atropurpureus an azulene), sesquiterpene lactones (especially Eupatorium perfoliatum (Celastraceae) eupatoriopicrin), flavonoids, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, (Asteraceae) and polysaccharides. P-cymene is antiviral, while Wahoo Bark eupatoriopicrin has anti-cancer properties and Boneset inhibits cellular growth. The polysaccharides Description Deciduous tree growing to stimulate the immune system. In isolation, the Description Erect perennial growing to 26 ft (8 m). Has smooth branches, serrated pyrrolizidine alkaloids are toxic to the liver. 5 ft (1.5 m). Has tapering lance-shaped leaves History & Folklore Hemp agrimony was and many white or purple florets. elliptical leaves, clusters of purple flowers, known to Avicenna (980–1037 ce) and other Habitat & Cultivation Native to eastern and 4-lobed scarlet fruit. practitioners of Arabian medicine in the early North America, boneset is found in meadows Habitat & Cultivation Native to eastern Middle Ages. and marshland. It is gathered when in flower North America, wahoo bark thrives in damp in summer. woods and close to water. The bark is Parts Used Aerial parts. gathered in autumn. Constituents Boneset contains sesquiterpene Parts Used Stem bark, root bark. lactones (including eupafolin), polysaccharides, Constituents Wahoo bark contains flavonoids, diterpenes, sterols, and volatile oil. The cardenolides (cardiac glycosides) similar sesquiterpene lactones and polysaccharides are to digitoxin, asparagine, sterols, and tannins. significant immunostimulants. History & Folklore The Sioux, Cree, and History & Folklore Native American people other Native American peoples used wahoo used boneset to make an infusion for treating bark in various ways, for example as an eye colds, fever, and arthritic and rheumatic pain. lotion, as a poultice for facial sores, and European settlers learned of the plant’s benefits, for gynecological conditions. Native and by the 18th and 19th centuries it was regarded Americans introduced the plant to early as a virtual cure-all. Boneset’s common name European settlers, and it became very derives from its ability to treat “break-bone fever.” popular in North America as well as in Commonly used to treat malaria, constituents Britain in the 19th century. within boneset are now known to have Medicinal Actions & Uses Wahoo antiprotozoal activity. bark is considered a gallbladder Medicinal Actions & Uses A hot infusion remedy with laxative and diuretic of boneset will bring relief to symptoms of the properties. It is prescribed for common cold. The plant stimulates resistance to biliousness and liver problems, as well as for viral and bacterial infections, and reduces fever by skin conditions such as eczema (which may encouraging sweating. Boneset also loosens phlegm result from poor liver and gallbladder function) and promotes its removal through coughing, and it and for constipation. In the past, it was often has a tonic and laxative effect. It has been taken for used in combination with herbs such as rheumatic illness, skin conditions, and worms. gentian (Gentiana lutea, p. 99) as a fever Related Species Wild horehound (E. remedy, especially if the liver was under teucrifolium) was used as a substitute for boneset. stress. Following the discovery that it E. occidentale was used by the Zuni of the south- contains cardiac glycosides, wahoo bark western U.S. to treat rheumatism. See also has been given for heart conditions. hemp agrimony (E. cannabinum, preceding entry) QCautions Wahoo bark is toxic. Use only Hemp agrimony was and gravel root (E. purpureum, following entry). under professional supervision. Do not take formerly taken as a spring tonic in Holland. Self-help Uses Allergic rhinitis with mucus, 208 during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. p. 300; Colds, flu & fevers, p. 311; High fever, p. 311.

E u p h r a s i a s p p. Eupatorium purpureum Euphorbia hirta syn. E. pilulifera Euphorbia pekinensis other medicinal plants (Asteraceae) (Euphorbiaceae) (Euphorbiaceae) 209 Gravel Root, Pill-bearing Spurge, Da Ji Joe Pye Weed Asthma Plant Description Erect annual or perennial plant with oblong leaves and dense clusters Description Erect perennial growing to 5 ft Description Erect annual or perennial plant of small flowers. (1.5 m). Has whorls of pointed oblong leaves and growing to 20 in (50 cm), with pointed oval leaves Habitat & Cultivation Native to China, clusters of purple-pink florets. and clusters of small flowers. da ji is cultivated mainly in the eastern and Habitat & Cultivation Gravel root is native Habitat & Cultivation Native to India and central provinces. The root is unearthed in to eastern North America. The root is unearthed Australia, pill-bearing spurge is now widespread early spring. in autumn. throughout the tropics. The aerial parts of the Part Used Root. Part Used Root. plant are gathered when it is in flower. Constituents Da ji contains euphorbon. Constituents Gravel root contains a volatile oil, Parts Used Aerial parts. Medicinal Actions & Uses Da ji is classified flavonoids, and resin. as a toxic herb in Chinese herbal medicine, and History & Folklore The plant’s alternative Pill-bearing spurge is recommended as a treatment therefore it is prescribed only for relatively serious name, Joe Pye weed, is in honor of the Native for asthma. illnesses. It is taken as a cathartic to purge excess American said to have used it to cure New fluid in conditions such as pleurisy and ascites Englanders of typhus. Native Americans used Constituents Pill-bearing spurge contains (excess fluid in the abdomen), and for the the herb as a diuretic and as a flavonoids, terpenoids, alkanes, phenolic acids, treatment of kidney problems, especially nephritis. remedy for genitourinary shikimic acid, and choline. The latter two Da ji is applied externally to inflamed sores to conditions. The root was constituents may be partly responsible for reduce swelling. listed in the Pharmacopoeia the antispasmodic action of this plant. Research Research in China indicates that da ji of the United States from History & Folklore As its name suggests, this is therapeutically useful in the treatment of ascites 1820 to 1842. plant was traditionally used in Asia to treat asthma. and nephritis; however, it produces significant Medicinal Actions & Uses A specific side effects. Gravel root is treatment for bronchial asthma, pill-bearing spurge Related Species E. kansui is similar to da ji especially helpful for relaxes the bronchial tubes and eases breathing. but has a stronger cathartic action. In Chinese urinary tract problems. Mildly sedative and expectorant, it is also taken for herbal medicine it is only given to people with bronchitis and other respiratory tract conditions. It is strong constitutions. Medicinal Actions & Uses As its common most often used along with other anti-asthmatic QCaution Da ji is a toxic plant. Take only under name indicates, gravel root is a valuable herb for herbs, notably gumplant (Grindelia camporum, professional supervision. urinary tract problems. It helps to prevent the p. 218) and lobelia (Lobelia inflata, p. 110). In the formation of kidney and bladder stones and may Anglo-American tradition, pill-bearing spurge is Euphrasia spp. (scrophulariaceae) diminish existing stones. Gravel root is also useful taken to treat intestinal amebiasis. for cystitis, urethritis, prostate enlargement (and Related Species The Cherokee used E. maculata Eyebright other forms of obstruction), and for rheumatism to treat sore nipples and skin disorders. Many and gout. The root is thought to help the latter other North American Euphorbia species were Description Creeping semi-parasitic annual two conditions by increasing the removal of waste used for constipation. A decoction of E. lancifolia, growing to 20 in (50 cm). Has tiny oval leaves and by the kidneys. native to the West Indies, is used to stimulate small scallop-edged white flowers with yellow spots Related Species E. maculatum, native to breast-milk production. E. atoto is used in Malaysia and a black center, somewhat resembling an eye. eastern North America, is used to treat kidney and and Indochina to induce a delayed period and as Habitat & Cultivation Common in Europe, urinary problems. See also E. cannabinum, p. 208, an abortifacient. Many species of Euphorbia are eyebright thrives in meadows and open grassland. and E. perfoliatum, preceding entry. used as arrow poisons. It is gathered in summer when in flower. QCaution Take pill-bearing spurge only under Parts Used Aerial parts. professional supervision. Constituents Eyebright contains iridoid glycosides (including aucubin), flavonoids, tannins, lignans, and phenolic acids. Aucubin has antibac- terial, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic activity. History & Folklore Eyebright’s use for eye problems was due in part to the Doctrine of Signatures, an ancient belief that the way that a plant looks—its “sign”—indicates the ailments for which it should be used as a medicine. Medicinal Actions & Uses Eyebright relieves inflammation and tightens mucous membranes and finds specific use in the treatment of conjunctivitis and blepharitis. Its ability to counter mucus means that it is often used for infectious www.ebook3000.com

EutErpE olEracEa other medicinal plants and allergic conditions affecting the eyes, middle Medicinal Actions & Uses Less a medicine during the Crusades (11th and 12th centuries), ear, sinuses, and nasal passages. Eyebright counters than a nourishing addition to the diet, acai supports or it was brought to Spain by the Arabs several liquid mucus, but it should be used guardedly for vitality and a healthy heart and circulation. Acai centuries earlier. Medicinal Actions & Uses Used for a wide dry and stuffy congestion, which tends to be made juice has much in common with blueberry and worse by the plant’s astringency. pomegranate (Punica granatum, p. 259) juices— range of circulatory problems, buckwheat is best Self-help Uses Allergic rhinitis with mucus, all helping to sustain good health. The Acai palm is taken as a tea or tablet, accompanied by vitamin C p. 300; Conjunctivitis, p. 310; Prevention of the main source of palm hearts, which are eaten or lemon juice (Citrus limon, p. 85) to aid absorption. nosebleeds, p. 310. worldwide as a vegetable. Buckwheat is used particularly to treat fragile capillaries (seen as small bruises with no apparent cause), but also helps strengthen varicose veins and Evodia rutaecarpa (Rutaceae) heal chilblains. Often combined with linden flowers (Tilia spp., p. 276), buckwheat is a specific treatment Evodia, for hemorrhage into the retina. Buckwheat is also commonly taken in combination with other herbs Wu Zhu Yu (Chinese) for high blood pressure. Description Deciduous tree growing to 33 ft Related Species Recent research has shown (10 m). Has compound leaves, clusters of white that the Chinese F. dibotrys and F. cymosum are flowers, and greenish-red fruit. immunostimulant. They are prescribed for Habitat & Cultivation Native to China, Tibet, and the eastern Himalayas, evodia is chronic bronchitis, inflamed gallbladder, and cultivated in China. The partially ripe fruit pulmonary abscesses. Cautions Interacts with blood-thinning is gathered in late summer. medication. Do not take as a medicine if taking Part Used Fruit. Constituents Evodia contains the alkaloids prescribed anticoagulants. evodine, evodiamine, and rutaecarpine. Self-help Uses High blood pressure & History & Folklore Evodia is listed in the arteriosclerosis, p. 301; Poor circulation & high blood pressure, p. 319. Divine Husbandman’s Classic (Shen’nong Bencaojing) Eyebright, as its of the 1st century ce. Feronia limonia (Rutaceae) name suggests, Medicinal Actions & Uses Evodia has a helps eye problems. marked warming effect on the body, helping to Wood Apple relieve headaches and a wide range of digestive Description A spiny tree growing to 30 ft (9 m), it has feathery leaves, red flowers, and problems. In Chinese herbal medicine, evodia is used mainly for abdominal pains, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, and a weak pulse. round whitish fruit the size of oranges. Euterpe oleracea (Arecaceae) Research Chinese studies indicate that Habitat & Cultivation Native to southern evodia is analgesic and reduces blood pressure. India, wood apple is cultivated in tropical Asia. Acai QCaution Use evodia only under Parts Used Fruit, leaves. professional supervision. Constituents The fruit contains fruit acids, Description A rainforest palm reaching 80 ft Fagopyrum esculentum vitamins, and minerals. The leaves contain tannins (25 m), with 4–8 slender trunks and pinnate leaves (Polygonaceae) and a volatile oil. Medicinal Actions & Uses Wood apple up to 10 ft (3 m) long. The berries (about the size Buckwheat fruit is used mainly to stimulate the digestive system. In India, the fruit forms part of a paste of a grape) hang down in large bunches. Description Annual growing to about 20 in applied to tone the breasts. The astringent leaves Habitat & Cultivation Found throughout (50 cm). Has arrow-shaped leaves and clusters of are used to treat indigestion, flatulence, diarrhea, much of Central America and northern South white or pink 5-petaled flowers. dysentery (particularly in children), and Habitat & Cultivation Buckwheat is native hemorrhoids. It is traditionally thought to act America, the acai palm is widely grown for its as a male contraceptive, although there is limited research to support this. berries and palm hearts. Parts Used Drupe (the “berries”), seed, root, palm heart. Constituents The berries contain high levels of polyphenols, especially anthocyanins to central and northern Asia, and is cultivated and proanthocyanidins (as found in other dark extensively in temperate regions, especially the Ferula assa-foetida (Apiaceae) purple berries, such as blueberry). They are U.S. It is harvested in summer. Asafoetida,History & Folklore Acai berries and their juice Constituents Buckwheat contains bioflavonoids, strong antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. Parts Used Leaves, flowers. are a nutritious part of many Brazilians’ diet. In Brazil especially rutin, which is strongly antioxidant. Rutin Devil’s Dungand Peru, the crushed seeds (which make up 80% of strengthens the inner lining of blood vessels. the berry) are used to treat fever. Traditionally, the History & Folklore Buckwheat’s French name, Description Perennial plant growing to about essence of the root is extracted to treat conditions blé Sarrasin, alludes to its ancient Middle Eastern 61⁄2 ft (2 m). Has a fleshy taproot, hollow stem, 210 such as hepatitis and enlarged prostate. origins. The grain was either introduced to Europe compound leaves, and many white flowers in umbels.

Ficus carica Habitat & Cultivation Native to Iran, Constituents Galbanum exudate contains hemorrhoids, warts, and aching joints. The fruit is other medicinal plants Afghanistan, and Pakistan, asafoetida produces a a volatile oil, resins, gums, as well as a laxative and the roots are chewed to prevent gum gum obtained in summer from 4-year-old plants. coumarin (umbelliferone). disease. The bark is used in Ayurvedic medicine 211 The stems are cut off and successive slices are History & Folklore Galbanum has been used for diabetes. made through the roots. The gum wells up and medicinally for centuries. Research In laboratory studies an extract of the is collected after it has hardened. Medicinal Actions & Uses Galbanum is a leaves was shown to counter diarrhea. Glycosides Part Used Oleo-gum-resin. digestive stimulant and antispasmodic, reducing in banyan have been shown to have an antidiabetic Constituents Asafoetida exudate contains flatulence, cramps, and colic. It is also activity, lowering blood-sugar levels. 6–17% volatile oil, as well as resin and gum. The expectorant. Applied as an ointment, the gum Related Species See fig (F. carica, following entry). volatile oil contains disulphides (about 58%), may help heal wounds. Caution The latex is toxic and should not be which have an expectorant action. The oil also Related Species See asafoetida (F. assa-foetida, taken internally. settles the digestion. Asafoetida resin contains preceding entry). sesquiterpenoid coumarins, including foetidin. Self-help Use Acidity & indigestion, p. 307. Ficus carica (Moraceae) History & Folklore In the 4th century bce, Charaka Samhita, a Hindu medical treatise, Ficus benghalensis (Moraceae) Fig proclaimed asafoetida the best remedy for clearing gas and bloating. The name devil’s Banyan Tree Description Deciduous tree growing to 13 ft dung notwithstanding, the plant is thought to (4 m). Has large leaves and fleshy receptacles that have been the most popular spice in ancient Description Tree growing to 65 ft (20 m) with ripen into purple-brown, pear-shaped fruit. Rome. Asafoetida is as persistent in aroma as oval leaves, fig-type fruit, and roots that grow into garlic (Allium sativum, p. 59), and is still used the ground from branches. Fig’s pulpy flesh is as a flavoring. Habitat & Cultivation Growing wild in India emollient and soothing Medicinal Actions & Uses In Middle Eastern and Pakistan, the banyan tree is also cultivated to inflamed skin. and Indian herbal medicine, asafoetida is used for across the Indian subcontinent. simple digestive problems such as gas, bloating, Parts Used Fruit, bark, leaves, latex, Habitat & Cultivation Native to western indigestion, and constipation. Asafoetida’s volatile aerial roots. Asia, fig now grows wild and is cultivated in many oil, like that of garlic, has components that leave Constituents Banyan tree contains temperate and subtropical regions. Fruit is the body via the respiratory system and aid the ketones, sterols, ficusin, and bergaptin. harvested in summer. coughing up of congested mucus. Asafoetida History & Folklore The banyan tree is Parts Used Fruit, latex. is taken (usually in tablet form) for bronchitis, sacred to Hindus and is frequently found in Constituents Figs contain around 50% fruit bronchial asthma, whooping cough, and other the proximity of Hindu temples. The god Shiva sugars (mainly glucose), flavonoids, vitamins, chest problems. Asafoetida also lowers blood is often shown sitting peacefully in the shade of and enzymes. pressure and thins the blood. The herb has a a banyan tree. The banyan tree is the national History & Folklore The fig leaf was used reputation for helping in neurotic states. tree of India. by Adam and Eve to hide their nakedness in the Related Species F. silphion was used in ancient Medicinal Actions & Uses The astringent Garden of Eden. There are many other references Rome as a contraceptive. It was overharvested and leaves and bark of the tree are employed to relieve to the plant in the Old Testament, mainly to the died out in about 300 ce. F. persica is used in the diarrhea and dysentery and to reduce bleeding. As sweetness of the fruit and to its use as a medicine. Middle East for rheumatic problems and backache. with other Ficus species, the latex is applied to Spartan athletes in Ancient Greece were said to The central Asian F. sumbul is used as a nerve tonic. eat figs in order to improve their performance. F. jaeschkeana has recently been investigated as a Banyan tree leaves are astringent and are used to tighten Medicinal Actions & Uses The fruit sugars potential contraceptive. See also F. gummosa mucous membranes. within the fig (especially the dried fruit) have a (following entry). pronounced but gentle laxative effect; syrup of figs Caution While safe in adults, asafoetida may be is still a remedy for mild constipation. The fruit’s harmful to young babies. Ferula gummosa syn. F. galbaniflua (Apiaceae) Galbanum Description Perennial with a smooth, hollow stem, finely toothed compound leaves, and umbels of small white flowers. Habitat & Cultivation Native to central Asia, galbanum produces a gum that is obtained when stems are cut off and successive slices are made through the roots. Gum wells to the surface and is collected after it has hardened. Part Used Oleo-gum-resin. www.ebook3000.com

Ficus religiosa emollient pulp helps relieve pain and inflammation, Foeniculum vulgare (Apiaceae) eyewash for sore eyes and conjunctivitis. The other medicinal plants and it has been used to treat tumors, swellings, and seeds have a longstanding reputation as an aid to weight loss and to longevity. Essential oil Fennelgum abscesses—the fruit often being roasted before application. Figs are also mildly expectorant from the sweet variety is used for its digestive and, when used with herbs such as elecampane Description Aromatic perennial growing to and relaxing properties. It also has estrogenic (Inula helenium, p. 107), are helpful in treating dry about 5 ft (1.5 m). Has dark green, feathery leaves, activity and may prove helpful in relieving and irritable coughs and bronchitis. The milky latex menopausal symptoms. from leaves and stems is reputed to be analgesic, umbels of yellow flowers, and small, ridged, oval- Cautions Fennel seeds are potentially toxic; do and has long been used to treat warts, insect bites, not exceed the recommended dose. Do not take and stings. shaped seeds. the essential oil internally. Related Species Research published in 1999 Habitat & Cultivation Native to the Self-help Uses Acidity & indigestion, p. 307; showed that an extract of leaves of F. racemosa, Mediterranean region, fennel is now cultivated in Morning sickness & nausea, p. 317; Stomach a native of northern India, had a marked spasm, p. 305; Gas & bloating, p. 306. protective activity on the liver in rats. The juice temperate regions around the world. The seeds and powdered bark of the Central American Forsythia suspensa (Oleaceae) F. cotinifolia are applied to wounds and bruises. are gathered in autumn. F. indica is used in Ayurvedic medicine as a tonic, Parts Used Seeds, essential oil. Weeping Forsythia, diuretic, and treatment for gonorrhea. F. lacor Constituents “Sweet” fennel seeds contain is used in Chinese herbal medicine to induce about 8% volatile oil (about 80% anethole, plus Lian Qiao (Chinese) sweating, while F. retusa, which is native to China, Indonesia, and Australia, is used in the Chinese fenchone and methylchavicol), flavonoids, Description Deciduous shrub growing to tradition to treat toothache and tooth decay. See 16 ft (5 m). Has toothed leaves, bright yellow also banyan tree (F. benghalensis, preceding entry) coumarins (including bergapten), and sterols. flowers, and woody fruit. and peepal (F. religiosa, following entry). Habitat & Cultivation Native to China Cautions The latex is toxic and should not be The volatile oil relieves gas and is antispasmodic. and Japan, weeping forsythia is grown for its bright used internally. Applied to the skin, it may cause yellow blossoms in temperate gardens all over the an allergic reaction to sunlight. “Bitter” fennel seeds contain significantly higher world. The fruit is harvested in autumn, just before levels of fenchone. History & Folklore Dioscorides, in the 1st century ce, states that “the juice, when put into the eye, aids vision, and into the ear, kills the worms (i.e. bacteria) that develop there.” it is fully ripe. Ficus religiosa (Moraceae) Part Used Fruit. Constituents The fruit contains flavonoids, Peepal including rutin, lignans, glycosides, and forsythin. Research suggests that forsythin is antimicrobial, Description Tree growing to around 26 ft (8 m) Fennel has a long history of use as a remedy for ailments anti-emetic, and anti-inflammatory. with large, leathery, heart-shaped leaves and purple of the digestive tract. History & Folklore Weeping forsythia was first listed in the Divine Husbandman’s Classic fruit growing in pairs. Medicinal Actions & Uses The primary use Habitat & Cultivation Peepal grows in of fennel seeds is to relieve bloating, but they also (Shen’nong Bencaojing), written in the 1st century northern and central India, in forests, and alongside settle stomach pain, stimulate the appetite, and are diuretic and anti-inflammatory. Like anise ce. Weeping forsythia features in a remedy for water. It is also widely cultivated throughout the (Pimpinella anisum, p. 248) and caraway (Carum carvi, p. 184), the seeds make an excellent infusion infections devised in the 18th century. subcontinent and southern Asia. The fruit is for settling digestion and reducing abdominal Medicinal Actions & Uses A bitter-tasting, distension. The seeds help in the treatment of pungent herb with antiseptic and antiviral activity, gathered when ripe. kidney stones, and, combined with urinary Parts Used Fruit, leaves, bark, latex. weeping forsythia is used to treat infections such Constituents The fruit contains fruit sugars, flavonoids, and enzymes. as colds, flu, sore throats, and tonsillitis. In History & Folklore Sacred to Hindus and Buddhists, the peepal is the tree under which the traditional Chinese medicine, it is used to treat Buddha attained enlightenment. It is a long-living a range of other conditions (including boils, tree; a peepal in Sri Lanka is thought to be over swollen glands, and skin infections). The American 2,000 years old. herbal scientist James A. Duke recommends it be Medicinal Actions & Uses Peepal’s uses are similar to those of the banyan (F. benghalensis, taken as a warm tea, combined with honeysuckle p. 211). Its astringent bark and leaves are taken for (Lonicera spp., p. 229) and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis, p. 113), at the onset of colds and similar viral infections. Caution Not advisable in pregnancy. diarrhea and dysentery, whereas the leaves alone antiseptics such as uva-ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, are used for constipation. The leaves are applied p. 170), make an effective treatment for cystitis. An Fragaria vesca (Rosaceae) with ghee (clarified butter) as a poultice to boils infusion of the seeds may be taken as a gargle for and to swollen salivary glands in mumps. The sore throats and as a mild expectorant. Fennel is Wild Strawberry powdered fruit may be taken for asthma and safe for children when taken at a low dose and, the latex is used to treat warts. as an infusion or syrup, can be given for colic and Description Low-growing perennial herb Related Species See preceding entries, fig painful teething in babies. Fennel increases breast- spread by runners. Has 3-lobed leaves, white 212 (F. carica) and banyan tree (F. benghalensis). milk production and the herb is still used as an flowers, and small red berries.

