Latin Name: Medicago sativa Family: Leguminosae

Description: Use of alfalfa dates back thousands of years. The Arabics called it the "Father of all Foods". It is usually found growing in "wasteland" and along roadsides. Alfalfa is high in vitamins A, B’s, C, E, K, and P, as well as choline, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, silica, sodium, and other trace minerals. It is also a good source of chlorophyll, is high in protein (18.9 %), and contains the antioxidant Tricin.

Ailments/Situations Where Used: Alfalfa leaf can be used as a blood cleanser. Its diuretic properties help relieve urinary and bowel problems and it is also useful in removing any excess water from the body. The tea can be taken before meals to stimulate the appetite and is said to put the body in balance if taken every day. Seeds or alfalfa concentrate can lower cholesterol by curbing excess cholesterol production in the body.

Source: Leaves and seeds.

Preparations: Fresh: Sprouts can be put on anything from sandwiches, to soups, to drinks. Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon to 1 cup boiling water and allow to infuse 5 to 10 minutes.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings: Large quantities of alfalfa saponins may cause breakdown of red blood cells. Some reports suggest that the sprouts may be associated with Lupus and can cause recurrences in patients.

Aloe, Aloe Vera, Aloes, Aloes Barbaddes, Cape Aides Latin Name: Aloe Vera Family: Liliaceae

Description: Aloe is a plant that grows wild in the vast African desert. It has now been widely naturalized and can be easily grown as a house plant. The Aloe plant contains two medicinal substances. Aloe juice is collected by cutting the base of the leaves, while aloe gel is obtained by breaking off a piece of leaf.

Ailments/Situations Where Used: Aloe juice is a powerful cathartic (an agent that removes morbid matter from the liver, gall, and alimentary canal), and is very stimulating to the large intestine. It is often combined with other agents for constipation and is used for upset stomach. The gel is used topically on burns, cuts, and wounds, and is one of the best Aloes to encourage skin regeneration.

Source: Leaves, juice, and gel from leaves.

Preparations: Fresh: The plant can be grown very easily, and the leaves used any time. Juice: Aloe Vera juice can be purchased at local health food shops and used according to instructions.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings: Aloe juice should not be used during pregnancy. Chronic aloe use or misuse can result in potassium depletion.

Anise Aniseed, Anise Seed Latin Name: Pimpinella anisumFamily: Magnoliaceae

Description: Anise is known by most as the flavour used to imitate licorice in candies. It is also familiar to some as one of the greatest mouse traps ever due to its attractive, irresistible, odour.

Ailments/Situations Where Used: Anise tea is very soothing to the stomach. It has also been used for indigestion and flatulence. The seeds contain expectorant properties and are used for chest troubles, coughs, and sore throats. Anise can be also used for infantile catarrh.

Source: Seeds

Preparations: Infusion: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 to 2 teaspoons of seed, cover, and allow to infuse 5 to 10 minutes. A wash made of a strong tea is said to be good for removing lice. This is due to the insecticidal components in the volatile oil.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings: There are no known contraindications. Star Anis (Illicium verum) has similar properties, but the Japanese Star Anise (Illicium lanceolatum) is poisonous.

Astragalus  Milk Vetch Root, Huang Qi Latin Name: Astragalus membranaceus Family: Leguminosae

Description: Astragalus is an old medicinal plant that was first mentioned in the first century Chinese Herbal Shen Nong Ben Cao. It is one of the most famous plants in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Ailments/Situations Where Used: Astragalus, according to the Chinese, is said to be excellent at strengthening digestion. It is used for diarrhea, or as an appetite stimulator in a weakened digestive system. According to TCM it is said to strengthen the body’s qi (vital energy residing in every being). It is very supporting to the lungs and is a very good immune stimulant. Chinese medicinal beliefs view the respiratory system as an umbrella for the body -- providing a cover for the rest of our bodily systems. Our lungs are our gateway to the external world and are often the first organs to come into contact with infectious agents. They also play the role of screening external pernicous influences (EPIs). Astragalus helps facilitate the proper function of these systems. According to the Journal of the American Cancer Society, it is said that out of the patients taking astragalus, this herb had made a significant change in their immune systems. It is largely used in leukopenia (low white blood cell count) due to cancer and/or chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Astragalus has adaptogenic properties which can stop a debilitating sweat, or produce a therapeutic one. It is said to help discharge pus and promote the healing of ulcers. In TCM, astragalus is said to strengthen the outer energy, while herbs such as ginseng tone the inner energy. Both are ideal for use in combination.

Source: Root

Preparations: Infusion: Add 3 teaspoons to 3 cups water and bring to a boil. Simmer for 30 to 45 minutes. Strain and divide it into 3 doses for the entire day. Supplements: Take 6g three times daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops three times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings: Other species of astragalus contain the chemical swainsonine which can be toxic. No known restrictions in A. membranaceus.

Barberry  European or Common Barberry, (Oregon Grape) Latin Name: Berberis vulgaris Family: Berberidaceae

Description: Barberry is another very useful plant. It is native to Europe and East Asia, but has been naturalized everywhere. Once used as a remedy for coughing horses it is now used extensively for many ailments. Barberry contains berberis alkaloids. These immunostimulating properties make this herb ideal for treating infection. Oregon grape is similar to barberry -- where barberry grows on the East Coast, Oregon grape grows on the West Coast.

Ailments/Situations Where Used: Barberry bark and leaves are an excellent corrector of liver secretions. It regulates digestion, corrects an inflamed spleen, and removes any obstructions from the intestinal tract and stomach. Barberry’s use as a liver tonic is due to an alkaloid found in the bark of the root called Berberine. This substance promotesthe secretion of bile and has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. Berberine also dilates the blood vessels therefore being helpful in lowering high blood pressure. This herb is also useful as a mild laxative, bringing about a gentle purge. It is very useful in chronic constipation and has been used with great results in jaundice. Barberry contains anti-inflammatory, astringent, anticonvulsant, immunostimulant, and uterotonic properties and can be very serviceable in the treatments of hemmorhaging, diarrhea, cholera, arthritis, and rheumatism.

Source: Root bark

Preparations: Decoction: Bring 1 teaspoon to a boil with 1 1/2 cups water, and simmered for 10 minutes. This should be taken 2 to 3 times a day in teacup doses. Due to the bitterness of the plant it is usually preferred in a tincture form. Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon to 1 cup boiling water and infuse for 5 to 10 minutes.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings: Barberry should never be used during pregnancy, as the alkaloid Berberine is stimulating to the uterus. No toxicity has ever been reported.

Bayberry Candleberry, Wax myrtle, Waxberry Latin Name: Myrica cerifera Family: Myricaceae

Description: Bayberry is a very useful plant and is considered by some to be the most useful plant in the botanical world. It was made famous by an 18th century herbalist named Dr. Samuel Thompson who developed the famous composition powder which is still used today for colds, fever, or any condition calling for a stimulant. The composition powder consists of 1 ounce Bayberry, 1/2 ounce Pine buds, 1/2 ounce powdered Ginger, 1 teaspoon Cayenne, and 1 teaspoon powdered Cloves mixed. Take 1 teaspoon of this mixture and add to boiling water. The berries of Bayberry are also used for obtaining wax for candles (Hence the names Waxberry and Candleberry). Place the berries in boiling water and the wax will rise to the top and can be gathered once hardened.

Ailments/Situations Where Used: Bayberry bark is a very powerful stimulant and astringent. The infusion is a great gargle in quinsy or sore throat, as it cleanses the mucous membrane, and cleanses away any morbid matter that is accumulated. It can be used with excellent results in diarrhea, dystentery, leuccorrhea, or any excessive discharges. As most astringents dry up the mucous membranes, Bayberry promotes glandular activity and normalizes mucous secretions, especially when combined with diphoretics (sweating herbs). It works wonders on colds, fevers, and congestion, improving capillary and arterial circulation. The bark makes an excellent poultice for sores, boils, carbuncles, etc., and the infusion a good wash in ulcers, spongy and bleeding gums. A flavonoid in the plant called Myrictrin is bactericidal and promotes the flow of bile, so it can be used in liver or gall bladder problems.

Source: Root bark

Preparations: Decoction: Add 1 teaspoon herb to 1 cup of cold water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink 3 times a day. Infusion: Use as a warming and stimulating drink. Take 1/2 tsp to 1 cup boiling water and let infuse 5 to 10 minutes. Drink warm.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings: Bayberry should not be used excessively. If given in large doses can cause vomiting. Isolated Tannins and Phenols extracted from Bayberry have been tested on animals and have caused cancer in rats.

Beth Root Birth Root, Wake-Robin Latin Name: Trillium pendulum, T. erectum Family: Liliaceae

Description: Beth root is native to North America and can be found in moist and shady forest areas. The plant’s white flowers are in bloom during the months of May and June. This is another great medicinal introduced by the North American Indians.

Ailments/Situations Where Used: This plant has long been used by many native tribes as an aid to easy childbirth and to stop post-partum haemmorhage. Beth root’s strong astringent properties make the plant very useful in diarrhea, dysentery, and gastro-intestinal bleeding. It is used quite favourably in bleeding of the lungs, kidneys, bladder, and in uterine fibroids. A vaginal injection or douche, using the decoction, is given for leuccorhea or profuse menstruation. Beth root makes an ideal uterine astringent for excessive blood loss during or between periods and helps in blood loss during menopause. Steroidal saponins found in the plant, notably diosgenin, has a close relationship to human sex hormones, cortisone, vitamin D, and cardiac glycosides. Saponins have a normalizing effect on the sex hormones and beth root has been known to strengthen the female constitution. Beth root contains mild expectorating properties that help in clearing the bronchioles by removing excess mucous. This plant is used externally on ulcers, cuts, and wounds. It makes a good antiseptic poultice.

Source: Root.

Preparations: Infusion: Pour one cup water over one teaspoon root and bring to a boil. Simmer 10 minutes, cool, strain, and enjoy. Take when needed, up to three to four cups daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops of tincture three times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings: Contraindicated during pregnancy.

Bilberry Black Whortleberry, Blueberry, Burren Myrtle, Dyeberry, Huckleberry,
Hurtleberry, Whinberry, Whortleberry, Wineberry Latin Name: Vaccinium myrtillus Family: Vacciniaceae

Description: Bilberries are said to make quite an enjoyable dish. Prior to World War II, large quantities were imported from Western Europe and Scandinavia and used by pastry cooks and restaurant-keepers. The berries do not seem to be used as much anymore, but can be very serviceable in treating certain ailments.

Ailments/Situations Where Used: The bilberry fruit contains a pigment that kills or can inhibit the growth of bacteria or microorganisms and is helpful in diarrhea and dysentery. They contain tannic acid, and thus are astringent. Large amounts of the fruit have a laxative effect and are usually taken with milk or honey. A mouthwash is effective for ulcers and gum inflammations. The leaves can be used in a similar manner to those of uva-ursi, as they also contain arbutin, which acts as a urinary antiseptic and is helpful in cystitis or any bladder and kidney infection. Studies show that the leaves can reduce blood sugar levels in late onset diabetes and increase insulin production. Bilberry is a wonderful antioxidant and can be used to combat the harmful effects of free radicals. The leaves are very beneficial for eye health due to antacyanins, a type of bioflavanoids. They work by strengthening capillaries, especially those of the eyes (there are thousands). They also prevent leakage from the capillary walls, which in turn improves ocular blood flow. The antioxidant properties inhibit any damage to the capillaries and to the collagen, the main protein in eye fluid. Studies suggest that night blindness is caused by a reduction of a visual pigment called rhodopsin. Bilberry helps regenerate rhodopsin production. Bilberry extracts have also been used with positive effects in near- and far-sightedness.

Source: Leaves and fruit/berries.

Preparations: Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of leaves or crushed berries. Infuse 10 minutes and take as needed, up to 3 cups daily.

Supplement: Take 160 to 480mg daily in divided doses. Standardized extracts should contain 36% anthocyanosides.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings: There are no known contraindications.

Black cohosh  Latin Name: Cimicifuga racemosa Family: Ranunculaceae

Description: Black cohosh has been used since the early 1800s as an effective remedy for problems related to the female reproductive system. This includes premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstrual cramps, and menopause. Black cohosh contains isoflavones -- natural estrogens required for proper hormonal balance, especially in females. German gynecologists often prescribe this herb as an alternative to hormone-replacement therapy.

Ailments/Situations: The isoflavones in Black cohosh help balance female hormonal levels. As a result, this herb is ideal for treating hormone-fluctuating situations such as PMS, menstrual cramps, and menopause. For menopausal women, this herb also relieves hot flashes, depression, and insomnia.

Source: Root

Supplement: Take 250 to 500mg daily.  Tincture: Take 60 to 80 drops daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings : Doses greater than those recommended can result in stomach upset, nausea, headache, or dizziness. Do not use if pregnant or nursing.

Blessed thistle  Holy Thistle, Spotted Thistle Latin Name: Cnicus benedictus Family: Compositae

Description: "It expelleth the venom of infection; it consumes and wastes away all bad humours; therefore, give God thanks for his goodness. Who hath given this herb and all others for the benefit of our health." -- Mattheoles and Fuschius Blessed Thistle was often used in ancient times and was considered holy by some. Today it is regaining its reputation as a fine medicine.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Blessed Thistle contains some very bitter properties and is used to strengthen and tone the digestive tract. It increases gastric juices, stimulates the liver, and promotes bile secretions, which in turn can stimulate the appetite and have a slight laxative effect. A warm infusion will bring about a free perspiration, which can be helpful in colds, flu, or any congestion. Blessed Thistle is excellent for stimulating circulation, particularly the cerebral region, and is used for promoting overall brain function and improving memory. A warm infusion given in large doses would bring about a pain-free emesis. The cold infusion is ideal for strengthening the stomach and will produce a free supply of milk in nursing mothers.

Source: Aerial (above ground) parts.

Preparations: Infusion: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 teaspoon of herb and infuse for 10 minutes. Take 3 cups daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops in water 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings : Some people have allergies to members of the daisy family. Strong doses can be emetic and cause diarrhea.

Blue cohosh  Papoose Root, Blue Berry, Squaw Root Latin Name: Caulophyllum thalictroides Family: Berberidaceae

Description A popular herb that was a favorite among the "medicine men" and used by North American Indian women for menstrual problems, blue cohosh has now gained respect as a nervine and an antispasmodic.

Ailments/Situations Where Used: This herb is used as a valuable agent in fits, cramps, colic, and spasms. Whenever there is a need to relax the muscular fibre, it is used with great service. It is very soothing to the nervous system. Blue cohosh is strengthening and gives relief to painful functional difficulties of the female generative organs. It is a great tonic to the uterus and can be used when there is any weakness or loss of tone. If there is a threat of miscarriage, it is safe to use during pregnancy. Blue Cohosh can ease labour pains, and can help with the delivery. The herb can bring about menstruation when it is delayed or suppressed. It also has a reputation in easing rheumatic pains.  Blue cohosh contains phytosteroids, silicon, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron.

Source: Root

Preparations: Infusion: Bring 1 teaspoon of herb with 1 cup of water to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes. Drink 3 times daily or when needed. Tincture: Take 15 to 20 drops of quality tincture 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Do not use during pregnancy. Do not use if you have high blood pressure or heart disease. Blue cohosh seeds are poisonous.

Boneset  Feverwort, Thoroughwort, Sweatplant, Indian Sage Latin Name: Eupatorium perfoliatum Family: Compositae

Description: Boneset is a tall, hardy perennial up to 1.5m high and 30-100cm wide. It has large, flat-topped, white or purple tinged flowers and blooms in late Summer. This plant is native to Eurasia and the Eastern United States. It is also found in swamps, meadows, and banks in eastern Canada. Prefers moist soil in sun or partial shade. A very popular plant with North American Indians, boneset was introduced into Europe in 1699 and was used as a stimulating tonic and antispasmodic diaphoretic. Primary uses were to treat influenza epidemics and febrile conditions. In the 19th century, boneset was the household remedy in North America for coughs and colds. In folk medicine and according to the doctrine of signatures: the leaves appear to be holding the stem-"bone set". The name Boneset was given to it, as it was used to treat a type of liver fever called "break bone fever". The whole plant above the ground is cut when buds have formed and dried for use in infusions, liquid extracts, and tinctures.

Ailments/Situations Where Used A warm infusion of Boneset is excellent for colds, fevers, and asthma, as it will induce an effective sweat for congestion relief. It is said to be a pure relaxant, working chiefly on the muscular structures, gall ducts, stomach, bowels, and uterus. A cold infusion is a good tonic and a mild blood cleanser. It strengthens the viscera and works well for indigestion. Boneset promotes the secretion of bile and produces a mild laxative effect. It clears the skin by helping to detoxify the liver. Boneset can also be used to clear the upper respiratory tract in mucous congestion. Recent research indicates that several lactones in the plant may have anti-cancer activity. In homeopathy, this herb has indications for bone pains and post fracture pain.

Source Leaves and flower tops.

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 teaspoon of herb and infuse for 10 to 15 minutes. For chronic conditions, take 3 times daily. For colds and influenza, take warm every 30 minutes. Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops, three times daily. Combinations: For fever or influenza, combine with cayenne, elderflower, ginger, peppermint, or yarrow. For respiratory problems, combine with elecampane or pleurisy root.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Large doses of the warm infusion will cause vomiting and diarrhea. Do not use fresh (green) plant as it contains high amounts of tremetrols. If a nursing animal ingests fresh boneset, the tremetrols can be passed to the milk and become toxic to the drinker. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and thirst. Additional problems include low blood sugar levels and liver and kidney damage.

Borage  Bugloss, Burage, Common Bugloss Latin Name: Borago officinalis Family: Boraginaceae

Description "Those of our time do use the flowers in salads to exhilarate and make the mind glad. There be also many things made of these used everywhere for the comfort of the heart, for the driving away of sorrow and increasing the joy of the mind. It maketh a man merry and joyful." -- Pliny

Ailments/Situations Where Used The leaves and flowers have a cucumber-like taste and add beautiful colour to a salad. They are both used quite extensively by modern day herbalists. An infusion is used as a tonic to the adrenal cortex in times of stress or used to counteract the effects of steroid therapy and cortisone. The infusion has a strengthening effect on the heart and aids phlebitis and venous circulation. An infusion combined with fennel seeds or blessed thistle is helpful during lactation to increase mother’s milk. The fresh juice is used for depression, anxiety and grief and is also very soothing when used externally on mild skin conditions. The flowers are an excellent expectorant and are used to remove congestion in the respiratory tract associated with dry coughs and lung disorders. Boarge seeds are used for their high content of Gamma-Linolenic-Acid (GLA) and Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) which are helpful in many conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism, poor memory, menstrual irregularities, irritable bowel syndrome, attention deficit disorder, hangovers, and skin conditions. See Food Supplements -- Essential Fatty Acids for more information on these acids.

Source Leaves, flowers and seeds.

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of herb and infuse 10 minutes. Take 3 times daily. Tincture: Take 15 to 20 drops 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Borage contains the same pyrolizzidine alkaloids as its cousin comfrey which has been shown to cause liver toxicity in rats, fetuses, and newborn babies. Avoid in pregnancy and use in moderation.

Buchu Bookoo, Buku, Bucku, Bucco Latin Name: Barosma betulina, B. crenulata, B. serratifolia Family: Rutaceae

Description There are two kinds of buchu: the long and the short. The short ones are medicinally superior. Both shrubs grow in the Cape Province of South Africa. Native South Africans historically used the leaves as body perfume, mixing them with oil.

Ailments/Situations Where Used This plant is a great urinary antiseptic and diuretic, due to the volatile oil in the leaves. It is used for most urinary conditions. A cold infusion will increase the flow of urine, while a warm one will produce perspiration and sooth the nerves. It is great for the aged with urinary weakness.

Source Leaves

Preparations Infusion: Pour one cup of hot water over 1 teaspoon of herb and let infuse, covered, for 10 minutes. Buchu should not be boiled as the volatile essence can escape and it will lose its therapeutic virtues.
Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid in kidney infections and diseases. Buchu’s essential oil contains diosmin and pulegone which can cause irritation.

Burdock  Great Burdock, Burr Latin Name: Arctium lappa Family: Compositae

Description Burdock is another large-leafed dock with familiar round heads of purple flowers. It is very widespread, probably due to the burr that will attach themselves to anything. As Shakespeare wrote, "they are burs, I can tell you, they’ll stick where they are thrown".

Ailments/Situations Where Used The root of the plant is used as a bitter tonic to improve digestion and relieve bloatedness and gastric upset. Thus, Burdock root aids the appetite. It also increases the flow of bile and has a mild laxative effect. Burdock helps promotes overall homeostasis and removes systemic imbalances of the skin, including psoriasis, eczema, and dandruff. Burdock relieves the kidneys, influences the skin, and supports the lymphatic system. It helps remove any build-up of toxins caused by skin, digestive, and arthritic conditions. Burdock contains the anti-cancer compound arctigenen which has a marked anti-tumour effect and helps decrease damage to cells exposed to toxic chemicals. It also contains polyacetylenes that destroy bacteria and fungi. Externally, a poultice of the roots or leaves is used for skin conditions, sores and inflammations. As Mrs. Grieve wrote, "The burdock leaves are cooling and moderately drying, whereby good for old ulcers and sores. The seeds of burdock are a wonderful diuretic and are used in bladder and kidney inflammations. They clear the kidneys of uric acid and excess waste and have a wonderfully soothing effect on the nerves. In addition, the seeds apparently lower blood sugar levels and boost the immune system. Combined with sunflower seeds, this infusion has a wonderful influence on the sebaceous glands (glands that secrete sebum, which helps keep hair and skin soft). This explains their usefulness in most dry skin conditions. Burdock contains volatile oils that, when ingested, are eliminated through the sudorific (sweat) glands carrying toxins with them. Burdock is high in minerals, especially iron, which helps build and nourish the blood. In China, it is used for colds accompanied by a sore throat and unproductive cough, and to eliminate heat (yang) conditions. In Japan, the root is eaten as a vegetable known as Gobo.

Source Roots, primarily. Also leaves and seeds.

Preparations Decoction: Bring 3 1/2 cups of water with 3 teaspoons of root to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Divide into 3 doses for the day. Infusion: For seeds, use 1 cup of boiling water to 1 teaspoon of crushed seeds. Infuse 10 minutes covered and drink 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Burdock is contraindicated in pregnancy as it is a uterine stimulant.

Calendula  Garden Marigold, Marigold, Marygold, Pot Marigold Latin Name: Calendula officinalis Family: Compositae

Description Calendula can be found in flower at the beginning of most months of the year. It is for this reason that its name originates from the Latin word kalendae, meaning "first day of the month" in the Roman calendar. Marigold refers to its links with the Virgin Mary. In Assyrian tablets, pre 600 BCE, gods and goddesses of India were crowned with wreaths of marigolds. It was also used as a medicinal herb and as a colourant for fabrics, foods, and cosmetics. Calendula has long been used by Native Americans. The common name marigold is used for various species, notably for targets species, which have very different properties. Calendula is native to southern Europe and has long been used by Native Americans. This annual is now widely cultivated and prefers well drained to poor soil in full sun. Calendula will die out in hot summers. Remove dead flower heads to prolong flowering and prevent excessive self-seeding. Caterpillars, powdery mildew, or rust may attack foliage. It is thought that calendula improves the condition of plants planted near by. Flowers are cut in dry conditions and petals are used fresh or dried. The petals can be either separated or left as the whole flower head. Cut and prepare as quickly as possible in a shaded location to avoid discolouration.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Calendula has anti-inflammatory, anti-septic, anti-fungal, and anti-hemorragic properties. It can be used as a stimulant. Calendula can also be prepared as a wash to treat, vaginitis, cervicitis, endometriosis, vaginal abrasions, non-specific urethritis, leucorrhea, and lacerated perineum. A strong infusion can be used as a wash for chickenpox and measles when breaking out helps speed up the process. As a cream or ointment calendula can be used externally for cuts, bruises, eczema, diaper rash, sore nipples, burns, scalds, slow healing wounds or skin ulcers, insect stings and bites, varicose veins, skin cancers. This herbs heals without contractures. Calendula can be taken internally to help treat stomach disorders, gastric and duodenal ulcers, dysmenorrhea/menstrual cramps, and splenic and hepatic congestion. When prepared as a tincture, calendula can be used to promote or regulate menstruation.

Source Petals and whole flowers.

Preparations Fresh: Fresh petals are edible and can be added to salad. They can also be used as a substitute for saffron in rice and soup, or infused (see below) to give colour to cheese, butter, and milk desserts. Calendula also makes a lovely addition to herbal teas and is very beneficial in bath blends. Infusion: Add 1 to 2 teaspoons dried herb or 1 tablespoon fresh petal to 1 cup boiling water. Steep for 15 to 20 minutes. Take 1 cup 3 times daily or 2 tablespoons infusion per hour. Tincture: Take 20 to 80 drops three times daily. Use as an anti-fungal and emmenagogue (promote or regulate menstruation).

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Do not use pungent cultivations. No known contraindications.

Cascara Sagrada Cascara, Sacred Bark, Chittern Bark, California Buckthorn Latin Name: Rhamnus purshiana Family: Rhamnaceae

Description A very useful tonic/laxative, this deciduous tree is native to western North America and the Columbia forest regions. It is becoming quite rare.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Cascara is a very good laxative and particularly influences the lower bowel. It also has an influence over the spleen, stomach, liver, and gall bladder, causing secretions in these parts. This, in turn, results in a laxative effect. It can be safely used in chronic constipation, in the elderly, and for someone with a weak bowel. It should be mixed with ginger, fennel or peppermint to prevent griping (stomach pains). Cascara does not lose its potency with long-term use, unlike Senna or other laxatives. It also promotes proper digestion and supports a weak digestive system.

Source Dried, aged bark.

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of herb and infuse for 10 minutes. Most people prefer the tincture or capsule form, as the tea is very bitter.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Do not use during pregnancy, unless under supervision. With chronic use/abuse, electrolytes (especially potassium) can be lost. Use only plants that have been aged at least a year. Fresh cascara can cause irritation.

Catnip  Catmint, Catnep, Catswort, Field Balm Latin Name: Nepeta cataria Family: Labiatae

DescriptionFor years, it has been a mystery as to why this plant causes a frenzied ecstasy in felines. Nearly all types of felines, from the basic house cat to a fierce mountain lion, go nuts for catnip, and will tear up any patch you have sown. Cats like to roll around in it, rub against it, toss it around, and rub their faces in it in a wild orgy of delight. As for humans, it is a valuable medicine from the botanical world.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Catnip has been used mainly as a children’s herb, but should by no means be restricted to this age group. A hot infusion of catnip will balance circulation and bring about free perspiration, making it useful in treating colds, fevers, and any sluggishness. Catnip is an excellent nervine and can be used in convulsions, fits, hysteria, and for colic in children. A cup of catnip tea before bed will, in most cases, put you out cold. Catnip can be used to sooth an upset stomach and relieve indigestion and flatulence. It is also used in North America as an enema to cleanse the lower bowel.

Source Flowers and leaves

Preparations Infusion: Catnip should never be boiled, as the volatile oil will be lost in the process. Infuse 1 cup of hot water that has been boiled with 1 teaspoon of herb for 10 minutes.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications.

Cat's claw  Una de Gato Latin Name: Uncaria tomentosa

Description Considered the most important botanical in the rainforest, this especially healing plant is becoming quite popular North America and Europe as a treatment for cancer. The Urarina tribesman of Peru tell stories of its use in curing tumours.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Studies into this plant suggest that its powerful immune-boosting properties help normalize immunoglobulins (antibodies) by activating the T-lymphocytes and macrophages. The strong infusion is useful for many infections, AIDS, cancer, and certain PMS conditions. The plant is very useful in treating the inflammation and pain associated with rheumatism and arthritis. Cat’s claw is said to decrease blood pressure (via central and peripheral vasodilation) and decrease heart rate. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) it is used to tonify blood, increase liver and spleen Qi (vital energy) and release any congestion in the liver meridian. Decoctions are commonly prepared for gonorrhea, dysentry, and female urinary tract cancers.

Source Bark

Preparations N/A, see Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings, below.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings No doses or contraindications are given as more research on this plant needs to be conducted.

Cayenne  Chilipepper, Hot Peper Latin Name: Capsicum frutescensFamily: Solanaceae

Description There are about ten wild species and four or five domesticated species of shrubby, annuals, biennials and perennials that are included in this tropical American genus. Capsicum peppers were first described in 1493 by Dr. Chauca, a physician on Columbus’s voyages. Cayenne peppers were introduced from South America to India and Africa by the Portuguese. African bird pepper (Capsicum fastigiatum) is the nearest thing to the original wild plant and is considered the most important medicinally. Cayenne fruit varies in size, colour and pungency. Pods are conical shaped and up to 10cm long, green, yellow to red in colour. They grow to 1 metre or more in height and have a woody stem at the base. Leaves ovate to lancelot in shape, with drooping flowers that are white to yellow in colour and appear singularly, in pairs or triplets and are attached where the branches fork. Cayenne is found in tropical South America, Southern India and Africa. It is now cultivated around the world. It prefers rich, well-drained soil in full sun. Several insects may damage growing points and leaves and plants under cover may be affected by spider mites, whitefly, and aphids. Unripe fruits are picked as required and used raw, pickled, or cooked. Ripe fruits are picked in summer and used fresh, pickled or dried in the shade for condiments, decoctions, ointments, powders, tinctures, tablets, liniments, and oleoresin.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Cayenne has been referred to as the purest and most certain stimulant in the herbal materia medica. Cayenne acts as a counterirritant for pain control. It can be applied topically as a "hot-pot" application or you may also use capsaicin cream or ointment in concentrations of 0.025-0.075%. The cream may also be applied topically to treat arthritis, post surgical amputation, neuralgic pain, cluster headaches, and diabetic neuropathy. NOTE: Cayenne may cause a burning sensation and skin redness during the first few applications. Cayenne acts as a digestive stimulant and can be used for poor digestion. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant due to its carotene content. It is also useful for a variety of cardiovascular problems. Use cayenne to treat psoriasis. Apply topically as a cream or ointment to reduce and eliminate lesions. If you have a cold, sip cayenne tea. Use 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon per cup of hot water or in a foot bath: 1 to 3 tablespoons in hot water over ankles for 5 to 20 minutes. Use caution due to extreme heat sensation. Cayenne also stimulates the cooling centre of hypothalamus to produce cooling effect in the body. Use in food.

Source Fruits (Peppers)

Preparations Creams and Ointments: .025% to .075%.Foot Baths: Add 1 to 3 tablespoons to hot water over the ankles.Hot Pot: Add 1 pod/250g pure melted beeswax.Infusion: Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon dried herb to one cup hot water. If treating poor circulation, cayenne can be combined with ginkgo biloba, ginger, and bilberry.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Always wear gloves when handling cayenne and avoid contact with eyes and broken skin Tolerance to this herb varies widely among individuals. Children and persons not able to tolerate burning sensation should avoid this herb. Excessive doses may cause severe irritation of the mucosae, with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cayenne can be very irritating without redness. It can affect nerve endings, producing pain but not causing blisters.

Celery Celery Seed, Marsh Parsley, Wild Celery Latin Name: Apium graveolens Family: Umbelliferae

Description This beautiful, hairy vegetable -- so tasty with peanut butter -- is a prime example of letting your food be your medicine.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Celery seeds are used quite often in treating rheumatism, arthritis, and gout due to their diuretic properties. The seeds contain an oil that is antiseptic to the urinary tract and is of great service against many infections. They are wonderful at removing toxins from the body, especially uric acid. It can work wonders on gout. A hot cup of crushed celery seed tea makes quite a sedating brew, and, used with skullcap, can help treat hysteria, nervousness, tension, and stress. The seeds are slightly bitter, so they can also act as a mild digestive tonic, building up the muscular fibres. Besides being a delicious vegetable high in phytonutrients, the stalks also contain medicinal properties. Eating as little as four stalks can significantly lower your blood pressure. This is due to apigenin, a chemical that dilates the blood vessels. The fresh stalks are said to help stimulate milk flow in nursing mothers.

Source Seeds and stalks.

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of crushed seeds and drink 3 cups daily. Eat stalks as desired.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid large doses of seeds during pregnancy as they can act as a uterine stimulant.

Chamomile  German Chamomile, Roman/English Chamomile Latin Name: Matricaria recutita, Chamaemelum nobile Family: Compositae

Description The ancient Greeks called chamomile "ground apple" due to its smell. In Greek mythology, chamomile was one of the nine sacred herbs given to the world by the god, Woden and they called it "maythen".  German chamomile is similar to Roman chamomile in chemistry but has a less pronounced aroma. It is not clear which variety Dioscorides meant when he referred to "chamaimelon". Some herbalists combine the flowers of the two varieties using 2 parts German to 1 part Roman. German chamomile has a slightly higher percentage of volatile oil, containing an anti-inflammatory and analgesic that is particularly effective in healing burns and preventing ulceration and infection. It is also less bitter when used in herb teas. With its bright, cheery colour, chamomile tea is one of the most popular herbal hot drinks and was immortalized in Beatrix Potter’s "Tale of Peter Rabbit". German chamomile is an annual while its roman cousin is a perennial. The herbs are indigenous to Europe and Northwest Asia and have been naturalized in North America on "wasteland", farmland, and many gardens. Both were generally cultivated in Europe. Chamomile prefers light, well drained soil in full sun. Roman chamomile plants may deteriorate in very cold or wet winters, but usually recover. Roman chamomile is often refereed to as "the plant’s physician". Ailing garden plants are supposedly cured by planting chamomile beside them and cut flowers revive and last longer with the addition of chamomile tea to the water. In addition, an infusion of chamomile is said to prevent damping off in seedlings. Flowers are gathered in summer when first fully open and used fresh, frozen, or dried in infusions, liquid extracts, powders, creams, ointments, and skin and hair care products. The oil distilled from fresh flowers. Dried flowers keep for only one year.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Chamomile has a calming, relaxing, sedative effect on the body. The gentle herb is extremely useful and safe for children. Its analgesic, anti-emetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, aromatic, bitter, carminative (relieves flatulence), choleretic (stimulates bile production), diaphoretic, and vulnerary (healing application for wounds) properties make for a highly versatile herb. The calming properties help treat anxiety and insomnia. It also helps relieve dyspepsia, gastritis, indigestion, and inflammation by increasing bile secretion and promoting an appetite. Chamomile can be used to induce sweating in a cold. It may also be used as an anti-septic douche. A compress may be prepared to help heal cuts, bruises, skin lesions, and hemorrhoids. When prepared as an ointment, chamomile can be used to treat insect bites, wounds, itching eczema, and anal or vulvul irritation Use a cool infusion and gargle with chamomile to treat aphthous ulcers, gingivitis, and a sore throat. An eyewash will help relieve conjunctivitis or eye-strain. Using the infusion as a hair rinse produces highlights and will lighten fair hair -- completely natural and chemical free! Prepare an inhalant to help treat asthma, bronchitis, hayfever, or phlegm.

Source Flowers and buds

Preparations Compress: Soak cloth in hot infusion and apply as needed. Eyewash: Add 5 to 10 drops tincture to 1/2 cup warm water. Infusion: Add 2 teaspoons dried herb to one cup hot water. Drink three times daily. To encourage a baby to sleep, put 1 to 2 cups of strained infusion in the bath water. Inhalation: Add 125mL of flowers to 2 litres boiling water. Cover head with a towel and inhale steam. Alternatively, use 2 to 3 drops essential oil in warm water. Essential oil is deep blue in colour due to the azulenes it contains. Tincture: Take 40 to 80 drops three times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Do not use the oil during pregnancy as it is a uterine stimulant. Chamomile can have a sedating effect on the body and can cause drowsiness. Do not use while driving, operating heavy/precision machinery, or performing any other activity requiring a high, acute, level of awareness. Chamomile causes contact dermatitis in some people, especially when fresh and frequently handled. Compositae in general are allergenic to some people. This includes other common herbs such as dandelion and echinacea. Long term use may result in ragweed allergy. Do not use at all if you are allergic to ragweed.

Chaparral  Stinkweed, Greasewood, Creosote Bush Latin Name: Larrea divaricata, L. tridentata Family: Zygophyllaceae

Description Chaparral is a bountiful desert plant that grows and wild in rings. It is said that eating the fresh leaves of the plant will help you adapt to the desert, as it keeps the body cold. Chaparral may be the oldest living creature on earth, as some rings have been found to be 7,500 years old.

Ailments/Situations Where Used This plant contains anti-fungal, anti-microbial, and anti-parasitic properties, and is employed in conditions of a viral or bacterial infection. Chaparral contains nordihydroguiaiaretic acid (NDGA) which has a strong antioxidant effect on the body. It can help inhibit many cancers and parasites. Chaparral also contains anti-inflammatory properties and can remove excess heat from the respiratory, intestinal, and urinary tracts. Naturally bitter, chaparral makes for an ideal liver tonic, mild laxative, and digestion builder. It has strong blood cleanser / strengthener properties and helps removes toxins from the blood. It is used with great service in many skin complaints and can be used externally on skin eruptions, eczema, boils, dandruff, warts, and infections. Soaking in a bath of 5 cups hot chaparral tea and water helps detoxify the liver, kidneys, lymph, blood and thymus gland. This bath can be very draining and it is recommended you conclude the bath with sleep. A mouthwash of the leaves promotes overall oral health. Chaparral is also a good tonic to the lungs as it can expel any mucous lodged in the airways.

Source Twigs and leaflets

Preparations Infusion: Use 1 teaspoon of herb to 1 cup of water. Infuse for 10 minutes and take up to 3 times daily. Tincture: Use 10 to 20 drops in 1/4 cup of water 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings In 1992 to 1993 there were reports of a possible link between Chaparral use and Hepatitis. Studies now confirm that this is not true and Chaparral is perfectly safe, in moderation.

Chaste Tree Berry Vitex Latin Name: Vitex agnus cactus Family: Familius

Description This shrub is native to the shores of the Mediterranean and develops fragrant flowers during the months of September and October. The berries resemble peppercorns and were once said to be an anaphrodeisiac, being given to priestesses to ensure their abstinence. In Italy the leaves are still strewn before novices entering monasteries.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Today, the berries are used to regulate hormonal balance and the menstrual cycle. They work on normalizing estrogen and treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and symptoms that come along with it such as headaches, depression, cramps, edema, and breast sensitivity. Chaste tree is wonderful in relieving symptoms of menopause. This herb works by acting on the anterior pituitary gland, reducing FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and increasing LSH (luteum-stimulating hormone). Essentially, this stimulates the production of progesterone and reducing estrogen. Due to the enhancement of the progesterone cycle, chaste tree can be used to treat painful menstruation and the emotional ups and downs associated with menopause. The berries can also be helpful in ammenorhea, irregular menstruation, heavy bleeding, short menstrual cycle and fibroid cysts. After many years of using the birth control pill it would be a good idea to take chaste tree berries to regain a proper hormonal balance. Chaste tree can be given to teenage males and females in the treatment of acne and to nursing mothers to encourage breast milk production. Finally, chaste tree berries are an anaphrodisiac and are well known for their ability in lowering sexual libido.

Source Berries

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 teaspoon berries and infuse 15 minutes. Take 3 times daily. Tincture: Take 15 to 30 drops of tincture 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Not to be taken alongside any progesterone drugs. Contraindicated in pregnancy, especially after the third month as this herb brings on the flow of milk too early.  

Chickweed  Adder’s Mouth, Indian Chickweed, Satin Flower, Starwort, Star Weed,
Star Chickweed, Stitchwort, Tongue-Grass, Winterweed Latin Name: Stellaria media Family: Caryophyllaceae

Description A nuisance to gardeners and a meal to foragers, this plant has many wonderful uses. The 17th century herbalist, Nicholas Culpeper, described it as a "fine, soft, pleasing herb" which can be used in place of spinach, added to salads, or fed to the animals who adore it (goats tend not to take interest).

Ailments/Situations Where Used As a vegetable, chickweed is a good source of vitamins A, B, and C, calcium and iron. It can be included in many summer meals. Medicinally, chickweed is listed as a vulnerary, which is an agent that promotes the healing of cuts and wounds, and is always used with great service in such conditions internally and externally. Chickweed helps alleviate discomfort due to mosquito bites, eczema, dandruff, and many other troublesome skin disorders and is quite remarkable for relieving the itch in these conditions. As a poultice or ointment, it is very useful for inflammatory conditions such as boils, abscesses, ulcers and carbuncles. Chickweed is also a very good expectorant. It is very soothing to any irritated or inflamed tissues, especially the lungs, bronchi, bowels and stomach. Saponins in the plant promote bile secretions, resulting in a mild laxative effect. In Europe, chickweed is a traditional folk remedy taken internally as a cleansing diuretic. It is also used as a tonic for rheumatic pains and weak conditions. In China, the root is used as a cooling herb in inflammations and fever, and to stop excessive discharges. It is also given as a tonic to malnourished children.

Source Whole plant.

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of herb and take 3 times daily. Use freely as a vegetable. Apply externally as needed.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications.

Cinnamon  Cassia, Ceylon Cinnamon, Saigon Cinnamon Latin Name: Cinnamonum zeylaricum, C. cassia, C. saigonicum Family: Lauraceae

Description This lovely, fragrant tree loves to grow in almost pure sand in a sheltered spot with constant rain, heat, and equal temperatures. It is native to Ceylon (an island off Sri Lanka), but is very widespread in Malabar, Cochin-China, Sumatra and other Indonesian islands. Cinnamon is cultivated in Brazil, India, and Jamaica and is probably one of the most widely known and most pleasant of spices.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Cinnamon is used to stimulate and warm the body by increasing circulation, easing congestion, and helping to increase vitality. Cinnamon is also used to treat diarrhea and dysentery and is useful for sore throats and gum ulcers as a gargle. In tincture form, it is given every 15 minutes to stop bleeding in the uterus. The plant is very effective for gas and indigestion and is used to flavour drinks and bitters, making them more palatable. Cinnamon is used alongside other strong herbs employed as laxatives to counteract the possibilities of griping pains (cramping of the bowels). Cinnamon is very useful in treating cold conditions such as coughs, mucous, heart and lower back pain. It warms the kidneys and strengthens the adrenals. Cinnamon has demonstrated anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-microbial, anti-septic and anti-viral properties and the oil is usually used to attain these actions.

Source Dried inner bark.

Preparations Infusion: Use 1 teaspoon of herb to 1 cup of boiling water and infuse for 10 minutes. Take 3 times daily. Tincture: Use up to 15 drops of tincture.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Cinnamon can cause uterine contractions in pregnant women. It is recommended you avoid this herb completely. Consult with your herbalist, naturopath, or other health practitioner to determine appropriateness of use. Consistent use may cause mouth inflammations. Do not consume essential oil as it is not fit for consumption.

Clove  Latin Name: Caryophyllus aromaticus, Syzgium aromaticum Family: Myrtaceae

Description The clove tree is native to the Molucca Islands and East and West Indies where the dried buds are used in pot-pourri, desserts, perfumes, dentistry and medicine. These aromatic buds have been used in China from around 266 BCE, and are an essential ingredient to the East Indian spicy "chai" tea.