Fumaria oFFicinalis Habitat & Cultivation Common in Europe, Research In one clinical trial (Italy 1976), patients other medicinal plants ash thrives in lowland and moorland. The leaves taking bladderwrack lost much more weight than Wild strawberry was said are gathered in summer, but the bark is gathered the control group. In more recent German 213 to “comfort fainting spirits.” in spring. research, the polyphenols and polysaccharides Parts Used Leaves, bark, seeds. appeared to have antiviral and anti-HIV activity. Habitat & Cultivation Wild strawberry is Constituents Ash leaves contain flavonoids, Cautions Do not take if pregnant or native to Europe and temperate regions of Asia. tannins, mucilage, triterpenes, and iridoids. breastfeeding. If suffering from a thyroid illness or The leaves and fruit are gathered in early summer. History & Folklore The ash was the “world- taking insulin, take only under professional advice. Parts Used Leaves, fruit. tree” of Norse mythology, its roots spreading to Constituents The leaves contain flavonoids, the domain of the gods, and its branches extending Fumaria officinalis (Fumariaceae) tannins, and a volatile oil. The fruit contains fruit acids to the remotest corners of the universe. In Norse and a volatile oil with methyl salicylate and borneol. myth, the first man was carved from a piece of ash Fumitory History & Folklore Wild strawberry appears wood. In parts of Europe, ash bark was used as to have been little used medicinally until the Middle a cost-free substitute for quinine in the home Description Climbing annual growing to 1 ft Ages. Writing in 1652, Nicholas Culpeper listed its treatment of malaria. Such use probably continued (30 cm). Has compound leaves and maroon-tipped benefits: “the berries are excellent good to cool in rural areas into the 20th century. pink tubular flowers. the liver, the blood, and the spleen, or a hot Medicinal Actions & Uses Ash bark is tonic Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe and cholerick stomach … the leaves and roots thereof and astringent. Little used in herbal medicine today, North Africa, fumitory also grows in Asia, North [are] also good to fasten loose teeth and to heal it is occasionally taken for fever. The leaves are also America, and Australia. spongy foul gums.” astringent, and they have a laxative and diuretic Parts Used Flowering aerial parts. Medicinal Actions & Uses Wild strawberry effect. They have been used as a mild substitute Constituents Fumitory contains isoquinoline leaves are mildly astringent and diuretic. The plant for senna (Cassia senna, p. 75). alkaloids and flavonoids. is little used medicinally today, but it can be taken Related Species The bark of the American Medicinal Actions & Uses A notably to treat diarrhea and dysentery. The leaves were white ash (F. americana) has been used as a bitter bitter-tasting herb, fumitory has a stimulant and used as a gargle for sore throats, and in a lotion tonic and astringent. Several ash species exude a cleansing action on the liver and gallbladder, for minor burns and grazes. In Europe, the fruit nutritious sap, called “manna,” which is used as and is principally used to treat chronic itchy skin is considered to have cooling and diuretic a laxative for children. In particular, the manna ash problems such as eczema. It is also diuretic and properties, and has been prescribed as part of (F. ornus), which has antioxidant activity, has been mildly laxative. a diet in cases of tuberculosis, gout, arthritis, cultivated in southern Europe for its high yield of Related Species Fumitory is related to and rheumatism. manna sap. corydalis (Corydalis yanhusuo, p. 86), and F. parviflora from central Asia. The latter, like Fraxinus excelsior (Oleaceae) Fucus vesiculosus (Fucaceae) fumitory, is used as a detoxifying, laxative, and diuretic herb. Ash Bladderwrack, Caution Fumitory is toxic in excessive doses. Use only with professional advice. Description Deciduous tree growing to 130 ft Kelp (40 m). Has pale grey bark, black conical leaf buds, Fumitory may be applied externally as a treatment and bright green leaves with 7–13 oval leaflets. Description Brownish-green alga growing for eczema. to 3 ft (1 m) in length. Has flat, usually forked, fronds containing air bladders. Habitat & Cultivation Bladderwrack is native to the North Atlantic shores and western Mediterranean, and is harvested all year. Part Used Whole plant. Constituents Bladderwrack contains polyphenols, polysaccharides, and minerals, especially iodine (up to 0.1%). The polysaccharides are immunostimulant. The iodine may stimulate the thyroid gland. History & Folklore Bladderwrack has been employed as a fuel, as a winter feed for cattle, and as a source of iodine and potash. Medicinal Actions & Uses Due to its iodine content, bladderwrack is taken as an antigoiter remedy. The plant appears to raise the metabolic rate by increasing hormone production by the thyroid gland, though this increase may be limited to poorly functioning thyroids. Bladderwrack is reputedly helpful in rheumatic conditions. www.ebook3000.com

GaleGa officinalis other medicinal plants Galega officinalis (Fabaceae) Part Used Bark. Medicinal Actions & Uses A valuable Constituents Angostura bark contains bitter diuretic, cleavers is often taken for skin diseases Goat’s Rue principles, quinoline alkaloids including cusparine, such as seborrhea, eczema, and psoriasis; for Description Bushy perennial growing to about and 1–2% volatile oil. The alkaloids have antimicrobial 3 ft (1 m) in height. Goat’s rue has compound swollen lymph glands; and as a general detoxifying leaves with lance-shaped leaflets and delicate pink activity against the tuberculosis bacillus. pea-type flowers on terminal spikes, and produces History & Folklore Angostura is a traditional agent in serious illnesses such as cancer. The plant red-brown seed pods in autumn. tonic and fever remedy in South America, used Habitat & Cultivation Native to Asia and is commonly prepared in the form of an infusion, continental Europe, and naturalized in Britain, goat’s chiefly for digestive infections. Native Amazonians rue grows in damp and low-lying areas. It is but for conditions such as cancer, it is best taken as harvested in summer. also use the plant as a fish poison. Angostura has a juice, which is strongly diuretic. The juice and the been used as a source of “bitters,” although it is infusion are also taken for kidney stones and other unknown whether it is an ingredient of the cocktail urinary problems. flavoring bearing its name as the drink’s Research According to French research (1947), an extract of the plant appears to lower blood pressure. composition is a trade secret. Related Species The Mexican G. orizabense is Medicinal Actions & Uses A strong bitter used by the Mazatecs to treat intestinal parasites with tonic properties, angostura stimulates and to relieve fever. G. umbrosum from New the stomach and digestive tract as a whole. It is Zealand has been used to treat gonorrhea. See antispasmodic and is reported to act on the spinal also lady’s bedstraw (G. verum, following entry). nerves, helping in paralytic conditions. Angostura is typically given for weak digestion, and is considered valuable as a remedy for diarrhea and dysentery. Galium verum (Rubiaceae) In South America, it is sometimes used as a substitute for cinchona (Cinchona spp., p. 80) Lady’s Bedstraw to control fevers. Description Short, sprawling perennial growing QCaution Use under professional guidance only. to 32 in (80 cm). Has whorls of narrow dark green leaves and tufts of very small bright yellow flowers. Galium aparine (Rubiaceae) Habitat & Cultivation Found throughout Europe and western Asia, and naturalized in North Goat’s rue was once taken to treat the plague. Cleavers, America, lady’s bedstraw thrives in dry meadows, along roadsides, and in wayside places. It is Parts Used Aerial parts. Goose Grass gathered when in flower in summer. Constituents Goat’s rue contains alkaloids Parts Used Aerial parts. (including galegine), lectins, flavonoids, and tannins. Description Straggling, square-stemmed Constituents Lady’s bedstraw contains iridoids annual growing to a height of 4 ft (1.2 m) with (including asperuloside), flavonoids, Galegine strongly reduces blood-sugar levels. whorls of lance-shaped leaves, clusters of small History & Folklore Formerly used as a white flowers, and small, round, green fruit with anthraquinones, alkanes, and rennin. treatment for the plague, goat’s rue has been hooked prickles. History & Folklore The name of this Habitat & Cultivation Common throughout pleasant-scented herb derives from its traditional widely cultivated as a cattle feed. Europe and North America, cleavers is found Medicinal Actions & Uses Today, goat’s rue in many other temperate regions, including in use as a stuffing for mattresses. In medieval times, is chiefly used as an anti-diabetic herb, having the Australia. It grows prolifically in gardens and along roadsides, and is gathered when just about to it was used as a “strewing” herb on floors. Lady’s ability to reduce blood-sugar levels. It is not a flower in late spring. Parts Used Aerial parts. bedstraw curdles milk and gives a yellow color to substitute for conventional drugs, but can be Constituents Cleavers contains iridoids (including asperuloside), polyphenolic acids, cheese produced from the curd. In his Irish Herbal valuable in the early stages of type 2 diabetes and anthraquinones (only in the root), alkanes, flavonoids, and tannins. Asperuloside is a (1735), K’Eogh states, “when applied to burns, the is best used as an infusion. The herb has the effect crushed flowers alleviate inflammation, and when of increasing breast-milk production. It is also a applied to wounds, they can heal them.” useful diuretic. Caution Use as part of the treatment of diabetes only under professional supervision. mild laxative. Galipea officinalis History & Folklore The name cleavers syn. G. cusparia (Rutaceae) refers to the plant’s ability to cling (or cleave) Angostura to fur or clothing. Dioscorides, a Greek physician of the 1st century ce, Description Evergreen tree growing to considered it useful for 49 ft (15 m) with grey bark, shiny bright green countering weariness, leaflets, and foul-smelling flowers. and described how Habitat & Cultivation Angostura is native shepherds used the to some Caribbean islands and to tropical South stems to make sieves 214 America. The bark is gathered throughout the year. for straining milk. Dried aerial parts Lady’s bedstraw is used as a diuretic.

Gelidium amansii Medicinal Actions & Uses A slightly bitter- cold” herb used mostly to relieve symptoms nor applied (even well diluted) to the skin of other medicinal plants tasting remedy, lady’s bedstraw is used mainly as a children under the age of 12 unless with diuretic and for skin problems. Like its close relative, associated with heat. These include fever, irritability, professional supervision. cleavers (G. aparine, preceding entry), the herb is given for kidney stones, bladder stones, and other restlessness, insomnia, cystitis, painful urination, and urinary conditions, including cystitis. It is occasionally used as a means to relieve chronic skin problems jaundice. The fruit staunches bleeding and such as psoriasis, but, in general, cleavers is preferred as a treatment for this condition. Lady’s bedstraw is taken for nosebleeds, and urinary and rectal has had a longstanding reputation, especially in France, of being a valuable remedy for epilepsy, bleeding. The essential oil is an antiseptic and has though it is rarely used for this purpose today. Related Species G. elatum has also been a reputation for being an aphrodisiac. considered a remedy for epilepsy in France. Related Species The fruit of the northern (See also G. aparine, preceding entry.) Indian G. campanulata is cathartic and used to expel worms. G. gummifera, from eastern India, is antiseptic and digestive. The Pacific region G. taitensis relieves headaches. The African G. thunbergia is used to relieve constipation. Cautions Avoid in diarrhea. Do not take if taking prescribed medication for high blood pressure. Gardenia jasminoides syn. Gaultheria procumbens Wintergreen makes an 215 G. augusta, G. florida (Rubiaceae) (Ericaceae) effective liniment for sore muscles and joints. Gardenia, Wintergreen Gelidium amansii (Rhodophyceae) Zhi Zi (Chinese) Description Aromatic low-lying shrub growing to 6 in (15 cm). Has leathery, oval leaves, small white or Agar Description Evergreen shrub growing to 61⁄2 ft pale pink bell-shaped flowers, and brilliant red fruit. (2 m). Has green leaves, scented double flowers, Habitat & Cultivation Native to North Description Seaweed with red-brown, and orange-red fruit. America, wintergreen is found in woodland and translucent, multi-branched ribbons and fronds exposed mountainous areas. The leaves and fruit growing to about 3 ft (1 m) in length. It has spherical Gardenia plays a are gathered in summer. fruit that appears in late autumn and winter. significant role in Parts Used Leaves, fruit, essential oil. Habitat & Cultivation Agar is native to the Chinese herbalism. Constituents Wintergreen contains phenols Pacific coasts of China and Japan and the coast of (including gaultherin and salicylic acid), 0.8% volatile South Africa. It grows to a depth of 100 ft (30 m) Habitat & Cultivation Native to oil (up to 98% methyl salicylate), mucilage, resin, below sea level. Commercial harvesters rake plants southeastern provinces of China, gardenia prefers and tannins. off banks and rocks. The cleaned seaweed, after humid, tropical climates. The fruit is gathered History & Folklore Wintergreen was popular being boiled with sulphuric acid for 6 hours, yields when it turns reddish-yellow. with Native Americans, who used it for treating back agar, which sets to form a jelly. Around 6,500 tons Part Used Fruit. pain, rheumatism, fever, headaches, sore throats, and of processed agar are produced each year. Constituents Gardenia fruit contains iridoid many other conditions. Samuel Thomson, founder Part Used Seaweed extract (agar). glycosides. The flowers are the source of the of the 19th-century Physiomedicalist movement, Constituents Agar contains polysaccharides, essential oil. combined it with hemlock (Conium maculatum, p. mainly agarose and agaropectin (up to 90%), which History & Folklore Gardenia has been used in 193) to treat severe fluid retention. The leaves have are very mucilaginous. Chinese medicine for at least 2,000 years. It provides been used as a substitute for tea (Camellia sinensis, p. History & Folklore Agar is commonly used an important essential oil used to flavor teas. The oil 181), for example during the American as a thickening agent in food preparation, but its is also used to make perfumes. Gardenia perfumes Revolutionary War (1776–1784). most widespread application is in scientific research, often blend gardenia, jasmine, and tuberose. Medicinal Actions & Uses Wintergreen is where it is used as a culture medium for growing Medicinal Actions & Uses In the Chinese strongly anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and soothing to micro-organisms in petri dishes. herbal tradition (pp. 40–43), gardenia is a “bitter, the digestive system. It is an effective remedy for Medicinal Actions & Uses Like most rheumatic and arthritic problems, and, taken as a tea, seaweeds and their derivatives, agar is nutritious it relieves flatulence and colic. The essential oil, in the and contains large amounts of mucilage. Its chief form of a liniment or ointment, brings relief to medicinal use is as a bulk laxative. In the intestines, inflamed, swollen, or sore muscles, ligaments, and agar absorbs water and swells, stimulating bowel joints, and can also prove valuable in treating activity and the subsequent elimination of feces. neurological conditions such as sciatica (pain resulting Related Species While G. amansii is the main from pressure on a nerve in the lower spine) and agar-producing species, G. cartilagineum (found trigeminal neuralgia (pain affecting a facial nerve). on the Pacific coast of North America) and other The oil is sometimes used to treat cellulitis, a bacterial closely related species around the world are being infection causing the skin to become inflamed. used as alternative sources. Cautions People who are sensitive to aspirin should not take wintergreen internally. Oil of wintergreen should never be taken internally, www.ebook3000.com

Gelsemium sempervirens Gelsemium sempervirens Parts Used Root, aerial parts. Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe and Constituents Wild geranium contains up to other medicinal plants (Loganiaceae) 30% tannins. central Asia, avens is a common wayside plant. The root is dug up in spring, and the aerial parts are Yellow Jasmine, History & Folklore Native American peoples picked in summer. Gelsemium used wild geranium for sore throats, mouth ulcers, Parts Used Aerial parts, root. infected gums, and oral thrush. The herb was later Constituents Avens contains phenolic Description Evergreen woody climber growing used by European settlers for diarrhea, internal glycosides (including eugenol), tannins, a volatile bleeding, cholera, and venereal diseases. oil, and possibly a sesquiterpene lactone (cnicin). to 20 ft (6 m). Has shiny, dark green leaves and Medicinal Actions & Uses An astringent and History & Folklore Once known as herba clotting agent, wild geranium is used today much as benedicta (blessed herb), avens was credited with clusters of fragrant, trumpet-shaped yellow flowers. in earlier times. The herb is often prescribed for significant magical powers in the Middle Ages. A irritable bowel syndrome and hemorrhoids, and it German text of 1493 states that if avens root is in the Habitat & Cultivation Native to the is used to staunch wounds. It may also be used to house, the devil is powerless. According to tradition, treat heavy menstrual bleeding and excessive the root should be unearthed on March 25th. southern U.S. and Central America, vaginal discharge. Medicinal Actions & Uses Avens is an Related Species See herb robert astringent herb, used principally for problems yellow jasmine prefers (G. robertianum, following entry). affecting the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal Caution Wild geranium should only be taken for tract. The herb tightens up soft gums, heals mouth damp sites. The rootstock a few weeks at a time. ulcers, makes a good gargle for infections of the pharynx and larynx, and reduces irritation of the is unearthed in autumn. Geranium robertianum stomach and gut. It may be taken for peptic ulcers, (Geraniaceae) irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, and dysentery. Part Used Rootstock. Avens has been used in a lotion or ointment as a Constituents Yellow Herb Robert soothing remedy for hemorrhoids. The herb may also be used as a douche for treating excessive jasmine contains indole Description Strong-smelling annual or biennial vaginal discharge. Avens reputedly has a mild herb growing to 20 in (50 cm). Has deeply cleft quinine-type action in lowering fever. alkaloids (including gelsemine Dried rootstock red-green leaves, bright pink flowers, and pointed and gelsedine), iridoids, seed capsules. Glechoma hederacea Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe and syn. nepeta glechoma (Lamiaceae) coumarins, and tannins. The alkaloids are toxic and Asia, herb robert is naturalized in North America. It is gathered in summer. Ground Ivy, act as a depressant to the central nervous system. Parts Used Aerial parts, root. Constituents Herb robert contains tannins, a Alehoof History & Folklore It is unclear whether bitter principle (geraniin), traces of volatile oil, and citric acid. Description Creeping perennial herb growing yellow jasmine was used in Native American History & Folklore Herb robert’s unpleasant to 15 cm (6 in). Has long rooting runners, notched odor has earned it the name “stinking Bob” in kidney-shaped leaves, and purple-blue flowers medicine. The plant came into regular use only parts of England. in whorls. Medicinal Actions & Uses Herb robert Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe and in the middle of the 19th century. It was first is little used in contemporary European herbal western Asia, ground ivy is now naturalized in other medicine. It is occasionally employed in much the temperate regions, including North America. It employed by followers of the Eclectic herbal same way as Wild geranium (G. maculatum, thrives on the outskirts of woods and alongside preceding entry), as an astringent and wound paths and hedges. It is gathered in summer. movement, and then later became an official healer. The herb bears closer investigation as a Parts Used Aerial parts. remedy. According to one authority it is effective Constituents Ground ivy contains medicine, listed in the Pharmacopoeia of the against stomach ulcers and inflammation of the sesquiterpenes, flavonoids, a volatile oil, a bitter United States from 1863 to 1926. Medicinal Actions & Uses A potent medicinal herb, yellow jasmine is prescribed in small doses as a sedative and antispasmodic, most commonly for neuralgia (pain caused by nerve irritation or damage). Yellow jasmine is often given for nerve pain affecting the face. The herb is also applied externally to treat intercostal neuralgia (nerve pain between the ribs) and sciatica (pain resulting from pressure on a nerve in the lower spine). Yellow jasmine’s antispasmodic property is used in treating whooping cough and asthma. The herb is occasionally taken for migraine, insomnia, and bowel problems, and also to reduce blood pressure. Yellow jasmine is also used in homeopathic medicine. RQCautions Yellow jasmine is an extremely toxic plant that should be used only under professional supervision. The plant is subject to legal restrictions in some countries. Geranium maculatum (Geraniaceae) uterus, and it holds some potential as a treatment principle (glechomine), caffeic acids, and tannins. for cancer. History & Folklore Known in parts of Wild Geranium England as “alehoof,” ground ivy was used to flavor Geum urbanum (Rosaceae) Description Perennial growing to 2 ft (60 cm). and clarify ale, the traditional drink of Has deeply cleft leaves, pink-purple flowers, and Avens beak-shaped fruit. the Anglo-Saxons. In Medieval times, it was recommended for fever, and was a popular treatment for chronic coughs. The 16th-century herbalist John Gerard considered it a valuable Habitat & Cultivation Native to woodlands Description Downy perennial growing to remedy for tinnitus. of eastern and central North America, the root 60 cm (2 ft). Has wiry stems, compound leaves, Medicinal Actions & Uses Ground ivy is dug up in early spring, and the aerial parts are small, yellow 5-petaled flowers, and fruit covered is tonic, diuretic, and decongestant, and is used 216 gathered in summer. with hooks. to treat many problems involving the mucous

Gossypium herbaceum membranes of the ear, nose, throat, and digestive History & Folklore A staple food in much of Related Species A North American relative, other medicinal plants system. A well-tolerated herb, it can be given Asia, soy has been used in China for at least 5,000 G. polycephalum, was used to treat respiratory and to children to clear lingering congestion and to years. Soy was introduced in the United States in intestinal congestion, and was applied as a poultice 217 treat chronic conditions such as “glue ear” and 1804 and has become a major crop in the South for bruises. G. keriense, native to New Zealand, is sinusitis. Throat and chest problems, especially and Midwest. It is now one of the world’s most also considered a remedy for bruises. those due to excess mucus, also benefit from this important food crops. remedy. Ground ivy is also a valuable treatment for Medicinal Actions & Uses Although Marsh cudweed is commonly found in damp areas gastritis and acid indigestion. Further along the soybeans and soy produce have little direct in Europe, North America, and Asia. gastrointestinal tract, its binding nature helps to medicinal value, they are highly important as foods, counter diarrhea and to dry up watery and mucoid providing unusually high levels of protein, lecithin, Gossypium herbaceum (Malvaceae) secretions. Ground ivy has been employed to and essential fatty acids. However, the beans may prevent scurvy and as a spring tonic, and is have a protective role against cancer, notably Cotton considered beneficial in kidney disorders. breast cancer. Their significant estrogenic activity makes them a particularly good medicinal food for Description Biennial or perennial growing to Ground ivy is useful women going through menopause, helping about 8 ft (2.5 m). Has lobed leaves, large white for many disorders of to relieve symptoms such as hot flashes, and to or pink flowers, and seed capsules surrounded by the digestive system. protect against osteoporosis. In Chinese medicine, fluffy white tufts. soybean sprouts (also highly nutritious) are Habitat & Cultivation Native to the Glycine max (Fabaceae) thought to help relieve “summer heat” and fever. Americas, Africa, and Asia, cotton thrives in warm Research Soybean is a remarkable nutrient, rich temperate and tropical climates. It is widely Soy in protein, fats, and estrogenic substances, all of cultivated for its fiber. The root and seeds of the which make it an excellent food. The isoflavones, plant are harvested in autumn. Description Annual growing to 61⁄2 ft (2 m). sterols, saponins, and fiber contribute to soy’s Parts Used Root bark, seed oil. Has leaves with 3 leaflets, white or purple flowers, protective activity against cancer, and countries such Constituents Cotton root bark contains and pods with 2–4 beans. as Japan are thought to have lower levels of cancer gossypol (a sesquiterpene) and flavonoids. Cotton Habitat & Cultivation Soy is native to south- because of the great quantity of soy produce eaten seed contains a fixed oil, which is about 2% gossypol, western Asia, and is cultivated in warm temperate there. The isoflavones, coumestrol, and sterols are and flavonoids. Gossypol causes infertility in men. regions. The pods are gathered when ripe. all phytoestrogens. These appear to inhibit estrogen History & Folklore In India and the Middle Parts Used Beans, sprouts. within the body when estrogen levels are too high East, cotton has been cultivated since the earliest Constituents Soy contains protein (about (for example, in menstrual disorders), and to times for its fiber and medicinal properties. The 30%), fixed oil (about 17%), including lecithin compensate when estrogen levels are low (such as plant was particularly valued for its ability to induce (2% or more), linoleic acid, and alpha-linolenic acid, during menopause). Unrefined soybean oil menstruation. Cotton seed oil’s contraceptive effect isoflavones, coumestrol, sterols, saponins, vitamins, contains high levels of lecithin and polyunsaturated in men was first discovered in China when men and minerals. Coumestrol and the isoflavones essential fatty acids, which support healthy levels of became infertile after eating food cooked in the oil. closely mimic estrogen within the body. blood fat such as cholesterol. Medicinal Actions & Uses Cotton root bark is rarely used medicinally today. It was once Gnaphalium uliginosum employed as a substitute for ergot (Claviceps (Asteraceae) purpurea), the widely used labor-inducing herb. Cotton root bark is both milder-acting and safer Marsh Cudweed in effect, stimulating uterine contractions and hastening a difficult labor. It also promotes Description Annual plant growing to 8 in abortion or the onset of a period, and reduces (20 cm). Has narrow silver-grey leaves and tiny menstrual flow. Cotton root bark encourages yellow flower heads. the blood to clot and the secretion of breastmilk. Habitat & Cultivation Marsh cudweed is Cotton seed oil is used to treat heavy menstrual native to Europe, the Caucasus, and western Asia, bleeding and endometriosis. and is naturalized in North America. It prefers damp areas, and is gathered in summer when in flower. Parts Used Aerial parts. Constituents Marsh cudweed contains a volatile oil and tannins. Medicinal Actions & Uses While little used medicinally today, marsh cudweed has astringent, antiseptic, and decongestant properties. In British herbal medicine, it is occasionally taken for tonsillitis, sore throat, and hoarseness, and for mucus in the throat, nasal passages, and sinuses. Marsh cudweed is used in Russia to reduce high blood pressure. It is thought to be antidepressant and aphrodisiac. www.ebook3000.com

Grindelia camporum other medicinal plants Research Cotton seeds and seed oil cause Guaiacum officinale friction rub on rheumatic areas. Absorbent cotton infertility in men, and have been tested as a male (Zygophyllaceae) moistened with the resin may be applied to aching teeth. A decoction of the woodchips acts as a local contraceptive in China. However, in addition to Lignum Vitae, anesthetic, and is used to treat rheumatic joints and herpes blisters. lowering sperm count, cotton seed oil causes the Guayacan (Spanish) Related Species G. sanctum, which grows in Central America and parts of Florida, and degeneration of sperm-producing cells. Description Evergreen tree growing to 10 m G. coulteri, native to Mexico, are used in the Related Species The American species (33 ft). Has compound oval leaves, small, deep blue same manner as lignum vitae. G. hirsutum was used extensively as a medicinal herb star-shaped flowers, and heart-shaped seed capsules. Caution Lignum vitae is subject to legal Habitat & Cultivation Lignum vitae is native restrictions in some countries and is endangered. by the Maya and Aztecs, and was also cultivated for to South America and the Caribbean islands. It grows in tropical rainforests. The tree is felled for its Guarea rusbyi syn. G. guidonia its fiber. Columbus carried samples of this species timber, and resin is extracted from the heartwood. (Meliaceae) Parts Used Wood, resin. back to Europe from his first voyage. Native Constituents Lignum vitae contains lignans Cocillana, (furoguaiacidin, guaiacin, and others), triterpene American people used the bark to ease the pain saponins, 18–25% resin, and volatile oil. of childbirth, and by the 19th century it was used as an inducer of menstruation and abortion. RQCautions Cotton root bark and seed oil are potentially toxic and should only be used under professional supervision. Do not use during pregnancy. Grindelia camporum syn. Guapi Bark G. robusta var. rigida (Asteraceae) Description Evergreen tree growing to 150 ft Gumplant (45 m) with pale grey bark, compound lance- shaped leaves, and green-white flowers. Habitat & Cultivation Cocillana is native Description Perennial herb growing to 3 ft to the eastern Andes. The bark is gathered (1 m). Has triangular leaves and yellow-orange throughout the year. daisy-type flowers. Part Used Bark. Habitat & Cultivation Native to the Constituents Cocillana contains anthraquinones, southwestern U.S. and Mexico, gumplant grows in proanthocyanids, and a volatile oil. History & Folklore Cocillana has been used arid and saline soil. It is harvested in late summer as an emetic in traditional South American and when in flower. Caribbean medicine, probably for many centuries. Parts Used Leaves, flowering tops. The plant was first introduced to Western medicine Constituents Gumplant contains diterpenes by H. H. Rusby, who collected samples in Bolivia (including grindelic acid), resins, and flavonoids. in 1886. History & Folklore Gumplant was used by Lignum vitae was once in high demand in Europe as Medicinal Actions & Uses Cocillana is used Native Americans to treat bronchial problems and a purported cure for syphilis. in cough mixtures, being an even more powerful skin afflictions. Gumplant was officially recognized expectorant than ipecac (Cephaelis ipecacuanha, in the Pharmacopoeia of the United States from p. 186). Cocillana is taken as a treatment for coughs, excessive mucus production in the throat 1882 to 1926. History & Folklore In 1519, Ulrich von Hutten, and chest, and bronchitis. At a high dosage, the a German satirist, was said to have cured himself Medicinal Actions & Uses Gumplant is plant induces vomiting. a valuable remedy for bronchial asthma, and for of syphilis after a 40-day regimen involving fasting, states where phlegm in the airways impedes profuse sweating, and drinking decoctions of respiration. Both antispasmodic and expectorant, lignum vitae. Furthermore, in 1526, Oviedo, one of Related Species A gum resin derived from gumplant helps to relax the muscles of the smaller the earliest chroniclers of American natural history, the Caribbean G. guara is used as a clotting agent, and a decoction of the leaves is taken as a treatment bronchial passages and to clear congested mucus. wrote that “Caribbean Indians cure themselves Additionally, it is thought to desensitize the nerve very easily” of venereal disease with this plant. For for internal bleeding. QCaution Use cocillana only under endings in the bronchial tree and to slow the heart some years, lignum vitae was in great demand in rate, both leading to easier breathing. Gumplant is Europe but it slowly fell into disrepute, its use as a professional supervision. also taken for bronchitis and emphysema, and to cure for syphilis being seen as a long-lasting hoax. clear mucus buildup in the throat and nose. It has However, it is possible that the herb might have Gymnema sylvestre been employed in the treatment of whooping some effect if combined with an intensive (Asclepiadaceae) cough, hay fever, and cystitis, and externally to help naturopathic regimen. speed the healing of skin irritation and burns. Medicinal Actions & Uses Used in Europe, Gymnema, Related Species G. squarrosa, a North American especially in Britain, as a remedy for arthritic and species used interchangeably with G. camporum, was rheumatic conditions, lignum vitae has anti- Gurmar (Hindi) taken by Native Americans to treat respiratory inflammatory properties that help to reduce joint problems such as colds, coughs, and tuberculosis. pain and swelling. It is also diuretic, laxative, and Description Large, evergreen, twining plant, RQCautions Toxic in excessive doses. Only sweat-inducing and speeds the elimination of climbing up through forest trees, sometimes to a take under professional supervision. Do not take if toxins, which makes it valuable for treating gout. considerable height. Has dull green leaves about 218 suffering from kidney or heart problems. Tincture of lignum vitae is commonly used as a 2 in (5 cm) long, and umbels of small yellow flowers.