Ailments/Situations Where Used The buds make a stimulating infusion and are effective in warming up the body, increasing circulation, and relieving congestion. They are used to treat nausea, flatulence, indigestion and vomiting. It is a good idea to throw some cloves in with other herbs that are not too palatable such as real strong bitters. They will assist the actions of other herbs and prevent any cramping that could occur when using certain plants on their own. Clove oil is quite prized and is used as a powerful antiseptic and antibiotic due to the phenols present in the oil. The oil is quite analgesic and, for this reason, is used quite extensively in the treatment of toothaches...even with dentists! The buds could also be chewed to fight a toothache. Ingesting the powder is said to destroy the eggs of certain parasites that are trying to reside within.

Source Buds

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed cloves, cover, and infuse for 10 minutes. Take when needed, up to 4 cups daily. Chai tea: Boil organic milk with some cloves, cardamon seeds, ginger, nutmeg, black tea, cinnamon and honey. Strain and enjoy!

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Use with caution and in moderation during pregnancy. Consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner as to the appropriateness of this herb for your needs.

Coltsfoot  Cough Plant, Coughwort, Horse Hoof, Horse Foot Latin Name: Tussilago farfara Family: Compositae

Description This old, traditional, plant widely used throughout China and Europe was once called Filius ante (the son before the father) due to the golden-yellow flowers that appear and wither before the horse hoof-like leaves appear.

Ailments/Situations Where Used The leaves and flowers have long been used as a cough remedy. They relieve dry coughs, wheezing, asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, whooping cough, difficulty in breathing, or any congestion in the respiratory system. Coltsfoot is very mucilaginous and is soothing to the mucous membranes. It has anti-inflammatory properties which is useful in sore throats, laryngitis, flu and colds. The leaves demonstrate high levels of zinc, which would explain some of the plant’s anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. The leaves can also be smoked to help clear the lung passages and relieve chest discomforts. Coltsfoot is a mild diuretic and can be used in bladder inflammations. The fresh leaves can be put in abscesses, boils and ulcers with great service.

Source Leaves and flowers.

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of flowers or leaves. Infuse for 10 minutes and take 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Coltsfoot contains the pyrolizidine alkaloids found to cause liver toxicity and cancer. Actual amounts in this plant are so little that it would unlikely cause a threat if used in moderation. Pregnant women should avoid this plant as the alkaloids have been shown to have a harmful effect on the liver of fetuses and newborn babies.

Comfrey  Common Comfrey, Knitbone, Russian Comfrey Latin Name: Symphytum officinalis, S. uplandicumFamily: Boraginaceae

Description "Comfrey" comes from the Latin confirma which mean "with strength". symphtum is from the Greek word "symphtos", meaning "to unite". Both names refer to the use of these plants in healing fractures. In the 1653 "the English physician" Nicholas Culpeper wrote, " special good for ruptures and broken bone; yea it is said to be so powerful to consolidate and knit together, that if they be boiled with dissevered pieces of flesh in a pot, it will join them together again". He also recommended it for sore breasts and hemorrhoids, for which purposes it is still used by the pharmaceutical industry today, but in a synthesized form. Comfrey is native to Europe and Asia and has been naturalized in North America. It prefers rich wet meadows and ditches and moist to wet soil in sun or partial shade.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Comfrey can be used to treat wounds and injuries of any part. Prepare as a poultice or fomentation. This herb encourages cell proliferation, producing healing of any part of the body in about half the normal time examples: wounds, bones, skin or mucosae. Apply topically and take internally (see contraindication). It also speeds wound closing. It heals coughs and is considered one of the better healers of the respiratory system, especially if hemorrhage is present. Comfrey has also been used to treat lung cancer, and water extracts are considered to have tumour reducing properties. It is also useful for colitis and has demulcent and vulnerary properties. Russian comfrey is commonly mixed in with animal feed along with hops (which is useful as a good general tonic) and is best used dried. It is also very beneficial as a green manure crop or added to compost, either fresh or dried.

Source Leaves, roots, and rhizomes.

Preparations Infusion: For respiratory problems. Prepare from fresh or dried leaves. Add 2 tablespoons fresh or 1 tablespoon dried herb per cup of water. Allow to steep for 15 minutes and drink as needed.Decoction: For digestive problems. Add 1 to 3 teaspoons dried root per cup of hot water. Simmer for 15 minutes. Drink 3 times daily.Poultice/Fomentation: Made from leaves or minced root. Soak briefly in boiling water before pounding to a pulp to remove hairs. Also good as a facial mask as it improves the skin cells.Cream: Cream can be made using the liquid extract prepared from a strong infusion(leaf) or decoction(root). Use just enough water to cover herb, strain and replace water portion of basic cream recipe with strained infusion/decoction. (Infused oil can also be made using the leaves. Replace oil portion of recipe instead) Comfrey can be combined with coltsfoot, elecampane, and horehoud for chest and bronchial problems and calendula for wound healing.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings The internal consumption of comfrey may be prohibited by law. Comfrey cootains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are hepatotoxic and can cause fatal veno-occulsive disease of the liver. Russian comfrey is carcinogenic to rats in low doses -- 0.5% to 8% of diet, but is also anticarcinogenic. S. officinale is less toxic than S. uplandicum although only two possible fatalities have ever been recorded in humans. These characteristics are usually absent from the dried herb. This plant has a long historical use.

Corn silk  Latin Name: Zea mays Family: Familius

Description Corn is native to Central America. It has been cultivated for over 5,500 years and is now a major crop grown the world over. It is common in most diets and is a wonderful medicine. Corn silk refers to the beard that comes with corn on the cob and this is what is used in herbal preparations. This herb is only medicinally useful when the silk is fresh, wet, and alive. Once the silk dries, the medicinal properties are lost. Be weary of dried herbs or teas derived from corn silk for sale in shops.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Corn silk is a very soothing demulcent, and a great tonic diuretic (increases the flow of urine). It is used for most urinary tract infections and in catarrh of the bladder. It is also helpful in passing urinary stones. Corn silk is used to thin the bile and promote its secretion. It has a reputation in cleaning the circulation of urea. Some herbalists claim it lowers blood pressure. Corn oil is used for arteriosclerosis and high cholesterol.

Source Corn "beard" (silk).

Preparations Infusion: Pour one cup boiling water over 2 teaspoons fresh plant and infuse 10 to 15 minutes. Tincture: It is best to use the tincture form (alcohol extract) of this plant since it looses much of its virtues in the drying process. Take 3 to 5mL of the tincture 3 times a day.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications.

Cramp bark Snowball Tree, Geulder Rose Latin Name: Viburnum opulus Family: Caprifoliaceae

Description This shrub is part of the elder tree family and grows between five and ten feet in height. It is native to North America as well as the U.K. and other parts of Europe. The berries grow in clusters and are ripe in August. They should not be consumed straight off the tree due to the bitter taste. The Penobscot Indians prepared cramp bark as a tea and used this remedy for mumps and swollen glands. When dried, the berries turn black and have been used to produce ink.

Ailments/Situations Where Used The bark of this plant is, as the name suggests, a great treatment for any type of cramping. Cramp bark is a great muscle relaxant and sedates the nervous system. When physical and mental tensions have combined and are causing internal chaos, cramp bark is your herb of choice. The viburnin in the plant is anti-spasmodic and the valerianic acid is sedating and relaxing to the muscles and has a tendency to lower high blood pressure. It also works well on heart palpitations. Cramp bark can be used in a nervous bowel, colic, gall bladder problems, asthma, and even constipation caused by tension. The bark is quite serviceable in most uterine problems (black haw is probably better) and is used for any cramps or discomforts associated with menstruation. Cramp bark has a tonic influence on the uterus and can help regulate the menstrual cycle. Use as a preventative in a threatened miscarriage. The astringency of the plant helps in excessive blood loss in menstration and during menopause. Cramp bark’s cousin, black haw (Viburnum prunifolium) can be substituted and is a little more powerful and more specific to the uterus.

Source Bark.

Preparations Infusion: Bring 3 1/2 teaspoons bark and 3 cups water to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes, cool, strain, and divide into 3 doses for the day. Tincture: A few drops of the tincture of cramp bark or black haw can be added to a pregnant woman’s raspberry or chamomile tea to help prevent miscarriage.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Although this is a safe plant it would be wiser to avoid it in the first few months of pregnancy.

Damiana  Latin Name: Turnara diffusa, Turnara aphrodisiacaFamily: Turneraceae

Description Damiana has an aromatic odour and a bitter, aromatic, taste. Its volatile oil is similar in smell to chamomile. This herb has long been used as an aphrodisiac and smoking this plant can achieve these virtues. The old Latin name, Turnara aphrodisiaca, shows how far the belief in the plant’s aphrodisiac properties goes back.

Ailments/Situations Where Used The main use of this plant today is as an aphrodisiac for men and women. It is said to enhance sexual performance, particularly in males. It can help treat many male inadequacies such as impotence, premature ejaculation, or troubles rising from an emotional or psychological state. Damiana is a great tonic for the male hormonal system. Damiana is a stimulating nerve tonic used to treat debility, lethargy, depression, nervous exhaustion, and anxious states. It has mood-enhancing properties and can be used during those long, dark winter days. This herb can be used fairly effectively as a digestive tract tonic; it will help strengthen and tone and also has a mild laxative action. Damiana is also useful for coughs and helps break up mucous congestion. According to Thomas Bartram, damiana combines will with skullcap and oats for senile dementia and a feeble constitution.

Source Aerial parts.

Preparations Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon herb to 1 cup water and infuse for 15 minutes. Drink 1 cup 3 times daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops of quality tincture 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Not to be used in irritable bowel syndrome and very excited individuals. Damiana can cause insomnia and headaches in high doses or when used in excess.

Dandelion Latin Name: Taraxacum officinale Family: Compositae

Description Contrary to the state of your lawn or common grassy areas, dandelion is not native to North America. This rogue plant was actually a stowaway aboard an inbound ship. Once on dry land, it tossed its seeds to the wind and the rest, well, is bright yellow history! Your lawn has the right idea when it recruits dandelions by the masses. Like clover and its nitrogen-fixing qualities, dandelion helps restore missing upper-layer soil nutrients. The long, deep, roots mine calcium and other minerals from the soil, bringing them up from below and replenishing your lawn. Think of them as living fertilizer. Dandelion was first mentioned for its medicinal use between 1,000 and 1,100 AD by Arabian physicians. This versatile plant can be enjoyed as coffee, beer, wine and salad...making use of the entire plant. Roasted dandelion root makes for a delicious, caffeine-free, coffee substitute. The dandelion plant attracts as many as 93 different insects and, when fed to cows, is said to increase milk production. Though many take issue with this herb, dandelion has been held in high regard by Western Chinese and Ayurvedic herbalists for centuries. The herb is bitter, cold, and salty due to its high mineral content. In Chinese herbal medicine, dandelion is excellent for conditions of "damp heat", such as jaundice.

Ailments/Situations Where Used It is quite amazing that one of the most despised "weeds" in the urban landscape is also one of the most healing, beneficial herbs. Best of all, it is readily accessible and requires no care! Some may not be so readily convinced, but before you release life-damaging toxins to conform to societal "norms", consider all that dandelions have to offer...besides sheer childhood joy of "popping off" heads ... Dandelion root is an excellent liver tonic, clearing obstructions, reducing congestion, and stimulating the liver to eliminate toxins through the blood. It promotes bile flow, supporting digestion and it also has a laxative effect. Dandelion root clears obstructions in the spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and bladder, and works on enlargement of any of these organs. In terms of benefiting the gall bladder, dandelion promotes bile flow and releases stored bile (referred to as a cholagogue effect), reduces bile-duct inflammation and gallstone formation and generally strengthens the gallbladder. Dandelion’s high mineral content makes it a natural blood purifier and builder. According to Jethro Kloss, this plant has 28 parts sodium, making it a natural nutritive salt for purifying and destroying acid in the blood. It is very useful in jaundice, skin diseases, scurvy, eczema, kidney and liver problems, and diabetes. The root is also helpful in lowering blood sugar levels. Dandelion contains anti-microbial properties and has been used quite successfully on many fungal and bacterial infections, including candida albicans. Delicately avoiding the melodramatic, the possibilities of this plant are almost endless. Other conditions that benefit from dandelion applications include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, kidney stones, and poor milk flow in nursing mothers. The root has been shown to work against some tumour systems by stimulating macrophage action, and by its immunostimulating constituent, inulin. One remedy for an upset stomach is to drink an infusion of dandelion every half hour until the symptoms subside. This tea is very soothing to the stomach and intestines and helps the digestion, assimilation, and elimination of food. Dandelion leaves are a great addition to a spring salad, are extremely high in vitamin A, and are a good source of some B vitamins, vitamin C and D, potassium, and iron. They are mainly used as a diuretic and are also used for cystitis, nephritis, fluid retention, hepatitis, and weight loss. Dandelion leaves replace the potassium that would otherwise be lost when using other diuretics. The latex from the stem is said to be a good treatment for warts if used continually, three times daily, for a couple of weeks. In China, a similar species, Taraxacum mongolicum, is used. The seeds are used as an antibiotic to treat infections, especially mastitis.

Source Entire plant: leaves, root and stem.

Preparations Capsules: Take 3,000mg daily. Decoction: Dandelion root tea is best for liver detoxification. Gently boil 2 to 3 teaspoons powdered root per cup of water for 15 minutes. Let cool. Drink up to 3 cups daily. Fresh: The leaves make for an excellent, if slightly bitter, garnish on your salad. Readily available on most lawns... Infusion: Dandelion leaf tea is appropriate for dealing with water retention. Use 1/2 oz. dried leaves per cup of boiling water. Let steep for 10 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Dandelion can cause nausea and loose stools. When dealing with a gallbladder situation, they may cause a sudden, unwanted, contraction of the gallbladder. This can result in an acute attack or, at worst, lodging the stone in the duct. It is important to consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner if choosing to use this herb to deal with gallstones. There are no known contraindications to dandelion.

Dong quai  Latin Name: Angelica sinensis Family: Umbelliferae

Description Considered one of the most useful plants in the Chinese Pharmacodia, dong quai is used to nourish the blood and regulate the menstrual cycle. It is used in many Chinese patent formulas and is sometimes referred to as the "woman’s ginseng".

Ailments/Situations Where Used Dong quai is used as an ultimate woman’s herb. It tonifies the blood, helps regulate the menstrual cycle, and is used for most gynecological complaints. It is used in menstrual cramps, irregularity, delayed flow, and weakness during menstruation. The plant has a regulatory effect on the uterus and stops pain. It is often given as a tonic after childbirth. According to Lesley Tierra, dong quai is good in menopause, and promotes feelings of compassion. Due to its antispasmodic properties, dong quai is very useful in cramps, insomnia, spasms, and hypertension. It can be given in cases of anemia or debility as it is a great blood cleanser and nourishing agent. Dong quai moistens the intestines and works well for constipation due to dryness. It also helps in constipation as it clears liver stagnation due to toxins and blocked energy.

Source Root

Preparations Decoction: Bring 4 cups water and 3 teaspoons root to a boil and simmer 10 to 15 minutes. You will likely be left with 3 cups of decoction, as 250mL often evaporates during the process. Divide decoction into 3 doses daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops of tincture 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid this plant during pregnancy. Coumarins in plant can cause photosensitivity. Avoid high doses.

Echinacea  Black Samson, Purple Coneflower, Narrowleaf Echinacea Latin Name: Echinacea angustifolia/purpurea/pallida Family: Compositae

Description Echinacea is one of the most, if not the most used herbal home remedy today. It was originally introduced to settlers by indigenous cultures where it was extensively used for snake bites, fevers, and old, stubborn, wounds. Famous for its beautiful, deep purple, flowers and its faint, aromatic, sweet scent, it is becoming a favourite as an ornamental perennial. Wild echinacea is becoming endangered as its popularity grows. Rather than attacking bacteria or viruses directly, this herb stimulates the immune system itself. Your body sees echinacea as a foreign substance and increases leucocyte/white blood cell production as a defense. In turn, these cells fight off bacteria and viral invaders. Echinacea also stimulates T-cell formation which assists in healing, boosting the immune system, and promoting the healing of wounds. Echinacea inhibits certain enzymes that spread bacteria and is useful in most viral, bacterial, and inflamed conditions. This plant is a wonderful alterative (blood cleanser), either in poisoning, toxicity, cancer, and in many skin conditions such as boils and abscesses. Echinacea is also used as an ideal lymph cleanser and can be employed in tonsillitis or swollen lymph nodes. Echinacea angustifolia (Narrowleaf Echinacea) is medicinally more active than Echinacea purpurea, but is also more difficult to grow. There is debate as to whether Echinacea pallida (Pale-purple echinacea) is in fact Echinacea angustifolia and the two have swapped names. True Echinacea pallida is even more difficult to grow than Echinacea angustifolia.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Echinacea effectively lowers fevers and can prevent and even cure colds, the flu, and sore throats by stimulating your body’s natural immune system response. Due to the plants anti-septic properties, it can be used to treat infections in most parts of the body. This herb can be used in combination with others to treat specific infections such as those of the urinary tract (Uva-ursi or Buchu leaf combination). Consult your herbalist, naturopath, or other health practitioner if taking this approach to dealing with infection. Externally, echinacea can be used with much success in insect bites, infected wounds, poison oak or ivy, boils, cuts, and many other skin affections.

Source Dried root (roots and rhizomes).

Preparations Decoction: Pour three and a half cups of cold water over three teaspoons of dried root. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 10 minutes, dividing this mixture in to 3 to 4 doses. Take throughout the day. Prepared tea bags can be purchased at health food stores. Supplement: Take one or two capsules daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops twice daily or more as needed (up to every three hours). For external use, a cloth is soaked in the decoction and applied to area of need.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are conflicting reports as to the appropriateness of this herb in relation HIV and AIDS due to the stimulation of T cell replication and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Echinacea may support virus replication.  Do not use this herb as a preventative as it unnecessarily stimulates the immune system and provokes a response. Use of this herb should be limited to no more than two weeks at a time. If taken for more than two months, echinacea can cause liver damage. Do not taken in concert with hepatoxic drugs such as anabolic steroids, amiodrane, methotrexate, and ketoconazole. High doses of this herb can cause dizziness and nausea in some individuals. Echinacea should not be used in concert with immunosuppressants such as corticosteroids and cyclosporine.

Elder  Elder flower, Black elder, Common elder, Pipe tree Latin Name: Sambucas Nigra Family: Caprifoliaceae

Description Considered one of the land’s greatest medical chest, this entire plant from roots to berries has been used medicinally at some point, from the Anglo-Saxon to today’s modern day herbalist. It’s generic name Sambucas comes from the writings of Pliny and other ancient writers. It is derived from the Greek word Sambuca, the Sackbut, which is an ancient stringed musical instrument used among the Romans, made from the elder tree.

Ailments/Situations Where Used It is the flowers that are widely used today as a sweat inducing plant to break fevers and colds, and influenza. This is due to the bioflavonoids which stimulate circulation. There are few plants that help reduce phlegm quite as well as the elder flower, and is because of this that they are employed in mucous conditions of the upper respiratory system and the lungs. For centuries the flowers have been taken as a preventative for hay fever early in the season. Externally they are used for inflammatory conditions, and according to 18th century folklore they have been known to whiten the skin, remove spots, and freckles. If applied faithfully they can preserve and soften the skin. They are a great wash for sore inflamed eyes, skin ulcers, eruptions, eczema and broken skin. The berries are used very similar to the flowers except for their reputation in rheumatism, and their high vitamins A and C content, which makes them all the more useful in cold conditions where the high vitamin intake would be desirable.

Source All of plant, from roots to berries, has medicinal qualities. The leaves are used externally as an ointment for bruises, swellings, sprains, and hemorrhoids. They are not employed internally very often. The bark has been used as a stimulant to the liver for sluggishness resulting in constipation, and for skin conditions and arthritis. It is rarely used today.

Preparations Infusion: Made with the flowers using 1 teaspoon herb to 1 cup boiling water covered for 10 minutes and taken three times a day. The berries are usually taken in a syrup form usually made by boiling the berries with water and honey and taken from two to four times a day.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no real contraindications with this plant as with anything if taken in moderation. Due to the tannins it would not be advisable to take any parts of the elder if the condition would be worsened by further drying or fluid depletion. The bark of this plant is a very strong purgative so is not that safe to take especially in pregnancy.

Elecampane  Horseheal, Scabwort, Velvet Dock, Wild Sunflower, Yellow Starwort Latin Name: Inula helenium Family: Compositae

Description This herb was used by the Greeks, Romans, early Anglo-saxons, and Celts. It was described by Pliny and Dioscorides as a herb of ancient medicinal repute. A latin quote states, "Elecampane will the spirits sustain". Elecampane was first introduced into North America by Europeans mainly for use as a herb for healing skin diseases in animals. It also found purpose as an ingredient of cough medicines and a flavouring in sweets up to the 1920’s. It is still used to this day in wines. A robust perennial, elecampane has thick rhizomes and stout, erect stems. Leaves are pointed and toothed, up to 70cm long. Grows up to 3m high and spreads 1.5m. Has yellow daisy like flowers up to 7cm across that from mid-summer to mid-autumn. Prefers sun and moist, well drained soil. Roots are lifted in Autumn from 2 to 3 year old plants. They are used fresh to make extracts and syrups, distilled for oil, or cut and dried for decoctions, tinctures and powders.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Elecampane is used today as a popular rejuvenating tonic for the lungs. It is a powerful expectorant that helps to remove and clear any mucous from the lungs and is used for asthma, bronchitis, and any pulmonary condition. Some believe that if it were combined with echinacea, the resulting combination would prove deadly to the TB virus (tuberculosis). Elecampane contains lactones -- powerful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agents that have a tendency to expel worms. The bitter properties in Elecampane give the stomach/spleen more energy and increase their digestive abilities. It stimulates and regulates a weak digestion and increases bile flow. It is used greatly in general debility from disease, overwork, and old age, through strengthening and rejuvenating. Externally, it has long been used for scabies, herpes, and other skin diseases, hence its old country name scabwort.
Source Roots and rhizomes.