Hibiscus sabdariffa Habitat & Cultivation Gymnema is native Medicinal Actions & Uses Thought to an expectorant, stimulating the coughing up other medicinal plants to forests of central and southern India, Southeast stimulate bile secretion, haronga is used in European and clearance of phlegm. It has a beneficial effect Asia, and as far south as northern Australia. It herbal medicine to treat indigestion and poor on mucous membranes and is generally combined 219 prefers loamy soil. pancreatic function. In African herbal medicine, with tonic herbs, especially thyme (Thymus vulgaris, Parts Used Leaves. haronga is chiefly employed as an astringent and p. 143). Ivy extracts are common ingredients in Constituents Gymnema contains saponins mild laxative, and is also given for digestive system cosmetic formulations for cellulite. (gymnemic acids) and a polypeptide (gurmarin). ailments such as diarrhea and dysentery. Caution Fresh leaves can irritate the skin. History & Folklore Gymnema has long been used in Indian domestic medicine as a remedy for Hedera helix (Araliaceae) Herniaria glabra sugar cravings and diabetes. Its Hindi name means (Caryophyllaceae) “sugar destroyer.” Ivy, Medicinal Actions & Uses Gymnema has Rupturewort real value in treating diabetes, especially in the English Ivy early stages of type 2 diabetes, which develops Description Prostrate annual or perennial in middle to old age. If taken consistently for a Description A woody climber up to 100 ft with bright green oval leaves and clusters of year or more, it will help to prevent the condition (30 m) with leathery, dark green leaves, clusters of green flowers. deteriorating. Gymnema may help to regenerate greenish-yellow flowers and black or orange berries. Habitat & Cultivation Rupturewort is found cells in the pancreas that secrete insulin, so Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe and throughout Europe and western Asia. It thrives in it may be possible to control or reverse mild northern and central Asia, ivy has been introduced, barren areas, in lime and sandy soils. It is gathered diabetes with diet and gymnema. The plant’s often as a garden climber, in many parts of the world. when in flower. remarkable ability to block sweet tastes means In the wild, it typically grows on trees and in hedges. Parts Used Aerial parts. that it can reduce sugar cravings and contribute Parts Used Leaves, berries. Constituents Rupturewort contains coumarins to weight-loss programs. Constituents Ivy contains saponins, sterols, (including 3% herniarin and scopoletin), flavonoids, Research In recent research in India and polyacetylenes, a volatile oil, and flavonoids. phenolic acids, and saponins. Japan, gymnema has shown promise as a safe The saponins are expectorant, amebicidal, and History & Folklore Rupturewort was first and effective natural treatment for diabetes. In antifungal, and kill liver flukes. documented in European herbals of the 16th two clinical trials in India, patients with diabetes History & Folklore In the classical world, century. Its genus name, Herniaria, refers to its needed less insulin or other treatments to lower common ivy was dedicated to Dionysus, the god reputed ability to heal hernias. blood-sugar levels. There is an indication that of wine making and intoxication. Ivy was thought Medicinal Actions & Uses Rupturewort is gymnema may encourage repair of the islet cells to be able to prevent or undo drunkenness. The of value chiefly as a diuretic herb. The fresh plant of the pancreas, responsible for insulin secretion. leaf was traditionally used in England to treat corns treats urinary problems such as cystitis, irritable The leaves have been shown to anesthetize the and warts—it was soaked in vinegar and bound bladder, and kidney stones. It is also astringent, and sweet taste buds of the tongue, and temporarily on as a poultice, or placed inside a sock, overlying has been applied as a poultice to speed the healing reduce appetite. the corn. of ulcers. The whole plant appears to have an Medicinal Actions & Uses Ivy is chiefly antispasmodic effect on the bladder. Haronga madagascariensis used for congestion of the ear, nose, and (Guttiferae) throat, as well as for bronchitis. It acts as Hibiscus sabdariffa (Malvaceae) Haronga Ivy was thought, in the classical world, to undo drunkenness. Hibiscus, Description Small evergreen tree growing Jamaica to 26 ft (8 m). Has black-dotted leaves with a dark green upper surface and red-brown Description Shrub growing to 61⁄2 ft (2 m) hairs underneath, and clusters of creamy- in height. white flowers. Habitat & Cultivation Native to North Habitat & Cultivation Haronga is native Africa and Southeast Asia, hibiscus grows in tropical to Madagascar and East Africa, and grows in regions around the world. It is primarily cultivated tropical areas. The leaves and bark are collected across Africa and in Thailand, China, and Mexico. throughout the year. Parts Used Calyx (the outer base of the flower), Parts Used Leaves, bark. flowers, leaves. Constituents Haronga bark contains phenolic Constituents The calyx and flowers contain pigments, triterpenes, anthraquinones, and tannins. flavonoids, including anthocyanins. The leaves contain phenolic pigments, the diterpene History & Folklore “Hibiscus” means “plant hypericin, flavonoids, and tannins. Hypericin, which that is consecrated to the ibis,” a bird held sacred in is also found in St. John’s wort (Hypericum ancient Egypt. perforatum, p. 106), has antiviral properties. Medicinal Actions & Uses Hibiscus makes History & Folklore Haronga resin has a refreshing, pleasant-tasting tea that is cooling traditionally been used in Africa to secure and mildly sedative, soothing hot and feverish arrowheads onto shafts. www.ebook3000.com

Hieracium pilosella other medicinal plants conditions. The calyces are gently tonic and will Parts Used The peeled stem. ease colds, coughs, and chest problems. They also Constituents Hoodia contains a steroidal aid digestion and gently stimulate appetite. Both glycoside, which is thought to act as an appetite the calyces and flowers act to reduce cholesterol suppressant. levels. All parts of hibiscus are demulcent, mildly History & Folklore The San people of the soothing sore or inflamed mucous membranes Kalahari traditionally used this plant to suppress within the digestive and respiratory tracts. sensations of thirst and hunger, when on journeys Research Various clinical studies have shown through the desert. Such use was first recorded that hibiscus helps to lower high blood pressure. in 1937. Medicinal Actions & Uses Hoodia provides a cautionary tale for herbal medicines Hieracium pilosella syn. pilosella and supplements in the 21st century. There is officinarum (Asteraceae) little evidence that taking it leads to weight loss other than the plant’s traditional use as an appetite Mouse-ear suppressant, while its safety profile is unknown. Hawkweed Sea buckthorn is distinguished by its thorny stems Despite this, after media coverage by the BBC and narrow silvery leaves. The berries help improve in 2003, sales of hoodia supplements rocketed, Description Perennial herb growing to a height the body’s resistance to infection. with prices in the LA Times reaching $40 per of 8 in (20 cm) from a rosette of basal leaves. Stems ounce (30 g) in 2006. At such a price, it is not Parts Used Berries. hard to see why hoodia’s survival in the wild is bear single bright yellow flower heads. Constituents The fruit contains flavonoids, severely threatened. It would seem sensible to Habitat & Cultivation Mouse-ear hawkweed flavones, carotenoids, vitamins A, C (present in opt instead for herbs that are endorsed for their is common throughout much of Europe and very high quantities), and E, and high levels of use for weight loss by scientific studies and minerals including sulphur, selenium, zinc, and where there is no risk of the herb disappearing temperate regions of Asia and North America. copper. The seeds contain appreciable levels of from the wild, such as Gymnema (Gymnema alpha-linolenic acid. sylvestre, p. 218). Found growing in dry pastures and on sandy soil, History & Folklore The sour-tasting berries QCautions Seek professional advice before have traditionally been eaten with milk and cheese taking hoodia products, especially if taking it is collected when in flower in summer. by Siberians and Tartars, who also used them to prescribed blood-thinning medication for Parts Used Aerial parts. make a pleasant-tasting jelly. conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Constituents Mouse-ear hawkweed contains Medicinal Actions & Uses Sea buckthorn a coumarin (umbelliferone), flavonoids, and caffeic berries are very high in vitamin C. They Hordeum vulgare (Poaceae) have principally been used to help acid. It is thought to be mildly antifungal. improve resistance to infection. The Barley History & Folklore In his Irish Herbal (1735), berries are mildly astringent, and a K’Eogh summarizes mouse-ear hawkweed’s decoction of them has been used as a Description Annual grass growing to about wash to treat skin irritation and eruptions, 3 ft (1 m). Has an erect hollow stem, lance- medicinal benefits: “good against the spitting of and to promote healing. shaped leaves, and ears bearing twin rows Research Research into sea buckthorn fruit, of seeds and long bristles. blood, all kinds of flow, coughs, ulcers of the lungs, seed, and seed oil indicates that they have Habitat & Cultivation Barley is definite therapeutic value. The fruit especially cultivated in temperate regions mouth and eyes, and shingles.” supports heart and circulatory health and is useful worldwide. It is harvested when the Medicinal Actions & Uses Mouse-ear in treating conditions such as capillary fragility, seeds are mature. hawkweed relaxes the muscles of the bronchial arteriosclerosis, and a weak heart. The seed oil Parts Used Seeds. nourishes the skin, promotes tissue healing, and will Constituents Barley contains tubes, stimulates the cough reflex, and reduces often prove useful in treating eczema. polysaccharides, proteins, the production of mucus. This combination of actions makes the herb effective in respiratory problems, including asthma and wheeziness, whooping cough, bronchitis, and other chronic and congested coughs. The herb is used to control heavy menstrual bleeding, and to ease the coughing up of blood. It may be applied as a poultice to heal wounds. sugars, fats, and vitamins B and Hippophae rhamnoides Hoodia gordonii (Apocynaceae) E. The young seedlings also (Elaeagnaceae) contain the amines tyramine Hoodia and gramine. Sea Buckthorn Description Unusual-looking succulent growing Description Thorny deciduous shrub growing to to 3 ft (1 m), hoodia has multiple spiny, grey-green Barley has been 16 ft (5 m). Has narrow silvery leaves, male or female stems and light purple flowers. eaten since Neolithic times. flowers, and clusters of brownish-orange berries. Habitat & Cultivation Native to the Kalahari Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe and desert, hoodia is now extensively cultivated in Asia, sea buckthorn grows mainly in sandy coastal Namibia and South Africa. The plant is grown from areas and in dry riverbeds in mountainous regions. seed or cuttings. Trade in the hoodia plant is legally 220 The berries are harvested in the autumn. restricted due to its threatened survival in the wild.

Hyoscyamus niger History & Folklore Barley has been History & Folklore The Cherokee used therapeutic use in parts of Europe, including other medicinal plants consumed for many thousands of years. hydrangea as a remedy for kidney and bladder England, and in North America. The leaves and Dioscorides (1st century ce) recommended stones. The 19th-century Physiomedicalist flowers are picked just after the plant has it “to weaken and restrain all sharp and subtle herbal movement used a formula comprising flowered, in the first year for the annual variety humours, and sore and ulcerated throats.” hydrangea, couch grass (Agropyron repens, p. 162), and in the second year for the biennial. Medicinal Actions & Uses An excellent and hollyhock (Althaea rosea) to treat serious Parts Used Leaves, flowering tops. food for convalescence in the form of porridge kidney disorders, including nephritis. Constituents Henbane contains 0.045–0.14% or barley water, barley is soothing to the throat Medicinal Actions & Uses Western tropane alkaloids, especially hyoscyamine and and provides easily assimilated nutrients. It can herbal medicine considers the diuretic hyoscine, and flavonoids. Hyoscyamine and hyoscine also be taken to clear mucus. Its demulcent quality hydrangea as being particularly helpful in are common to other members of the Solanaceae soothes inflammation of the gut and urinary tract. the treatment of kidney and bladder stones. family, but henbane’s relatively high hyoscine content Barley aids in the digestion of milk and is given to It is thought both to encourage the expulsion gives it a more specifically sedative action than its babies to prevent the development of curds within of stones and to help dissolve those that relatives thornapple (Datura stramonium, p. 200) the stomach. It is commonly given to children remain. The herb is given for many other and deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna, p. 69). suffering from minor infections or diarrhea, and it troubles affecting the genitourinary system, History & Folklore Henbane has been used is particularly recommended as a treatment for including cystitis, urethritis, enlarged prostate, as a medicinal herb for thousands of years. feverish states. Made into a poultice, barley is an and prostatitis. Babylonian accounts and the Egyptian Ebers papyrus effective remedy for soothing and reducing Cautions Do not take during pregnancy or (c. 1500 bce) record that henbane was smoked to inflammation in sores and swellings. while breastfeeding. Wild hydrangea is best taken relieve toothache. In Greek myth, the dead were Research The fiber in barley, like that in oats, on professional advice. adorned with henbane when they arrived in Hades. has an established action in reducing fat absorption Writing in the 1st century ce, Dioscorides from the gut, aiding lower cholesterol levels. In Hygrophila spinosa recommended henbane for insomnia, coughs, common with other fiber foods, it may also help (Acanthaceae) congestion, heavy menstrual bleeding, eye pain, to stabilize blood sugar levels and to prevent gout, and as a general pain reliever, and advised bowel cancer. Gokulakanta that the herb should be used within a year as it deteriorates quickly. In the Middle Ages, henbane Hydrangea arborescens Description Thorny, red-stemmed annual had the Latin name dentaria, denoting its use as a (Hydrangeaceae) growing to 2 ft (60 cm). Has bright blue flowers remedy against toothache. Henbane reputedly and small, flat, dark red seeds. produces a sensation of lightness, as though one Wild Hydrangea Habitat & Cultivation Native to India, were flying, and it was one of the chief gokulakanta is now widely distributed throughout components of witches’ “flying ointments.” Description Woody-stemmed deciduous shrub tropical regions. It is gathered when in flower. growing to a height of about 10 ft (3 m). Has oval Parts Used Aerial parts, root. leaves and clusters of small, creamy-white flowers. Constituents Gokulakanta contains mucilage, Habitat & Cultivation Native to the eastern fixed and volatile oils, and an alkaloid. U.S. from New York to Florida, wild hydrangea Medicinal Actions & Uses Commonly used grows in woodlands and on riverbanks. The root as a remedy in India, gokulakanta is taken chiefly is dug up in autumn. for its reputed aphrodisiac properties. Both the Part Used Root. aerial parts and ash of the burned plant are strongly Constituents Hydrangea is thought to contain diuretic, and are used to flush water from the body flavonoids, a cyanogenic glycoside (hydrangein), in cases of excess fluid retention. saponins, and a volatile oil. Related Species The South American H. guayensis is bactericidal and has been used as a local treatment for the tropical disease, leishmaniasis. Wild hydrangea is used to treat kidney and bladder stones. Hyoscyamus niger (Solanaceae) Henbane has distinctive 221 yellow flowers veined with Henbane purple. The plant was used in classical times Description Annual or biennial herb growing as a general painkiller. to 3 ft (1 m). Has delicate, slightly lobed leaves and bell-shaped flowers, pale yellow in color with fine purple veining. Habitat & Cultivation Native to western Asia and southern Europe, henbane is now found across much of western and central Europe, and North and South America. It is cultivated for www.ebook3000.com

Hyssopus officinalis other medicinal plants Medicinal Actions & Uses Henbane is It prefers sunny, dry sites and is a common garden wood fire, ground, and then stored in sacks for used extensively in herbal medicine as a sedative herb. The flowering tops are harvested when a year before being sold. and painkiller. Its specific use is for pain affecting the plant is in flower in summer. Parts Used Leaves. the urinary tract, especially pain due to kidney Parts Used Flowering tops, essential oil. Constituents Maté contains xanthine stones, though it is also given for abdominal Constituents Contains terpenes (including derivatives, including about 1.5% caffeine, about cramping. Its sedative and antispasmodic effect marubiin, a diterpene), a volatile oil (consisting 0.2% theobromine, theophylline, and up to 16% makes it a valuable treatment for the symptoms mainly of camphor, pinocamphone, and beta- tannins. The high tannin content means that maté of Parkinson’s disease, relieving tremor and rigidity pinene), flavonoids, tannins, and resin. Marubiin is a should not be consumed with meals, as tannins during the early stages of the illness. Henbane strong expectorant. Pinocamphone is toxic, and impair the absorption of nutrients. has also been used to treat asthma and bronchitis, the volatile oil can cause epileptic seizures. Medicinal Actions & Uses Maté is a usually as a “burning powder” or in the form History & Folklore In the past, hyssop of a cigarette. Applied externally as an oil, it can was so highly esteemed it was regarded as a Maté makes a pleasant-tasting tea that has a stimulant, relieve painful conditions such as neuralgia, sciatica, virtual cure-all. An old saying went, “Whoever mildly analgesic, and diuretic effect. and rheumatism. Henbane reduces mucus rivals hyssop’s virtues, knows too much.” In the secretions, as well as saliva and other digestive 1st century ce, Dioscorides recommended traditional South American tea that increases juices. Like its cousin deadly nightshade, it dilates a recipe containing a mixture of hyssop, figs short-term physical and mental energy levels. It the pupils. Hyoscine is commonly employed as (Ficus carica, p. 211), rue (Ruta graveolens, is taken as a fortifying beverage in much the same a pre-operative anesthetic and in motion p. 265), honey, and water for treating a way as tea (Camellia sinensis, p. 181) is consumed sickness formulations. number of conditions, including pleurisy, throughout Asia and Europe. Maté has properties Related Species Other Hyoscyamus species asthma, tight-chestedness, respiratory congestion, similar to those of tea and coffee (Coffea arabica, are used in a similar way. The North African and chronic coughs. p. 192). It stimulates the nervous system and is H. muticus is traditionally smoked by Bedouins Medicinal Actions & Uses Currently mildly analgesic and diuretic. As a medicinal herb, to relieve toothache. See also deadly nightshade an undervalued medicinal herb, hyssop is maté is used to treat headaches, migraine, (Atropa belladonna, p. 69). potentially useful as it is both calming and tonic. neuralgic and rheumatic pain, fatigue, and mild RQCautions Use only under professional It has a positive effect when used to treat depression. It has also been used in the treatment supervision. Potentially toxic in overdose, bronchitis and respiratory infections, especially of diabetes. henbane is subject to legal restrictions in where there is excessive mucus production. Related Species I. guayusa, from Ecuador, is some countries. Hyssop appears to encourage the production used in much the same way as maté but is also of a more liquid mucus, and at the same time employed medicinally to treat malaria, liver pain, Hyssopus officinalis (Lamiaceae) gently stimulates expectoration. This combined and syphilis. It is thought to aid digestion and action clears thick and congested phlegm. Hyssop cleanse the digestive tract. Hyssop can irritate the mucous membranes, so it is best given after an infection has peaked, when the Description Semi-evergreen shrub growing herb’s tonic action encourages a general recovery. to 2 ft (60 cm). Has narrow leaves and clusters As a sedative, hyssop is a useful remedy against of blue double-lipped flowers. asthma in both children and adults, especially Habitat & Cultivation Native to southern where the condition is exacerbated by mucus Europe, hyssop grows freely in Mediterranean congestion. Like many herbs with a strong countries, especially in the Balkans and Turkey. volatile oil, it soothes the digestive tract and can be an effective remedy against indigestion, gas, bloating, and colic. Cautions Hyssop essential oil can induce epileptic seizures. It should only be used under professional supervision. Hyssop essential oil is subject to legal restrictions in some countries. 222 Hyssop has a positive effect on respiratory infections. ilex paraguariensis illicium verum (Schisandaceae) syn. i. paraguensis (Aquifoliaceae) Star Anise, Maté Ba Jiao Hui Xian (Chinese) Description Evergreen shrub or small tree growing to 20 ft (6 m). Has large leaves, white Description Evergreen tree growing to 59 ft flowers, and small reddish fruit. (18 m). Has tapering leaves, pale greenish-yellow Habitat & Cultivation Maté grows wild flowers and star-shaped segmented fruit (seed pods). in northern Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Habitat & Cultivation Native to China, India southern Brazil, and is widely cultivated in and Vietnam, star anise grows in tropical regions Argentina, Spain, and Portugal. The leaves are across the world. The fruit is harvested when ripe. picked when the berries are ripe, heated over a Parts Used Fruit and seeds.

IrIs versIcolor Dried star anise fruit is by herbalists. Pierandrea Matteoli’s Materia Iris versicolor (Iridaceae) other medicinal plants a digestive, stimulant, Medica of 1548 explains: “Masterwort powerfully and diuretic remedy. resolves all flatulence in the body, stimulates Blue Flag, 223 urine and menstruation, is an admirable remedy Constituents Star anise contains a volatile for paralysis and cold conditions of the brain, and Wild Iris oil (mostly anethole), sesquiterpenoids, and helps against pestilence and the bites of rabid flavonoids, including quercetin. Anethole calms dogs.” A century later, Nicholas Culpeper was Description Perennial growing to about 3 ft the digestive system and relieves gas. The no less fulsome in recommending masterwort (1 m). Has erect stems and long sword-shaped sesquiterpenoids have analgesic activity. Shikimic for rheumatic conditions, shortness of breath, leaves. Each stem bears 3–5 resplendent blue acid, found in the seed pods, was until recently kidney and bladder stones, water retention, to violet flowers with white-veined areas on used as the main source for the production of “falling sickness,” and wounds. the petals. Tamiflu, a prescribed anti-viral medicine. Medicinal Actions & Uses Masterwort Habitat & Cultivation Blue flag is native to History & Folklore Due to its high anethole is little used today, but it may well be an herb that North America. Preferring damp and marshy areas content, star anise has a similar taste to anise bears further investigation. The root is aromatic, in the wild, it is also widely cultivated as a garden (Pipinella anisum, p. 248), and both are used warms central areas of the body, and is a bitter plant. The rhizome is unearthed in autumn. principally as spices. The herb’s Chinese name, tonic. It has a strong action within the stomach Part Used Rhizome. ba jiao hui xian, means “8-horned fennel.” and gut, settling indigestion and relieving gas Constituents Blue flag contains triterpenoids, Medicinal Actions & Uses Used in and cramping. Masterwort is also beneficial for salicylic, and isophthalic acids, a very small amount Chinese herbal medicine as a remedy for chest conditions, and is used for colds, asthma, of volatile oil, starch, resin, an oleoresin, and tannins. rheumaism, back pain, and hernias, star anise and bronchitis. It can also be helpful for History & Folklore Blue flag was one of the has stimulant, diuretic, and digestive properties. menstrual problems. medicinal plants most frequently used by Native It makes an effective remedy for gas and Caution If applied to the skin, masterwort Americans. Different tribes made use of it variously indigestion—especially colic—and can safely may cause an allergic reaction to sunlight. as an emetic, cathartic, and diuretic, to treat wounds, be given to children. To treat hernias of the and for colds, earache, and cholera. In the Anglo- intestine or bladder, star anise is often mixed Ipomoea purga syn. convolvulus American Physiomedicalist tradition, blue flag was with fennel (Foeniculum vulgare, p. 212). Both jalapa (Convolvulaceae) used as a glandular and liver remedy. Blue flag is herbs help to relax the organ’s muscles and Quebec’s provincial flower. relieve spasm. Star anise is also used for toothache. Jalap Medicinal Actions & Uses Blue flag is Caution Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum), currently used mainly to detoxify the body. It which is very similar to star anise, contains a toxic Description Evergreen vine reaching about increases urination and bile production, and has compound and can cause serious side effects. 13 ft (4 m). Has heart-shaped leaves and trumpet- a mild laxative effect. This combination of cleansing like purple flowers. actions makes it a useful herb for chronic skin Imperatoria ostruthium, syn. Habitat & Cultivation Native to Mexico, diseases such as acne and eczema, especially where Peucedanum ostruthium jalap is cultivated in Central America, the West gallbladder problems or constipation contribute to Indies, and Southeast Asia. The root is unearthed the condition. Blue flag is also given for biliousness Masterwort in summer. and indigestion. However, in large doses blue flag Part Used Root. will itself cause vomiting. The traditional use of blue Description Perennial growing to 2 ft (60 cm) Constituents Jalap contains the resin flag for gland problems persists. It is also believed with green leaves divided into 3 leaflets with 3 lobes, convolvulin. by some to aid weight loss. white flowers on large umbels, and winged seeds. History & Folklore Spanish colonizers Cautions Excessive doses cause vomiting. Habitat & Cultivation Native to central and learned of jalap’s strong purgative effect from Do not take this plant during pregnancy. southern Europe and Asia, most often found in the Mexican native peoples. Introduced into Europe wild. The root is unearthed in autumn or spring. in 1565, the herb was used for all types of Blue flag was very widely used by Native Americans Part Used Root. illnesses until the 19th century. to treat wounds and sores. Constituents Masterwort contains a Medicinal Actions & Uses Jalap is such camphoraceous volatile oil (including limonene, a powerful cathartic that its medicinal value phellandrene, alpha-pinene, and a sesquiterpene), is questionable. Even in moderate doses it peucadanin, oxipeucadanin, and ostrutol. stimulates the elimination of profuse watery History & Folklore From the late Middle stools, and in larger doses it causes vomiting. Ages onward, masterwort was held in high regard Related Species I. turpethum, native to Asia and Australia, is also a drastic purgative. Other Ipomoea species, such as the sweet potato (I. batatas, from South America), are important food plants. The seeds of morning glory (I. violacea), native to Mexico, contain compounds similar to LSD, and were taken ritually by the Zapotecs and Aztecs. RCaution Do not take jalap under any circumstances. www.ebook3000.com