Preparations Decoction: Pour 4 cups of water over 3 teaspoons of root and bring to a boil. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes and divide into 3 doses for the day. Syrups: Follow general directions. Tincture: Take 10 to 30 drops in 1/4 cup of water, 3 times daily. Combinations: For respiratory problems, combine with coltsfoot, pleurisy root, white horehound, and yarrow.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications.

Eyebright  Latin Name: Euphrasia officinalis Family: Scrophulariaceae

Description "The purple and yellow spots and stripes which are upon the flowers of the eyebright doth very much resemble the diseases of the eye, as bloodshot, etc., by which signature it hath been found out that this herb is effectual for the curing of the same." -- Unknown

Ailments/Situations Where Used As the name suggests, this plant is certainly an agent that can brighten the eyes. It is used quite successfully in eye conditions such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, eye infections, superficial eye problems, sore and itchy eyes, opthalmia and many other eye problems. Used externally, it can be of great service if combined with goldenseal, raspberry or fennel. It may also be used alone. It is said that eyebright helps the liver eliminate heat and toxins thus giving clarity to the vision. A gargle of eyebright is very beneficial for a sore throat or any inflammation of the throat and bronchioles. Eyebright is ideal as a decongestant for the sinuses and can be used for sinusitis or colds with a thin, watery discharge. It is almost a specific for nasal drip and is sage to use with infants. Place 5 to 10 drops of tincture in 1/2 cup of water. Give 1 teaspoon every 30 minutes. The homeopathic Euphrasia is used for similar ailments.

Source Leaves

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of herb and infuse for 10 minutes. Take 3 times daily. Tincture: Take 15 to 20 drops in 1/4 cup of water and take 3 times daily for chronic conditions. For acute ailments, take 10 to 15 drops every 2 hours.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications.

False unicorn root  Helionas, Blazing Star Latin Name: Chamaelirium luteum Family: Liliaceae

Description False unicorn root is a perennial growing one to three feet tall in moist soil. The small greenish-white flowers are in bloom during May and June. The plant has a bitter taste and faint smell. This plant is native to North America and was introduced by Native Americans.

Ailments/Situations Where Used This plant is one of our greatest tonics to the generative systems of both males and females. It is most useful to the female reproductive system, as it strengthens and tones. False unicorn root is used in absent, or painful periods, weakness, endometriosis, leuccorhea, morning sickness, and threatened miscarriage. It is especially useful in inflammation of the Fallopian tubes, vaginitis, and pruritus. This plant contains precursors of female hormones and helps normalize liver function. It is used in symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, heavy, bloated feeling, depression, headache, and helps maintain proper fluid balance. Taken daily, it can help restart the system after many years of contraceptive use. False unicorn root is a tonic to the entire genito-urinary tract and can help treat dyspepsia, anorexia, atony of sexual organs, and pain in the lumbosacral area. It helps spermatorrhea in males. The plant can also be used against intestinal worms and parasites.

Source Root.

Preparations Decoction: Bring three teaspoons of root and three cups of water to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Let cool, strain, and divide into three doses for the day. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops of tincture three times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindication. Larger doses may cause vomiting.

Fennel  Latin Name: Foeniculum vulgare Family: Umbelliferae

Description "Above the lower plants it towers, the fennel with its yellow flowers; and in an earlier age than ours, was gifted with the wondrous powers lost vision to restore." -- Longfellow This plant, when hung above doors with St. John’s Wort and other herbs, was used as a preventative of witchcraft and other evil influences in medieval times. It is said that fennel seeds can be used to drive away fleas from kennels and stables, as fleas despise it.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Crushed fennel seed infusion is used to treat gas, indigestion, abdominal pain and spasm of the gastro-intestinal tract. It is typically served in India as an after-dinner digestive aid as the seeds help stimulate and sooth the digestion and appetite. Fennel is an appropriate remedy for children with colic or digestive weaknesses, when given in smaller doses. The seeds are used alongside bitter or strong laxative herbs to prevent any cramping. It is very soothing and very useful for heartburn and helps clear mucous from the lungs with a calming effect. The infusion increases milk supply in nursing mothers. The seeds are a good diuretic and can be helpful in gravel and urinary stones. A compress applied over the eyes is used to treat conjunctivitis and inflammation of the eyelids. The oil is used externally on muscle and rheumatic pains and for similar digestive weaknesses. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) fennel is used for lower abdominal pain, indigestion, decreased appetite, vomiting, gas and intestinal spasms. It is used very similarly to the West. Fennel also has antibacterial and antispasmodic properties.

Source Seeds

Preparations Compress: Add several drops tincture or strong infusion to one cup cool water and mix well. Place cloth in water, squeeze out excess water, and apply. Leave the compress in place for up to one hour. Infusion: Add 1 to 2 tsp. fresh fennel seeds to 1 cup of boiling water. Infuse 10 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops, 3 times daily. You can also chew 1 tsp. of whole fennel seeds.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings As it is a uterine stimulant, avoid high doses of fennel in pregnancy. Small amounts in food is all right. Fennel essential oil (not the tincture, which is in an alcohol base) can cause respiratory problems, vomiting, skin irritation, and seizures at very low quantities.

Fenugreek  Latin Name: Trigonella foenum-graecum Family: Leguminosae

Description Fenugreek seeds have been used for centuries for both culinary and medicinal purposes and were highly values by the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. The ground seeds give a maple flavour to confectioneries while the powder is used to spice curries. Fenugreek is also used to make cattle food and hay more flavourful.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Fenugreek is a wonderful medicinal plant and is very beneficial to the nervous, digestive, and respiratory systems. The crushed seeds are very useful in bronchitis and lung conditions as they help expel mucous lodged in the airways. They are used to treat stomach and digestive disorders, including ulcers and inflammations. Fenugreek seeds are very useful when given in wasting diseases such as tuberculosis, anemia, and debility, and during convalescence as they help nourish, heal and strengthen. They are also used to lower fever and have been shown to lower blood cholesterol levels. Fenugreek seeds help increase milk production in nursing mothers. They are also wonderful in balancing blood sugar levels and regulating insulin production. Fenugreek was used traditionally as an aphrodiciac and it is possible as the plant contains steroidal saponins that resemble our own sex hormones. Fenugreek is a good source of vitamins and minerals, especially calcium, and is good taken in sprouted form in salads or sandwiches. Externally, a poultice is good for rheumatic pains and for boils and abscesses, especially due to its powerful drawing out abilities. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, fenugreek is used as a tonic to heal kidney diseases, hernias, gastric troubles, and morning sickness. It is taken for menstrual pain and menopausal problems when associated with weak kidney Qi (energy).

Source Seeds

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 to 2 teaspoons of crushed seeds and allow to steep for 10 minutes. Take 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid in pregnancy as it is a uterine stimulant.

Feverfew  Latin Name: Chrysanthemum parthenium, Matricaria parthenium, Tanacetum parthenium Family: Compositae

Description It is said that when feverfew is planted around your dwellings, it will purify the atmosphere and ward off disease. When taken internally, it can purify the mind and ward off migraines. Feverfew is a type of chrysanthemum and is most effect when used fresh. Grow it indoors or out and use the leaves as required.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Feverfew has been used to treat vascular headaches for centuries. Today, feverfew is mainly known for its ability to treat and in some cases cure migraine headaches. Over a dozen studies have concluded that the active ingredient, parthenolide, reduces blood-vessel spasms, which trigger migraines, and has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It is really a wonderful remedy for a headache, although the real underlying cause of the headache should be explored. This herb cannot stop a migraine already in progress but is rather used as a preventative to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches. This plant is very serviceable in may other conditions besides migraine headaches. It helps in the treatment of dizziness and tinnitus and is a great anti-inflammatory -- useful in cases of arthritis and inflammatory rheumatism. Feverfew can alleviate nausea and vomiting, promote a restful sleep, treat nervousness, and pick up low spirits. Feverfew is also given during painful and sluggish menstrual flow and is used after childbirth to cleanse and tone the uterus. This plant contains naturally occurring bitter properties and is used for digestive weaknesses. It also helps treat colds, flu, and fever. The tincture is applied externally to swollen and painful insect bites. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this plant is used to remove excess heat in the liver, which results in many different ailments.

Source Leaves

Preparations Fresh: This plant can be eaten (a few leaves at a time) to treat migraines. Infusion: Use 1/2 to 1 tsp. feverfew per cup of boiling water. Let steep 5 to 10 minutes. Drink up to 2 cups daily. Supplement: Take 50 to 80mg daily as a preventative. During an attack, take 1 to 2g in divided doses throughout the day. You may also consider looking for supplements that contain at least 0.2% parthenolide, or 250mcg to 500mcg. Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops of quality tincture 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Do not use in a weakened or debilitated state. Do not give to small children. Fresh leaves may cause mouth ulcers if eaten. Some may experience stomach upset and nervousness. Do not use during pregnancy as it is too stimulating to the womb. Also do not use if nursing. Feverfew reduces blood clotting. If you are taking anti-coagulant drugs, such as warfarin sodium, or are preparing for surgery, consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner before taking this herb.

Flax  Common Flax, Flax Seed, Linseed, Lint Bells, Winterlien Latin Name: Linum usitatissimum Family: Linaceae

Description This tiny grain dates incredibly far back in history. It was found as cloth in Egyptian tombs and is the "fine linen" referred to in the Bible. This plant is used in its entirety, from cloth to food to medicine. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, "Wherever flax seeds become a regular food item among the people, there will be better health."

Ailments/Situations Where Used The seeds are very mucilaginous and are used with great success in pulmonary (lung) conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, pleurisy or any inflammatory mucous membrane condition. They are good for urinary complaints, as they are lubricating and very soothing. In bronchitis with a lot of catarrh, they can help in the expectoration of mucous and have a relaxing effect on the bronchioles. The seeds are extremely high in soluble fibre (mucilage) and are very effective as a laxative that does not gripe too much (cause bowel pains) and is used for a sluggish or torpid liver. The soluble fibre in the seeds has been shown to significantly lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Applied externally, flax seeds are used for chest complaints, boils, abcesses, burns and ulcers. The oil made from the seeds contains linoleic and alpha-linolenic essential fatty acids (EFAs). EFAs produce hormone-like prostaglandins that are vital for many functions of the body. They help such conditions as skin disorders, menstrual problems, rheumatoid arthritis and arteriosclerosis. The EFAs help prevent buildup of fatty deposits in the tissues and are a great source of cancer-fighting isoflavones. For more information, see Food Supplements -- Essential Fatty Acids.

Source Seed, oil derived from seed.

Preparations To obtain the mucilage, soak the seeds in water for several hours, then take as is, or heat. Eat the seeds when finished. Use several tablespoons flaxssed oil daily. Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of crushed seeds and take 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Do not take artists’ linseed oil internally. Flaxseed oil deteriorates quickly. Use only fresh, cold-pressed, organic oils when possible. The seeds contain traces of prussic acid which can be toxic in large doses. However, there has yet to be a reported poisoning from flax-based prussic acid. Do not exceed stated doses.

Fo-ti  Ho Shou Wu Latin Name: Polygunum multiflorum Family: Polygonaceae

Description Ho shou wu, or as it is called in the West, fo-ti, is an ancient Chinese herb used for its incredibly mysterious properties. It is said to restore hair colour when a 50 year old root is used and cause the growth of new teeth in the elderly when 150 year old roots are used. Better yet, it is said that when taking 300 year old roots it gives off earthly immortality.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Fo-ti is used mainly as a rejuvenative tonic to increase energy, fertility, and overall strength and vigor, especially in old age. It helps strengthen the kidneys, liver, blood, sperm, and nervous system. Recently, this plant has been used quite favourably for hypoglycemia and diabetes. Fo-ti is also used in the treatments of edema, low back pain, dizziness, blurred vision, premature grey hair, insomnia, infertility, impotence, withered skin, wrinkles, spermatorrhea, and leukorrhea. Judging by its ability to assist a wide variety of conditions, fo-ti should be regarded as a wonderful tonic to practically your entire system, with wonderful rejuvenative powers. It can be used to strengthen the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones. In China it is given in all the above ailments, but especially for early greying and premature menopause.

Source Roots.

Preparations Decoction: Bring three cups water and three teaspoons root to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Let cool, strain, and divide into three doses for the day. Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops of tincture three to four times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Fo-ti is contraindicated in irritable bowel syndrome. Avoid during pregnancy.

Garlic  Latin Name: Allium sativum Family: Liliaceae

Description Garlic not only makes for a great addition to many culinary dishes, but is also valuable in dealing with a number of ailments. Garlic can boost the immune system, lower cholesterol, fight off bacteria and infections, and prevent free radical damage. Alliin is considered the active ingredient in garlic. To increase the concentration of this element in fresh garlic, crush one clove (or more) and allow it to sit out in the open air for several minutes. The oxygen in the air reacts with the allicin in the garlic. Allicin is a precursor to alliin. By allowing this reaction to take place, you subsequently increase the alliin concentration in your cloves...

Ailments/Situations Where Used Garlic strengthens the immune system which thus allows you to better fight off infection. In addition, garlic will attack some bacteria and viruses directly, supporting your immune system from two fronts. Due to its incredibly complex molecular structure, garlic is an effective anti-bacterial and anti-viral herb that can help you deal with your common cold. Unlike prescription anti-biotics which become ineffective over time, bacteria have yet to develop a resistance to garlic and is your best bet when dealing with infections. Because it can directly attack infectious agents, garlic makes for an ideal long-term remedy in the prevention and treatment of recurring yeast infections. Improves cardiovascular function.Garlic lowers cholesterol by breaking down "bad" HDL cholesterol levels and promoting "good" LDL levels. Some studies suggest that regular use of garlic can help protect against various cancers, including esophageal, stomach, colon, breast, and skin cancer. This is due to garlic’s antioxidant properties that help prevent free radical damage.

Source Bulb/cloves. Alliin is considered the active ingredient and many supplements standardize to this element.

Preparations Supplement: Take 600 to 1,200mg once or twice daily. You can also use Kyolic (odourless) capsules. Fresh: Eat 2 to 4 uncooked cloves daily. Tincture: Take 2 to 4mL three times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Heartburn and flatulence are some side effects from garlic use. Do not give garlic to children in medicinal amounts. Garlic reduces blood clotting. If you are taking anti-coagulant drugs such as warfarin sodium, or are preparing for surgery, consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner before taking garlic. Garlic may also lower blood pressure due to its blood-thinning properties.

Gentian  Yellow Gentian, Bitter Root, Bitterwort Latin Name: Gentiana lutea Family: Gentianaceae

Description "Comforts the heart and preserves it against faintings and swoonings: the powder of the dry roots helps the biting of mad dogs and venomous beasts... The herb steeped in wine and the wine drank, refreshes such as be over-weary with travelling, and grow lame in their joints, wither by cold or evil lodgings." - Nicholas Culpeper

Ailments/Situations Where Used Gentian root is one of the most intensely bitter agents around. It is used as a digestive tonic to stimulate the appetite and increase digestive juices, thus improving digestion, appetite, gastritis, heartburn, nausea and gas. Due to the bitter properties, gentian root is a good agent for destroying worms. Gentian increases the flow of bile and is helpful in jaundice, hepatitis, constipation, and most liver conditions. It is also very helpful in gastrointestinal inflammation, as one of the alkaloids, gentianine, has anti-inflammatory actions. This is a wonderful plant in controlling many fevers and is a generally remarkable human body strengthener. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is said that Gentian clears heat (toxins) from the lower and middle parts of the body and is used in herpes, anal itch, rash, vaginal discharge and itch, urinary tract infections and in helping to clear discharges. Gentian is given to people with coldness and weakness, general debility, and is used to strengthen the liver and memory.

Source Roots

Preparations Decoction: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1/2 teaspoon of root and infuse for 15 minutes. Drink 1 cup before each meal. Tincture: Gentian is usually prepared in tincture form due to its bitterness. Take 15 to 20 drops, 3 times daily before meals.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid in stomach and duodenal ulcers, hyperacidity, and irritable or sensitive stomach.

Ginger  Latin Name: Zingiber officinale Family: Zingiberaceae

Description Ginger is one of the most widely used herbs in the Far East and is included in about half of all multi-herb formulas in oriental medicine. Several varieties are commercially used; the very pungent Jamaican or African white, powdered Chinese ginger, and African and Cochin ginger which are the highest in volatile oil. It is referred to as "black" if not peeled and "white" if peeled.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Ginger is internally very warming and stimulating and is used for colds, chills, influenza, cramps, pains, spasms, and generally when the body is chilled. It is very useful in picking up low energy and can work on lung complaints, sore throats, excess mucous, diarrhea, and upset stomach. Candied ginger is eaten to ease off nausea, motion sickness, poor digestion, and flatulence. Its antispasmodic properties help calm stomach convulsions. The fresh infusion is more ideal for these symptoms, although the root pieces can be eaten freely as they are not loaded with sugar. It is also helpful in morning sickness in pregnancy. The dried powder is usually used for dissolving phlegm, diarrhea, cough due to colds, rheumatism, arthritis, and adding warmth to the stomach, which can be very soothing. This herb can also encourage the production of opiates, or natural painkillers. In addition, it can reduce the level of certain prostaglandins that can cause inflammation and relax blood vessels in the head. In suppressed menstrual flow, ginger is very helpful in breaking congestion through its warming properties and is generally helpful in most cases involving congestion. Some even claim that ginger added to the diet will improve sex life. When cooked with meat, ginger helps detoxify meat, and promotes digestion. Ginger helps secrete digestive juices which help in the breakdown and assimilation of the food. When taken with other agents, it helps absorb and transport them where they need to be. Therefore, it is always a good idea to add a bit of ginger to a formula.

Source Root

Preparations Compress: Soak cloth in strong, warm, infusion. Strain and apply externally. This prepartation is ideal for sore joints, pain inflammations, earaches, dandruff, to break congestion and bring blood up to the surface. Apply for up to 25 minutes at a time. Candied Ginger: Chew as needed. Decoction: Prepare a decoction of 3 to 4 teaspoons of fresh or dried root boiled with 4 cups of water for 10 minutes. Take 3 times daily or whenever needed. Supplement: Take 2 500mg capsules, 30 minutes before travelling. Take an additional 1 or 2 capsules when symptoms occur. Infusion: Add 2 teaspoons grated, fresh, ginger to one cup of hot water. Take as often as needed. Tincture: Take 30 to 60 drops, 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Not to be used when there is excess heat in the stomach, as in peptic ulceration. Ginger will aggravate the situation. Use in moderation for morning sickness. Ginger reduces blood clotting. If you are taking anti-coagulant drugs, such as warfarin sodium, or are preparing for surgery, consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner before taking ginger. This herb may also raise blood pressure levels in some individuals

Ginkgo  Ginkgo Latin Name: Ginkgo biloba Family: Ginkgoceae

Description Ginkgo has been used for close to 5,000 years and is one of the oldest species of living tree on the planet. It can improve overall circulation and enhance mental function. The second benefit is a result of the first: increased circulation results in more oxygen flow to the brain, stimulating brain cells and improve mental activity. Circulation to your various extremities is also improved (fingers and toes).

Ailments/Situations Where Used Due to its ability to increase circulation, Ginkgo biloba can help prevent diseases that stem from poor circulation such as atherosclerosis and other heart problems, memory loss associated with aging, eye diseases, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), and respiratory or bronchial problems. Ginkgo biloba helps improve mental function by increasing oxygen availability to the brain. It promotes more effective short-term memory recall and general concentration. Those with Alzheimer’s disease may benefit from ginkgo biloba supplementation, as may those recovering from a stroke.

Source Leaves

Preparations Infusion: You can make or purchase ginkgo biloba tea, but it is much less effective in this form due to the low concentration of herb. It takes a substantial amount of leaves for a medicinal preparation. For this herb, commercial preparations are preferable. Supplement: Take 120 to 160mg daily. Tincture: Take 10 drops three times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Do not take ginkgo biloba if you have high blood pressure. Ginkgo biloba reduces blood clotting. If you are taking anti-coagulant drugs such as warfarin sodium, or are preparing for surgery, consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner before taking this herb. Other side effects can include mild headaches or mild stomach upset.