Jasminum grandiflorum Jasminum grandiflorum (Oleaceae) leaves, small greenish-white flowers, with male was used to treat a variety of conditions, including Other medicinal plants Jasmine and female flowers on separate plants, and rheumatic and arthritic joints, headaches, dysentery, round, fleshy fruit. constipation, and wounds. Description Slender evergreen rambler growing Habitat & Cultivation Native to the Medicinal Actions & Uses Used to this to 20 ft (6 m). Has dark green compound leaves and rainforests of eastern Africa, especially Mozambique day as a laxative and tonic, butternut is a valuable remedy for chronic constipation, gently encouraging large, sweetly scented tubular white flowers. and Madagascar, calumba is also grown in other regular bowel movements. It is especially beneficial Habitat & Cultivation Native to northern if combined with a carminative herb, such as ginger India, Pakistan, and the northwestern Himalayas, tropical regions. The roots are dug up in dry (Zingiber officinale, p. 155) or angelica (Angelica archangelica, p. 168). Butternut also lowers jasmine is now cultivated as a garden plant and for weather in March and dried. cholesterol levels, and promotes the clearance Parts Used Bark. of waste products by the liver. It has a positive its essential oil. Constituents Calumba contains isoquinoline Parts Used Flowers, essential oil. alkaloids (notably palmatine, columbamine, and jatrorrhizine), diterpene bitter principles, mucilage, and volatile oil (about 1%). reputation in treating intestinal worms, and, being Medicinal Actions & Uses Profoundly bitter, antimicrobial and astringent, it has been prescribed calumba is an extremely good remedy for as a treatment for dysentery. underactive or weakened digestion, stimulating Related Species Black walnut (J. nigra) is used stomach acid production and increasing appetite. It is in the same way as butternut. The bark of the a specific for loss of appetite and anorexia, and by walnut tree (J. regia) is used as a gentle purgative, making the stomach more acidic (and therefore and is also applied to skin afflictions. The nut is hostile to pathogens) helps to prevent digestive used in Chinese herbal medicine as a kidney tonic. infections and improve the breakdown and The nuts of both varieties are highly nutritious, absorption of foods. It is a useful treatment for lower cholesterol levels, and contain significant chronic intestinal infection such as dysentery. quantities of alpha-linolenic acid. Research Calumba’s bitterness is due both to the bitter principles and the alkaloids. Palmatine and Juniperus communis jatrorrhizine reduce blood pressure, palmatine Jasmine flowers are the source of an essential oil that is a uterine stimulant, and jatrorrhizine is sedative (Cupressaceae) is used to treat stress and depression. and antifungal. Juniper Constituents Jasmine’s volatile oil contains Other Species Calumba has much in common benzyl alcohol, benzyl acetate, linalool, and with gentian (Gentiana lutea, p. 99), although it owes Description Coniferous shrub sometimes growing to 49 ft (15 m). Has slender twigs with its bitterness to a different range of constituents. whorls of needle-like leaves, yellow male and blue Caution Avoid during pregnancy. linalyl acetate. female flowers on separate plants, and spherical History & Folklore Jasmine was introduced Juglans cinerea (Juglandaceae) blue-black fruit. to Europe in the 16th century, and is mainly used Habitat & Cultivation Juniper is found in Butternut Europe, southwestern Asia up to the Himalayas, as a source of perfume. Description Deciduous tree growing to and North America, where it grows from southern Medicinal Actions & Uses Jasmine flowers make a calming and sedative infusion, taken to coastal sites to more northerly moorland and relieve tension. The oil is considered antidepressant 100 ft (30 m). Has gray bark, long leaves with mountainous regions. The ripe fruit (berries) is and relaxing. It is used externally to soothe dry many leaflets, male catkins and female flowers, gathered in autumn. Parts Used Fruit, essential oil. or sensitive skin. Due to frequent adulteration, and an oval-shaped fruit containing a hard Constituents Juniper contains 1–2% volatile oil, consisting of over 60 compounds, which include the oil is rarely used in aromatherapy. dark-colored nut. Related Species Actually native to Southeast Habitat & Cultivation Native to North myrcene, sabinene, alpha- and beta-pinene, and Asia, Arabian jasmine (J. sambac) is used American forests, butternut is cultivated for its as an eyewash, is added to tea (Camellia sinensis, timber in other temperate regions. The bark is cineole. Juniper also contains tannins, diterpenes, p. 181) to produce jasmine tea, and is used in collected in autumn. sugars, resin, and vitamin C. History & Folklore Juniper is the main Buddhist ceremonies. Part Used Inner bark. flavoring used in gin. Juniper berries are still mostly Caution Jasmine essential oil should not be Constituents Contains naphthaquinones taken internally. (including juglone, juglandin, and juglandic acid), gathered from the wild. In former times, sprigs of a fixed and a volatile oil, and tannins. The juniper flung into the fire were thought to protect naphthaquinones have an approximately similar against evil spirits. Jateorhiza palmata laxative effect to the anthraquinones found in Medicinal Actions & Uses Juniper is tonic, (Menispermaceae) plants such as senna (Cassia senna, p. 75) and diuretic, and strongly antiseptic within the urinary Chinese rhubarb (Rheum palmatum, p. 126). Calumba Juglone is purgative, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, tract. It is a valuable remedy for cystitis, and helps and cancer-inhibiting. relieve fluid retention, but should be avoided in cases of kidney disease. In the digestive system, Description Creeping vine with a perennial History & Folklore Butternut bark was juniper is warming and settling, easing colic and rootstock, growing to a great height and often employed by Native Americans and New World supporting the function of the stomach. Taken 224 reaching the tops of trees. Has large palm-shaped settlers as a laxative and tonic remedy. Butternut internally or applied externally, juniper is helpful

Lactuca virosa Constituents Kigelia fruit contains norviburtinal, QCautions Take kigelia internally only under Other medicinal plants coumarins, iridoids, flavonoids, fatty acids, sterols, professional guidance. Do not take during Juniper is powerfully glycosides, and napthaquinones. Norviburtinal has pregnancy or while breastfeeding. antiseptic in the tumor-reducing activity, the iridoids and sterols are urinary tract. anti-inflammatory, the flavonoids are antifungal, Krameria triandra (Krameriaceae) and the napthaquinones are thought to in the treatment of chronic arthritis, gout, and be cytotoxic. Rhatany rheumatic conditions. Applied externally as History & Folklore Prized by traditional a diluted essential oil, it has a slightly warming healers throughout sub-Saharan Africa, kigelia has Description Dense evergreen shrub growing effect on the skin and is thought to promote been put to many uses. The Shona of southern to 3 ft (90 cm). Has a deep root, oblong leaves, the removal of waste products from underlying Africa use the bark or root to treat skin infections and large red flowers. tissues. Juniper also stimulates menstruation and and ulcers, toothache, backache, and pneumonia. Habitat & Cultivation Rhatany is found tends to increase menstrual bleeding. In Central Africa, the unripe fruit is used as a dressing in Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia on western slopes Related Species Oil of Cade is produced from for wounds, hemorrhoids, and rheumatism. of the Andes at altitudes of 3,000–9,800 ft J. oxycedrus and is applied to treat skin rashes. Savin In West Africa, the leaves are given for stomach (900–3,000 m). The root is unearthed throughout (J. sabina) is toxic and a powerful abortifacient. and kidney problems, and the fruit is used as a the year. The Japanese J. rigida is used as a diuretic. purgative and applied as a paste to sores. Kigelia Part Used Root. Cautions Do not use juniper during pregnancy is commonly included in traditional herbal Constituents Rhatany contains 10–20% or if prone to heavy menstrual bleeding. Do not formulations for malaria. tannins, including phlobaphene, benzofurans, take if suffering from a kidney infection or kidney Medicinal Actions & Uses Thanks to the and n-methyltyrosine. disease. Do not take the essential oil internally knowledge and experience of African traditional History & Folklore A traditional South except under professional supervision. healers, kigelia is now understood to be a valuable American remedy, rhatany was used by indigenous Self-help Use Urinary infections, p. 314. remedy for skin problems, particularly sores and peoples as an astringent and a tooth preservative. ulcers, produced by bacterial and fungal infection. Its Spanish name, raiz para los dientes (root for the K. pinnata syn. K. africana Kigelia has been described as a “natural antibacterial.” teeth), points to this traditional usage. (Bignoniaceae) Given its marked anti-inflammatory and wound Medicinal Actions & Uses Rhatany is healing properties, kigelia is also being investigated astringent and antimicrobial. It is a useful remedy Kigelia, as a skin toner and restorer, as well as potential taken principally for problems affecting the treatment for skin disorders such as eczema, gastrointestinal tract. It is most commonly used African Sausage Tree psoriasis, and solar keratosis (a precancerous skin for diarrhea and dysentery. In addition, rhatany problem caused by overexposure to sunlight). makes a good mouthwash and gargle for bleeding Description Semi-deciduous tree growing to Various patents exist for kigelia products, and and infected gums, mouth ulcers, and sore throats. 80 ft (25 m) with smooth, gray-brown bark and over time kigelia may become widely known as The plant’s astringency makes it useful in the form brown-purple flowers. The tree gets its name a key herbal resource for the skin. of an ointment, suppository, or wash for treating from the spectacular sausage-shaped fruit, up hemorrhoids. Rhatany may also be applied to to 3 ft (1 m) in length, which hangs from a rope- wounds to help staunch blood flow, to varicose like stalk and weighs up to 22 lb (10 kg). veins, and over areas of capillary fragility that may Habitat & Cultivation Kigelia grows be prone to easy bruising. throughout sub-Saharan Africa but is native to Related Species The Mexican K. cystisoides the eastern half of the continent from Tanzania is an astringent remedy used in much the same way to South Africa. The tree is cultivated from seed as rhatany. Another species native to North and or cuttings and flowers after 6 years. The fruit is Central America, K. parvifolia, was used by the harvested when ripe. Papago as an eyewash. Parts Used Fruit pulp, leaves, bark, roots. Kigelia is a key remedy for treating skin problems. Lactuca virosa (Lamiaceae) 225 Wild Lettuce Description Hollow-stemmed biennial growing to about 4 ft (1.2 m). Has broad spiny leaves and clusters of pale yellow composite flowers. All parts of the plant exude a white milky latex. Habitat & Cultivation Common throughout Europe, wild lettuce grows in open areas, along roadsides, and in hedges. It is gathered when in flower in late summer. Parts Used Leaves, latex, seeds. Constituents The latex contains sesquiterpene lactones (including lactucopicrin and lactucerin); www.ebook3000.com

Lamium aLbum the leaves also contain flavonoids and coumarins. History & Folklore Deadnettle is so called acid. The latter is reportedly harmful to the lymph other medicinal plants The sesquiterpene lactones have a sedative effect. because it resembles true nettle (Urtica dioica, glands and kidneys, though recent research shows History & Folklore In Assyrian herbal p. 146), without the stinging hairs. It was also known that it has beneficial antidiabetic properties. U.S. medicine, lettuce seeds were reportedly used with as archangel, a plant “to make the heart merry, research published in 1996 demonstrated that cumin (Cuminum cyminum, p. 197) as a poultice to make a good colour in the face, and to refresh other lignans have antiviral activity against HIV. for the eyes. Dioscorides (1st century ce) wrote the vital spirits” (John Gerard, The Herball, 1597). History & Folklore Widely used by Native that the plant’s effect resembled that of the opium Medicinal Actions & Uses White deadnettle Americans, chaparral was taken in the form of a poppy (Papaver somniferum, p. 244). is astringent and demulcent. It is chiefly used as decoction to treat stomach troubles and diarrhea. Medicinal Actions & Uses Wild lettuce is a a uterine tonic, to arrest intermenstrual bleeding, Young twigs were used for toothache. The leaves safe sedative that can be given to adults and children and to reduce excessive menstrual flow. It is also were applied as a poultice for respiratory problems to encourage a sound night’s sleep or to calm a traditional treatment for abnormal vaginal and as a wash for skin problems. overactivity or overstimulation. Most commonly, discharge. The herb is sometimes taken to relieve Medicinal Actions & Uses Until the 1960s, it is recommended for excitability in children. It is painful periods. Its astringency helps treat diarrhea, chaparral remained in wide use in the U.S., with an also taken to treat coughs, often in combination and, used externally, it can relieve hemorrhoids and average of 10 tons (9.07 tonnes) consumed each with herbs such as licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra, varicose veins. year. It was thought to be a beneficial remedy for p. 101). Wild lettuce is thought to lower the libido. rheumatic disease, venereal infections, urinary It may also be used to relieve pain. infections, and certain types of cancer, especially Research A 2011 Egyptian clinical trial found Larix decidua leukemia. Chaparral was also taken internally for that lettuce seed oil improved sleep in people syn. L. europaea (Pinaceae) skin afflictions such as acne and eczema, and applied as a lotion to sores, wounds, and rashes. In the suffering from insomnia. Lettuce seed oil has Larch early 1990s, sales of chaparral were banned in the U.S. and Britain due to concern over its potential traditionally been used in Egypt for sleep problems. Description Deciduous conifer growing to 165 ft toxic effect on the liver. It now seems likely that this Related Species Garden lettuce (L. sativa) may be used like wild lettuce, but has a much weaker therapeutic action. (50 m). Has clusters of needle-like leaves, male and is another herb that can, in rare cases, cause liver female flowers, and small, light brown cones. damage, as with some conventional medicines. In Habitat & Cultivation Native to the Alps view of the uncertainty about its safety, any Lamium album (Lamiaceae) and the Carpathian mountains of eastern Europe, potential benefit from taking the herb must be White Deadnettle larch grows to altitudes of 6,600 ft (2,000 m). It is weighed against the risks. Related Species The North American Description Perennial growing to 2 ft (60 cm). widely cultivated for its timber. The resin is tapped in L. divaricata, a close relative of chaparral, contains Has a square stem, toothed oval leaves, and clusters of white double-lipped flowers. autumn; the bark is collected when the tree is felled. lignans, which have been shown to inhibit lymphoid Parts Used Inner bark, resin. Constituents Larch contains lignans, resins, tumor growth with no apparent harmful effect on and volatile oil (consisting mainly of alpha- and normal lymphatic tissue. beta-pinene and limonene). QCautions Only take chaparral on Medicinal Actions & Uses Larch has professional advice. People with a history of liver astringent, diuretic, and antiseptic properties. disease should never take chaparral. The bark may be used to treat bladder and urinary tubule infections such as cystitis and urethritis, and respiratory problems, including bronchitis. Laurus nobilis (Lauraceae) The resin is applied to wounds, where it protects Bay Laurel and counters infection. A decoction of the bark Description Aromatic evergreen shrub or tree growing to 65 ft (20 m). Has leathery, dark green is used to soothe eczema and psoriasis. leaves, small yellow male and female flowers, and Caution Do not take larch if suffering from kidney disease. shiny black berries. Habitat & Cultivation Native to Larrea tridentata (Zygophyllaceae) Mediterranean countries, bay laurel prefers damp Chaparral, and shady sites. It is also a popular garden herb, White deadnettle is used to treat gynecological cultivated largely for culinary use. The leaves are conditions. Creosote Bush picked year round. Parts Used Leaves, essential oil. Habitat & Cultivation White deadnettle Description Thorny shrub growing to 61⁄2 ft Constituents Bay laurel contains up to 3% is native to and widespread in Europe and (2 m), with small finely divided leaves. volatile oil (including 30–50% cineole, linalool, central and northern Asia. It thrives in fields Habitat & Cultivation Chaparral is found alpha-pinene, alpha-terpineol acetate, mucilage, and in open areas. It is gathered when in in large numbers in the deserts of the tannin, and resin). flower in summer. southwestern U.S. and Mexico. History & Folklore In ancient Greece, bay Parts Used Flowering tops. Parts Used Aerial parts. laurel was used in divination by the Delphic Oracle. Constituents White deadnettle contains Constituents Chaparral contains about 12% From ancient Rome comes the tradition that the 226 a saponin, flavones, mucilage, and tannins. resin and lignans, including nordihydroguaiauretic sudden withering of a bay laurel tree bodes disaster

Lepidium virginicum for the household. In ancient Rome, bay laurel Lawsonia inermis Culpeper stated that “there is no better herb to other medicinal plants leaves were used as a medicine, a spice, and a syn. L. alba (Lythraceae) drive away melancholy vapours from the heart, to decorative garland during the December festival of strengthen it and make the mind cheerful” (1652). 227 Saturnalia. Bay laurel was sacred to the gods Apollo Henna The Italian physician and herbalist Pierandrea and Asclepius, who together oversaw healing and Matteoli held it “useful for palpitations and a medicine. The herb was thought to be greatly Description Heavily scented evergreen shrub pounding heart, spasms and paralysis… [it] thins protective and healing. An infusion of the leaves or tree growing to 20 ft (6 m). Has narrow thick and viscid humours [and] stimulates urine was taken for its warming and tonic effect on the pointed leaves, clusters of small white or pink and menstrual bleeding” (1548). stomach and bladder, and a plaster made from flowers, and blue-black berries. Medicinal Actions & Uses A remedy for the leaves was used to relieve wasp and bee stings. Habitat & Cultivation Native to the Middle the heart and nerves and often prescribed for East, North Africa, and the Indian subcontinent, palpitations, motherwort strengthens heart function, Bay laurel henna grows in sunny areas and is widely especially where it is weak. Antispasmodic and adorned victors in cultivated for use as a hair restorative and dye. sedative, the herb promotes relaxation rather than ancient Greece. The leaves are picked during the growing season. drowsiness. However, motherwort stimulates the Parts Used Leaves, bark. muscles of the uterus, and is particularly suitable for Medicinal Actions & Uses Bay laurel is used Constituents Henna contains coumarins, delayed periods, period pain, and premenstrual mainly to treat upper digestive tract disorders naphthaquinones (including lawsone), flavonoids, syndrome (especially if shock or distress is a factor). It and to ease arthritic aches and pains. It is settling sterols, and tannins. should not be used if menstrual bleeding is heavy. to the stomach and has a tonic effect, stimulating History & Folklore Henna has been used for the appetite and the secretion of digestive juices. thousands of years in North Africa and Asia as a red Motherwort has been used to treat palpitations since When used as an ingredient in cooking, bay laurel at least the 16th century. leaves promote the digestion and absorption dye and as a scent. Mummies were wrapped in of food. The leaves have much the same kind of henna-dyed cloth in ancient Egypt. In the Middle Related Species Two East Asian species, positive effect as spearmint (Mentha spicata) and L. heterophyllus (from China) and L. sibiricus rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis, p. 128) in assisting East and India, the leaves have traditionally (from Siberia), are both used therapeutically the breakdown of heavy food, especially meat. been used to make a pigment for dyeing for the same purposes as motherwort. Bay laurel has also been used to promote the intricate linear patterns on the fingers, palms, L. heterophyllus appears to lower blood pressure onset of menstrual periods. The essential oil is and feet. The leaves have also been used to dye not and to induce menstruation. chiefly employed as a friction rub, being well only human hair but the manes and tails of horses. Cautions Do not take motherwort during diluted in a carrier oil and massaged into aching Before meeting Antony, Cleopatra reputedly pregnancy. It should also be avoided where muscles and joints. A decoction of the leaves soaked the sails of her barge in heady henna flower oil. there is heavy menstrual bleeding. may be added to a bath to ease aching limbs. Medicinal Actions & Uses Used mainly Self-help Uses Menstrual problems— Cautions Never take bay laurel essential oil within Ayurvedic and Unani medicine, henna leaves irregular cycle, p. 315; Panic attacks, p. 302. internally. An allergic reaction may result from are commonly taken as a gargle for sore throats, external use, therefore the oil should only be and as an infusion or decoction for diarrhea and Lepidium virginicum (Brassicaceae) applied in very dilute (2%) concentrations. dysentery. The leaves are astringent, prevent hemorrhaging, and strongly promote menstrual Virginia Peppergrass flow. A decoction of the bark is used to treat liver problems. Applied in the form of a plaster, henna Description Annual herb growing to about treats fungal infections, acne, and boils. 2 ft (60 cm). Has slender lance-shaped leaves and small white flowers. Leonurus cardiaca (Lamiaceae) Habitat & Cultivation Virginia peppergrass is native to eastern North America and the Caribbean, Motherwort Description Perennial herb growing to 5 ft (1.5 m). Has toothed, palm-shaped leaves and double-lipped pink flowers blossoming in clusters. Habitat & Cultivation Native to central Asia, motherwort is now naturalized in much of Europe and North America. It grows wild in woodlands, in open areas, and along roadsides. It is also cultivated as a garden plant. Motherwort is harvested when it comes into flower in summer. Parts Used Aerial parts. Constituents Motherwort contains alkaloids (including L-stachydrine), an iridoid (leonurine), diterpenes, flavonoids, caffeic acid, and tannins. History & Folklore As its species name cardiaca indicates, motherwort has long been considered a heart remedy. The herbalist Nicholas www.ebook3000.com

Leptandra Virginica and is naturalized in Australia. The leaves are Levisticum officinale Parts Used Leaves. other medicinal plants gathered in spring and are consumed as food. The syn. Ligusticum levisticum Constituents Lippia leaves contain about (Apiaceae) 0.15% volatile oil with different plant strains, or seedpods can serve as a subsitute for black pepper. Parts Used Leaves, root. Lovage chemotypes, producing several essential oils with Constituents Virginia peppergrass contains high quite a distinct range of compounds, notably citral levels of vitamin C. Description Perennial growing to 61⁄2 ft (2 m). and carvone. The citral chemotype oil is thought History & Folklore The Menominee of Has glossy, toothed compound leaves, greenish- to have strong anti-Candida activity. eastern North America applied a lotion of Virginia History & Folklore In many parts of peppergrass (or a bruised fresh plant) to poison yellow flowers, and tiny oval seeds. Central and South America, Lippia is valued for ivy eruptions. Habitat & Cultivation Lovage is found in its ability to resolve common illnesses, such as Medicinal Actions & Uses Virginia southern Europe and southwestern Asia. It thrives stomach upset, nausea, gas and bloating, coughs, peppergrass is nutritious and generally detoxifying. colds, sore throat, and headache. Its Colombian It has been used to treat vitamin C deficiency and on sunny mountain slopes. The leaves are gathered name, Prontoalivio (meaning “quick relief”) points diabetes, and to expel intestinal worms. The herb to its place in popular Latin American medicine. is also diuretic and of benefit in easing rheumatic in spring or early summer, the seeds in late summer, Medicinal Actions & Uses Lippia has pain. The root is taken to treat excess phlegm pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, relaxant, and within the respiratory tract. the root in autumn. antispasmodic properties, making it useful in many Related Species Maca (L. meyenii) is a Parts Used Root, seeds, leaves. non-severe health problems. In Brazil, where it is low-growing Andean perennial. The root is valued Constituents Lovage root contains a volatile regulated as a medicinal herb, the herb is typically as a staple food and medicine by Andean peoples, oil (about 70% phthalides), coumarins (including used for upper digestive problems, coughs, colds, notably to support immune function and for and bronchitis, as well as for high blood pressure hormonal disorders including sterility. Maca is bergapten, psoralen, and umbelliferone), alkynes, and as a sedative. The herb has been little now commonly available in supplement stores and researched, though a small clinical trial has acquired a reputation as a tonic, hormone plant acids, sterols, resins, and gums. The phthalides in Brazil found it effective in treating migraine balancer, and aphrodisiac. headache. The essential oil is increasingly used are sedative and anticonvulsant. in pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations, Leptandra virginica History & Folklore The Trotula texts, written for example, within Europe, and has significant syn. Veronicastrum virginicum in Salerno during the 12th century, recommend antifungal and antibacterial activity on the skin. (Scrophulariaceae) Related Species The sweet tasting L. dulcis has lovage for skin lightening. The Irish herbalist K’Eogh broadly similar medicinal use and is found across Black Root Central America and the Caribbean. See also follows this recommendation: “lovage clears the Lemon Verbena (Lippia citriodora, following entry). sight and removes spots, freckles and redness from the face.” Medicinal Actions & Uses Lovage is a warming and tonic herb for the digestive and respiratory systems. It treats indigestion, poor appetite, gas and colic, and bronchitis. Lovage is significantly diuretic and antimicrobial and is commonly taken for urinary tract problems. It also promotes menstruation and relieves period pain. Description Perennial herb growing to 3 ft Its warming nature improves poor circulation. (1 m). Has an erect stem, lance-shaped leaves, Related Species The Chinese chuan xiong Lippia citriodora syn. aloysia (Ligusticum chuanxiong) is used principally as a triphylla (Verbenaceae) and white flowers. Habitat & Cultivation Black root grows across means to bring on absent menstrual periods Lemon Verbena North America in meadows and woodlands. The and to treat period pain. The Chinese gao ben root is unearthed in autumn. (Ligusticum sinense) is also used for pain. Part Used Dried root. Cautions Do not take during pregnancy. Do Description Deciduous shrub growing to 61⁄2 ft Constituents Black root contains a volatile oil, not take if you suffer from kidney disease. Can (2 m). Has strongly scented lance-shaped leaves and saponins, sugars, and tannins. increase sensitivity to sunlight. clusters of tubular, pale green to mauve flowers. History & Folklore Known to the Native Self-help Use Heavy menstrual bleeding, p. 315. Habitat & Cultivation Lemon verbena Americans of Missouri and Delaware as a is native to South America. It is cultivated in violent purgative, black root was used Lippia alba (Verbenaceae) temperate climates as an aromatic, ornamental in moderate doses as a laxative, a plant and for its leaves, which are used to make detoxifier, and a remedy for liver Lippia, herbal tea. The leaves are gathered in late summer. disorders. In the 19th century Parts Used Leaves. Physiomedicalist tradition, black Bushy Lippia, Prontoalivio Constituents Lemon verbena contains a volatile root was taken to stimulate oil (mainly consisting of citral, cineole, limonene, and bile production. Description Multi-branched, square-stemmed, geraniole), mucilage, tannins, and flavonoids. Root Medicinal Actions & Uses aromatic shrub growing to 5 ft (1.5 m), with History & Folklore Lemon verbena was Black root is used in small doses opposite leaves and small white or pink flowers introduced to Europe in 1784. In Spain, France, and today as a laxative and a remedy close to the leaf axils. elsewhere in Europe, the infusion is a popular drink. for liver and gallbladder disorders. Habitat & Cultivation Lippia grows Medicinal Actions & Uses An undervalued The herb also treats flatulence and bloating, and throughout South and Central America from medicinal herb, lemon verbena shares qualities with eases the discomfort of hemorrhoids, chronic northern Argentina to the southern U.S. It lemon balm (Melissa officinalis, p. 113). Both herbs constipation, and rectal prolapse. is a common garden herb, and may be grown contain a strong lemon-scented volatile oil that has Cautions Do not use the fresh root. Do not from seed or cuttings, the latter being used for calming and digestive properties. Lemon verbena 228 take during pregnancy. commercial cultivation. has a gentle sedative action and a reputation for

Lo n i c e r a s p p. soothing abdominal discomfort. Its tonic effect on Mixed with witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana, Parts Used Root. other medicinal plants the nervous system is less pronounced than that p. 102) and rosewater (Rosa species), levant storax Constituents Lomatium contains flavonoids, of lemon balm, but it nonetheless helps to lift the makes an astringent face lotion. In China, storax coumarins, tetronic acids, and volatile oil. 229 spirits and counter depression. balsam is used to clear mucus congestion and to History & Folklore One of the most Related Species Yerba dulce (L. dulcis), native relieve pain and constriction in the chest. important medicinal plants of the Pacific to Mexico, is used therapeutically as a demulcent Related Species American storax (L. styraciflua), Northwest, lomatium was “big medicine” for and expectorant remedy. In Mexico, many other which grows mainly in Honduras but is also found Native Americans and widely used for respiratory Lippia species are used for their antispasmodic, farther north, has been used since the time of the infections such as coughs, colds, and flu. In Nevada, period-inducing, and stomach-soothing properties. Maya for its healing properties. lomatium root was combined with yarrow (Achillea L. adoensis is drunk as a tea in West Africa. See also millefolium, p. 56) to treat sexually transmitted lippia (Lippia alba, preceding entry). Lobaria pulmonaria diseases. In Oregon, a decoction of the root was Self-help Use Gas & bloating, p. 306. (stictaceae) applied to horses to rid them of ticks. During the 1917 influenza epidemic an American doctor, Liquidambar orientalis Tree Lungwort Ernest Krebbs, successfully used lomatium in his (Hamamelidaceae) own practice, after noting the effective use of Description Gray or light green lichen with the herb by Native Americans. Levant Storax forked irregular lobes measuring up to 5⁄8 in Medicinal Actions & Uses Lomatium is (1.5 cm) across. today used mostly by botanical practitioners in Description Deciduous tree growing to 20 ft Habitat & Cultivation Found throughout North America to treat a broad range of viral (6 m). Has purplish-gray bark, lobed leaves, and Europe, tree lungwort grows on trees and rocks infections, from chronic fatigue syndrome to small single yellow-white flowers. in woodland areas. It is gathered year round. influenza and herpes infections. A good tonic Habitat & Cultivation Levant storax is Part Used Lichen. herb, it promotes peripheral blood flow and found in southwestern Turkey. Storax balsam, Constituents Tree lungwort contains a variety stimulates immune function. It is usually a viscid gray-brown liquid, is extracted from the of plant acids (including stictic and sticinic acid), combined with other herbs such as echinacea bark, which is pried off the tree in autumn. fatty acids, mucilage, and tannins. (Echinacea spp., p. 92) or wild indigo root Part Used Bark extract. History & Folklore Tree lungwort has been (Baptisia tinctoria, p. 176). used since ancient times as a remedy for lung Research The tetronic acids have been shown to Levant storax is used to relieve congestive chest problems. problems. The Italian physician and herbalist be markedly antimicrobial and toxic to fish (Native Pierandrea Matteoli (1501–77) recommended it for Americans used to place the fresh root in streams Constituents Levant storax contains cinnamic healing pulmonary ulcers and for treating blood- or pools in order to stun fish). Preliminary studies acid, cinnamyl cinnamate, phenylpropyl cinnamate, flecked phlegm. It was also used to treat wounds, in Canada and the U.S. suggest that lomatium has triterpene acids, and a volatile oil. heal ulcers, reduce excessive menstrual bleeding, significant antiviral activity. History & Folklore Levant storax has been relieve dysentery, and halt “choleric vomiting.” Cautions A red measles-like rash, which the Liquidambar species most commonly used Medicinal Actions & Uses A beneficial but clears on stopping treatment, may develop medicinally since the 19th century. Levant storax underused remedy, tree lungwort has expectorant when taking lomatium. Like other members of is also employed as a fixative for perfumes. and tonic properties. It aids in clearing congested the carrot family, lomatium can increase sensitivity Medicinal Actions & Uses Levant storax mucus, reduces phlegm, and helps to increase the to sunlight. balsam acts as both an irritant and an expectorant appetite. In a decoction sweetened with honey, it within the respiratory tract, and it is one of the is appropriate for all conditions that are marked by Lonicera spp. (Caprifoliaceae) ingredients of Friar’s Balsam, an expectorant chronic respiratory infections, especially coughs mixture that is inhaled to stimulate a productive and bronchitis. The plant also treats asthma, Honeysuckle, cough. In addition, levant storax balsam is applied pleurisy, and emphysema. Being astringent and & Jin Yin Hua externally to encourage the healing of skin diseases demulcent, tree lungwort makes a useful and problems such as scabies, wounds, and ulcers. treatment for pulmonary ulcers as well as for a Description A climber growing to 13 ft (4 m) variety of gastrointestinal problems. It is highly that is deciduous (honeysuckle, L. caprifolium) suitable for treating ailments in children. or semi-evergreen (jin yin hua, L. japonica). Has paired oval leaves, yellow-orange (honeysuckle) Lomatium dissectum (Apiaceae) or yellow-white (jin yin hua) tubular flowers, and red (honeysuckle) or black (jin yin hua) berries. Lomatium, Habitat & Cultivation Honeysuckle is native to southern Europe and the Caucasus. Toza Jin yin hua is native to China and Japan. Both plants are commonly found growing on walls, Description Erect perennial, growing to 61⁄2 ft on trees, and in hedges. The flowers and leaves are (2 m), with a large woody taproot, divided, gathered in summer just before the flowers open. triangular leaves, and flowers in flat-topped umbels. Parts Used Flowers, leaves, bark. Habitat & Cultivation Native to coastal Constituents In Europe, L. caprifolium and and inland regions of western North America L. japonica are often used interchangeably and from California as far north as British Columbia. www.ebook3000.com

Lophophora wiLLiamsii contain approximately the same quantity of Constituents Peyote contains alkaloids, principally It is best known in the West as a bathroom Other medicinal plants volatile oil. Nonetheless, Romanian research mescaline, which is a powerful hallucinogen. accessory—the fibrous skeleton makes a good indicates that the Asian species contains a History & Folklore Peyote has been used skin scrubber. much wider range of therapeutically active in Native American religious ceremonies for Medicinal Actions & Uses In Chinese antiseptic compounds. over 3,000 years. Its use as a hallucinogen was medicine, the inner skeleton of the dried fruit History & Folklore Honeysuckle is one of popularized by Aldous Huxley in his book is used to treat pain in the muscles, joints, chest, the Bach Flower Remedies, and in this system The Doors of Perception. and abdomen. It is prescribed for chest infections of herbal cures it is believed to counter feelings of Medicinal Actions & Uses Peyote is a accompanied by fever and pain, and is used to nostalgia and homesickness. Jin yin hua has long shamanistic plant, taken in Native American rituals clear congested mucus. Loofah is also given been used in Chinese medicine to “clear heat to deepen spiritual understanding. It plays an to treat painful or swollen breasts. and relieve toxicity.” important part in the emotional and mental state Research Chinese research indicates that the Medicinal Actions & Uses Honeysuckle of the community. It is also used to treat fevers, as fresh vine has a stronger expectorant effect than flowers from both species can be successfully a painkiller for rheumatism, and to treat paralysis. It the dried fruit. German research (1999) using a used to treat fever, colds, and upper respiratory is applied as a poultice for fractures, wounds, and homeopathic preparation of the plant showed it tract infections. The leaves are traditionally used snake bite. Peyote is also used to induce vomiting. to be as effective as a standard nasal spray for as a gargle for sore throats and as a mouthwash. Caution The use of peyote and mescaline is relief of hay fever. In Chinese herbal medicine, honeysuckle finds illegal in most countries. frequent use in inflammatory conditions, such as conjunctivitis, mastitis (inflammation of the Luffa cylindrica syn. L. aegyptica Lycopodium clavatum (Cucurbitaceae) (Lycopodiaceae) breasts), and rheumatism. Research Chinese research indicates that the Loofah, Club Moss Asian species has significant antimicrobial activity, Si Gua Luo (Chinese) Description Creeping evergreen moss growing including against the tuberculosis bacillus. Clinical to 43⁄4 in (12 cm). Has numerous straggling studies suggest that this species can also help to branchlets covered with bright green linear leaves, lower high blood pressure. and scaly spikes bearing yellow spores. Habitat & Cultivation Club moss is found Caution Do not eat the berries, which are Description Annual vine climbing to 49 ft throughout temperate regions of the northern thought to be toxic. (15 m). Has large lobed leaves, tendrils, and hemisphere. It is common on mountains and in Lophophora williamsii (Cactaceae) yellow female flowers producing long cylindrical moorland. The plant is gathered in summer. Peyote marrow-like fruit. Parts Used Moss, spores. Constituents Club moss contains about Description Cactus growing to 2 in (5 cm). 0.1–0.2% alkaloids (including lycopodine), Has a squat gray-green body with tufted hairs, and pink or white flowers. polyphenols, flavonoids, and triterpenes. Habitat & Cultivation Peyote is native History & Folklore Club moss to northern Mexico and the southwestern region has been used medicinally since at of the U.S. Part Used Whole plant. least the Middle Ages. The whole plant was employed as a diuretic to aid in the flushing out of kidney stones. In Wales, club moss was used for certain back problems and for colds and sore throats. Being strongly water-resistant, the spores are still Club moss used to coat tablets. The spores ignite explosively and have been used in making fireworks. Loofah fruit is dried and used in Chinese medicine to treat Medicinal Actions & Uses Club moss is muscle and joint pain. diuretic, sedative, and antispasmodic, and is particularly useful for treating chronic urinary Habitat & Cultivation Loofah is native to issues. The herb may also be taken for indigestion the tropics of Asia and Africa. It is now grown and gastritis. The spores can be applied to the skin as a fruit in tropical regions around the world. to relieve itchiness. Club moss is frequently used in It is harvested when ripe in summer. homeopathic medicine, being prescribed for Part Used Fruit. headache, liver problems, and digestive symptoms Constituents Loofah contains polysaccharides, such as gas and burping. QCaution Club moss is potentially toxic in Peyote is a powerful hallucinogen. It is used in xylan, xylose, and galactan. overdose. This plant should only be used with the 230 Native American ceremonies. History & Folklore Loofah was brought from supervision of a professional practitioner. India to China in the Tang Dynasty (618–907 ce).

M a d h u c a s p p. Lycopus virginicus (Lamiaceae) Dioscorides (40–90 ce) recommended loosestrife and along rivers and streams, to altitudes of Other medicinal plants to staunch wounds and for nosebleeds, and noted 3,300 ft (1,000 m). It is gathered when in flower Bugleweed that its smoke would drive away snakes and flies. in summer. Medicinal Actions & Uses An astringent Parts Used Aerial parts. Description Perennial herb growing to 2 ft herb, yellow loosestrife is principally used to treat Constituents Purple loosestrife contains salicarin, (60cm). Has a square stem, lance-shaped leaves, gastrointestinal conditions such as diarrhea and a glycoside (vitexin), tannins, a volatile oil, mucilage, dysentery, to stop internal and external bleeding, and plant sterols. and whorls of whitish flowers. and to cleanse wounds. It makes a workable History & Folklore In 1654, the herbalist Habitat & Cultivation Bugleweed is common mouthwash for sore gums and mouth ulcers, and Nicholas Culpeper praised this herb, writing that throughout most of North America, thriving close may be used to treat nosebleeds. Yellow loosestrife “the distilled water is a present remedy for hurts has also been taken as an expectorant. and blows on the eyes, and for blindness … it also to water. It is harvested in summer when in flower. Related Species The yellow pimpernel cleareth the eyes of dust or any other thing gotten Parts Used Aerial parts. (L. nemorum), another European native, is into them, and preserveth the sight.” A common Constituents Bugleweed contains phenolic astringent and staunches blood. Jin qian cao plant in Ireland, purple loosestrife was much used acids (including derivatives of caffeic, chlorogenic, (L. christinae), from China, is a diuretic used to there against diarrhea. treat urinary pain. A Chinese trial showed that Medicinal Actions & Uses The astringent and ellagic acids). the latter is also effective in treating both kidney purple loosestrife is mainly employed as a History & Folklore In the 19th-century stones and gallstones. treatment for diarrhea and dysentery. It can be Physiomedicalist tradition, bugleweed was regarded safely taken by people of all ages; some herbalists Lythrum salicaria (Lythraceae) recommend it to help arrest diarrhea in breast- as astringent and calming to the nerves, and was feeding babies. The herb may also be used Purple Loosestrife to treat heavy periods and for inter-menstrual given for loose coughs, internal bleeding, and bleeding. Externally, it is applied as a poultice Description Attractive perennial growing to urinary incontinence. Herbal practitioners once about 5 ft (1.5 m). Has straight red stems, or lotion to wounds, leg ulcers, and eczema, pointed lance-shaped leaves, and spikes and used to treat excess vaginal discharge and considered the plant to be a mild narcotic. of brilliant purple flowers. vaginal itching. Purple loosestrife is now little used Medicinal Actions & Uses Bugleweed Habitat & Cultivation Purple to treat eye problems, but, as Culpeper’s has sedative properties and today the herb is loosestrife is native to Europe experience suggests, the herb could be worth but well-established in the further investigation as a remedy for disorders principally prescribed to treat an overactive wild in North America. of the eyes and vision. It thrives in marshes Research In animal experiments, extracts of thyroid gland and the racing heartbeat that often the flowers and leaves have been shown to be hypoglycemic—lowering blood-sugar levels. The accompanies this condition. Bugleweed is also plant is also thought to have antibiotic activity. considered an aromatic and tonic astringent Madhuca spp. (sapotaceae) that reduces the production of mucus. Butter Tree Research Studies indicate that bugleweed and, to some degree, gipsywort (see Related Species, Description Deciduous tree growing to 65 ft (20 m). Has leathery leaves, clusters of scented below) reduce the activity of the thyroid gland. white flowers, and greenish fruit. Related Species Gipsywort (L. europaeus), a Habitat & Cultivation Madhuca species are European native, has astringent and cardiotonic native to central and northern India. The flowers, leaves, and seeds are gathered in summer. properties. It is taken for palpitations and anxiety, Parts Used Flowers, seed oil. Constituents The leaves contain an alkaloid and has been used to lower fever. and a saponin; the seeds a saponin and fixed oil. QCautions Take only under professional History & Folklore Butter tree has been a supervision. Do not take during pregnancy. source of food and medicine in India for at least Lysimachia vulgaris (primulaceae) Purple loosestrife is 2,000 years. Its flowers are eaten and are used to relieve fermented to make alcoholic drinks. Yellow Loosestrife diarrhea and Medicinal Actions & Uses The expectorant flowers are used to treat chest Description Attractive perennial growing to dysentery in breast- problems such as bronchitis. They are also taken 3 ft (1 m) with whorls of broadly lance-shaped feeding babies. to increase breast-milk production. The leaves are applied as a poultice to eczema. The seed oil is leaves and bright yellow flowers. laxative and is taken for constipation and to loosen 231 Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe, the stool of hemorrhoid sufferers. yellow loosestrife commonly grows in damp hedgerows and near water. It is also cultivated as a garden plant. It is gathered when in flower in summer. Parts Used Aerial parts. Constituents Yellow loosestrife contains a benzoquinone, triterpenoid saponins, flavonoids, and tannins. History & Folklore Pliny (23–79 ce) recorded that lysimachia, the plant’s Latin name, was a tribute to King Lysimachus of Sicily, who discovered its medicinal benefits. The name “loosestrife” refers to the plant’s reputed power to prevent conflict, particularly between animals, and to repel insects. The Greek physician www.ebook3000.com

Magnolia officinalis Magnolia officinalis (Magnoliaceae) Malva sylvestris (Malvaceae) influential was the root’s shape, which often vaguely Other medicinal plants Magnolia, Common Mallow resembles the human form. The roots have been carved and used as talismans for thousands of years, Hou Po (Chinese) Description Biennial growing to 5 ft (1.5 m). especially to aid fertility in women, and as a charm Has a pulpy taproot, 5-lobed scalloped leaves, against misfortune. From Roman times onward, Description Deciduous tree growing to 80 ft mandrake root bark was used as an anaesthetic (25 m). Has aromatic bark, large leaves, and and pink to mauve flowers. and analgesic, and as a treatment for insanity. fragrant creamy-white flowers. Habitat & Cultivation Common mallow is Habitat & Cultivation Native to China, native to Europe and Asia. It is naturalized in the magnolia grows wild in mountainous regions. It is now planted in many parts of the world as an Americas and Australasia, growing in open areas ornamental tree. The bark is stripped in spring. and on hedges and fences. The leaves are gathered in spring, the flowers when in bloom in summer. Parts Used Leaves, flowers, root. Constituents Common mallow contains flavonol glycosides, mucilage, and tannins. The flowers also contain malvin (an anthocyanin). History & Folklore The young leaves and shoots of this plant have been eaten since at least the 8th century bce. The plant’s many uses gave rise to the Spanish adage, “A kitchen garden and mallow, sufficient medicines for a home.” Medicinal Actions & Uses Though less useful than marshmallow (Althaea officinalis, p. 165), common mallow is an effective demulcent. The flowers Mandrake’s narcotic properties and human-shaped root have and leaves are emollient and good for sensitive inspired much legend and lore. areas of the skin. It is applied as a poultice to Medicinal Actions & Uses Mandrake reduce swelling and draw out toxins. Taken internally, the leaves reduce gut irritation and has now largely fallen out of use. The herb is Magnolia is distinguished by its have a laxative effect. When common mallow sometimes applied as a poultice or plaster for beautiful creamy-white flowers. is combined with eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus, rheumatic and arthritic pains, or, as a decoction, Part Used Bark. p. 96), it makes a good remedy for coughs and for ulcers and similar kinds of skin disorders. Constituents Magnolia bark contains alkaloids, other chest ailments. As with marshmallow, the RCautions Mandrake is toxic. Do not take coumarins, flavonoids, and lignans. The lignan, root may be given to children to ease teething. internally. Use externally only under professional honokiol, found in the bark of several magnolia supervision. The plant is subject to legal restrictions species appears to have antitumor and anti- in some countries. anxiety activity. Another lignan, magnolol, has Mandragora officinarum Manihot esculenta (Solanaceae) (Euphorbiaceae) antibacterial and anti-anxiety activity. Medicinal Actions & Uses Magnolia bark Mandrake Cassava, is aromatic, warming, and pungent. It relieves Description Perennial growing to 2 in (5 cm). cramping pain and flatulence, and is taken for abdominal distension, indigestion, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is now also used to treat Has a deep branching root, a rosette of broad Manioc anxiety, chronic stress, and lowered mood, and as a floppy leaves, funnel-shaped white to purple neuroprotective remedy that aids memory and flowers, and yellow fruit. Description Shrub growing to 61⁄2 ft (2 m). mental function. Habitat & Cultivation Native to the Has fleshy roots, woody stems, large palm-shaped Research Research suggests that magnolia bark Mediterranean region of Europe, mandrake grows leaves, and green flowers. extract is antimicrobial and may have specific use on dry riverbeds. Its leaves are picked in summer. Habitat & Cultivation Cassava is native to as an oral antiseptic to control bacteria and relieve Part Used Root. tropical Central and South America. Possibly the bad breath (halitosis). Two Italian clinical studies Constituents Mandrake contains 0.4% tropane most grown root crop in the world, bitter and found that magnolia extract helped relieve anxiety alkaloids (hyoscine and hyoscyamine). sweet varieties are grown commercially throughout and support positive mood in menopausal women. History & Folklore Legend held that the the tropics (Nigeria, Thailand, and Brazil being the A 2012 Korean study concluded that magnolia may mandrake, on being uprooted, emitted a scream foremost producers). The plant was first cultivated be useful in treating Alzheimer’s disease. that was so powerful it could kill the person in Peru around 4,000 years ago. The root is Related Species North American species, harvesting the plant. Consequently, reported one unearthed 8 to 24 months after planting. notably M. grandiflora, are used in much the same classical authority, mandrake was pulled up by dogs Part Used Root. that had the stems tied to their tails. The fantastic Constituents Cassava contains cyanogenic way as magnolia (above), with traditional uses including for fever and rheumatism. powers attributed to the plant were partly due glycosides (0.02–0.03% in the bitter varieties, 232 Caution Do not take during pregnancy. to the narcotic-like properties of the root. Also 0.007% in the sweet) and starch.

Medicago sativa History & Folklore In Central America, the Marsdenia condurango Other medicinal plants Maya made the root into a poultice for smallpox syn. gonolobus condurango (Asclepiadaceae) sores, and an infusion for urinary infections. Condurango Arrowroot was a staple food of the Arawak people Description Climbing vine growing to 33 ft of the Caribbean. The plant reputedly gets its name (10 m). Has heart-shaped leaves and funnel- shaped, white-green flowers. from its use to treat poisoned arrow wounds— Habitat & Cultivation Condurango is native to deciduous forests of the Andes in Peru and presumably as a drawing poultice. Ecuador. It generally grows at altitudes between Medicinal Actions & Uses Arrowroot is 3,300–6,600 ft (1,000–2,000 m). The bark is used in herbal medicine in much the same manner collected year round. Parts Used Bark, latex. as slippery elm (Ulmus rubra, p. 145), as a soothing Constituents Condurango bark contains glycosides (based on condurangogenins), a volatile demulcent and a nutrient of benefit in convalescence oil, and phytosterols. History & Folklore Early in the last century, and for those with weak digestions. It helps to relieve condurango was erroneously yet widely believed to be a remedy for cancer. acidity, indigestion, and colic, and is mildly laxative. Medicinal Actions & Uses The bark’s main effect is to stimulate stomach secretions. It may be applied as an ointment or poultice mixed It is often used in South American folk medicine as a potent bitter and digestive tonic. Condurango with antiseptic herbs such as myrrh (Commiphora is a specific treatment for nervous indigestion and anorexia nervosa, since its bitterness slowly molmol, p. 85). increases the appetite as well as the stomach’s Self-help Use Acidity & indigestion, p. 307. ability to process more food. The herb is also thought to stimulate the liver and pancreas, and Cassava is a staple food in many tropical regions Marrubium vulgare (Lamiaceae) may be taken for liver disorders. Condurango of the world. also encourages menstruation. The caustic White Horehound white latex has been applied topically to History & Folklore Bitter cassava has large quantities of highly toxic glycosides, and must be Description Square-stemmed perennial remove warts. carefully soaked and cooked before it is safe to eat. Research The condurangogenins in (Sweet cassava is safe to eat without such processing.) growing to about 20 in (50 cm). Has toothed, condurango may act to counter tumors. Tapioca is a native Brazilian name for the processed The whole plant, however, does not seem root, which is used in commercial food preparation downy leaves and double-lipped white flowers. to impede cancer development. as a thickening agent. The Witoto of the Colombian Amazon poison fish with the water used to wash Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe, Caution The latex is poisonous and should not bitter cassava. The Makuna use the wash water be taken internally. to treat scabies. white horehound is naturalized in North and Medicinal Actions & Uses Cassava root is Medicago sativa (Fabaceae) easily digestible and makes a suitable, if low-protein, South America. It flourishes in dry, bare, or open food for convalescence. The bitter variety may Alfalfa, be used to treat scabies, diarrhea, and dysentery. areas, and is gathered in spring. Cassava flour may be used to help dry weeping Lucerne skin. In China, a poultice is made of cassava, wheat Parts Used Leaves. flour, and ginger (Zingiber officinale, p. 155) to draw Constituents White horehound Description Perennial herb growing to 32 in out pus when infection is present. (80 cm). Has 3-lobed leaves, flowers that range Caution Raw bitter cassava is toxic and has contains the diterpenes marrubiin in color from yellow to violet-blue, and spiraling caused many deaths. The root must be carefully seed pods. soaked and cooked before eating. (0.3–1.0%) and marrubenol, Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, alfalfa is found in meadows Maranta arundinacea tannins, and 0.06% volatile oil. and in both open and cultivated areas. Grown as (Marantaceae) a fodder crop in temperate climates, it is harvested Marrubiin is thought to be in summer. Arrowroot Parts Used Aerial parts, seeds, sprouting seeds. chiefly responsible for the Constituents Alfalfa contains isoflavones, Description Perennial growing to 61⁄2 ft (2 m). coumarins, alkaloids, vitamins, and porphyrins. Has a creeping rhizome, many long-stemmed oval herb’s expectorant and bitter The isoflavones and coumarins are estrogenic. leaves, and flowering stems with clusters of creamy- white flowers. activity. It also acts on the heart Habitat & Cultivation Native to northern South America and the Caribbean islands, arrowroot to correct an irregular heartbeat. Dried herb is cultivated mostly on the island of St. Vincent. The History & Folklore White rhizome is unearthed 10 to 11 months after planting. Part Used Rhizome. horehound has been a remedy for Constituents Arrowroot contains 25–27% neutral starch. chest problems since ancient times, perhaps most frequently taken as a syrup made with honey or sugar. The Greek physician Dioscorides (40–90 ce) recommended a decoction of white horehound as a treatment for tuberculosis, asthma, and coughs. Medicinal Actions & Uses White horehound is helpful for wheeziness, bronchitis, bronchiectasis (a damaged air passage within the lung), bronchial asthma, non-productive coughs, and whooping cough. The herb apparently causes the secretion of a more fluid mucus, which is readily cleared by coughing. As a bitter tonic, white horehound increases the appetite and supports the function of the stomach. It is widely used in Mexico to help control type 2 diabetes. The herb may also act to normalize heart rhythm, improving its regularity. 233 www.ebook3000.com