Ginseng  American/Chinese/Japanese/Korean/Siberian Ginseng Latin Name: Panax ginseng, Panax quinquefolius, Eleutherococcus senticosus Family: Araliaceae

Description "This, with the Chinese, is the medicine par excellence, the last resort when all other drugs fail..." -- G. Stuart, 1911. In China, where ginseng has been used for about 5000 years, it held such a high stand that no one but the emperor was allowed to collect the roots. Both native Chinese and Americans named ginseng after its shape resembling the human form. In 1718, it was discovered that ginseng was also indigenous to Canada snf the herb was first exported to China to meet the high demand. Unfortunately, this caused the plant to be rare where it used to be abundant. Ginseng, in its various forms, improves overall stamina. It is considered an adaptogen -- a substance that helps boost resistance to and relieve stress and is intended to benefit the body as a whole, as opposed to a specific part or ailment. Ginseng gives you greater energy, lowers blood sugar and cholesterol, increases disease resistance, and promotes a healthy reproductive system.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Korean or Chinese Ginseng Panax ginseng Also called ren shen, Chinese for man’s root describing the shape of the root. This is the ginseng known as panax that is grown in Korea, where most of the world’s market comes from. Panax, or as it is called in Chinese, ren shen, is treated by steaming the fresh root, which turns it red, and is said to make it warmer in energy and increase its circulation stimulating properties. Ren shen is used to revitalize body and mind, strengthen in weaknesses, debility, convalescence and for fatigue and weakness in old age. This is one of the best herbs to take when you start feeling the effects of old age. Body builders, runners, and athletes in general use ren shen for endurance and strength. This may not be ideal as athletes are usually very Yang individuals, and ren shen is a Yang tonic. However, the positive aspects may outweigh the negative. Ren shen can promote weight and tissue growth, increase blood volume, increase wisdom, quiet the nerves, and promote longevity. This root benefits the digestive processes (helping to digest starch and proteins), and the lungs, treating lethargy, lack of appetite, abdominal distress, chronic diarrhea, shortness of breath, profuse sweating, tuberculosis, and palpitations. Research is also being done on its use in the treatments of diabetes and geriatric illnesses. Being an adaptogen, it helps the body adapt to stressful situations and bring about an internal balance. Ren shen also contains steroidal saponins that resemble human sex hormones and contains estriol, and estrogen that has anti-carcinogenic properties. Many herbalists believe one of the best aspects about ren shen is its high content of germanium, a trace element that has been shown to be oxygen enriching, immuno-enhancing, radiation protecting, detoxifying, analgesic and anti-carcinogenic. It is said that the presence of germanium in the body can pose a problem for cancer cells. American Ginseng Panax quincefolium Also called xi yang shen. This type of ginseng is used mainly by the Chinese and is native to North America. American ginseng is taken as a tonic to the substances and fluids of the body. It has anti-inflammatory properties, helps moisten and lubricate the body, and is used in fevers, irritability, thirst, night sweats, dryness, and coughing of blood. This root has cooling and refreshing abilities while also strengthening the body. Older Asians drink this tea daily as a beauty rejuvenator that tones up the skin, removes patchy areas, wrinkles, and fragile capillaries. American ginseng works well in illnesses of a deficient state with weakness and debility such as AIDS or tuberculosis. The gineosides found in the ginsengs give them anti-fatigue, anti-stress, and adaptogenic properties. Siberian Ginseng Eleutherococcus senticocus Although not a true ginseng, it is inexpensive and popular, with similar tonifying properties. Siberian ginseng has been heavily researched by Dr. I.I. Brekhman and other Russian researchers. It is known to increase energy, vitality, and endurance. Clinical studies have shown this plant’s ability to help athletes and workers with better work load capacity, faster running, and quicker recovery rates during exertion. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Siberian ginseng is used as a nerve tonic in nervous disorders such as stress, anxiety, and insomnia. It is a good adjunct remedy to use during menopause or chronic illnesses such as AIDS and cancer. A Russian study done in the 1960’s with 2200 people showed very positive results for many conditions such as artherosclerosis, diabetes, hypertension, hypotension, bronchitis, cancers, and rheumatic heart disease. As for dosage with Siberian ginseng, a small dose would be sedating while a larger dose would be stimulating. The Chinese variety of this plant, the Acanthopanax has a warm energy and spicy taste ,working on the liver and kidneys. It is used to stimulate circulation, in coldness, swellings, edema, and difficult urination. If using Siberian ginseng in a capsule from health food stores, you should be aware that some are so concentrated that if taken in high doses (as is the case with bodybuilders and athletes) it can eventually affect hormone function producing extra testosterone, which could create problems in the menstrual cycles and effect secondary sex changes. The ginsengs are truly very wonderful and healing plants that should always be used and treated with respect and never abused. Since our lifestyles, diets, and spirits differ greatly, personal dosages can also vary widely and this should always be considered when purchasing any form of ginseng. People suffering from a lack of energy or stress in general can benefit from ginseng. Note that Ginseng will not remedy the cause of your stress/lack of energy, but will help you deal with this situation in the short-term while you find a viable alternative.

Source Root

Preparations Infusion: You can make or purchase Ginseng tea, but it is much less effective in this form due to the low concentration of herb. Supplement: Take 250 to 500mg daily or more, depending on formulation Tincture: Take 10 to 20mL daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings For Korean or Chinese ginseng: Ren shen should not be used in hypertension or pregnancy, or in headache, fever, or flu symptoms. It does stimulate metabolism and endocrine function and can speed up the heartbeat, encourage hunger, faster breathing, and insomnia. Avoid taking other stimulants with ren shen such as tea, coffee, and cola drinks. Eating turnips can lessen its effect. For American ginseng: There are no known serious contraindications. Ginseng is not recommended for women or children. Do not take ginseng to get a "buzz", which can occur at large doses. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, if you can feel the ginseng you took today, you too took much. Do not take ginseng if you are on Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT), supplementing with estrogen, or taking corticosteroids. If you are taking phenelzine sulfate, ginseng could cause headaches and tremulousness. Those with diabetes melltius should avoid ginseng as this herb may interfere with blood glucose levels. Ginseng can reduce blood clotting. If you are taking anti-coagulant drugs such as warfarin sodium, or are preparing for surgery, consult with your naturopath or health practitioner before taking ginseng.

Goldenseal  Latin Name: Hydrastis canadensis Family: Ranunculaceae

Description Goldenseal is quickly becoming an endangered species and is now rare in its native eastern woodland environment. Wildcrafted and difficult to domesticate, this natural antibiotic is now skyrocketing in price. As costs increase, a number of suppliers are adding yellow dock to their goldenseal products to reduce costs -- be wary. To counter the precipitous global decline, there is currently a massive effort underway to save this species. As the availability of goldenseal dwindles, many herbalists recommend using Oregon grape root and other herbs containing berberine, the main active ingredient. Other alternatives include Goldthread (Coptis chinensis) and Barberry (Berberis vulgaris). There is some debate as to whether the active ingredient passes from the digestive tract in significantly medicinal amounts.

Ailments/Situations Where Used As with Oregon Grape, Goldenseal has high concentrations of immunostimulating berberis alkaloids. This herb is a potent antibiotic and is excellent for dealing with an infection. Any ailment/situation involving infection can benefit from Goldenseal. Berberine, an alkaloid, is ideal for treating Candida, staph, strep, E. coli, and a number of other invasive organisms. This alkaloid also stimulates the digestive system and improves overall liver and digestive function. Urinary tract infections can be treated through goldenseal supplementation. Common colds rooted in bacterial (and not viral) infection can benefit from goldenseal use. Those with a weakened immune system will also benefit from this herb, as an excess load will be taken off the immune system.

Source Powdered root bark.

Preparations Infusion: Add 1/2 to 1 tsp. powdered root to one cup of boiling water. Let steep for 10 minutes. Drink up to 2 cups daily. Add honey or lemon to reduce the bitter flavour. Tincture: Take 10 to 40 drops two times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings As mentioned above, a number of suppliers are adding yellow dock to their goldenseal products to reduce costs -- be wary. Inquire as to the purity of your exceedingly expensive purchase.

Gotu kola Latin Name: Centella asiatica Family: Umbelliferae/Apiaceae

Description Gotu kola is well respected for its calming properties of both the mind and the body. It is considered a "balancing" herb in Ayurvedic medicine that promotes relaxation and engages the senses. Yogis often add gotu kola to the diet to achieve a meditative state and improve recall. Indeed, elephants (who "never forget") often graze on the leaves of this plant. This herb contains brahmoside and brahminoside, two saponin glycosides with sedative properties. It is also high in B vitamins

Ailments/Situations Where Used Those dealing with anxiety, insomnia, and stress can benefit from gotu kola. If you are practicing yoga, you may realize benefits of incorporation of this herb into your diet.

Source Leaves

Preparations Supplement: Take up to 400 to 500mg capsules daily. Infusion: Steep 1/2 to 1 tsp. dried herb in one cup of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink up to 2 cups daily. To reduce the bitter flavour, add honey or lemon.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Gotu kola can have a sedating effect on the body and can cause drowsiness. Do not use while driving, operating heavy/precision machinery, or performing any other activity requiring a high, acute, level of awareness.

Gravel root  oe Pye Weed, Queen of the Meadow Latin Name: Eupatorium purpureum Family: Compositae

Description This plant is indigenous to North America and loves to grow in low, swampy, ground. This herb is sometimes called Joe Pye Weed, taken from the name of an American Indian who used the plant to treat typhus.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Gravel root is a wonderful diuretic and is highly successful in treating urinary infections. It is used to treat stones, gravel, hematuria, nephritis, and frequent, night-time urination. It is useful in prostatitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and menstrual cramping. Gravel root strengthens the nerves of the urinary organs, and strengthens and tones the reproductive tract. It can help in easing the process of childbirth. Gravel root also helps remove excess uric acid and is ideal for the treatment of gout and rheumatism. The sesquiterpene lactones in the plant may have anti-cancer properties. The aerial parts of the plant are used for rheumatic pains and arthritis. They are also useful in constipation and feverish colds and flu. The aerial parts have also been shown to contain tumour inhibiting properties.

Source Root, aerial parts

Preparations Decoction: Bring 3 teaspoons of root and 31/2 cups of water to a boil and simmer 10 to 15 minutes. Drink one cup 3 times daily. Infusion: For aerial parts, make a standard infusion of 1 teaspoon herb to 1 cup boiling water and steep for 10 minutes. Take 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications.

Hawthorn  Latin Name: Crataegus oxyacantha Family: Rosaceae

Description This tree was said to be sacred due to a legend that claimed Jesus’ "Crown of Thorns" was made from the branches of the hawthorn tree. Hawthorn can grow up to 30 feet tall and live many years. Hawthorn wood creates a fire hotter than any other wood.

Ailments/Situations Where Used There is some controversy as to whether the berries or the blossoms are more potent. It is best to use them both. This tree is one of the greatest heart and circulatory tonics known to date. It has a normalizing effect upon the heart -- either depressing or stimulating this vital organ as required. Hawthorn will, in most cases, effectively strengthen the heart and is used as a long term treatment for heart failure and weakness, palpitations, angina pectoris, rapid heartbeat, inflamed heart muscles and treats arteriosclerosis. It will also lower or raise blood pressure due to flavonoids in the plant that dilate the coronary and peripheral arteries. Hawthorn is very balancing and promotes longevity. It helps treat varicose veins and varicose ulcers as it is very healing to most vessel troubles. Hawthorn needs to be used for some to really notice positive effects. It is also a mild sedative associated with constant mental thoughts and nervousness, and can be used as a mild diuretic. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the berries are used to remove congestion of accumulated food masses in over-eating and poor digestion. They stimulate the appetite, release abdominal pain and aid in the digestion of meat. The berries are also a good source of vitamin C.

Source Berries, blossoms

Preparations Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon berries or blossoms (or both) to 1 cup boiling water and infuse for 10 minutes. Take 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications.

Hops  Latin Name: Humulus lupulus Family: Urticaceae

Description Hops were first mentioned by the Romans who ate the young shoots like asparagus. The leaves and flower heads can be used as a dye, producing a brown colour. Hops have long been used for brewing beer, and were once marked by Henry VIII as "a wicked weed that would spoil the taste of the drink and endanger the people".

Ailments/Situations Where Used For hundreds of years, hops have been taken as a powerful sedative via an infusion or stuffed into a pillow. Studies suggest that when sleeping on the pillow, the volatile oils are released and affect the brain through the olfactory centre. The infusion calms the central nervous system and is used for insomnia, restlessness, tension, anxiety and headaches. Hops helps relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract and aids in the treatment of Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and a nervous stomach. The bitterness of the plant helps strengthen digestion and stimulate digestive juices to help in the assimilation and breakdown of foods. Hops contain lupolone and humulone, which are antibacterial and anti-inflammatory and help treat infections of the upper digestive tract. It is especially effective against gastric and duodenal ulcers. The plant also contains mild diuretic properties and is effective in destroying intestinal worms. Hops contain destrogenic properties which explains why female hop pickers sometimes experience disruption or delayed menstruation from the oil that is absorbed through the skin. Hops are used externally on cuts and abrasions due to their antiseptic properties.

Source Dried flowers and strobile (cone or cone-like structure).

Preparations Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon herb to 1 cup boiling water and infuse for 10 minutes. Take 3 times daily. Tincture: Take twenty to forty drops 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Due to its sedative effects on the central nervous system, hops is not to be used if experiencing depression.

Horehound  Hoarhound, White Horehound Latin Name: Marrubium vulgareFamily: Labiatae, Lamiaceae

Description Horehound was first used as a cough remedy in ancient Egyptian times. It can be found in most European pharmacopoeias as an expectorant. The name marrubium meaning bitter and the common name horehound comes from harhune which is Old English for "hairy". The most popular way of taking horehound today is in the form of candy which is sucked to relieve chesty coughs and bronchitis. Horehound is an aromatic woody perennial with downy stems and ovate downy gray-green leaves up to 5cm long with have toothed edges. Small off-white hairy flowers appear in summer. It is native to Central and Southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia and is now widely distributed all over the world. A popular domestic remedy. Prefers well-drained to neutral soil in the sun.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Horehound is a mild stimulating expectorant. It is useful for acute bronchitis, asthma, non-productive coughs, congestion of the respiratory tract. It has anti-spasmodic, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory properties and can also be used to treat digestion. Useful for dyspepsia, gall bladder and stomach disorders. Horehound can be used externally for eczema and shingles as a poultice or fomentation

Source Aerial portions of plant

Preparations Dried Herb: Take 1 to 2g three times daily in pill or capsule form.Infusions: Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon dried herb to one cup hot water. Take 3 times daily.Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops three times daily.Syrup: Usual addition to cough syrups.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings May act as a laxative in large doses.

Horsetail  Latin Name: Equisetum arvense, Equisetum spp. Family: Equisetaceae

Description "It is very powerful to stop bleeding, either inward or outward, the juice or the decoction being drunk, of the juice, decoction or distilled water applied outwardly...it also heals inward ulcers...it solders together the tops of green wounds and cures all ruptures in children". -- Nicholas Culpeper

Ailments/Situations Where Used The stems of this boggy plant are a good astringent and are useful for diarrhea, wounds, nosebleeds, heavy menstruation and any excessive discharges. It works wonderfully on bloody urine, prostatitis, and bedwetting. Horsetail is an excellent diuretic and helps tone the mucous membranes in the urinary tract. It is very useful for gravel, incontinence, urethritis and for severe bladder pain. It also helps remove uric acid form the body. Horsetail is high in minerals, particularly silica, which has been shown to protect elasticity of connective tissue and help absorb calcium, essential for hair, mails, teeth and musculo-skeletal health. This herb helps speed repair of tissues after lung damage from tuberculosis and other wasting diseases. The silica helps stabilize scar tissue in the lungs. According to Maria Treben, "the soft hot herbs are placed between a piece of linen and applied to ulcers, adenoma, cysts or tumours." Horsetail strengthens the heart and lungs and is a good tonic for a weak system.

Source Entire plant

Preparations Horsetail should be boiled for a few minutes (from 5 to 10) to remove any of its B1/thiamine-depleting properties. Decoction: Add one teaspoon of herb to 1 cup hot water and take 3 times daily in moderation. According to Dr. Duke adding a little sugar to your tea will pull out more silica. Use this method sparingly.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Seek professional help for blood in the urine.

Hyssop  Latin Name: Hyssopus officinalisFamily: Labiatae, Lamiaceae

Description Hyssop is an ancient perennial herb mentioned several times in the Old Testament for purification- may possibly be referring to other varieties than Hyssopus officinalis. The name hyssopus is the name used by Hippocrates, derived from Hebrew ezob, "holy herb". Used by the Greeks, Hippocrates and Galen for bronchitis and inflammation of the chest. Hyssop is native to Central and Southern Europe, introduced to North America prefers well drained to dry, neutral to alkaline soil in the sun.

Ailments/Situations Where Used This herb expels mucus from all parts of the body and loosens phlegm in the lungs and throat. It is useful in bronchitis, colds, excessive mucus, and phlegm. Excellent results are seen if taken as a hot infusion at the first signs of a cold or flu. Hyssop can also be used for poulticing wounds, especially cuts and bruises around the eye. This herb is used in a bath oil for nervous exhaustion. The leaves have a bitter sage-mint flavour and can be used sparingly with vegetables and meat dishes. This herb is also used to flavour liqueurs such as chartreuse.

Source Aerial portions of plant.

Preparations Infusion: Add 1 to 2 teaspoons to once up boiling water. Take 3 times daily.Liniment or Medicated Oil: Use as a chest rub or bath oil. Infused in olive or almond oil. Use as needed.Poultice: Follow general instructions using dried herb and apply as needed.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings No known toxicity. Hyssop is non-sensitizing and non-irritating. Essential oil if used in excess may cause epileptic fits and death and use of the essential oil is subject to legal restrictions in some countries.

Juniper  Juniper Berry Latin Name: Juniperus communis Family: Coniferae

Description Most Juniper berries and volatile oil originate from Hungary where the shrub grows wild and the berries are used fresh. Blue and green berries are found on the same plant as it takes 2 to 3 years for the berries to ripen. In Sweden, the fruit is made into a beer that is regarded as a health drink. Juiper berries have also long been used in the making and flavouring of gin.

Ailments/Situations Where Used The berries have long been used as a wonderful antiseptic to the urinary system and are beneficial in the treatments of nephritis, cystitis, urine retention, stones, gravel, and lumbar pains. They are a great antiseptic and are useful against many types of infections. They are used in rheumatism and gout as they help in the removal of uric acid. Juniper berries help stimulate the release of hydrochloric acid and are used in digestive weaknesses, flatulence, and indigestion. They are an excellent circulatory stimulant, can help in the treatment of colds and flu, and are a good anti-inflammatory. They have also been known to treat aching muscles due to excess lactic acid. Chewing the berries makes for a good mouthwash and can be used against many mouth infections. This method will also sweeten the breath and heal infected gums. The berries stimulate uterine contractions during labour.

Source Berries

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 teaspoon crushed berries, cover, and infuse 10 minutes. Take 3 cups daily. Do not boil the berries as this will destroy the volatile oils.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Do not use during pregnancy as it is a powerful uterine stimulant. It is fine to use during labour. Do not use in the case of kidney weaknesses. Abstain for several days with every 2 weeks of use.

Kava kava  Latin Name: Piper methysticum Family: Piperaceae

Description Kava kava is a popular herb originally from the South Pacific islands. It has been used as a ceremonial and medicinal beverage by indigenous cultures of this region for more than 3,000 years. Only recently has this herb become popular in Europe and North America. To date, 15 bioactive compounds called lactones or pyrones have been isolated and categorized. These elements are collectively referred to as kavalactones or kavapyrones. They are found in the root stick and roots of Kava kava. This plant is highly synergistic and the greater the collective concentration of these elements, the stronger the preparation becomes. Strength in numbers, power in diversity. The kavalactones appear to target the brain’s amygdala, an area of the brain’s limbic system. This thimble-sized neuron cluster generates and interprets emotions such as anxiety, anger, and sadness. As a result, this calming herb, referred to as a nervine, reduces anxiety, acts as a muscle relaxant and sedative, and improves mental function. Athletes also prefer Kava kava over powerful prescription drugs such as benzodiazepines (tranquilizers) or over-the-counter medications where side effects include impaired performance, focus, and precision. By relaxing both the muscles and the mind, kava kava can help prevent muscle injuries.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Those suffering from anxiety disorder often respond well to this anti-anxiety herb. Kava kava reduces daily anxiety and tension and is not physically addictive. In addition, taking this herb does not necessitate higher doses over time to achieve the same effects. Kava kava is widely prescribed in Germany as a remedy for both stress and insomnia. When used as a sedative, this herb does not cause a post-sleep "hangover" typical of many over the counter sleep aids. In addition, it does not interfere with REM sleep. Kava kava is excellent for treating muscle sprains and strains. As a muscle relaxant, kavalactones relax both skeletal (voluntary) and smooth (involuntary) muscles. It also reduces nervous tension and conditions related to skeletal muscle spasms. Some studies suggest Kava kava is as potent as aspirin for relieving muscle pain. Pain relief occurs through non-addictive, non-opiate, pathways.

Source Root stick and root

Preparations Infusion: You can prepare or purchase Kava kava tea, but it is much less effective in this form due to the low concentration of herb. The warmth of a hot liquid, however, is in itself an overall relaxant... Supplement: Take up to 300mg daily of kavalactones, divided into several doses. DO NOT exceed this dosage. Taking 120 to 200mg 30 to 60 minutes before bed can make you drowsy and ready for sleep. If used to treat anxiety disorder, take 180 to 240mg daily, divided into several doses. Tincture: Take 20 to 60 drops daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Do not use if you are 18 or under, except on the strict supervision of a naturopath or health practitioner. Kava kava can have a sedating effect on the body and can cause drowsiness. Do not use while driving, operating heavy/precision machinery, or performing any other activity requiring a high, acute, level of awareness. Kava kava can be psychologically addictive. Do not take for more than three months at a time. Long-term use at high doses may also cause the skin to turn yellow. The effect is only temporary and can be relieved by discontinuing use. Consult with your naturopath or health practitioner when considering long-term use of this herb. If you have Parkinson’s disease, you should not take this herb as it relaxes the muscles and can interfere with dopamine levels in the brain. Do not take Kava kava with alcohol or drugs, especially benzodiazepine drugs such as Xanax. Do not take with anti-anxiety drugs such as Valium. Some individuals develop "kava dermopathy", a scaly skin rash.