Melaleuca leucadendron Other medicinal plants properties treat colds, sore throats, coughs, and, Habitat & Cultivation Melilot is native to especially, chest infections. The diluted oil may Europe, North Africa, and temperate regions Alfalfa has been cultivated for centuries for its nutritional either be steam-inhaled or applied to the chest and medicinal properties. or throat to treat laryngitis, tracheitis, and of Asia, and is naturalized in North America. It bronchitis. As cajuput stimulates the circulation History & Folklore Though mostly used as and is antispasmodic, it is used as a friction rub grows in dry and open areas. It is harvested in an animal feed, alfala seeds have been consumed for rheumatic joints and neuralgia. as food for thousands of years. Pliny (23–79 ce) Related Species Niaouli (M. viridiflora), of New late spring. records that alfalfa was brought to Greece by Caledonia, has properties similar to those of cajuput. Parts Used Aerial parts. Darius, King of Persia (550–486 bce), during his See also tea tree (M. alternifolia, p. 112). Constituents Melilot contains flavonoids, attempt to conquer Athens. Cautions Take internally only under coumarins, resin, tannins, and volatile oil. If allowed Medicinal Actions & Uses Alfalfa is perhaps professional supervision. Do not use during more therapeutically useful as a food than a pregnancy. Cajuput essential oil is subject to legal to spoil, the plant produces dicoumarol, a powerful medicine as the seeds are taken to help lower restrictions in some countries. cholesterol levels. In view of alfalfa’s estrogenic Self-help Use Chest coughs & bronchitis, anticoagulant. activity, it can prove useful in treating problems p. 310. History & Folklore The Irish herbalist relating to menstruation and menopause. K’Eogh reported in 1735, “a gentlewoman of my Cautions Do not take alfalfa alongside the Melilotus officinalis anticoagulant medication warfarin. Avoid sprouted syn. M. arvensis (Fabaceae) acquaintance … had a swelling for a year or more seeds in compromised immune states. Using large amounts is not advisable in pregnancy or in Melilot on her right side, which was cured by three or four autoimmune diseases. Description Biennial herb growing to about 3 ft times rubbing the grieved part with an oil made of (1 m). Has 3-lobed leaves, spikes of yellow flowers, and brown seedpods. this herb.” Medicinal Actions & Uses As with horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum, p. 58), long-term use of melilot—internally or externally—can help varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Melilot also helps reduce the risk of phlebitis and thrombosis. The plant is mildly sedative and antispasmodic, and is given for insomnia (especially in children) and anxiety. It has been used to treat flatulence, indigestion, bronchitis, problems associated with menopause, and rheumatic pains. Cautions Do not take melilot if using anticoagulants. If harvested from the wild, melilot should be dried or used immediately, as the spoiled plant is toxic. Mentha haplocalyx (Lamiaceae) Bo He (Chinese), Corn Mint Melaleuca leucadendron Melilot is an Description Perennial herb growing to 2 ft (Myrtaceae) effective remedy for (60 cm). Has a square stem, oval toothed leaves, Cajuput venous disorders. and whorls of pale lilac flowers growing from Description Aromatic, evergreen tree growing the leaf axils. to 130 ft (40 m). Has peeling bark, pale green Habitat & Cultivation Bo he is native to temperate regions of the northern hemisphere, oval leaves, and clusters of small white flowers and is widely cultivated in China. Harvested 2–3 on long spikes. Habitat & Cultivation Native to Southeast times a year, the best crops are in early summer Asia, cajuput is cultivated for its essential oil and and early autumn. timber. The leaves and twigs are gathered Parts Used Aerial parts. Constituents Bo he contains a volatile oil throughout the year. comprising mainly menthol (up to 95%) with Part Used Essential oil. Constituents The volatile oil contains menthone, menthyl acetate, camphene, limonene, terpenoids, mainly cineole (50–60%), beta-pinene, and other terpenoids. alpha-terpineol, and others. Cineole is strongly History & Folklore Bo he was first mentioned in Grandfather Lei’s Discussion of Herb Preparation antiseptic. Early investigations suggest the fruit (c. 470 ce). A 15th-century Chinese prescription may have antiviral properties. Medicinal Actions & Uses Cajuput is recommends bo he for dysentery with blood. normally combined with other essential oils such as Medicinal Actions & Uses In Chinese 234 eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus, p. 96). Its antiseptic herbal medicine (see pp. 40–43) bo he is a popular treatment for colds, sore throats, sore mouth and tongue, and a host of other conditions ranging from

Mitchella repens toothache to measles. Like peppermint (M. x piperita, only distantly related, has constituents similar if there is abdominal discomfort. This herb is also Other medicinal plants p. 114), it helps to lower the temperature, has to those of pennyroyal. American pennyroyal is used as an aid to weight gain. Bogbean is thought antimucus properties, and may be taken for traditionally used as a remedy for colds, headaches, to be an effective remedy for rheumatism, especially dysentery and diarrhea. The juice has also been and delayed menstrual periods. when this condition is associated with weakness, used to treat earache. Bo he is often combined Cautions Do not use the essential oil, which weight loss, and lack of vitality. Mostly, bogbean is with ju hua (Chrysanthemum x morifolium, p. 78) is highly toxic. Do not take pennyroyal during prescribed in combination with other herbs such to treat headaches and bloodshot or sore eyes. pregnancy, or if menstrual periods are heavy. as celery seed (Apium graveolens, p. 64) and white Related Species The Japanese variety of bo he Self-help Uses Digestive headaches & willow (Salix alba, p. 129). (M. arvensis) is widely cultivated as a source of biliousness, p. 309; Nausea with headache, p. 306 Cautions Do not take if suffering from menthol. The closely related spearmint (M. spicata) diarrhea, dysentery, or colitis. Excessive doses native to Europe and Asia, is used mainly as a Menyanthes trifoliata may cause vomiting. flavoring and culinary herb. See also peppermint (Menyanthaceae) (M. x piperita, p. 114) and pennyroyal (M. pulegium, Milletta reticulata (Fabaceae) following entry). Bogbean Ji Xue Teng Mentha pulegium (Lamiaceae) Description Perennial aquatic plant growing to 9 in (23 cm). Has trefoil leaves and spikes of Description Climber growing to 16 ft (5 m) Pennyroyal pink and white flowers with fringed petals. with compound leaves and clusters of pea-type Habitat & Cultivation Bogbean is native flowers producing large beanpods. Description Powerfully aromatic perennial to Europe, Asia, and America. It is found in shallow Habitat & Cultivation Native to China, ji xue growing to 16 in (40 cm). Has oval, toothed leaves fresh water. The leaves are picked in summer. teng is cultivated in the southeast of that country. and whorls of lilac flowers. Parts Used Leaves. Parts Used Root, vine. Habitat & Cultivation Pennyroyal is native Constituents Bogbean contains iridoid Constituents It contains flavonoids and to Europe and western Asia, and has become glycosides, flavonol glycosides, coumarins, phenolic isoflavones. In common with other members naturalized in the Americas. It thrives in damp acids, sterols, triterpenoids, tannin, and very small of the bean family, it also contains rotenone, a areas and is gathered when in flower in summer. amounts of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. The iridoids are naturally occurring broad-spectrum insecticide. Parts Used Aerial parts. strongly bitter and stimulate digestive secretions. History & Folklore This plant was first Constituents Pennyroyal’s volatile oil contains recorded in Chinese medical texts in about pulegone (27–92%), isopulegone, menthol, and Bogbean leaves are gathered in summer, after the plant 720 ce. It is called ji xue teng, literally “chicken other terpenoids. Pennyroyal also contains bitters has come into flower. blood vine,” because of the red sap that and tannins. exudes when the stem is cut. History & Folklore The Roman natural Medicinal Actions & Uses In Chinese herbal historian Pliny (23–79 ce) wrote that pennyroyal medicine (see pp. 40–43), pain is often thought to was considered a better medicinal herb than roses, be due to poor or obstructed blood flow. In this and that it purified bad water. His contemporary, tradition, ji xue teng is classified as an herb that Dioscorides, stated that pennyroyal “provokes invigorates the blood, and is mainly used to treat menstruation and labour.” In 1597, John Gerard menstrual problems. Ji xue teng is used to relieve wrote that “a garland of pennie royal made and period pain or normalize an irregular or absent worne about the head is of great force against cycle, especially where this may be due to anemia. the swimming of the head, and the pains and This herb is also prescribed for certain types of giddiness thereof.” The name pulegium derives arthritic pain, as well as for numbness of the hands from the Latin word for flea, referring to and feet. pennyroyal’s traditional use as a flea-repellent. Research Limited investigation indicates that Medicinal Actions & Uses Similar in many ji xue teng may be anti-inflammatory and may respects to peppermint (M. x piperita, p. 114), lower blood pressure. pennyroyal is a good digestive tonic. It increases Cautions Do not take during pregnancy or the secretion of digestive juices, relieves flatulence while breastfeeding. and colic, and occasionally is used as a treatment for intestinal worms. It makes a good remedy for History & Folklore Long used as a folk remedy Mitchella repens (Rubiaceae) 235 headaches and for minor respiratory infections, for rheumatism and arthritis, bogbean has also been helping to check fever and reduce mucus. Squaw Vine, Pennyroyal powerfully stimulates the uterine muscles taken to treat fluid retention, scabies, and fever. In and encourages menstruation. An infusion of Partridge Berry pennyroyal can be used externally to treat itchiness the past, because of the herb’s pronounced and formication (a sensation of ants crawling over Description Evergreen herb growing to the body) and rheumatic conditions including gout. bitterness, it was used as an adulterant of, or a 1 ft (30 cm) and forming mats on the ground. Related Species See peppermint (M. x piperita, Has rounded shiny leaves, a flowering stem bearing p. 114) and bo he (M. haplocalyx, preceding entry). substitute for, hops (Humulus lupulus, p. 104). fragrant white flowers and small, bright red berries. American pennyroyal (Hedeoma pulegoides), while Medicinal Actions & Uses Bogbean is a strongly bitter herb that encourages the appetite and stimulates digestive secretions. It is taken to improve underactive or weak digestion, particularly www.ebook3000.com

MoMordica charantia Habitat & Cultivation purgative, and is prescribed for colic. A decoction Winnebagos and Dakotas as a stimulant and as a Other medicinal plants Squaw vine is native to the of the leaves is taken for liver problems and colitis, treatment for cholera. Other Native Americans eastern and central U.S. It grows in and it may be applied to skin conditions. The seed used the herb for a wide variety of problems, dry sites in woodlands, and is oil is used to help heal wounds. including nausea, backache, fluid retention, chills, harvested in late summer. Research Seeds are androgenic and and headache. Parts Used Aerial parts, berries. inhibit sperm production, and were tested Medicinal Actions & Uses Having a Constituents Squaw vine is as a contraceptive in China in the 1980s. strong volatile oil, horsemint is primarily used for believed to contain tannins, In diabetic laboratory animals, the fruit juice digestive and upper respiratory problems. It is glycosides, and saponins. stimulated regeneration of the pancreatic cells, taken as an infusion to relieve nausea, indigestion, History & Folklore Aerial parts which secrete insulin. A major body of evidence flatulence, and colic. It is also employed to reduce An infusion of squaw vine was now supports the traditional use of the fruit juice fevers and upper respiratory mucus. The herb commonly taken by Native American women to to treat non-insulin-dependent diabetes. has an antiseptic action within the chest. Taken hasten childbirth. It was also occasionally used for Related Species The seeds of the Asian internally or applied externally, horsemint reduces a variety of other complaints, including insomnia, M. cochinchinensis are applied as a poultice to fever by encouraging sweating. It also strongly rheumatic pain, and fluid retention. relieve abscesses, hemorrhoids, and scrofula. stimulates menstruation. Medicinal Actions & Uses Squaw vine is Recent research indicates that a paste of the Related Species In 19th-century America, still extensively used to aid labor and childbirth, seeds may help psoriasis and ringworm. Oswego tea (M. didyma) was considered a tonic and is considered to have a tonic action on the Cautions While bitter melon is relatively safe at for young mothers, and was traditionally given uterus and the ovaries. It is taken to normalize low dosage, do not use for more than 4 weeks. Do to brides. It is thought to be a mild menstrual menstruation and to relieve heavy periods and not take if prone to low blood-sugar levels. regulator and an appetite stimulant. period pain. This herb has also been recommended Caution Do not take during pregnancy. for stimulating breast-milk production, but other herbs with a similar action, such as fennel Monarda punctata (Lamiaceae) Monsonia ovata (Geraniaceae) (Foeniculum vulgare, p. 212), are preferred. The Horsemint Monsonia berries, crushed and mixed with tincture of myrrh Description Strongly aromatic perennial Description Small herbaceous plant with multi- growing to 3 ft (90 cm). Has downy lance-shaped branched stems, very small oblong leaves and (Commiphora molmol, p. 85), are helpful for sore leaves, and double-lipped, red-spotted yellow white solitary or paired geranium-like flowers. flowers growing in whorls from the leaf axils. Habitat & Cultivation Native to South nipples. An astringent herb, squaw vine has also Habitat & Cultivation Native to the eastern Africa and Namibia, monsonia is found growing and central U.S., horsemint is found in dry and been prescribed for diarrhea and colitis. Caution Do not take during the first 6 months of pregnancy. Momordica charantia sandy areas. It is gathered when in flower in in arid conditions. It is gathered when in flower. (Cucurbitaceae) summer and autumn. Parts Used Aerial parts. Bitter Melon, Parts Used Aerial parts. History & Folklore In Zulu medicine, Constituents Horsemint’s volatile oil has monsonia is used to treat snake bite. thymol as the main constituent. Medicinal Actions & Uses Monsonia is Kerala used throughout southwestern Africa as a treatment for diarrhea, acute and chronic Description Annual climber growing to about dysentery, and ulcerative colitis. The plant’s 61⁄2 ft (2 m). Has deeply lobed leaves, yellow astringent properties act to tighten and protect flowers, and orange-yellow fruit. the inner linings of the intestinal tract. Given Habitat & Cultivation Native to southern monsonia’s long traditional use for intestinal Asia, bitter melon is common throughout tropical disorders and infections, it is possible—but as regions of the world. It is harvested year round. yet unsubstantiated by research—that the plant Parts Used Leaves, fruit, seeds, seed oil. has a direct antimicrobial effect. Constituents Bitter melon contains a fixed oil, an insulin-like peptide, cucurbitacins, glycosides (mormordin and charantin), and an alkaloid Montia perfoliata (Portulacaceae) (mormordicine). The peptide is known to lower sugar levels in the blood and urine. Miner’s Lettuce History & Folklore Bitter melon is Description Annual growing to 4 in (10 cm) traditionally taken in Asia, Africa, and the Horsemint strongly encourages sweating and the onset with pointed oval leaves (one pair enveloping of menstruation. Caribbean to treat the symptoms of diabetes. the stem), and white 5-petaled flowers. Medicinal Actions & Uses The unripe fruit History & Folklore Horsemint’s genus name, Habitat & Cultivation Miner’s lettuce is mainly used to treat type 2 diabetes. The ripe fruit is a stomach tonic, and induces menstruation. Monarda, was bestowed in honor of Nicolas is native to western North America, and has In Turkey, it is used to treat ulcers. The fruit is Monardes, a Spanish physician, whose herbal become naturalized in temperate regions around much used in the West Indies for worms, urinary of 1569 detailed the medicinal uses of a number of the world, especially in Australia. The plant thrives 236 stones, and fever. The fruit juice is taken as a New World plants. Horsemint was used by the in acid sandy soils. It is generally gathered from

Morus alba the wild before and during the flowering period. chronic disease. For example, noni leaves are used and premature ejaculation in men, and is Other medicinal plants It has also been cultivated as a vegetable. to treat boils and stomach ulcers and, chewed, taken by both sexes to aid fertility. Morinda is Parts Used Aerial parts. are applied as a poultice to relieve inflammation. employed in various other conditions, notably 237 Constituents Miner’s lettuce is rich in vitamin C. In Hawaii, traditional healers have long used noni in in the treatment of menstrual disorders. History & Folklore Miner’s lettuce was a order to promote recovery from bouts of Researchers are investigating the root for its readily available salad vegetable on the West Coast serious illness. potential to prevent bone loss and help in of America. It most probably acquired its name Medicinal Actions & Uses Since the late treating osteoporosis. during the California gold rush of 1849. Itinerant 1990s, word of noni’s reputed medicinal benefits miners may have later taken the plant with them has spread and noni is being presented as a Morus alba (Moraceae) to Australia, where it is now common. medicinal food with an astonishing variety of potential uses. These include treating obesity, White Mulberry, Miner’s lettuce may have diabetes, cancer, pain, lowered immunity, high blood been spread around the pressure, heart disease, and depression. With lists Sang Ye (Chinese) world by itinerant miners. like this, many people are justifiably skeptical about noni’s value as a medicinal food. Nonetheless, noni Description Deciduous tree growing to about Medicinal Actions & Uses fruit and juice is highly unlikely to do harm and may 49 ft (15 m). Has toothed leaves, flowers in catkins, Apart from its value as a vegetable, well prove useful in treating chronic illness, including and white berries. miner’s lettuce, like its relative purslane pain, inflammatory disorders, heart and circulatory Habitat & Cultivation White mulberry (Portulaca oleracea, p. 255), may also be problems, and cancer. Traditionally, juice from is native to China. It is grown worldwide as a taken as an invigorating spring tonic and the fruit is used as a mouthwash and gargle for garden ornamental. The leaves are gathered in an effective diuretic. infections in the mouth and throat. Noni juice is late autumn, the twigs in early summer, and the probably best drunk on an empty stomach. berries when ripe in summer. The root is dug up Morinda citrifolia (Rubiaceae) Research The limited research into noni suggests in winter. that it may support immune function and be useful Parts Used Leaves, twigs, fruit, root bark. Noni, in treating chronic inflammation. A 2012 review Constituents The leaves contain flavonoids, of noni research concluded that the fruit “may anthocyanins, and artocapin. The flavonoids are Indian Mulberry have a small degree of anticancer activity.” One antioxidant. The fruit contains the vitamins A, B1, theory advanced is that noni contains appreciable B2, and C. Description Shrub or small tree, growing to levels of proxeronine, which the body needs to 26 ft (8 m), with 4-angled stems, and elliptical to oval produce xeronine. This alkaloid appears to enable Berry leaves to 14 in (35 cm) long. Large creamy-white cells throughout the body to counter inflammation, flowers produce a fruit resembling a breadfruit, promote healing, and support cellular regulation. In White mulberry is grown about 43⁄4 in (12 cm) long, green turning yellow to times of stress or infection, the body’s need for to feed silkworms. white, with a pungent, very unpleasant odor. xeronine increases, and many people are thought Habitat & Cultivation Originally native only to lack sufficient proxeronine to maintain adequate History & Folklore White mulberry has to Southeast Asia, noni has spread to India in the xeronine levels. been cultivated for over 5,000 years for its leaves west and across the Pacific to eastern Polynesia and (sang ye), the preferred food of the silkworm. The Hawaii. It prefers volcanic soils in coastal areas Morinda officinalis (Rubiaceae) silkworm’s feces are used in Chinese medicine to and lowland forests up to about 1,300 ft (400 m) treat vomiting. above sea level, and until recently was infrequently Morinda, Medicinal Actions & Uses White mulberry cultivated. The fruit is gathered when ripe; other leaves are expectorant, encouraging the loosening parts of the tree are picked as required. Ba Ji Tian (Chinese) and coughing up of phlegm, and are prescribed in Parts Used Fruit and juice, leaves, bark. China as a treatment for coughs. The leaves are Constituents Noni fruit contains polysaccharides, Description Deciduous plant with white also taken to treat fever, sore and inflamed eyes, coumarins, iridoids, flavonoids and alkaloids. flowers and a root that yields a yellow dye. sore throats, headaches, dizziness and vertigo. No active compounds unique to noni have Habitat & Cultivation Morinda is native been identified. to China. It is cultivated in Guangdong, Guangxi, History & Folklore Different parts of the and Fujian provinces. The root is unearthed in plant have been used in Polynesia for at least 2,000 early spring. years, chiefly to counter infection and to treat Part Used Root. Constituents Morinda contains anthraquinones, terpenoids, and polysaccharides. History & Folklore The earliest written record of morinda’s use is in the Divine Husbandman’s Classic (Shen’nong Bencaojing) of the 1st century ce. Medicinal Actions & Uses Pungent and sweet-tasting, morinda root is an important tonic herb within traditional Chinese medicine. It has hormonal and antidepressant properties. As a sexual tonic, it is commonly used to treat impotence www.ebook3000.com

Murraya koenigii The fruit juice is cleansing and tonic, and has often History & Folklore Settlers in North America Other medicinal plants been used as a gargle and mouthwash. The root extolled the medicinal benefits of bayberry. A 1737 bark may be used for toothache, and it is account stated that the plants “expel wind and ease considered laxative. An extract of the leaves has all manner of pains proceeding from cold, therefore been given by injection for elephantiasis. The twigs are good in colic, palsies, convulsions, epilepsies, and are used to combat excess fluid retention and many other disorders.” The root bark was listed in joint pain. The fruit is taken to prevent premature the U.S. National Formulary from 1916 to 1936. graying of the hair, and to treat dizziness, ringing in Medicinal Actions & Uses Bayberry is used the ears, blurred vision, and insomnia. to increase circulation, stimulate perspiration, and Related Species The black mulberry (M. nigra), keep bacterial infections in check. Colds, flu, native to Iran, is cultivated for its sweet, deep coughs, and sore throats benefit from treatment red fruit. with this herb. It helps to strengthen resistance to infection and to tighten and dry mucous membranes. An infusion is helpful for spongy Murraya koenigii (Rutaceae) Bananas are picked before they fully ripen. They are gums, and a gargle is used for sore throats. a useful remedy for diarrhea. Bayberry’s astringency is beneficial for irritable Curry Tree bowel syndrome and mucous colitis. An infusion immature and then allowed to ripen. The leaves can help treat excess vaginal discharge. A paste of Description Aromatic deciduous shrub or tree are gathered as required. the powdered root bark may be used externally on growing to 20 ft (6 m). Has strongly scented leaves, Parts Used Fruit, leaves, root. ulcers and sores. Constituents The fruit contains flavonoids and Caution Do not take in pregnancy. clusters of small, fragrant white flowers, and pink is rich in vitamins B, C, and E, potassium, serotonin, and noradrenaline. Myrica gale (Myricaceae) to black berries. History & Folklore The delicious and highly Habitat & Cultivation Curry tree nutritious banana fruit is the yield of careful Sweet Gale, is native to subtropical forests in much of horticulture, which had its origins with wild plants in prehistoric times. Bog Myrtle southern Asia. It is widely cultivated in India Medicinal Actions & Uses Ripe banana fruit is gently laxative, while the unripe fruit is Description Low-growing, fragrant shrub, for its leaves. astringent and used to treat diarrhea. The fruit growing to 61⁄2 ft (2 m), with lance-shaped leaves. Parts Used Leaves, berries. stimulates hemoglobin production and can Male plants produce resinous catkins in spring. Constituents Curry tree contains over therefore prove useful in preventing or treating Habitat & Cultivation Sweet gale thrives 20 alkaloids, a glycoside (koenigin), volatile oil, anemia. Banana makes a simple addition to diets in wet and damp heaths and moorlands across aimed at lowering high blood pressure. Given the northerly regions of the northern hemisphere. The and tannins. fruit’s serotonin content, some practitioners leaves are collected in summer, the catkins in spring. History & Folklore Curry tree, also known as recommend taking three bananas a day to help Parts Used Leaves, branches, catkins. curry patta, is a common flavoring in Indian food. treat migraines and depression. A syrup made Constituents Sweet gale contains an essential Medicinal Actions & Uses Curry tree leaves from plantain is taken for coughs and chest oil (chiefly alpha-pinene and delta-cadinene), increase digestive secretions and relieve nausea, conditions such as bronchitis. flavonoids, and resin. History & Folklore In Scotland, where the indigestion, and vomiting. They are also used to plant grows freely, Highlanders slept on fleaproof beds of sweet gale and placed it among linen to treat diarrhea and dysentery. Curry tree aids healing, for example in gastric ulcers, and the leaves are applied as a poultice on wounds and burns. It helps to stabilize blood-sugar levels and is useful for type 2 diabetes. Related Species The very bitter leaves of cosmetic bark (M. paniculata) are taken to treat stomach ache, dysentery, toothache, repel moths. Enterprising anglers are also reported and bruises. Myrica cerifera (Myricaceae) to have worn sprigs of sweet gale to keep away Musa spp. (Musaceae) Bayberry midges. In Scotland and Sweden, a strong decoction Description Evergreen shrub or small tree was used to kill insects and intestinal worms. Medicinal Actions & Uses Sweet gale is mostly used as an insect repellent and insecticide and Banana, growing to 33 ft (10 m). Has narrow leaves, small offers a safe and ecologically sound way to protect yellow flowers in catkins, and waxy gray berries. against insect bites. Over-the-counter preparations Plantain Habitat & Cultivation Bayberry is found in are available, though a decoction of the plant bathed coastal regions of the eastern and southern U.S., on exposed areas will also prove effective. Description Evergreen, palm-like perennials as far west as Texas. The root bark is collected in Research Since the 1990s, the essential oil of growing to 30 ft (9 m). Have large, shiny green autumn or spring. sweet gale has become recognized as an effective leaves, hanging flowering stems, and bunches of Part Used Root bark. insect repellent (especially of midges), and is now elongated green fruit that turn yellow on ripening. Constituents Bayberry contains triterpenes available in blended formulations. In one trial in Habitat & Cultivation Musa species (including taraxerol, taraxerone, and myricadiol), Scotland, volunteers exposed their arms to midges, are native to India and Southeast Asia, and are flavonoids, tannins, phenols, resins, and gums. with one arm covered in a gel containing essential extensively cultivated in tropical and subtropical Myricadiol has a mild effect on potassium and oil of sweet gale. After 10 minutes, the protected 238 regions. The fruit is generally picked when sodium levels. arms averaged 1.6 bites, the unprotected arms 9.4.