Lavender  Common Lavender, English Lavender Latin Name: Lavandula augustifolia Family: Labiatae

Description Lavender has one of the most universally recognized scents. It has a long history of use for its magical powers. North African tribal women used it as protection from mistreatment by their husbands, while, in Tuscany, Lavender was thought to shield children from the "evil-eye". The conquering Romans took lavender to England where it quickly became a popular herb used to freshen the air and add scent to linens. It has been used for centuries in fragrant sachets, soaps, perfumes and pot-pourri. Lavender was introduced to North America by early settlers who also used the herb as an anti-septic and healing agent. This perennial is a member of the mint family and is native to Mediterranean regions, Middle East and India. It is widely grown in North America. Lavender prefers well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil, in an open, sunny location. Many lavenders are barely winter hardy and should not be cut back until spring. The plants should also be mulched in the fall for added protection. Lavender becomes woody with age and should be replaced every five to seven years. Flowers are picked as they begin to open and used fresh, distilled for oil, or dried for use in infusions, spirits, tinctures, and pot-pourri.

Ailments/Situations Where Used There are many varieties of lavender and they are among the most popular plants of herb gardens. One of the most important lavenders for medicinal purposes is L. augustifolia. This aromatic, tonic herb has a pleasantly sweet scent. It relaxes spasms, promotes digestion, stimulates peripheral circulation and the uterus, and lowers fevers. Lavender also has anti-depressant properties and is useful in treating depression, irritability, anxiety, and exhaustion. It also has anti-septic properties. Lavender can help tension and migraine headaches. It is also useful in bronchial complaints, including tuberculosis. Use this herb externally for burns, cold sores, head lice, insect bites, muscular pain, rheumatism, skin complaints, snake bites, sunburn, and vaginal discharges

Source Flowers

Preparations Essential Oil: This is one of the few essential oils that can be used, undiluted, directly on the skin. Also useful added to baths and as an inhalent. Infusion: Add 1 to 2 teaspoons to one cup hot water. Drink three times daily. Tincture: Take 60 to 100 drops three times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings No known contraindications

Lemon balm  Common Balm Latin Name: Melissa officinalisFamily: Labiatae, Lamiaceae

Description This plant has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and was used originally as a bee plant, hence the name melissa which is Greek for "honey bee". Its therapeutic uses were promoted by Arab physicians in the 10th and 11th centuries for use in anxiety and depression. Lemon Balm is native to Southern Europe, Mediterranean and Central Europe. It was introduced all over temperate northern climates. For harvest, cut off young shoots approximately 30cm long and use fresh or dry below 35 °C in a shaded location. Plants can be harvested two to there times per year between June and September. Dried herb should be used within six months as most benefits are lost on storage.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Lemon balm has carminative, anti-spasmodic, anti-depressive, diaphoretic, hypotensive, and anti-viral properties It can be used to treat spasm in the digestive tract, flatulent dyspepsia, influenza, tension, and stress. Also useful for depression, especially when feelings of diminished self-worth are associated (teenagers). Use as a cream to treat herpes. Can be used to treat hyperthyroidism as it inhibits the binding of TSH to plasma membranes and binding of immunoglobulin in Graves disease. Lemon balm has also been shown to prevent cancer cells from dividing.

Source Aerial portions of plant.

Preparations Infusion: Add 2 to 3 teaspoons dried herb or 8 to 10 fresh leaves cup boiling water and allow to steep covered for 15 to 20 minutes. Drink as required.Tincture: 2 to 6mL (1 teaspoon) three times daily.Creams: Replace water in formula with equivalent amount of a strong, strained infusion (only use enough water to cover herbs)

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings No known contraindications.

Licorice  Chinese Licorice Latin Name: Glycyrrhiza glabra/uralensis Family: Leguminosae/Papilionaceae

Description The active ingredient of licorice is considered to be glycyrrhizin. This element is often used by Japanese medical treatments in its isolated form. Licorice is sweet-tasting and can be used as a tea. Glycyrrhiza glabra is the most common variety originating from southern Europe and southwest Asia. It is the sour of most commercial licorice. Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Chinese licorice or "Gan-cao") is the most commonly used Chinese medicinal herb and is used in almost all prescriptions. It is seen as a general tonic and improves the taste of all medicines.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Licorice root is ideal for treating hormonal, digestive, or respiratory conditions. Licorice root is also a very good liver botanical. It works as well as milk thistle in protecting and repairing the liver and both herbs often have good results when worked in concert. It protects the liver by acting as an antioxidant, has anti-viral properties, enhances interferon and antibody production, promotes T-cell activity in the liver, and protects the liver from autoimmune liver injury. Glycyrrhizin also protects liver cells from chemical damage. Those with Hepatitis B often respond well to treatment with licorice.

Source Root

Preparations Decoction: Licorice tea is rather sweet-tasting. Gently boil 1/2 tsp. powdered root to 1 cup of water for 10 minutes. Drink up to 2 cups daily. Supplement: Take 4,000 to 5,000mg daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops up to 2 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Licorice can cause loose stools. This herb may result in sodium retention and potassium loss. In turn, licorice may raise blood pressure levels and lead to hypokalemia -- a serious condition with symptoms such as irregular heartbeat. Be sure to speak to your naturopath or other health practitioner if you have high blood pressure before taking this herb.

Lobelia  Indian Tobacco, Pukeweed Latin Name: Lobelia inflata Family: Lobeliaceae

Description Lobelia has long been used by the Penobscot Indians and was named after the 17th century French botanist Matthias deLobel. Lobelia is native to Canada and the Northern parts of the United States where it grows in dry places. Numerous varieties can be found in gardens throughout England where it is a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful blue flowers.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Lobelia is a powerful expectorant and anti-asthmatic herb where, when taken, the effects are felt all the way down to the toes. It is an ideal method of controlling difficult breathing without any adverse side effects. Lobelia is used for chest complaints, sore throat, sinusitis, middle ear infection, urinary tract infection, and chronic bronchitis. The plant is a wonderful antispasmodic which relaxes muscles and nerves and is used during asthma or bronchial spasms, whooping cough or muscle spasms, twitching, epilepsy, hysteria, pain and lockjaw. According to herbalist David Hoffman, "lobelia has a depressant action on the central and autonomic nervous system and on neuro-muscular action". A constituent of the plant, lobeline, is similar in its structure to nicotine and has been used quite successfully in counteracting the desire for tobacco. A few drops of the tincture can be placed in the ear to relieve an earache or an infection and is all the more powerful when combined with mullein flowers and garlic. Lobelia can be given during labour to lessen the contractions during a natural childbirth. Before administering lobelia, a stimulant should be taken, and a cup of peppermint tea would be suffice. Externally it can be used for muscle spasms, boils, and ulcers.

Source Aerial portions of plant.

Preparations Infusion: Infuse one teaspoon with one cup boiling water for 10 minutes and take three times daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops when needed, up to three times daily. The best lobelia tinctures are made with apple cider vinegar, as this fully extracts the plants alkaloids.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Do not use in a feeble pulse or nervous response, shock, paralysis, and especially pregnancy. Large doses of the plant will induce vomiting, hence the name pukeweed.

Marshmallow  Latin Name: Althea officinalisFamily: Malvaceae

Description The healing properties of marshmallow were first recorded in the 9th century BCE and were widely used in Greek medicine. Powdered roots were once used to make soft lozenges for throat infections and coughs and were forerunners to the popular candy "marshmallow" that no longer contains extracts of the herb. The name altheae comes from the Greek altha, which means "to cure" and refers to the healing properties of the plant. Marshmallow was originally found throughout Western Europe, Central Asia and Northern Africa. It prefers moist to wet soil in sun. Leaves are gathered in summer and dried for infusions, liquid extracts and ointments. Roots are lifted in autumn from two year old plants and dried to liquid extracts, ointments and syrups.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Marshmallow is a sweet mucilaginous herb that soothes and softens tissues. It has expectorant effects and controls bacterial infection. Use externally for wounds, burns, boils, eye and skin inflammations, insect bites, splinters, minor injuries, gingivitis, mastitis, and gangrene Roots preparations are useful for inflammations and ulceration of the digestive tract, hiatus hernia, bronchitis, excess mucus, asthma, whooping cough, and cystitis. The leaves are useful for urinary tract infections, excess mucus, bronchitis, irritating coughs, and cystitis

Source Leaves and root.

Preparations Decoction: Add 1 teaspoon chopped root to a cup water. Take three times dailyInfusion: Add 1 to 2 teaspoons leaves to one cup hot water. Take three times daily.Ointment: About 20%. Tincture: Take 1 to 5mL three times daily. This is an excellent herb for poultice and compress applications (root).

The peeled root is given to children as a teething aid.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings No known contraindications.

Milk thistle Latin Name: Silybum marianum Family: Compositae

Description "It is a friend to the liver and blood: the prickles cut off, they were formerly used to be boiled in the spring and eaten with other herbs; but as the world decays, so doth the use of good old things and others more delicate and less virtuous brought in." -- Westmacott, 1694  Milk thistle is widely acknowledged as an effective liver remedy. This herb has been in use for over 2,000 years and was brought to North America by early European colonists. Europeans also used the leaves in salad as a spinach substitute and the stalks were eaten like asparagus. The flower can be steamed like artichoke.

Ailments/Situations Where Used This is one of, if not the best, liver tonics available. Silymarin, a complex of antioxidants extracted from milk thistle seeds, is often seen as the active part of the herb. It is a mixture of flavolignans and is present in concentrations of 5% of mature seeds. Milk thistle helps protect the liver in cases of hepatitis, cirrhosis, inflamed gall bladder, and duct. It helps regenerate a damaged liver as a result of alcohol, pollutants, radiation, and mushroom poisoning and generally assists liver function in chronic degenerative diseases. This herb protects liver cells from free radical damage and facilitates the synthesis of liver DNA. In turn, this helps produce new liver cells. There have been situations where taking milk thistle for several months has protected against the deadly amanita mushroom. Tests on animals using silymarin and silybin extracts has protected against this poison. This plant has been shown to lower fat deposits in the liver of animals and helps lower blood fat. Milk thistle is a potent antioxidant that helps protect against free radical damage and may be helpful against some cancers. This herb is believed to be stronger than vitamin E in terms of antioxidant potential. Milk thistle is helpful in digestive weaknesses as it stimulates the protein synthesis and assists in the digestion of fats. Taken internally, it can help increase milk flow in nursing mothers. Silymarin increases solubility and promotes the flow of bile. This makes milk thistle ideal for people with gall bladder problems.

Source Seeds (fruits), either soaked overnight, made into powder form, or processed for silymarin extraction.

Preparations Seeds must be taken in an extract form or eaten, as the active constituent, silymarin, is not water soluble. Take 2 tablespoons ground powder daily, sprinkled on food. Supplement: Take 280 to 600mg daily for acute situations or when treating specific ailments. You may also use lower dosages as a preventative to maintain liver health. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications. Milk thistle can cause nausea and loose stools. When dealing with a gallbladder situation, they may cause a sudden, unwanted contraction of the gallbladder, either causing an acute attack or, at worst, lodging the stone in the duct. It is important to consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner if you choose to use this herb to deal with gallstones.

Mistletoe  European Mistletoe, Biroume Latin Name: Viscum album Family: Loranthaceae

Description Mostly found on old apple trees, mistletoe is a parasitic plant that lives entirely off its host. However, not all of its 30 varieties are parasites. For the Druids, it was a sacred plant that was thought to protect from all evil. On the other hand, if a mistletoe fell to the ground it was said to be a sign of misfortune coming over the country.

Ailments/Situations Where Used This plant is a relaxing nervine and was once called the "janitor herb" due to its cleansing effect on the arteries. It is used in insomnia, nervous excitability, hyperactivity, epilepsy, chorea, tinnitus, and rabies. It helps ease headaches due to hypertension. Mistletoe is considered a cardiac depressant because of its stimulating effect on the vagus nerve which slows down the pulse. The plant also dilates the arteries and strengthens the walls of the peripheral capillaries. Due to these actions it will lower high blood pressure and ease the effects of arteriosclerosis. Some success has been reported in using the juice of the berries externally on cancers (do not take internally as they are toxic). There is some rather promising evidence on mistletoe’s anti-tumour activities. It is sometimes used as an immune enhancer alongside surgery and radiotherapy by people who will not use cytotoxic drugs due to the side-effects. Mistletoe is a strong luteotropic agent (an agent that stimulates the secretion of progesterone).

Source Aerial portions of plant.

Preparations Infusion: Three teaspoons of herb are infused with three cups cold water for several hours and taken in three doses. Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops of tincture three times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There is some controversy over the herb’s supposed toxic effect on the liver, but to date it is unsubstantiated. Do not use during pregnancy. Avoid if you have low blood pressure. Do not ingest the berries as the can be fatal.

Mullein  Blanket Herb, Bunny’s Ears, Greater Mullein Latin Name: Verbascum rhapsusFamily: Scrophulariaceae

Description The name mullein comes from the latin "mollis" meaning soft due to its soft ear like leaves. This plant was used in ancient times for its magical powers. Ulysses took it for protection against the Siren Circe. It was also used to make torches when dried and dipped in wax. Mullein is native to Britain, Europe and parts of Asia and has been naturalized in North America. It tolerates a wide range of conditions including dry, stony soils and is suited to borders, steep banks or edges of gravel driveways in a sunny location. Leaves and flowers are harvested in summer and all are dried. Be sure to dry quickly in a shaded place at a temperature below 40°C. (if flowers turn brown, they are useless) flowers may also be used fresh or frozen.

Ailments/Situations Where Used This herb is a useful respiratory remedy, tones mucosae of respiratory system, increases mucociliary action, and reduces inflammation. It is recommended for chronic respiratory complaints like bronchitis, and dry coughs. Mullein stimulates fluid production and helps thin mucus. It is also useful as a poultice for inflammation of the trachea and can be used externally for inflammation and to aid wound healing. An extract in olive oil soothes any inflamed surface. It is especially useful as an ear oil (fresh flowers only used for infusion)

Source Leaves and flowers.

Preparations Fomentation: Use 50g mullein, 7g lobelia, and 1 teaspoon cayenne. Simmer for 15 minutes in 2L apple cider vinegar, strain, and apply to affected area following the basic instructions.Infusion: Add 1 to 2 teaspoons dried leaves or flowers to one cup water, steep for 15 minutes and take three times daily.Medicated Oil: Infuse flowers in olive oil following basic instructions. Apply to affected area as needed. As an ear oil, place 1 to 2 drops in affected ear and put n some cotton.Poultice/Fomentation: Use dried leaves and follow basic instructions. Tincture: Take 1 to 4mL three times daily. (leaves/flowers used to make tincture)

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid fresh leaves in orifices and open wounds.

Myrrh  Latin Name: Commiphora abyssinica, C. myrrha, C. molmol Family: Burseraceae

Description Myrrh has been used from remote ages as an ingredient in incense, perfumes, etc; in the holy oil of the Jews and the kyphi of the Egyptians for embalming and fumigations.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Myrrh gum resin is a wonderful astringent and is used on wounds, sore throats, mouth ulcers, spongy gums, and pyrrhoea. A good gargle of the tea or tincture can be used for these conditions. When combined with sage its effectiveness is increased. Myrrh is a great antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal plant used effectively against Staphylococcus aureus and other Gram-positive bacteria. It is used quite successfully against Candida albicans, especially when taken with yogurt. Recent studies suggest that myrrh lowers blood cholesterol levels and increases the number of white blood cells, making it a positive immune modulator. Myrrh helps treat dyspepsia, gas, painful menstruation, arthritic pain, and many inflammatory conditions. It is very helpful in catarrhal problems such as pharyngitis and sinusitis. Externally, myrrh is great for wounds that will not heal such as boils and abscesses, or whenever a good antibacterial, antiviral, or anti-fungal agent is needed. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, myrrh is used as an agent to "move blood" and to relieve painful inflammations. It is effective for menstrual pain.

Preparations Supplements: Take 2 to 8 capsules daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops up to 3 times daily, or gargle as needed.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings This plant is a uterine stimulant and should be avoided during pregnancy.

Nettle  Common Nettle, Great Nettle, Stinging Nettle Latin Name: Urtica dioica, Urtica urensFamily: Urticaceae

Description As the 17thth century herbalist Nicholas Culpeper wrote in 1653, "Stinging nettles need no description; they may be found by feeling, in the darkest night" (The English Physician Enlarged) Urtica is the original Latin name used by Horace and Pliny for the plant. The Latin name "urer" means to burn and refers to the stinging hairs, which in some species contain substances toxic enough to cause death. It was used in cloth manufacture from the Bronze Age to the early 20 century due to the fibrous nature of the plant. Nettle is a coarse perennial with creeping yellow roots and ovate, deeply toothed leaves covered with bristly, stinging hairs. In summer, minute green flowers are borne in pendulous clusters up to 10cm long. Urtica urens is an annual with similar features and properties. Nettle is indigenous to North America and Urtica urens in Europe. It grows in waste places everywhere, especially in soils rich in nitrogen and prefers moist soil in sun or partial shade. Nettles can be invasive but are easily controlled by pulling out dormant rhizomes. They provide food for the caterpillars of various butterflies such as red admirals.New shoots and small leaves can be used fresh or cooked. The whole plant above the ground is cut as flowering begins in the summer and dried for use in infusions, liquid extracts, ointments, powders and tinctures.

Ailments/Situations Where Used The list is long. Nettle can be used for eczema, especially nervous eczema, childhood eczema poison ivy, insect stings, pruritus, burning, itching, as an infusion applied topically as a fomentation, internal hemorrhages, hemorrhoids, uterine hemorrhages (infusion), rheumatism, arthritis and gout diseases of the colon, gastritis, diarrhea gravel and nephritic complaints cystitis, and leucorrhea. Also appropriate for asthma, bronchitis nutritive for anemia, blood building, iron deficiency, appetite stimulant, anti-diabetic(lowers blood sugar levels) For damaged and thinning hair, take nettle orally as an infusion or a cold infusion or steeped in cider vinegar for 2 weeks and applied as a rinse. May be diluted with rose water/distilled water.

Source New shoots less than 10cm long, small leaves, aerial (above ground) parts.

Preparations Infusion: Add 1 to 3 teaspoons dried herb to 1 cup hot water. Drink three times daily.Poultice: Use fresh herb.Tincture: Take 20 to 60 drops three times daily The fresh herb may also be used in a poultice as a counter-irritant. For sunburn, skin irritation, poison ivy et cetera, combine with jewelweed (Impatience carpensi), yarrow, or other astringent, tannin-rich plants.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications. Do not use as counter-irritant on children or fearful adults without consent.

Oat straw  Green tops Latin Name: Avena sativa Family: Graminaceae

Description Oats are said to contain more iron, zinc, and manganese than any other grain. Therefore, oatmeal makes a nutritious breakfast. In addition, the husks have been proven to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Over 25 varieties are cultivated today.

Ailments/Situations Where Used This plant is used as a tonic to the entire system and works wonders on nervous and physical fatigue. It is a nerve restorative and is used in cases of depression, anxiety, and insomnia. It is good for headaches at the back of the neck, debility following illness, tension, and irritability though overwork. It is said to be a brain tonic with an action on the nerve and brain cells. The plant is a good source of minerals and, according to Dr. Vogel, "oats have the highest content of iron, zinc and manganese of all grain species". The British Herbal Pharmacoepia states that oats are a good cardiac tonic. It is good to give oatstraw tea in colds and chills to encourage sweating and makes a fine nutritive. Oatstraw can improve the performance and stamina of athletes and be of value in sexual weakness and impotence. Overall, this plant is a tonic to the mind, spirit, and body.

Source Aerial portions of plant.

Preparations Infusion: Infuse one teaspoon herb with one cup water for 10 minutes and take three times daily as a tonic. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops of quality tincture three times daily. The oats can be eaten freely.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings In case of a sensitivity to gluten, take only clear liquid in tincture or infusion and leave the sediment at the bottom.

Oregon Grape Oregon Grape Root Latin Name: Berberis/Mahonia aquifolium Family: Berberidaceae

Description As with Goldenseal, Oregon Grape has high concentrations of immunostimulating berberis alkaloids. This herb is a potent antibiotic and is excellent for dealing with an infection.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Any ailment/situation involving infection can benefit from Oregon Grape. Berberine, an alkaloid, is ideal for treating Candida, staph, strep, E. coli, and a number of other invasive organisms. This alkaloid also stimulates the digestive system and improves overall liver and digestive function. Common colds rooted in bacterial (and not viral) infection can benefit from oregon grape use. Those with a weakened immune system will also benefit from this herb, as an excess load will be taken off the immune system.

Source Powdered root bark.

Preparations Tincture: Take 10 to 40 drops two to four times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings No known toxicity.

Parsley  Broad Leaf Parsley, Celery Leaf Parsley, Curled Parsley, Flat Parsley Latin Name: Petroselinum crispum, P. Crispum neapolitanum Family: Umbelliferae

Description The Greeks associated parsley with the dead since it was said to have stemmed from the blood of Archmorus. There are many varieties now cultivated such as the common plain leaf, the curled leaf, the broad leaf, and the celery leaf, to name a few. Parsley is said to be lethal to birds, whereas rabbits and sheep eagerly feed on it. Petroselinum crispum (Curled parsley) is the most commonly used parsley. It is has finely cut, tightly curled leaves, a strong aroma and flavour, and is a popular garnish. P. Crispum neapolitanum (Flat parsley) has an extra rich flavour and is said to add a "European" character to soups and stews. Parsley has a gentle, aromatic flavour. Use it with chicken, baked, broiled, or steamed fish, most vegetable dishes, potatoes, all soups, egg, cheese, or poultry casseroles, green salad, potato salad, pasta salad, salad dressings, stuffing, sauces, gravy, and butter. Use chopped parsley or whole leaves to "freshen up" any dish and brighten up a party platter.

Ailments/Situations Where Used The seeds, leaves, and root of this plant are used for urinary tract infections. It is a good antiseptic and helps remove excess fluid in the tissues and in dropsy. Parsley is used for bladder disorders, painful urination and an inflamed prostate gland. Parsley tea is an emmenagogue and promotes menstrual flow, tones uterine muscles, and rids the body of pre-menstrual water retention from the abdomen, legs, and breast. It was advised by the Greek physician Galen for disorders of the womb and bladder. Parsley is very useful for digestive weakness, liver disorders, gall bladder inflammation, and to relieve cramping. It is also useful against intestinal worms. The root is most effective at removing stones if they are not too big. It encourages the elimination of uric acid and is useful in treating gout. Parsley stimulates milk flow in nursing mothers. Overall, parsley is a good source of minerals such as calcium, potassium, silica, manganese, phosphorus, and folic acid, and is a good source of vitamins A, C, E and bioflavonoids. The chlorophyll in parsley helps sweeten the breath and is an antidote to garlic and onions.

Source Seeds, leaves, and roots.

Preparations Fresh: Take 3 cups daily. Liberally garnish foods. Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon herb to 1 cup boiling water and infuse 10 to 15 minutes.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid during pregnancy. Avoid in kidney diseases.

Passionflower  Latin Name: Passiflora Incarnata Family: Passifloraceae

Description There are a number of different varieties of this plant, many of which grow edible fruits with a sweet tasting yellowish pulp. The flowers of Passiflora incarnata are yellowish or flesh-coloured with a sweet aroma. One should wait to pick this herb until the first berries have ripened.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Passion flower is an ideal sedative and is used for sleeplessness due to mental exertion, nervous excitability, anxiety, tension, and constrictive headaches. It is a relaxant to the nervous system and is non-addictive. Due to the plant’s vasodilating and sedating properties, the infusion can be used to lower high blood pressure. David Hoffman states that "it aids the transition into a restful sleep without any ‘narcotic’ hangover". The alkaloids and flavonoids in the plant are said to give passion flower its tranquilizing and analgesic properties. Passion flower’s ability to check spasms makes it very useful in Parkinson’s disease, epileptic seizures, and hysteria. It is very useful for nerve pain associated with neuralgia and shingles. Taken daily, passion flower can help in the withdrawal of alcohol, benzodiazepine, and valium addictions. It is said to be quite good at strengthening the heart muscles. Passion flower helps reduce the discomforts of menstruation, parturition, and menopause. Its tranquilizing effect make this herb ideal for those with anxiety, insomnia, or stress. The MAO inhibitors present in passionflower make a suitable substitute for pharmaceutical drugs used to treat depression.

Source Dried parts of plant.

Preparations Infusion: Pour one cup boiling water over one teaspoon herb and infuse 10 minutes. Take three times daily. Supplement: Take 2 capsules up to four times daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops in 1 cup of warm water.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid during the first trimester of pregnancy and use sparingly after. This herb should not be confused with its cousin P. caerulea, which contains toxic cyanogenic glycosides. Passionflower can have a sedating effect on the body and can cause drowsiness. Do not use while driving, operating heavy/precision machinery, or performing any other activity requiring a high, acute, level of awareness.

Pau d'arco Lapacho Tree Latin Name: Taheebo bark Family: Bignoniaceae

Description Pau d’arco is a tree that grows in Brazilian forests and in Argentina. Its healing power has been used by the Cavaway tribe to cure a number of different diseases. Today, the bark is a common sight in herbal stores as well as pharmacies throughout Brazil.

Ailments/Situations Where Used In the last 40 years, this plant has received ample attention in the scientific community and has been used on many cancer patients in both Brazil and Argentina with high success rates. It commonly used in Paraguay and Bolivia too. Pau d’arco contains lapachol and derivatives that have been shown to be very effective against several different cancers. It helps inhibit the growth of tumours and contains very strong anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties. Pau d’arco helps alleviate the pain caused by many illnesses and increases the number of red corpuscles. The plant has an excellent immune enhancing effect on the body. It has a wonderful reputation in treating Candida albicans and works on many illnesses caused by either a fungal or viral infection. Pau d’arco is effective against ulcers, diabetes, rheumatism, leukemia, various cancers, ringworm, bronchitis, respiratory ailments, haemorrhages, diarrhea, boils, dysentery, fever, snake bites, and any inflammation of the genito-urinary tract. These are just some of the ailments that this plant can work against. For a more thorough investigation or exploration into this plant, our resident herbalist recommends looking into one of the several books available about this wonderfully healing plant.

Source Bark.

Preparations Infusion: Bring three teaspoons of herb and four and a half cups water to a boil. Simmer for 45 minutes, cool, strain, and divide into three doses for the day. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops of tincture three times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications.

Pennyroyal Latin Name: Mentha pulegium Family: Labiatae

Description Pennyroyal is native to most of Europe and parts of Asia and was introduced to North America by the pilgrim fathers. It has long been highly praised for its medicinal properties. Pennyroyal is one of the most aromatic species of the mint family but less powerful than others.

Ailments/Situations Where Used The Latin name of this plant is derived from pulex ,meaning flea, due to the plant’s ability to repel fleas and other insects. The essential oil of this plant is mainly used to attain these virtues. Traditionally, a hot infusion is used to treat colds and flu due to its ability to promote sweating and increasing circulation, thus breaking congestion and removing any obstructions. The main use of this plant today is as a stimulating emmenagogue (an agent that promotes menstrual flow) and to strengthen uterine contractions. Due to the plant’s sweat-inducing properties and emmenagogue properties it is a great agent to use in delayed menstruation as its stimulating action will usually break the congestion that is causing the delay. Pennyroyal is abundant in aromatic oils and, because of this, is used to ease flatulence, colic, nausea, and indigestion. It helps control abdominal spasms, especially in the womb, stomach, and intestines. This plant has a reputation in easing anxiety and tension.

Source Aerial portions of plant.

Preparations Infusion: Pour one cup boiling water over one teaspoon herb, cover, and steep 10 minutes. Take three times daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops of tincture thrice daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Contraindicated during pregnancy or in nursing mothers. Avoid in kidney disorders.

Peppermint  Latin Name: Mentha piperita Family: Labiatae/Lamiaceae

Description Many varieties were used as culinary herbs until the first medicinal use was recorded by John Ray in 1696 who called it "mentha palustris". However, a quote by Wilafried of Strabo in the 12th century "if any man can name...all the properties of mint, he must know how many fish swim in the Indian ocean" would lead us to believe that it has been used medicinally for a very long time. In a 1721 London pharmacopoeia, mint is listed as a digestive aid and flavouring agent and in the British medical journal "Lancet" in 1879 it is mentioned for the relief of headaches and neuralgia. Peppermint is a hybrid between spearmint (Mentha spicata) and watermint (Mentha viridis or M. aquatica). There are about thirty true species of mint but it has been extensively hybridized. This is a vigorous, creeping plant, often purple tinged perennial with smooth, lanceolate, toothed leaves up to 8cm long. Lilac-pink sterile flowers are borne on terminal spikes in summer. Peppermint is widely cultivated in Europe, North America, and Australia. It prefers moist fertile soil in partial shade, can become invasive.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Peppermint has antispasmodic properties and helps relax the digestive system. It is used for intestinal colic and indigestion, flatulent dyspepsia, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy or travel sickness, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease (especially as enteric coated capsules). It is appropriate for fevers, colds and influenza and helps relieve nasal and sinus congestion. Add 2 to 3 drops essential oil to warm water and inhale vapour. Also used for migraine headaches (especially from digestive sources) and helps ease hysteria, anxiety, tension, uterine colic, and dysmenorrhea. Topical use is appropriate for itching and inflammation. Peppermint oil helps reduce bile cholesterol levels and increases bile acid and lecithin levels in the biliary system. As a result, peppermint is ideal for dealing with gallbladder situations. In addition, peppermint oil helps relieve chronic burping often associated with gallbladder situations.

Source Aerial (above ground), distilled oil.

Preparations Essential Oil: Pour several drops on a tissue and inhale as required. Add 2 to 3 drops to 10mL water for topical use. Infusion: Add 1 to 2 teaspoons dried herb to once up boiling water. Take up to 3 times daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops 2 times daily. Peppermint can be combined with boneset, yarrow, and elder for colds and flu.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings This herb is not recommended for children as the menthol in peppermint can induce a choking sensation. Do not give to infants in any form. Avoid prolonged use of oil as an inhalant. Peppermint oil as a topical application should not be used with heat. It may burn or cause local hypersensitivity. Peppermint may reduce milk flow if taken internally. Some herbalists recommend avoiding the use of the oil internally during pregnancy. Peppermint can cause nausea and loose stools. When dealing with a gallbladder situation, they may cause a sudden, unwanted contraction of the gallbladder, either causing an acute attack or, at worst, lodging the stone in the duct. It is important to consult with your naturopath or health practitioner if choosing to use this herb to deal with gallstones.

Plantain Common Plantain, Greater Plantain, Way Bread, Ribwort Latin Name: Plantago lanceolata, P. major Family: Plantaginaceae

Description Plantain has long been known for its healing virtues. Many stories tell of the plant’s effect as an antidote to poisonous spider and rattlesnake bites, as well as being a cure for madness of dogs. According to Pliny, the healing power of plantain can even join separate pieces of flesh in a pot placed together with this herb. The young leaves are often eaten and are high in vitamins A, C, and K.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Plantain is a very versatile herb and the seeds, leaves, and roots are all used and are very nutritious. Besides being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it is also very high in potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. This plant is a cooling diuretic used for kidney and bladder infections and water retention. A constituent of the plant, aucubin, helps the secretion of uric acid from the kidneys and is good for most urinary tract infections, rheumatism, and gout. The leaves are a good expectorant which helps clear the passages while soothing inflamed and irritated membranes. It is great for coughs, bronchitis, and most lung complaints. The high silica content in the plant also helps in treating damaged lungs and varicose veins. Plantain’s astringent properties make it useful in diarrhea, hemorrhoids, cystitis, and any excessive discharges. This plant is anti-allergenic and anti-inflammatory, and is good for most inflammations including hepatitis and bacillary dysentery. Plantain improves protein digestion due to proteolytic enzymes that neutralize stomach acids and normalize stomach secretions. This plant is also used in the treatment of bed wetting, diverticulosis, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers (internally and externally), hyperacidity, excess menstrual loss, chronic discharging skin eruptions, skin disorders, bleeding gums, toothache, syphilis, and other STD’s. Applied externally, it stops bleeding and allays the pain of bee stings and insect bites. It helps stop the itching involved, is very drawing, and helps remove toxins and poisons from the body. Plantain leaves are very healing for sores and wounds that refuse to heal. Also appropriate for bruises, eczema, and acne. Seeds of Plantago psyllium are used as a gentle laxative to help treat constipation and to cleanse and liven up a sluggish bowel. The seeds of most Plantago species have been shown to lower high cholesterol levels. The leaves are an old Chinese remedy for bites of snakes, animal, and insects.

Source Seeds, leaves, and roots.

Preparations Infusion: An infusion of the leaves can be taken using one teaspoon herb to one cup boiling water infused for 10 minutes, three times daily. Use one tablespoon of seeds and stir into one cup warm water and let sit for 10 minutes. Take a couple of times daily, if needed, with generous amounts of water.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Inhaling psyllium powder can cause asthma. Unsoaked seeds can cause gastro-intestinal distress.

Red clover  Purple Clover, Trefoil Latin Name: Trifolium pratense Family: Leguminosae

Description Red clover has been an important forage crop since the middle ages and the agricultural cultivar has been widely grown since the 17th century. Trifolium is from the Latin tri meaning three and folium meaning leaf and refers to the 3 lobed leaves. Once red clover arrived in North America, indigenous cultures used it as food and for its vulunery effects in ointments for sores and skin diseases. It was medicinally in use in Britain in the 19th century. This short-lived perennial is native to Europe. It is found in fields and meadows throughout Europe and North America and prefers deep, rich, dry or moderately moist soils in full sun. Red clover has long-stalked leaves divided into 3 (and if you are lucky, four...) leaflets. The flowers have a purple-pink, or cream colour. It is best grown in its natural environment and is not the most ideal plant for cultivated gardens (its runners joyfully spread through the garden and blissfully drop seed ...) As mentioned above, red clover has long been used by Indigenous North American cultures and is often employed in Chinese medicine. The herb contains isoflavones -- natural estrogens that help balance hormone levels, especially in women.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Red clover helps purifier the blood and is commonly used during a detoxification. It also has anti-spasmodic, expectorant, and vulnerary properties. Due to its estrogen balancing properties, red clover is useful for dealing with premenstrual syndrome, menstrual cramps, and menopause. Red clover can also be used for treating skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and rashes. This herb is also used to treat endometriosis and uterine fibroids, and respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, coughing spasms, paroxysmal coughs,and whooping cough. It has also has potential as a possible cancer-fighter/preventative. Red clover can be used as a nutritive in debility and cachexia -- a general condition of weakness and/or anemia due to a chronic illness

Source Flowers and uppermost leaves.

Preparations Infusion: Add 1 to 3 teaspoons dried herb per cup of hot water. Drink up to 3 cups daily. This dosage can be quite cleansing and may be too much at first. Build up to this dose over a few days. Ointment/Cream: Prepare with 10 to 15% flowerheads Supplement: Take 100mg three times daily. Tincture: Take 40 to 100 drops, three times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Use unfermented red clover only. If grown on molybdenum-rich soils (mining areas, aluminum production), herb will contain toxic doses of molybdenum. Beware of detoxifying too fast. There is no risk from topical applications.

Red Raspberry Leaf  Raspberry Leaf, Hindberry, Bramble Latin Name: Rubus idaeus, R. strigosus Family: Rosaceae

Description This well known plant, with its delicious fruit, is cultivated commercially in many parts of the world, and grows wild in others. The sweet, juicy fruit is a good source of vitamins A, B1, C, and E, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Raspberry leaf tea is wonderful at removing cankers from the mucous membranes and leaving the surface clean and normal. It is used freely as a gargle in mouth sores and ulcers as well as asore and cankered tongue and throat. The plant is a good astringent and is given in mild cases of diarrhea, dysentery, hemorrhaging, and cuts and wounds. It is safe to give to children. An infusion is helpful in nausea to allay vomiting and helps strengthen and tone digestion. Raspberry is mainly used as an excellent woman’s tonic, especially during the last trimester of pregnancy. The infusion helps tone and strengthen the uterine and pelvic muscles, strengthen tissue of womb, assist contractions, and checks hemorrhage during labour. It can also help ease the process and pains of childbirth if taken in the last trimester. Taken after childbirth, it helps increase the flow of breast milk. In France, the leaves are used as a tonic for the prostate gland. The fruit is taken for it’s delicious taste and is a wonderful addition to foods and drinks. It is very nutritious, high in vitamins and minerals, and helps to build the blood and combat anemia. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Raspberry is used for frequent urination, impotence, spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation, to cool the blood, and to regulate menstruation.

Source Leaves and fruits.

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of herb. Cover for 10 minutes. Drink 3 times daily. Tincture: Take 15 to 20 drops of good quality tincture 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid high doses during pregnancy as it can be a uterine stimulant. Use with caution.

Rhubarb Turkey Rhubarb, Russian Rhubarb, Chinese Rhubarb Latin Name: Rheum officianale Family: Polygonaceae

Description Originally, this plant is native to northwest China and Tibet from where it reached Europe in the time of the Renaissance. It is here that the different species got their names (Russian, Turkey, East-Indian, Chinese) according to how they reached the continent, not where they had been cultivated. Rhubarb has long since served as food and medicine.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Rhubarb has been used for hundreds of years as a remedy for stomach aches and constipation. This plant is a very strong purgative and should be used with discretion. In smaller doses, it helps diarrhea, dysentery, digestive weakness, and helps tone the stomach and the intestines. The root can be chewed to stimulate salivation, increase gastric juices, and benefit digestion. It is used as a treatment for disorders of the liver, gallbladder, and stomach. Rhubarb helps promote blood circulation in the pelvic region and can help bring relief during a painful menstruation. Rhubarb is also used to eliminate intestinal worms, treat diverticulosis, gastro-enteritis, and toxic conditions of the blood. Rhubarb should always be given with a carminative plant such as cloves, peppermint, or ginger to avoid griping (cramping of the bowel) pains. Externally, it makes a good antibacterial and astringent agent. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, rhubarb is used similarly to purge and as a liver cleanser. Used to clear heat (toxins) form the liver, stomach, and blood. It helps remove stagnant and undigested food from the alimentary canal. Rhubarb is an ancient Sanskrit remedy named "soma", used for courage, wisdom, and longevity.

Source Root and stalks.

Preparations Infusion: Infuse 1 cup rhubarb root with 1/2 teaspoon carminative in 1 1/2 cups water and take 3 times daily. Use smaller doses as a tonic.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid in pregnancy as it is too strong a purgative. Avoid in intestinal obstruction. Avoid in arthritic conditions and gout as it contains oxalates. Leaves are toxic. Use stalks only.

Rosemary  Sew Dew Latin Name: Rosmarinus officinalis Family: Labiatae

Description "As for rosemarine, I lett it runne all over my garden walls, not onlie because my bees love it, but because it is the herb sacred to remembrance, and, therefore, to friendship; whence a sprig of it hath a dumb language that maketh it the chosen emblem of our funeral wakes and in our burial grounds". -- Sir Thomas More Rosemary has a pungent, woodsy flavour. Use it with fowl, red meats, organ meats, rabbit, pork, fish, potatoes, carrots, turnip, cauliflower and bean casserole. For aromatic cooking smoke, toss rosemary sprigs on hot coals.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Rosemary is used to stimulate the body and be uplifting in cases of depression, weakness, and pure exhaustion. The plant stimulates blood circulation and digestion and is ideal for headaches of both origins, colds, flu, rheumatic pains, and indigestion. In Europe, rosemary is used to strengthen the heart and allay arteriosclerosis. Rosemary strengthens blood vessels by decreasing capillary fragility and permeability. It is used to treat an inflamed gall bladder, jaundice, and in general liver health. Rosemary is high in absorbable calcium which helps support the nervous system. It is a good antiseptic and antibacterial agent and is said to promote memory. Studies suggest that rosemary strong antioxidant properties make it useful fighting free radical damage that can cause cancer and other degenerative diseases. When combined with coltsfoot, it is a good smoke in asthma and other chest complaints. Rosemary is good for the scalp and is said to stimulate hair growth. It makes a nice final rinse against dandruff.

Source Aerial portions of plant.

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 to 2 teaspoons herbs, cover, and infuse 10 minutes. Take up to 4 times daily or when needed. Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops of tincture 3 times daily. Do not boil this herb as the volatile oil will be lost in the boiling process.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications.

Sage Garden Sage (as well as over 15 other names/varieties) Latin Name: Salvia officinalisFamily: Labiatae

Description "Why of seknesse deyeth man whill sawge in gardeyn he may han?" -- Macer’s Herbal, 10th century In England, France, and Germany, sage has been used medicinally for centuries. When these countries first began to import tea from China, the herb was so valued by the Chinese that they traded two or three times the amount of tea for European sage. Sage has a warm, pungent, slightly bitter taste. For a flavourful bounty, add small amounts of sage to roast pork, duck, turkey, chicken, sausage, meats, fatty meats, broiled fish, onions, green beans, peas, tomatoes, carrot, pumpkin, chicken, or green bean soup, vegetable or meat casseroles, vinegar dressings, creamy polenta, risotto, or homemade tomato sauce. Sage is an essential for poultry stuffing, too.

Ailments/Situations Where Used A warm infusion of sage is very useful in colds and influenza as it will stimulate circulation, bring about a free perspiration and remove obstructions. The plant has astringent, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties, and is very useful against Staphylococcus aureus. Due to these properties, it is very handy when used as a gargle against sore throats, laryngitis, tonsilitis, and mouth and gum ulcers. Sage has an overall calming effect and can be used to treat headaches, anxiety, and nervousness. Sage is both stimulating and soothing to the stomach and is used in dyspepsia, gas, loss of appetite, and a weak digestion. Natural bitters in the plant make it useful for stimulating a sluggish liver. This plant contains estrogenic properties and is very useful in conditions of menopause, especially hot flashes. It is given in amenorrhoea and painful periods. As warm sage tea is stimulating to circulation and causes a sweat, cold sage tea does quite the opposite. It is wonderful at stopping excessive sweating and is effective at controlling night sweats and drying up the flow of milk in nursing mothers. Sage is prescribed in Parkinson’s Disease to reduce salivation and has been shown to lower blood sugar levels in diabetics. Traditionally, sage has been used as an aid to longevity, poor memory, and mental confusion. Externally, it makes a nice wash for cuts and when used as a hair rinse can darken hair and control dandruff. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the root is used to move blood stagnation such as in certain menstrual pains and heart conditions. It is cooling and sedating and is used to reduce heat in the liver and heart.

Source Aerial portions of plant.

Preparations Infusion: Use one teaspoon herb to one cup water and infuse 10 minutes. For a cold infusion, let one teaspoon herb sit in one cup water for a couple of hours (overnight is ideal) and take when needed. Tincture: Use 20 to 40 drops of tincture three times daily or when needed.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid in pregnancy as it stimulates uterine muscles. The plant contains thujone which can trigger fits in epileptics, so it should be avoided. Avoid in hypertension and blood in the urine.

Sarsaparilla  Latin Name: Smilax officianalis Family: Liliaceae

Description There are numerous species of sarsaparilla which are native to the West Indies, America, and India. In the 17th century, the berries and leaves were said to be an antidote to deadly poison if drunk before or after ingestion. The root tastes sweet and spicy and has an aromatic odour. Of all the species, the Jamaican variety is said to be the most potent medicinally.