Nepeta cataria Cautions Do not take the essential oil internally. of the digestive and urinary systems. The essential oil In European folk medicine, watercress has primarily Other medicinal plants Do not use sweet gale internally in pregnancy or is strongly antiseptic and anti-mucus, and in Spain is been considered a “blood-cleanser,” and was used while breastfeeding. The essential oil is thought used to treat bronchial and lung infections. in former times as a spring tonic. 239 to be toxic. Caution Do not take the essential oil internally Medicinal Actions & Uses Watercress except with professional advice. provides excellent, easily digested nutrition. Its high Myroxylon pereirae mineral and vitamin C content makes it particularly syn. M. balsamum var. pereirae Myrtle was described by the suited for chronic ill health and convalescence. It (Fabaceae) Greek physician Dioscorides is thought to stimulate appetite, ease indigestion, as “a friend to the stomach.” and counter mucus. A detoxifying herb and food, Peruvian Balsam watercress cleanses the liver, blood, kidneys, Nasturtium officinale (Cruciferae) and lungs. Description Evergreen tree growing to 115 ft (35 m). Has grey bark, compound leaves dotted Watercress Nepeta cataria (Lamiaceae) with oil glands, white pea-like flowers, and yellow seed pods. Description Creeping perennial growing to Catnip Habitat & Cultivation Native to Central 2 ft (60 cm), with compound leaves, spikes of white America, Peruvian balsam grows wild in tropical 4-petaled flowers, and small sickle-shaped pods. Description Downy, aromatic perennial growing forests. It is cultivated in Central and South America Habitat & Cultivation Found in temperate to 3 ft (1 m). Has heart-shaped, gray-green leaves and India. Oleoresin (balsam) is taken from cuts regions throughout the world, watercress thrives and whorls of white flowers with purple spots. in the bark. alongside or in fresh running water. While Habitat & Cultivation Catnip is native to Part Used Oleoresin. commonly found in the wild, it is also widely Europe and naturalized in North America. It grows Constituents The oleoresin contains 50–65% cultivated as a salad herb. Watercress is best in dry wayside places and in mountainous regions up volatile oil (mainly benzyl benzoate and benzyl gathered before it flowers in summer. to altitudes of 5,000 ft (1,500 m). Catnip is gathered cinnamate) and resins. Parts Used Aerial parts. when in flower in summer and autumn. Medicinal Actions & Uses Peruvian balsam is Constituents Watercress contains Parts Used Aerial parts. strongly antiseptic and stimulates repair of damaged isothiocyanates and is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, C, tissue. It is most commonly taken internally as an and E, and minerals (especially iodine, iron, and Catnip helps to lower expectorant and antimucus remedy to treat phosphorus). Allyl isothiocyanate has broad-spectrum fever by strongly bronchitis, emphysema, and bronchial asthma. It may antibiotic activity. Research in the 1960s suggested also be taken to treat sore throats and diarrhea, that watercress might have antitumor activity. encouraging sweating. and applied topically to skin disorders. History & Folklore Watercress has long been Related Species The balsam from similar species valued as a food and medicinal plant. Xenophon, a Constituents Catnip contains iridoids, tannins, was used by the Inca to relieve fevers and colds. Greek general in the 5th century bce, attributed and volatile oil (mainly comprising alpha- and Caution Peruvian balsam may cause allergic other virtues to it, recommending the Persians to beta-nepetalactone, citronellol, and geraniol). skin reactions. feed it to their children to build up their strength. History & Folklore Pechey’s Compleat Herbal (1694) describes catnip: “’Tis hot and dry. ’Tis Myrtus communis (Myrtaceae) chiefly used for obstructions of the womb, for barrenness, and to hasten delivery, and to help Myrtle Description Evergreen shrub growing to a height of 10 ft (3 m). Has dark green leaves, white flowers, and purple-black berries. Habitat & Cultivation Myrtle is native to the Mediterranean region and it is cultivated for its essential oil. The leaves are gathered in spring. Parts Used Leaves, essential oil. Constituents Myrtle contains tannins, flavonoids, and a volatile oil (mainly alpha-pinene, cineole, and myrtenol). History & Folklore In ancient Greece, myrtle was dedicated to Aphrodite, who was the goddess of love, and brides bedecked themselves with myrtle leaves. A liqueur is made from the berries. Medicinal Actions & Uses Myrtle leaves are astringent, tonic, and antiseptic. An infusion of the leaves can be used externally to clean and heal wounds and ulcers, or internally to remedy disorders www.ebook3000.com

NicotiaNa tabacum expectoration. ’Tis used outwardly in baths for of Asia and the Mediterranean region for its seeds Nymphaea alba (Nymphaceae) and as a garden plant. The seeds are gathered once they are ripe. Other medicinal plants the womb, and the itch.” Catnip has an excitatory White Water Lilyeffect on cats. Medicinal Actions & Uses Catnip settles the Parts Used Seeds. stomach, is sedative and, as it stimulates sweating, Constituents The seeds contain 40% fixed Description Perennial aquatic plant with deep reduces fever. The herb’s pleasant taste and gentle oil, a saponin (melantin), alkaloids, and up to roots, plate-shaped leaves on long cylindrical stems, action make it suitable for colds, flu, and fever in children, especially when mixed with elderflower 1.4% volatile oil. and large-petaled white flowers occasionally tinged (Sambucus nigra, p. 132) and sweetened with honey. History & Folklore Black cumin was found in Catnip is markedly antiflatulent, helping to settle the tomb of Tutankhamun, but its role in ancient with pink. indigestion and colic. The herb is also useful in Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe, treating headaches related to digestive problems. Egypt, medicinal or otherwise, is unknown. white water lily is found in ponds and in still water in A tincture is beneficial as a friction rub for rheumatism and arthritis. Dioscorides, a Greek physician of the 1st century lakes, rivers, and canals. The rhizome is gathered Self-help Use Digestive infections, p. 305. ce, recorded that black cumin seeds were taken in autumn. Nicotiana tabacum (Solanaceae) Parts Used Rhizome, flowers. to treat headaches, nasal congestion, toothache, Constituents The rhizome contains alkaloids Tobacco (nymphaeine and nupharine), resin, glycosides, and intestinal worms, and, in large quantities, as a Description Annual or biennial plant growing and tannins. to 3 ft (1 m). Has an erect stem, large oval leaves, diuretic, to promote menstrual periods, and to History & Folklore According to the and pink or white flowers. 17th-century herbalist Nicholas Culpeper, “The Habitat & Cultivation Tobacco is native increase breast-milk production. to tropical America. It is now grown worldwide, Medicinal Actions & Uses Like many leaves do cool all inflammations … the syrup chiefly for smoking tobacco but also as the source culinary herbs, black cumin seeds are beneficial for of an insecticide. Leaves for smoking are gathered, helpeth much to procure rest, and to settle the dried, and cured. the digestive system, soothing stomach pain and Parts Used Leaves. brains of frantic persons.” Constituents Tobacco contains alkaloids (notably spasms and easing gas, bloating, and colic. The nicotine) and a volatile oil. Nicotine is stimulant and addictive. seeds are also antiseptic and are used to treat History & Folklore Even in 17th-century intestinal worms, especially in children. Cumin seeds are much used in India to increase the production of breast milk. Research Recent research indicates that black cumin seed may prove useful in metabolic syndrome, a condition that typically involves raised cholesterol levels, raised blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. The seeds are also antiviral and show promise in the treatment of chronic viral infections, such as hepatitis C. Caution Love-in-a-mist (N. damascena) should not be used as a substitute for black cumin seeds. England, opinions on smoking were sharply divided. King James I unsuccessfully tried to ban “a custome loathsome to the eye, hatefull to the nose, harmfull Notopterygium incisium White water lily flowers have a sedative effect, calming (Apiaceae) nervous tension and anxiety. to the braine [and] dangerous to the lungs.” In Notopterygium Root, Medicinal Actions & Uses The rhizome Central America, tobacco was prescribed by the of the white water lily is astringent and antiseptic. Qiang Huo (Chinese) A decoction treats dysentery, or diarrhea due Maya as a treatment for asthma, convulsions, and to irritable bowel syndrome. White water lily has Description Carrot-family member with an also been employed to treat chronic bronchitis skin disease. Tobacco has been used as part of upright ridged stem, deeply cut leaves, and flowers and kidney pain, and taken as a gargle for sore in dense clusters. throats. The rhizome may be used to make a rituals in many Native American cultures. Habitat & Cultivation Notopterygium root douche for vaginal soreness and discharge, or to Medicinal Actions & Uses Tobacco is no is native to central and western China. The root is make a poultice for boils and abscesses. White longer used medicinally. The dried leaves make a unearthed in spring or autumn. water lily flowers have long been reputed to Part Used Root. good insecticide, but external application should be avoided as nicotine is readily absorbed through the skin. Caution Tobacco should not be taken in any form. Constituents Notopterygium root contains reduce sexual drive. Their generally calming and Nigella sativa (Ranunculaceae) furanocoumarins, sterols, and a volatile oil. sedative effect on the nervous system makes Medicinal Actions & Uses Notopterygium them useful in the treatment of insomnia, anxiety, Black Cumin root is taken mainly for colds and chills, fevers, and similar disorders of this nature. Research Studies suggest that white water lily headache, general aches and pains, and malaise. Description Annual herb growing to 1 ft The herb is warming and pungent, counters cold may, as has been claimed, act as an anaphrodisiac, (30 cm). Has an upright branching stem, fine and damp conditions, and promotes sweating, diminishing sexual drive. The plant has been found deeply cut leaves, gray-blue flowers, and especially in fevers. It is also prescribed for neck to lower blood pressure in animals. toothed seedpods. and back pain. Related Species The white pond lily (N. odorata) Habitat & Cultivation Native to western Caution At high dosage notopterygium root is a close American relative used for much the same 240 Asia, black cumin is grown throughout much may cause vomiting. purposes. The rhizome of the white lotus (N. lotus),

Olea eurOpaea native to tropical Africa and Asia, has been used has a mildly sedative action, proving useful in may prove helpful in conditions as diverse as dry Other medicinal plants medicinally since the earliest times, and is taken eyes and multiple sclerosis. for indigestion, dysentery, and other treating nervous irritability, depression, anxiety, Caution Do not take evening primrose oil if gastrointestinal problems. suffering from epilepsy. and difficulty in sleeping. It may also be taken for Ocimum basilicum (Lamiaceae) Olea europaea (Oleaceae) epilepsy, migraine, and whooping cough. The herb Sweet Basil, Olive has been traditionally taken to increase breast-milk Basil Description Evergreen tree growing to 33 ft production. Applied externally, sweet basil leaves (10 m). Has a deeply grooved gray trunk, small Description Strongly aromatic annual growing leathery leaves, clusters of small greenish-white to 20 in (50 cm). Has shiny oval leaves, a square act as an insect repellent. The juice from the leaves flowers, and a green fruit ripening to black. stem, and small white flowers in whorls. Habitat & Cultivation Sweet basil, also brings relief to insect bites and stings. Sweet basil Olive harvesting is carried out in many groves much known as basil, is probably native to India. Over as it was centuries ago. 150 varieties are now grown around the world for has an established antibacterial action. their distinctive flavor and essential oil. The leaves Related Species See also holy basil (Ocimum Habitat & Cultivation Olive trees grow wild and flowering tops are gathered as the plant comes tenuiflorum, p. 116). Bush basil (O. basilicum var. in the Mediterranean region and are cultivated in into flower. Mediterranean countries and in regions with a Parts Used Leaves, flowering tops, essential oil. minimum) has a much milder action than sweet basil, similar climate in the Americas. The leaves may Constituents Sweet basil contains a volatile oil be gathered throughout the year, the fruit in late (about 1%), which consists principally of linalool and is used to relieve cramping pain and flatulence. summer. The leaves of wild trees are believed to and methylchavicol, along with small quantities Caution Sweet basil essential oil should not be contain a higher concentration of active principles. of methyl cinnamate, cineole, and other terpenes. taken internally. Parts Used Leaves, oil. History & Folklore In his 1st-century ce Self-help Use Minor bites, stings & swellings, Constituents Olive leaves contain oleoropine, Materia Medica, the Greek physician Dioscorides p. 303. olesterol, and leine. Olive oil contains about 75% described the African belief that eating sweet oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid. basil stopped the pain caused by a scorpion’s sting. Oenothera biennis (Onagraceae) History & Folklore The olive was probably first The herb was used in Roman times to relieve cultivated in Crete around 3500 bce. The tree has flatulence, to counteract poisoning, as a diuretic, Evening Primrose many symbolic associations: the olive branch is an and to stimulate breast-milk production. Basil also emblem of peace, and the leaves crowned victors in has a history of use in Ayurvedic medicine. Description Biennial herb growing to 8 in the ancient Olympic Games. The leaves have been Medicinal Actions & Uses Sweet basil acts used since those times to clean wounds. The oil has principally on the digestive and nervous systems, (20 cm). Has red blotches on stem, crinkled lance- been used for ritual anointing in some religions. easing flatulence, stomach cramps, colic, and Medicinal Actions & Uses Olive leaves lower indigestion. It can be used to prevent or relieve shaped leaves, 4-petaled yellow flowers, and blood pressure and help to improve the function of nausea and vomiting, and the circulatory system. They are also mildly diuretic helps to kill intestinal elongated seed capsules. and may be used to treat conditions such as cystitis. worms. Sweet basil Possessing some ability to lower blood-sugar levels, Habitat & Cultivation Native to North the leaves have been taken for diabetes. The oil is Sweet basil is a mildly nourishing and improves the balance of fats within sedative herb with America, evening primrose is now commonly the blood. It is traditionally taken with lemon juice antibacterial properties. in teaspoonful doses to treat gallstones. The oil has found in many temperate zones around the world. a generally protective action on the digestive tract and is useful for dry skin. It thrives in open areas, especially in dunes and sandy soil. Evening primrose is grown commercially for its seed oil. Parts Used Leaves, stem bark, flowers, seed oil. Constituents Evening primrose oil is rich in essential fatty acids—linoleic (about 70%) and gammalinolenic acid (about 9%) in particular. Its action mostly depends on the gammalinolenic acid (GLA), which is a precursor of prostaglandin E1. The oil is often combined with vitamin E to prevent oxidation. Medicinal Actions & Uses The flowers, leaves, and stem bark of evening primrose have astringent and sedative properties. All three parts have been employed in the treatment of whooping cough. Evening primrose has also been taken for digestive problems and asthma, and used as a poultice to ease the discomfort of rheumatic disorders. The oil, applied externally, is beneficial in the treatment of eczema, certain other itchy skin conditions, and breast tenderness. Taken internally, the oil has an effect in lowering blood pressure, and in preventing the clumping of platelets. The oil is now commonly taken for premenstrual problems, including Evening 241 tension and abdominal bloating, and primrose www.ebook3000.com

OnOnis spinOsa Research Clinical trials have shown that olive Opuntia ficus-indica (Cactaceae) Medicinal Actions & Uses Mainly used Other medicinal plants leaves lower blood pressure. Prickly Pear as a culinary herb, sweet marjoram is also Self-help Uses Cradle cap, p. 318; Stretch medicinally valuable due to its stimulant and marks, p. 317. Description Perennial cactus growing to 10 ft antispasmodic properties. Like oregano (O. vulgare, following entry), it treats flatulence, Ononis spinosa (Fabaceae) (3 m). Has large spatula-shaped stems covered colic, and respiratory problems, but it appears to have a stronger effect on the nervous system Spiny Restharrow in clusters of spines, brilliant yellow flowers, and than its wild cousin. Sweet marjoram is a good general tonic, helping to relieve anxiety,headaches, Description Spiny perennial with 3 small leaflets roundish purple fruit. and insomnia. The herb is also thought to lower per leaf, bright pink, pea-like flowers, and small sexual drive. seed pods. Habitat & Cultivation Prickly pear is native Cautions Do not take as a medicine during Habitat & Cultivation A relatively common pregnancy. Do not take sweet marjoram essential European plant, spiny restharrow thrives in dry to Mexico and naturalized in semitropical regions oil internally. grassland and along roadsides. Part Used Root. around the world. The fruit is harvested when ripe, Origanum vulgare (Lamiaceae) Constituents Spiny restharrow root contains phenols, lectins, triterpenoids, and a volatile oil the stems when required. Oregano, (comprising mainly trans-anethole). The volatile oil in the root is diuretic; the non-volatile oil Parts Used Flowers, fruit, stems. Wild Marjoram content is antidiuretic. A decoction of the root Constituents The fruit contains mucilage, sugars, has an antidiuretic effect, as the volatile oil is lost in Description Upright perennial herb the steam. If a diuretic is desired, the root is made vitamin C, and other fruit acids. growing to about 32 in (80 cm). Has square into an infusion. red stems, elliptical leaves, and clusters of deep Medicinal Actions & Uses The root is used as History & Folklore Prickly pink flowers. a diuretic and to prevent kidney and bladder stones. Habitat & Cultivation Oregano is native It is of value in a range of urinary system problems, pear fruit is used to make to Europe and naturalized in the Middle East. including stones, gout, and cystitis. For excess fluid The plant thrives in chalky soils close to the sea. retention, spiny restharrow is best taken as a short- conserves and an alcoholic It is gathered when in flower in summer. drink in Mexico. The split stems have been bound around injured limbs as a first-aid measure. Medicinal Actions Prickly pear fruit & Uses Prickly pear flowers are astringent and reduce bleeding, and are used for problems of the gastrointestinal tract— particularly diarrhea, colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome. The flowers are also taken to treat an enlarged prostate gland. The fruit is nutritious. term treatment, in the form of an infusion. Origanum majorana syn. Majorana hortensis Operculina turpethum (Lamiaceae) (Convolvulaceae) Sweet Marjoram Turpeth Description Woody perennial herb growing Description Twining climber with white tuberous to 20 in (50 cm). Has aromatic oval leaves and pinkish-white flowers emerging from the roots, hairy, oval leaves, white funnel-shaped flowers, and round fruit. upper leaf axils. Habitat & Cultivation Native to tropical India, Habitat & Cultivation Sweet marjoram is turpeth is now found in tropical regions around the native to countries bordering the Mediterranean. world. The root is unearthed throughout the year. It is much cultivated as a culinary herb, and for its Part Used Root. essential oil. Constituents Turpeth root contains turpethin Parts Used Aerial parts, essential oil. resin (approximately 4%) and a volatile oil. Constituents Sweet marjoram History & Folklore Turpeth has been used contains about 3% volatile oil for several thousand years as a purgative in (comprising sabinene hydrate, Ayurvedic medicine. sabinene, linalool, carvacrol, and Medicinal Actions & Uses Turpeth root is other terpenes), flavonoids, caffeic and rosmarinic acid, and triterpenoids. chiefly used in small doses to clear the bowels. It is sometimes known as “Indian jalap,” and is used History & Folklore In 1597, the in much the same way as this plant (Ipomoea purga, herbalist John Gerard made this assessment: p. 223), though its action is slower and less drastic. “Sweet marjoram is a remedy against cold diseases In Ayurvedic medicine, turpeth is prescribed of the braine and head, being taken anyway with picrorrhiza (Picrorrhiza kurroa, p. 248) to to your best liking; put up into the nostrils it treat jaundice. provokes sneesing, and draweth forth much Oregano’s essential oil, well diluted, is a traditional Cautions Take only under professional supervision. baggage flegme; it easeth the toothache being remedy for toothache. 242 Do not take during pregnancy. chewed in the mouth.”

Panax quinquefolium Parts Used Aerial parts, essential oil. Paeonia officinalis (Paeoniaceae) Panax notoginseng (Araliaceae) Other medicinal plants Constituents Oregano contains a volatile oil (comprising carvacrol, thymol, beta-bisabolene, Peony Notoginseng, 243 caryophyllene, linalool, and borneol), tannins, resin, sterols, and flavonoids. Both carvacrol and thymol Description Perennial growing to 2 ft (60 cm). San Qi (Chinese) are antibacterial and antifungal. Has a tuberous root, upright stems, oval to lance- History & Folklore Esteemed by the ancient shaped leaflets, and attractive large red, red-purple Description Deciduous perennial with an erect Greeks, oregano was considered a cure-all in or white flowers. stem growing to 3 ft (1 m), compound leaves, small medieval times. It was one of the medicinal Habitat & Cultivation A native of southern greenish flowers, and small, berrylike fruit. plants cultivated by early New England settlers. Europe, peony grows in mountain woodlands Habitat & Cultivation Native to China, Medicinal Actions & Uses Oregano and and is widely cultivated. The root is unearthed notoginseng is now rare in the wild. It is cultivated its oil are strongly antiseptic with potent activity in autumn. commercially in southern and central China. The against many bacteria and fungi, notably E. coli Part Used Root. root is unearthed before flowering or after and Candida strains. It can aid many acute and Constituents Peony is thought to contain the fruit has ripened. chronic infections affecting the gastrointestinal alkaloids, tannins, saponins, flavonoids and Part Used Root. and respiratory tracts, especially gastroenteritis, triterpenoids, and a volatile oil. Constituents Notoginseng contains steroidal dysentery, bronchitis, coughs, and tonsillitis. History & Folklore Since the time of saponins, polysaccharides, and a flavonoid. Both herb and oil inhibit the gut flora (bacteria Hippocrates (470–377 bce), peony has been History & Folklore Despite its importance as naturally occurring within the gut) and have an used to treat epilepsy. Ibn el Beitar, a medieval a tonic, notoginseng was only recorded in Chinese important role to play in gut dysbiosis, a condition Arab physician, recommended a necklace of peony herbal medicine in 1578, in the Compendium of where the presence of harmful gut bacteria leads seeds to ward off epilepsy in children. Mrs. Grieve, Materia Medica by Li Shizen. He described the to symptoms such as gas, bloating, and abdominal the author of A Modern Herbal (1931), recounted root as being “more valuable than gold.” discomfort. The diluted oil can be applied to how “in ancient times, peony was thought to be Medicinal Actions & Uses Like ginseng toothache or painful joints. of divine origin, an emanation from the moon, and (P. ginseng, p. 118), notoginseng is a tonic that Cautions Do not take as a medicine during to shine during the night protecting the shepherds supports the function of the adrenal glands, pregnancy. External use may cause irritation of and their flocks.” in particular the production of corticosteroids the skin. Do not take essential oil internally. and male sex hormones. Notoginseng also helps to Peony is named after Paean, the physician of the Greek gods. improve blood flow through the coronary arteries, orthosiphon aristata (Lamiaceae) thus finding use as a treatment for arteriosclerosis, Medicinal Actions & Uses Though little used high blood pressure, and angina. Notoginseng Java Tea in contemporary European herbal medicine, Peony treats internal bleeding of almost any kind. The is greatly valued within Unani herbal medicine herb may also be applied externally as a poultice Description Shrub growing to about 3 ft (1 m). from the Middle East. It has anti-inflammatory, to help speed the healing of wounds and bruises. Has pointed leaves and lilac-colored flowers with antispasmodic, and sedative activity, and is Research Clinical studies have confirmed very long stamens. prescribed for conditions as varied as nervous notoginseng’s longstanding reputation as a means Habitat & Cultivation Java tea is native to debility, epilepsy, and high blood pressure, and as a to arrest bleeding. A Chinese trial indicated that Southeast Asia and Australia. Now cultivated as a heart tonic. The root has also been taken to treat the herb hastens blood clotting. Another clinical medicinal plant, it is picked as required throughout whooping cough, and suppositories are made of trial and extensive scientific studies, again in the year. the root to relive anal and intestinal spasms. China, associated the herb with positive Part Used Leaves. Related Species Chinese peony (Paeonia improvements in coronary circulation, in lessening Constituents Java tea contains flavones lactiflora, p. 117) is much used in Chinese the symptoms of angina, and in the reduction of (including sinensetin), a glycoside (orthosiphonin), herbal medicine. blood pressure levels. In common with other a volatile oil, and large amounts of potassium. QCautions Take peony only under professional ginseng-type herbs, notoginseng has been shown History & Folklore The plant’s Dutch supervision. Do not take during pregnancy. to enhance physical performance. Indonesian name, koemis koetjing (cat’s whiskers), Caution Do not take during pregnancy. probably derives from its long whiskery stamens. Medicinal Actions & Uses Java tea is Panax quinquefolium (Araliaceae) listed in the French, Indonesian, Dutch, and Swiss pharmacopoeias (official documents containing a list American Ginseng of drugs and their medicinal uses, preparations, and dosages). It is thought to increase the kidneys’ ability Description Deciduous perennial growing to to eliminate nitrogen-containing compounds. The about 1 ft (30 cm). Has a smooth stem, leaves herb is much used as a diuretic and as a with oblong to oval leaflets, small greenish treatment for kidney infections, stones, and poor flowers, and kidney-shaped scarlet-red berries. renal function resulting from chronic nephritis. It Habitat & Cultivation American ginseng is also used to treat cystitis and urethritis. is native to North America and the Himalayas. Research Java tea’s diuretic activity has been A woodland plant, it is rarely seen in the wild due confirmed in scientific experiments. Extracts to overharvesting. It is cultivated in Wisconsin, significantly increase potassium levels in the urine. China, and France. The root is gathered in autumn. Part Used Root. www.ebook3000.com

PaPaver rhoeas Constituents American ginseng contains Chiefly employed as a mild pain reliever and as a Medicinal Actions & Uses Opium (the Other medicinal plants steroidal saponins, including panaquilon. treatment for irritable coughs, red poppy also helps dried latex) is a potent narcotic, analgesic, and History & Folklore Native American peoples reduce nervous overactivity. The herb may be used antispasmodic, and has been taken to relieve pain may have considered this herb a means to increase in the treatment of insomnia, general irritability, of various kinds. In all the main herbal traditions it is female fertility. From the mid-18th century, the coughs—especially paroxysmal coughs—and regarded as a powerfully “cold” remedy, reducing collection of the herb for export to China became asthma, and is generally given as a syrup. physical function and sedating or suppressing a virtual goldrush, with so many Native Americans Related Species See also opium poppy nervous activity, pain, and coughs. In view of its out harvesting American ginseng that settlers (P. somniferum, following entry), Mexican poppy addictive nature, opium is mainly used after other reported finding villages almost deserted. The (Argemone mexicana, p. 171), and California poppy less powerful analgesics have failed to bring relief. It Ojibwa people always planted a seed to replace (Eschscholzia californica, p. 207). is also an effective remedy for acute diarrhea and the herb, but this was not universal practice. QCautions Use only under professional severe coughs. Pharmaceutical drugs produced American ginseng became rare toward the end supervision. All parts of red poppy except the from opium poppy include morphine and codeine. of the 19th century. seeds are potentially toxic if eaten. Research Much research has been done, Medicinal Actions & Uses The action of confirming most of the uses of opium poppy American ginseng is presumed to be similar to, listed above. but milder than, that of its Chinese cousin, ginseng Papaver somniferum Related Species See also red poppy (P. ginseng, p. 118). American ginseng increases the (Papaveraceae) (P. rhoeas, preceding entry), Mexican poppy ability to tolerate stress of all kinds. In traditional Chinese medicine, American ginseng is employed Opium Poppy (Argemone mexicana, p. 171), and California as a yin tonic, treating weakness, fever, wheezing, and coughs. Description Thick-stemmed annual growing poppy (Eschscholzia californica, p. 207). QCautions Use opium poppy only under to about 3 ft (1 m). Has many dull green leaves, professional supervision. It is subject to legal solitary pink, purple or white flowers, and globe- Related Species See ginseng, nototginseng restrictions in most countries. (P. notoginseng, preceding entry), and Siberian shaped seed capsules. ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus, p. 94). Habitat & Cultivation Native to western Caution Do not take American ginseng Asia, opium poppy is now cultivated commercially during pregnancy. around the world as the source of morphine and codeine, and as an illegal crop for the production Papaver rhoeas (Papaveraceae) of opium and heroin. During the summer, the seed capsules are cut and the white latex that exudes is Red Poppy gathered the next day and dried. Part Used Latex. Description Delicate hairy-stemmed annual Constituents Opium poppy contains more growing to 3 ft (90 cm). Has basal rosette of than 40 opium alkaloids, including morphine lance-shaped leaves and deeply incised stem (up to 20%), narcotine (about 5%), codeine leaves, 4-petaled red flowers with black anthers, (about 1%), and papaverine (about 1%). It also Flowerhead and small rounded seed capsules. contains meconic acid, albumin, mucilage, sugars, Habitat & Cultivation Red poppy is native resin, and wax. Many of the opium poppy’s to Europe, North Africa, and temperate regions alkaloids have a well-established therapeutic of Asia, and is naturalized in North and South action. Morphine is one of the most powerful America. It thrives on cultivated land and on analgesics of all, used extensively in conventional road verges. The flowers are picked in summer. medicine to relieve pain, especially in terminal Parts Used Flowers. illness. Codeine is a milder analgesic used for Constituents Red poppy contains alkaloids headaches and other pain, and in the symptomatic (including papaverine, rhoeadine, isorhoeadine, and treatment of diarrhea. Opium’s strongly addictive many others), meconic acid, mekocyanin, mucilage, nature is well established. and tannin. The alkaloids are similar to those in the History & Folklore Cultivated for its opium poppy (P. somniferum, see following entry), medicinal properties for at least 4,000 years, but are much milder. the opium poppy was introduced to Greece History & Folklore According to Agnus about 3,000 years ago, and from there spread Castus, writing in the 14th century, “If a man hawe throughout Europe. It was unknown in China ony peyne aboutyn his eyne or if a man hawe a until the 7th century ce, and in Japan until the mygreyn tak this herb and stamp it and nedle it 15th century. It is mentioned in the Assyrian with oyle de olywe and anoynt ther-with the herbals (c. 1700 bce), and the Greek physician forhed and it schal amende the syth and slake Dioscorides (40–90 ce) wrote that “a decoction of the peyne and distroye the mygreyn.” the leaves and flowerheads if drunk and bathed on Medicinal Actions & Uses Red poppy the head is unrivaled in inducing sleep. The mashed Opium poppy’s seed capsules contain a flowers are mildly analgesic and sedative, and heads, mixed with flour, make a useful plaster in latex that is the source have long been used in European herbal medicine, inflammations and St. Anthony’s fire [erysipelas, a of morphine. 244 particularly for ailments in children and the elderly. bacterial infection of the skin].”

Peganum harmala Parietaria officinalis syn. P. diffusa Medicinal Actions & Uses Guarana’s Peganum harmala Other medicinal plants (Urticaceae) medicinal uses are similar to those of coffee (Zygophyllaceae) (Coffea arabica, p. 192)—it is taken for headache Pellitory-of-the-Wall and migraine, for mild depression, and to boost Harmala, energy levels. The problems that apply to long- Description Annual growing to 28 in (70 cm). term or excessive consumption of coffee also African Rue Has deep green leaves, greenish flowers, and small apply to guarana—both stimulate over the short term but tend to inhibit the body’s restorative Description Multi-branched shrubby perennial dark seeds. processes over the longer term. In view of growing to 20 in (50 cm). Has deeply cleft linear Habitat & Cultivation Native to Europe, guarana’s high tannin content, long-term use leaves, white 5-petaled flowers, and rounded this plant is commonplace in southern countries, is even less advisable, because tannins impair 3-celled seed capsules. the intestines’ ability to absorb nutrients. Habitat & Cultivation Native to the Middle where it is found on walls and in dry stony sites. Nevertheless, guarana is a useful short-term East, North Africa, and southern Europe, harmala remedy for boosting energy, or for treating is naturalized in other subtropical regions, including It is gathered in summer when in flower. a tension headache that cannot be treated Australia. It thrives in saline soil in semidesert areas. Parts Used Aerial parts. with rest. Guarana’s astringency also treats The seeds are gathered in summer. Constituents Pellitory-of-the-wall contains chronic diarrhea. Parts Used Seeds, root. flavonoids and tannins. Related Species P. yoco, native to the Colombian Constituents Harmala contains up to 4% History & Folklore For more than 2,000 Amazon, is used by indigenous peoples to reduce indole alkaloids (including harmine, harmaline, years, pellitory-of-the-wall has been valued as a fevers, as a stimulant, and as a post-malarial treatment. and harmalol). Harmine has been used to help Caution Do not take guarana if suffering alleviate the tremors of Parkinsonism. diuretic, as a soother of chronic coughs, and as from cardiovascular disease or from high blood pressure. It should also not be taken during a balm for wounds and burns. pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Medicinal Actions & Uses Pellitory-of-the wall is chiefly employed as a diuretic, demulcent, Pausinystalia yohimbe syn. Corynanthe yohimbe and stone-preventing herb. In European herbal (Rubiaceae) medicine, it is regarded as having a restorative Yohimbe action on the kidneys, supporting and strengthening their function. It has been prescribed for conditions such as nephritis, pyelitis (inflammation of the kidney), kidney stones, renal colic (pain caused by kidney stones), cystitis, and edema (fluid retention). It is also occasionally taken as a laxative. Caution Do not take if suffering from hay fever or other allergies. Paullinia cupana syn. P. sorbilis Description Evergreen tree growing to Harmala, which thrives in dry conditions, has been used 245 (Sapindaceae) 100 ft (30 m). Has reddish-brown bark, as an intoxicant in the Middle East. Guarana oblong or elliptical leaves, and clusters of small History & Folklore Since the earliest times, harmala has been used in the Middle East as Description Woody vine growing to a height yellow flowers. a means to induce intoxication. Known to the of 33 ft (10 m). Has divided compound leaves, Habitat & Cultivation Yohimbe is native to Greek physicians Dioscorides (40–90 ce) and clusters of inconspicuous yellow flowers, and pear- the forests of western Africa, especially Cameroon, Galen (131–200 ce), as well as to their Arabic shaped fruit that contains small shiny brown seeds. counterpart Avicenna (980–1037 ce), harmala Habitat & Cultivation Guarana is native Zaïre, and Gabon. The bark is gathered at any time was also used to expel intestinal worms and to to tropical forests of the Brazilian Amazon, and promote the onset of menstrual flow. is also cultivated in Brazil. The seeds are gathered of year. Medicinal Actions & Uses Despite its long when ripe. Part Used Bark. history as a euphoric and purportedly aphrodisiac Parts Used Seeds. Constituents Yohimbe contains approximately herb, harmala is little used in contemporary Constituents Guarana contains xanthine 6% indole alkaloids (including yohimbine), pigments, Western herbal medicine because of its potential derivatives (including up to 7% caffeine, together toxicity. The seeds have been taken, especially with theobromine and theophylline), tannins, and and tannins. The alkaloids have a cerebral stimulant in the Middle East, to treat a very wide range saponins. The xanthines are stimulant and diuretic, of conditions, including high blood pressure, eye and reduce fatigue over the short term. action at moderate doses, but are highly toxic in problems, psychiatric disorders, depression, Parkinson’s disease, and cancer. In central Asia, the History & Folklore In Brazil, large doses. root is a popular medicinal remedy that is used to guarana is traditionally prepared History & Folklore Yohimbe has an ancient treat rheumatism and nervous conditions. by roasting, crushing, and drying reputation in western Africa, especially among RCaution This plant is toxic and should not be the seeds. The resulting “cakes” used under any circumstances. are made into a tea, which is taken the Bantu people, as a male aphrodisiac and to counter fatigue or to treat mild hallucinogen. diarrhea. Guarana has recently Medicinal Actions & Uses Yohimbe is little Seeds become a popular alternative to coffee. used in herbal medicine owing to its potential toxicity. In western Africa, it is often employed as a stimulant and as a means to counter erectile dysfunction. Yohimbine has been used in conventional medicine in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. QCautions Take yohimbe only under professional supervision. The herb is subject to legal restrictions in many countries. www.ebook3000.com

Pergularia extensa Pergularia extensa treatment of gout, rheumatism, and arthritis. Both Habitat & Cultivation Suma is native to other medicinal plants (Asclepiadaceae) plants act by encouraging the flushing out of waste rainforests of South America, from Venezuela products from the inflamed joints, and the waste’s Pergularia subsequent elimination via the kidneys. Parsley root to southern Brazil. Parts Used Root. Constituents Suma contains triterpene Description Perennial climber with broad oval is taken as a treatment for flatulence, cystitis, and saponins (pfaffosides), sterols (including beta- leaves and small greenish-white flowers. rheumatic conditions. Parsley is also valued as a Habitat & Cultivation Pergularia is native promoter of menstruation, being helpful both ecdysone), and minerals (including significant to India. Its aerial parts are gathered throughout in stimulating a delayed period and in relieving menstrual pain. levels of germanium). the year. Cautions Parsley is a safe herb at normal dosage History & Folklore Suma has been used by Parts Used Aerial parts. and consumption levels, but excessive quantities of the people of the Amazon rainforest from the Constituents Pergularia contains a resin, bitter the seeds are toxic. Do not take the seeds during principles, and plant sterols. pregnancy or if suffering from kidney disease. earliest times for conditions as varied as wound Medicinal Actions & Uses Pergularia is thought to have bitter, expectorant, diuretic, and Peumus boldus (Apiaceae) healing, diabetes, and cancer. Also taken for its laxative properties, and is employed in several Boldo aphrodisiac qualities, suma has become a popular ways in Indian herbal medicine. It is prescribed as Description Strongly aromatic multibranched herbal medicine in Brazil, where it is known as evergreen shrub or tree growing to 20 ft (6 m). a treatment for bronchitis and asthma. Pergularia Has egg-shaped leathery leaves with a lemony para todo (“for all”), or Brazilian ginseng. scent, clusters of white or yellow bell-shaped Medicinal Actions & Uses Suma has many is also used as a means to curtail heavy menstrual medicinal applications, most centred around three or non-menstrual uterine bleeding. Juice from the areas of activity: as a hormonal and glandular tonic, leaves may be applied to relieve the pain and as an immune stimulant and detoxifying agent, swelling of cysts and rheumatic joints. and in cancer prevention and treatment. Suma is perhaps best known as a male sexual tonic, but it is equally effective for women and has value in flowers, and small yellow berries. treating menstrual and menopausal problems. Suma Petroselinum crispum (Apiaceae) Habitat & Cultivation root enhances nonspecific immunity and has a role to play in treating chronic infection and lowered Parsley Boldo is native to Chile immune resistance. Research Research into suma suggests that it can Description Annual herb growing to 1 ft and Peru, and has be useful in cancer prevention and treatment; (30 cm). Has an erect stem, bright green several of the pfaffosides have been shown to compound smooth or crinkled leaves, small white become naturalized in the prevent tumor growth in laboratory conditions. The flowers growing in clusters, and small ribbed seeds. pfaffosides are chemically similar to the ginsenosides Habitat & Cultivation Parsley is native to Mediterranean region and found in ginseng (Panax ginseng, p. 118), and, like Europe and the eastern Mediterranean. Today ginseng, suma’s acclaimed value as an aphrodisiac it is rarely found in the wild, but is cultivated the West Coast of North Dried leaves appears to have a scientific basis. Male rats with throughout the world as a nutritious salad herb. America. It grows on dry depressed sexual function were observed to become The leaves may be picked from spring to autumn, more sexually active on being given a suma extract. and the seeds are gathered when just ripe. sunny slopes and in mountain pastures in the Cautions Avoid taking suma during pregnancy Parts Used Leaves, root, seeds. and while breastfeeding. Constituents Parsley contains a volatile oil Andes, where it is widely cultivated. The leaves (including about 20% myristicin, about 18% apiole, Phaseolus vulgaris (Fabaceae) and many other terpenes), flavonoids, phthalides, are gathered throughout the year. coumarins (including bergapten), vitamins A, C, French Bean, and E, and high levels of iron. The flavonoids are Parts Used Leaves. anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Myristicin and Constituents Boldo contains 0.7% isoquinoline Haricot Bean apiole have diuretic properties. The volatile oil relieves cramping pain and flatulence, and is a alkaloids (including boldine), as well as a volatile oil Description Slender-stemmed, annual climber strong uterine stimulant. growing to 13 ft (4 m). Has pointed oval leaflets, History & Folklore Parsley was known in and flavonoids. curly tendrils, clusters of white or lilac flowers, ancient Greece and Rome—but more as a diuretic, and a beanpod containing kidney-shaped seeds. digestive tonic, and menstrual stimulant than as a History & Folklore Boldo is a valued remedy Habitat & Cultivation French beans are in Latin American herbal medicine and is used by the Araucanian people in Chile as a tonic. Medicinal Actions & Uses Boldo stimulates liver activity and bile flow and is chiefly valued as a remedy for gallstones and liver or gallbladder pain. It is normally taken for a few weeks at a time, either as a tincture or infusion. Boldo is also a mild urinary antiseptic and demulcent and may be taken for infections such as cystitis. Cautions Do not take during pregnancy. This herb is subject to legal restrictions in some countries. salad herb. In Rome, parsley was associated with thought to have originated from South America. the goddess Persephone, queen of the Today, varieties are cultivated all over the world. underworld, and was used in funeral ceremonies. Pfaffia paniculata (Amaranthaceae) The ripe beans are gathered in summer. Suma, Parsley was introduced to Britain in 1548. Parts Used Beanpods, beans. Medicinal Actions & Uses The fresh Constituents French beans contain lectins, leaves are highly nutritious and can be considered Brazilian Ginseng saponins, flavonoids, allantoin, amino acids, a natural vitamin and mineral supplement in their and sugars. own right. The seeds have a much stronger diuretic Description Climbing perennial with a thick History & Folklore French beans have been action than the leaves, and may be substituted for rootstock, growing up through rainforest trees into used since antiquity to treat diabetes. In A Modern 246 celery seeds (Apium graveolens, p. 64) in the the forest canopy. Herbal (1931), Mrs. Grieve records that “because

Phytolacca americana of the seed’s close resemblance to a male such as acute diarrhea, jaundice, vaginal infection cultivated in warm temperate and other medicinal plants testicle… [ancient Egyptians] made it an object (including trichomonas), and certain skin conditions. subtropical regions, including North and South of sacred worship and forbade its use as a food.” It is also given for urinary system disorders such as America and South Africa. The fruit is gathered 247 Medicinal Actions & Uses In addition to frequent urination, pain, and infection. once it has ripened in summer. being an important food in many parts of the Research Clinical trials in China indicate that Parts Used Fruit. world, French beans, and beans in general, offer the bark is useful in the treatment of meningitis Constituents Winter cherry contains several health benefits. As part of a balanced and conjunctivitis. flavonoids, plant sterols, and vitamins A (carotene) nutritious diet, they help to lower high blood QCautions Take huang bai only under and C. The roots contain tropane-type alkaloids, pressure and raised cholesterol levels. They are professional supervision. Do not take huang bai physalin A and B. Water extracts of the plant may hypoglycemic and promote more stable blood- during pregnancy. have an anti-estrogenic effect. sugar levels. Like soy (Glycine max, p. 217), they History & Folklore The Greek physician are estrogenic and will help reduce menopausal Phyllanthus amarus Dioscorides (1st century ce) considered winter symptoms. The pods act as a medium-strength (Euphorbiaceae) cherry to be medicinally beneficial as a diuretic and diuretic, stimulating urine flow and the clearance of a treatment for jaundice. In Spain, a therapeutic toxins from the body. Powdered beans may be Phyllanthus wine made with the fruit was taken to treat excess dusted onto eczema to ease itching and dry skin. fluid retention and problems of the urinary tract. Description Slender annual herb, to 2 ft Medicinal Actions & Uses Though commonly French beans are intensively cultivated all over the world. (60 cm) in height, with oval leaves and small eaten as a fruit, winter cherry is also a useful diuretic. yellowish-green flowers. The fruit is traditionally used within European herbal Phellodendron amurense Habitat & Cultivation Phyllanthus is native medicine to treat kidney and bladder stones, fluid (Rutaceae) to the Indian subcontinent and found commonly in retention, and gout. It has also been taken to central and southern India. The plant is harvested reduce fever. Huang Bai when required. Caution The foliage and unripe fruit are Parts Used Leaves, aerial parts. harmful if eaten. Description Deciduous tree growing to 39 ft Constituents Phyllanthus leaves contain lignans (12 m). Has compound leaves with 7 lance-shaped (including phyllanthin and hypophyllanthin), Phytolacca americana leaflets, clusters of green flowers, and round berries. flavonoids, and alkaloids. syn. P. decandra (Phytolaccaceae) Habitat & Cultivation Huang bai is native Medicinal Actions & Uses Phyllanthus is to China, Japan, and Korea, and is cultivated in a traditional Ayurvedic remedy used to treat liver Pokeweed northeastern China. The bark of 10-year-old and cardiovascular problems. It combines well trees is collected in spring. with picrorrhiza (Picrorrhiza kurroa, p. 248) in Description Herbaceous perennial Part Used Bark. treating hepatitis B and other liver disorders. growing to 10 ft (3 m). Has alternate Constituents Huang bai contains isoquinoline Research A growing body of research shows lance-shaped leaves, spikes of greenish- alkaloids (including berberine), sesquiterpene that phyllanthus has antiviral activity, specifically white flowers, and clusters of fleshy, lactones, and plant sterols. Due to its alkaloid against the hepatitis B virus. Research also indicates purple berries. content, huang bai is antimicrobial and antibiotic. that the leaves are diuretic, and lower blood Habitat & History & Folklore Listed in the Divine pressure and blood-sugar levels. Not all the studies Cultivation Husbandman’s Classic (Shen’nong Bencaojing), have shown that phyllanthus works effectively in Native to North of the 1st century ce, huang bai was regarded treating hepatitis B, but overall the evidence America, pokeweed is as an herb to be used with care. is positive, with some trials showing significant now naturalized in the Medicinal Actions & Uses Strongly bitter, improvement in measures of infection. In Mediterranean region. It huang bai is used within Chinese herbal medicine laboratory experiments, phyllanthus inhibits thrives in damp woodland to “drain damp heat.” It is prescribed for conditions RNA replication of the hepatitis B virus. and in open areas. The root QCaution Use on professional advice only. is unearthed in late autumn. Part Used Root. Physalis alkekengi syn. P. franchetti Constituents Pokeweed (Solanaceae) contains triterpenoid saponins, lectins, lignans, resin, Winter Cherry, and mucilage. The triterpenoid saponins are Cape Gooseberry strongly anti-inflammatory, the lignans are antiviral, and Description Perennial herb growing to the lectins are mitogenic 32 in (80 cm). Has oval- to diamond-shaped leaves, (break up chromosomes). long-stemmed white flowers, and a translucent History & Folklore Pokeweed papery sheath surrounding an orange-red fruit. was widely used by Native Habitat & Cultivation Winter cherry is Americans and European settlers native to central and southern Europe and China. It grows wild along damp roadsides. It is widely Pokeweed contains proteins that act against viral infection. www.ebook3000.com

Picrasma excelsa as a poultice for skin diseases, sores, ulcers, and Picrorrhiza kurroa Constituents Allspice contains volatile oil other medicinal plants tumors. It was also given internally to relieve (Scrophulariaceae) (about 4%, mostly eugenol—up to 80%), pain and to induce vomiting. Picrorrhiza lignins, and terpenoids. Medicinal Actions & Uses Pokeweed is History & Folklore Used as a spice in the taken internally as a tincture in small amounts Description Hairy perennial with serrated Caribbean before the arrival of Europeans, allspice to treat rheumatic and arthritic conditions. elliptical leaves and white or lilac flowers growing The root has also been used to treat respiratory is now an ingredient in many well-known sauces, tract infections, such as sore throats and tonsillitis, in spikes. as well as swollen glands and chronic infections. Habitat & Cultivation Picrorrhiza is native chutneys, and condiments. The herb is sometimes prescribed for pain and to the mountains of India, Nepal, and Tibet. The Medicinal Actions & Uses A digestive infection of the ovaries or testes, and as a lymphatic stimulant, allspice is taken to relieve flatulence and “decongestant,” stimulating the clearance of waste rhizome is gathered in autumn. products. As a poultice or ointment, it is applied Part Used Rhizome. indigestion. It may also be used to treat diarrhea. to sore and infected nipples and breasts, acne, Constituents Picrorrhiza contains the bitter folliculitis, fungal infections, and scabies. glycoside kutkin (composed of picrosides I to III Allspice is often combined with herbs that have a RQCautions The plant is highly toxic in overdose. Use only under professional and kutkoside), iridoids, cucurbitacins, and apocynin. tonic or laxative effect. The herb has an action that supervision. Do not take during pregnancy. Apocynin is powerfully anti-inflammatory and is similar to that of cloves (Eugenia caryophyllata, Picrasma excelsa syn. Picraenia excelsa (Simaroubaceae) reduces platelet aggregation. p. 97); both are stimulant, stomach-settling, and History & Folklore Picrorrhiza has been used Quassia in Ayurvedic medicine as a laxative and bitter tonic antiseptic. Allspice essential oil is markedly Description Deciduous tree growing to since the earliest times. antiseptic and analgesic. 100 ft (30 m). Has smooth gray bark, compound Medicinal Actions & Uses In India, Research Taking a lead from allspice’s use in picrorrhiza is used as a bitter tonic, equivalent in Costa Rica as a menopause remedy, scientists many respects to gentian (Gentiana lutea, p. 99), found that the berries have a strong estrogenic and given for a wide range of digestive and liver activity. A 2009 paper suggested that allspice troubles, such as indigestion, constipation, jaundice, may well help with menopausal symptoms. and hepatitis. In China, it is chiefly employed to Studies also indicate that allspice lowers high treat chronic diarrhea and dysentery. Picrorrhiza blood pressure. Cautions Do not take essential oil internally without professional guidance. Do not take allspice as a medicine during pregnancy. leaves, small yellow flowers, and pea-sized also helps treat asthma, acute and chronic black fruit. infections, conditions where the immune system Pimpinella anisum (Apiaceae) Habitat & Cultivation Native to tropical is compromised, and autoimmune diseases, America and the Caribbean, quassia grows in forests including psoriasis and vitiligo. The herb’s Anise traditional use for liver disorders is well founded, and near water. It is cultivated mainly for medicinal use. The bark is harvested throughout the year. and picrorrhiza may play an important role in Description Erect annual growing to 2 ft (60 cm), with feathery leaves, umbels of yellow Part Used Bark. treating liver disease. Constituents Quassia contains quassinoid Research In 1992 Indian trials, extracts of flowers, and ridged, gray-green seeds. bitter principles (including quassin), alkaloids, a picrorrhiza were shown to boost immunity, and to Habitat & Cultivation Anise is native to the eastern Mediterranean, western Asia, and coumarin (scopoletin), and vitamin B1. Some of have a specific action against Leishmania donovani, the quassinoids have been shown to have cytotoxic North Africa. It is widely cultivated for its seeds, which causes the tropical parasitic disease known (cell-killing) and anti-leukemic actions. as leishmaniasis. Indian research also indicates that which are used for medicinal purposes and as a History & Folklore Quassia bark was first picrorrhiza is of therapeutic value in the treatment flavoring in cooking. introduced into Europe from Surinam, then a of autoimmune disease. Parts Used Seeds, essential oil. Dutch colony, in 1756. The herb is named after QCaution Take picrorrhiza only under Constituents Anise contains a volatile oil professional supervision. (comprising 70–90% anethole, together with Quassi, a native healer, who told Europeans of its therapeutic value. methylchavicol and other terpenes), Medicinal Actions & Uses The strongly furanocoumarins, flavonoids, fatty acids, bitter quassia supports and strengthens weak Pimenta officinalis phenylpropanoids, sterols, and proteins. Anethole digestive systems. It increases bile flow and the (Myrtaceae) has an observed estrogenic effect, and the seeds as secretion of salivary juices and stomach acid, a whole are mildly estrogenic. This effect may and improves the digestive process as a whole. Allspice substantiate the herb’s use as a stimulant of sexual Quassia is commonly used to stimulate the drive and of breast-milk production. appetite, especially in the treatment of anorexia. Description Aromatic evergreen tree growing History & Folklore After examining the Its bitterness has led to it being used for malaria to 39 ft (12 m). Has leathery oblong leaves, clusters records of Cyprus hospital monastery, historians and other fevers, and it is given in the Caribbean of small white flowers, and tiny green berries that discovered that anise was used to treat plague for dysentery. The bark has been used in the turn brown as they become ripe. and cholera during the Ottoman Period form of an enema to expel threadworms and Habitat & Cultivation Allspice is native to the (1571–1878 ce). other parasites. A decoction of the bark may Caribbean and to Central and South America. Medicinal Actions & Uses Anise seeds are be used as an insect repellent and to treat headlice. The berries are gathered before they are fully known for their ability to reduce gas and bloating, Cautions Excessive doses may, in some cases, ripe because the volatile oil content reduces as and to settle digestion. They are commonly given cause digestive irritation and vomiting. Do not they mature. to infants and children to relieve colic, and to 248 take during pregnancy. Parts Used Berries, leaves, essential oil. people of all ages to ease nausea and indigestion.