Ailments/Situations Where Used This plant is a wonderful blood cleanser and is a specific for many skin conditions such as psoriasis or eruptive skin conditions. It is very useful in cases of rheumatism and gout. Historically, it has been used against venereal diseases such as syphilis, gonorrhea, vaginal and anal itch. It is used in liver disorders such as jaundice and hepatitis. Sarsaparilla has been used successfully in France for the treatment of genital herpes. The plant is used for sexual debility and impotence, probably due to the plant’s so-called testosterone content. The steroid saponins do help manufacture sex hormones and it also contains cortin, a hormone that regulates metabolism and produce a balanced hemostatic function. The plant has a progesterone-like effect that produces heavier muscle tone and is very popular amongst sports people to build body and improve performance. A hot decoction is excellent for promoting profuse sweating and is used for colds, flu, fevers, and mucous problems. It powerfully expels gas from the stomach and intestines. Externally, it can be placed on skin eruptions with pleasing results. A similar species used in China, Smilax glabra, is used for bacterial dysentery, mercurial poisoning, leuccorrhea, and as the treatment of choice for the primary stages of syphilis.

Source Root

Preparations Decoction: Bring three teaspoons of root and three and one half cups water to a boil and simmer 15 minutes. Cool, strain, and divide into three doses for the day.Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications.

Saw palmetto  Latin Name: Serenoa repens, S. serrulata Family: Palmaceae

Description The so-called palmetto scrub is a six to ten foot high plant that has been recognized by the North American Indians as well as white settlers for its "fattening" properties. The hard brown seeds have a sweetish taste and are odourless. Saw Palmetto has a long-standing history of treating prostate disorders and chronic urinary tract infections. This herb helps block the production of the hormone dihydrotestosterone that contributes to the enlargement of the prostate. Saw palmetto berries also contain fatty acids that help prevent inflammation which can lead to benign prostatic hypertrophy. This herb is a good general tonic, specifically for men.

Ailments/Situations Where Used This plant is used for debilitating and wasting conditions. It is used to increase weight and give strength to the body. It is a very well known treatment for prostatic enlargement and works directly on the enlarged gland to reduce inflammation, pain, and throb. Many trials have shown that the extract of the berries reduce prostate enlargement and allow urine to flow more freely, thus alleviating the urge for frequent, night-time, urination. For prostatitis, it works synergistically combined with hydrangea and horsetail. The berries act as an antiseptic to the urinary tract and are used in the treatment of urinary tract infections, inflammation or catarrh of the urinary tract, painful urination, impotence, and frigidity. This plant has quite an effect on the endocrine glands, especially on the hormonal action of the male reproductive system and is used in an absence of sex drive. For women, the berries help develop pelvic organs and assist in bust development. The berries contain a fair amount of essential fatty acids and are a strong expectorant, helping to remove catarrh from the mucous membranes. This herb also promotes glandular balance, particularly for thyroid disease.

Source Berries

Preparations Infusion: For a tea, infuse 1 teaspoon crushed berries with 1 cup boiling water for 10 minutes. Take 3 times daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops of tincture 3 times daily. Supplement: Take 320mg daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications Rarely there is some gastrointestinal upset. Saw Palmetto may interfere with iron absorption.

Scullcap  Helmet flower, Mad-dogweed Latin Name: Scutellaria lateriflora Family: Labiatae

Description Scullcap has been used for many years as a tonic to the nervous system, and is still used to date as one of the finest nervines and antispasmodics ever discovered.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Scullcap is one of the only nervines that is high in calcium, potassium, and magnesium. This plant is used extensively in all nervous troubles from hysteria, to epilepsy, chorea, fits, and convulsions. Its influence on the nervous system is so powerful it will cause a permanent tonic effect, and always soothes the system. It is wonderful in treating anxiety, mild depression, and insomnia. In fact it is said that when all else fails in insomnia, scullcap will always do the trick. It has no narcotic effect and will bring about a peaceful, quiet sleep. Scullcap is a bitter herb which in turn has a tonic effect on the digestive system, so can be used to strengthen and tone. Overall this plant is a good brain tonic and will always relax the mind, when such an effect is desired. It is a good aid in meditation or when one is needing a calming of the mind. It is interesting that this plant possesses all these wonderful effects, since the flower head looks like a helmet for your head.

Source Aerial portions of plant.

Preparations Infusion: Use 1 to 2 tsp. dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep 10 to 15 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups daily. Add honey or lemon to reduce the bitter flavour.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Scullcap can have a sedating effect on the body and can cause drowsiness. Do not use while driving, operating heavy/precision machinery, or performing any other activity requiring a high, acute, level of awareness. Overdoses can cause giddiness, confusion of the mind, dizziness, erratic pulse rate, and involuntary contraction of limbs.

Senna Latin Name: Cassia angustifolia Family: Leguminosae

Description The name senna comes from Arabid, and was first introduced by Arabian physicians. The leaves that come from Africa are loosely packed and keep their curled appearance that occurs after drying. Senna from India is tightly packed, resulting in the dried leaves being flat. High quality leaves have a fresh yellow to green colour, a slightly bitter taste, and a smell similar to green tea.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Senna leaves and pods are an old time remedy for constipation. However, senna is one of the most abused plants and should only be used with respect and moderation. Senna is quite a strong laxative due to the anthraquinone glycosides found in the plant. It is used in gall bladder disorders, anal fissures, hemorrhoids, and following rectal or abdominal surgery. Senna is an ideal way of evacuating the bowel before surgery or diagnostic investigation. If used alone, it can cause griping (cramping bowels) and should be combined with fennel, peppermint or ginger to counteract this effect.

Source Leaves and pods

Preparations Traditionally, 2 pods of senna were soaked in 3 cups water and allowed to sit for 12 hours, then taken. Infusion: An ideal method of taking senna is to combine 1 teaspoon herb, a slice of lemon, 1/2 teaspoon ginger, and a little honey and infused with 1 cup boiling water. Take warm.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Do not use in inflammatory bowel conditions such as colitis, Crohn’s disease, ileus, appendicitis, or abdominal pain of unknown origin. Your body will become dependent on senna if used continually over a long period of time. The root cause of the constipation should be looked in to and other remedies should be employed. Avoid in pregnancy as senna is too strong a purgative.

Slippery Elm Inner Bark Latin Name: Ulmus rubra, U. fulva Family: Urticaceae

Description Since the wood is of no value, this small tree is usually stripped of its bark and left to die. The bark should be 10 years old before use and the powder should be greyish, not dark or reddish. In early spring, the flowers grow before the leaves.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Slippery elm is given as a very good nutritive and, when given as a gruel (powder mixed with water to form a paste and mixed into boiling milk or water), is very nourishing and strengthening during convalescence or when it is difficult to eat or even keep anything down. This herb is very soothing to the mucous membranes especially of the digestive tract and works wonders when there is inflammation of ulceration. It is given in digestive weakness, stomach and intestinal ulcers, colitis, gastritis, sore and dry coughs, and hemorrhaging. Slippery elm helps in suppressing acid production that protects the gastric mucosa and controls esophageal reflux which can cause indigestion. Given during wasting conditions, it helps increase body weight and strengthen the body. In diarrhea, it will sooth and astringe. It can be given before a journey to ward off any nausea and given before partys to allay hangovers.

Source Bark

Preparations Mix one tablespoon of powder with water to forma paste. Bring one cup water or milk to a boil and pour the paste in. Boil five more minutes and strain. Drink three cups daily or when needed.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications.

Squawvine Partridge Berry, Motherhood Tea Latin Name: Mitchella repens Family: Rubiaceae

Description Squawvine can be found in dry woods as well as swampy areas throughout America. It flowers in June and July and the leaves, which look similar to those of red clover, are green year round.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Historically and today, squawvine has been drunk by West Indian women during pregnancy for a safe and easy delivery. This plant helps tone the uterus, strengthens the nerves, circulation, and promotes a healthy fetus. It is used in sore nipples, painful menstruation, bladder complaints, incontinence, and suppression of urine. Its astringent properties make it useful for stopping excessive discharges such as excess menstrual flow and leuccorhea. It prepares the womb for childbirth and assists it back to normal after. Combined with raspberry leaves, squawvine makes an excellent miscarriage preventative and is just wonderful during pregnancy to help prepare oneself.

Source Aerial portions of plant.

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 tsp. Herb and infuse 10 minutes. Take 3 times daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops 3 times daily or as otherwise stated.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Use only in the last trimester of pregnancy.

Latin Name: Hypericum perforatum Family: Hypericaceae

Description St. John’s Wort is native to the woods of Europe and Temperate Asia. It prefers well drained to dry soil and full sun. It is commonly found on North American slopes or stone-filled grasslands at the edge of pine forests. This herb was used by Dioscorides and other physicians of ancient Greece. Hypericum means "power over an apparition", referring to its ability to repel evil spirits and demonic possession or, in modern times, for symptoms of psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety or not being oneself. The ancient, alleged magical powers of St. John’s Wort were partly due to the fluorescent red pigment, "hypercin", that oozes like blood from the crushed flowers. Today, this small perennial is the number one alternative treatment for depression and hypericin is seen as the "active ingredient". With small, bright yellow, 5 petal flowers that seem to overflow along the stems of the plant, this plant seems to radiate happiness! Hold a tiny petal up to the sky or bright light and peer at its equally tiny pin holes. There are at least 10 pharmacologically active constituents in this herb. Researchers currently focus on hypericin and pseudohypericin. This herb has also been used in drug trials for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). This herb has also used in the treatment of physical wounds, especially those involving nerve damage.

Ailments/Situations Where Used St. John’s Wort has anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant, astringent, and vulnerary properties. It is useful for menopausal or premenstrual syndrome (PMS), neuralgia, rheumatism, coughs, colds, and stomach ulcers. This nervine is also appropriate for anxiety, nervous tension, irritability, emotional upsets, and some forms of depression. St. John’s Wort outsells pharmaceutical anti-depressants in Germany. It has been found to be just as effective, but without the side effects. The herb is most appropriate for mild to moderate depression. The herb also has anti-microbial properties that prevent infection. It helps prevent scars and speeds healing when applied topically to wounds, injuries, and burns. Use externally for lacerated wounds, bruises, varicose veins, mild burns, and sunburn.

Source Whole aerial parts, especially the flower tops. The highest hypericum levels can be found in the buds just before opening. When growing this herb, harvest the entire aerial part of the plant and dry as quickly as possible. For the highest hypericum levels, use only the flowering tops just before opening and make a tincture.

Preparations In general, St. John’s Wort needs to be taken for an extended period of time -- 2 to 3 months -- for chronic conditions such as nervous tension and depression. Infusion: Use 1 to 2 tsp. dried herb per cup of boiling water. Let steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups daily. St. John’s Wort tea tastes initially sweet, then bitter. Infused Oil: Apply topically as needed. Supplement: Take 300 to 500mg 2 to 3 times daily. Preparations are often standardized to 0.3% hypericin. Tincture: Method 1: Take 20 to 80 drops, 3 times daily. Method 2: Take 30 drops 3 times daily for 2 weeks, followed by 30 drops two times daily thereafter. Method 3: Take 2 teaspoons 3 times daily for two weeks followed by 1 teaspoon two times daily thereafter. For stomach ulcers, take 1 teaspoon oil twice daily on an empty stomach.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Do not take if pregnant or nursing. There have be incidences of severe photosensitization in cattle and other grazing animals but there has been no evidence of photosensitization in humans except upon ingestion of prolonged, very high doses, of hypericin as in the treatment of HIV and AIDS. There have been occasional reports of contact dermatitis in fair skin people gathering the plant in moist sunny conditions. Discontinue if you develop a rash. Do not take in concert with anti-depressant drugs. St. John’s Wort may interfere with iron absorption. May cause increased sedation.

Suma Para Toda, Brazilian Ginseng Latin Name: Pfaffia paniculata Family: Amaranthaceae

Description Called "the Brazilian ginseng", Suma is from South America and is not very common in North America. It is an energy tonic adaptogen and is said to be equal in properties to Siberian ginseng.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Traditionally, this plant has been used as a food to help strengthen and build the body. Suma can be quite uplifting and supplies a pretty good boost of energy. Most of the research done on this plant has been conducted at Sao Paulo University by Dr. Milton Brazzarch, whose wife cured herself of breast cancer using high doses of suma daily. He then went on and used it on many people with several different forms of cancer with very amazing results. Suma contains high concentrations of germanium that work on the body by eliminating toxic metals, acting as an antioxidant, and neutralizing acids in the blood (caused by over-consumption of dairy, meats, refined foods, and alcohol). Germanium boosts the immune system and is an energy modulator. It is believed that germanium poses a challenge to cancer cells. Suma is used for low energy levels, excessive stress, chronic fatigue, low blood pressure, and to build the appetite. This plant is also used for sexual debility. There is much potential for this wonderful plant and it shall be further investigated into potential uses.

Source Root

Preparations Suma is most commonly found in powder form. Stir one tablespoon into a morning shake. Infusion: 1 tsp. can be infused with a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes and taken three times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications, although this plant does need to be further investigated.

Common Thyme, English Thyme, Garden Thyme,
Lemon Thyme, Mother of Thyme, Wild Thyme Latin Name: Thymus vulgaris, Thymus x. Citriodorus Family: Labiatae

Description "Thymus" is the original Greek name used by Theophrastus both for thyme and savory. Fossil remains from more than 5 million years ago show imprints of recognizable, present day, varieties of thyme. Throughout history, thyme has come to symbolize death as the souls of the dead were believed to rest in the flowers and the smell of thyme has apparently been detected at several haunted sites. It is also associated with various rituals once carried out by young women to reveal their true love and has been widely used as a fumigant and incense. Some 350 species of small evergreen aromatic perennials belong to this Eurasian genus. Many thymes make wonderful garden plants and are ideal for rock gardens, walls, and containers. Though the flowers are small, they produce an abundance of nectar and many species are important as bee plants. Thymes need plenty of sunlight and good drainage, low humidity and a rocky, chalky soil rich in trace elements. They are shallow rooted and susceptible to heaving by alternating freezing and thawing. This herb should also be covered with a mulch of straw or pine needles in the fall. Thyme has a pungent, tangy flavour. Use with poultry, red meat, fish, tomatoes, cabbage, green vegetables, clam chowder, or vegetable soup. For aesthetic flare, line hors d’oeuvre trays with whole thyme sprigs. Crushed sprigs can also be placed in the cavity of a chicken, along with lemon slices, before roasting.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Thyme can be used for respiratory tract infections, including asthma, laryngitis, tonsillitis, coughs, sore throats, deep seated chest infections with thick yellow phlegm. It can also be used for digestive tract related situations, including poor digestion, diarrhea, dyspepsia and flatulence, irritable bowel syndrome. Thyme is one of the most powerful antiseptics known. The main ingredient in the essential oil, thymol, has anti-septic, anti-fungal, and anti-microbial properties and is applied externally via aromatherapy. Diffuse the essential oil into the air or apply, diluted, on skin infections and wounds. This herb also stimulates local immunity and blood supply and is used to treat diarrhea and bedwetting in children. The oil also has bitter properties may expel worms, and, in small doses, has a tranquilizing effect.

Source Stripped leaves and flowers.

Preparations Essential OilBites and Infected Wounds: Dilute 10 drops per 20mL water. Chest Rub: Dilute 10 drops in 20mL carrier oil. Massage: Dilute 10 drops per 25mL carrier oil.Herb Infusion: Add 2 teaspoons dried herb to one cup hot water. Take 3 times daily. Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid therapeutic doses during pregnancy as thyme acts as a uterine stimulant. Culinary use is safe. Thyme oil is generally only suitable for external use and should always be diluted with a carrier oil. It is irritating. It is included appropriately, in very small amounts, with peppermint, in enteric coated capsules for irritable bowel syndrome.

Turmeric Latin Name: Curcuma longaFamily: Zingiberaceae

Description This herb is bright and yellow in colour and pungent and spicy in taste. It is widely used as a liver detoxifier in Ayurvedic medicine and has liver stimulating/healing qualities similar to licorice and milk thistle. The active compounds are considered to be curcuminoids. Powerful anti-inflammatory. Curcumin gives it its yellow color Stimulates adrenal cortex to secrete natural cortisone. Turmeric is also a potent antioxidant.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Turmeric increases bile flow and is useful in treating jaundice. If taking a SGOT and/or SGPT blood test to determine liver inflammation, turmeric can help prevent increased inflammation. Turmeric root helps protect the liver in similar fashion to licorice root and milk thistle. Its very strong antioxidant properties further help protect the liver. This herb can also be used to treat arthritis and indigestion.

Source Powdered root is the most widely available form of this herb.

Preparations Take 4 tablespoons of powder daily either in food or mixed into water or other liquid.Infusion: Use 1 tsp. powder per cup of warm milk. Drink up to 3 cups daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Do not use during pregnancy or if attempting to conceive. Do not use if you experience blood-clotting problems. Large doses may cause stomach upset.

Bearberry, Bear’s Grape, Upland Cranberry, Arbutus Latin Name: Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Family: Ericaceae

Description The use of this plant dates back to the thirteenth century when it was used by the Welsh "Physicians of Myddfai". It has also been used by many recognized doctors and herbalists and is an official medicine in nearly all pharmacopoeias.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Uva-ursi has long been used as a urinary antiseptic. It is used with great value in kidney and bladder complaints and overall urinary tract inflammations such as cystitis, nephritis, urethritis, and pyelitis. One of the reasons it is so useful as a urinary antiseptic is due to the glucoside arbutin which, when excreted by the kidney, turns into hydroquinone -- a powerful urinary disinfectant. Apparently, this is more effective with alkaline urine, which can be achieved by following a vegetarian diet. Uva-ursi strengthens and tones the urinary passages and treats blood in the urine. These specific healing properties are due to the tannins found in the plant. Native Americans gave uva-ursi to women after birthing to shrink the uterus and prevent infection. They drank and bathed in the tea. This same treatment was used in many European hospitals.

Source Leaves

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup warm or room temperature water over 1 teaspoon of herb and allow to infuse for 10 to 15 minutes. Take 3 to 4 times daily. Hot water alters its diuretic properties.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid in pregnancy. Long-term use should be avoided as large doses of hydroquinones can be poisonous. Normal medicinal use is safe.

Garden Heliotrope Latin Name: Valeriana officinalis Family: Valerianceae

Description Valerian is native to Europe and Asia and has been naturalized in North America. It prefers moist soil in sun or shade and is often found growing wild among grasslands, ditches, swamps, meadows, and near streams. The 1.5 metre tall perennial has irregularly divided leaves and dense clusters of small, scented pink or white flowers. Its summer blooms are followed by seeds with a tuft of white hair. The name "valerian" may be derived from the Latin "valere" meaning "to be well". This nervine herb has a calming, relaxing, sedating effect on the body and has been in use for quite some time. Valerian was used by Hippocrates in 400 BCE and it also appears in Anglo-Saxon herbals. In the 10th century, Valerian was recommended by Arab physicians. It was used during World War I to treat shellshock (loss of memory and other functions due to prolonged psychological strain) and prescribed to English citizens during WWII to help cope with air raids. Valerian contains valepotriate, valeric acid, valeranic acid, and valereal. These volatile oils and associated compounds make this herb quite therapeutic and account for its strong, potent "aroma". It is often combined with a mint when prepared as a tea.

Ailments/Situations Where Used The calming effects of this herb make it ideal for those suffering from anxiety disorder, nervous tension, or stress. It helps the body slow down, reduce tension, and generally promote a relaxed state. Valerian is often used as a sedative to treat insomnia or promote a good, restful sleep. It is useful for insomnia as it improves overall sleep quality and reduces nighttime awakenings. This herb does not cause the morning "hangover" often experienced by those taking barbiturates/sleeping pills. It also has muscle relaxant, painkiller, and anti-inflammatory properties. Valerian can be used topically as a compress soaked in tincture for bruising, especially deep bruising, crushing wounds. This herb is also used to treat cramps, migraine headaches, rheumatic pain, and exhaustion. Valeric acid is considered the "active" ingredient. Many preparations contain 0.8% of this compound. The roots also contain iridoids known as "valepotriates" which regulate nervous system function

Source Rhizomes, roots, and stolons.

Preparations Compress: Soak cloth in strong infusion and apply as needed. You may also use tincture. Infusion: Prepare 1/2 to 1 tsp. in hot water. Supplement: Capsules are the preferred method of use as valerian has a rather displeasing taste and smell. Take 150 to 300mg daily. You may also look for preparations standardized to 0.8% valeric acid. The lower dosage will help relieve anxiety while the higher dosage will promote sleep. Tincture: Take 60 to 100 drops three times daily. Valerian can be combined with scullcap to reduce tension, passionflower and hops to relieve insomnia, crampbark to reduce cramps, licorice and hyssop to ease coughs, and St. John’s wort to help heal bruising wounds.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Valerian can have a sedating effect on the body and can cause drowsiness. Do not use while driving, operating heavy/precision machinery, or performing any other activity requiring a high, acute, level of awareness. Do not take valerian with prescription barbiturates as effects may be compounded. Valerian causes hyperactivity in a small percentage of people. Potential toxicity from valepotriates is avoided due to the rapid degradation of these constituents during preparation. Oral ingestion of valepotriates is countered by poor absorption of the toxic elements. Prolonged use at high doses may lead to headaches and palpitations.

Black Walnut, Butternut Latin Name: Juglans spp. Family: Juglandaceae

Description In the "Golden Age", men were said to have sat upon acorns, while the gods sat upon walnuts. When boiled, the green outer coverings make a yellow dye while the leaves make a brown dye as a result of its iodine content.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Walnut leaves are used in Europe as an old folk remedy for eczema and eyelid inflammations. They are very antiseptic and anti-fungal and are used to destroy intestinal worms. They are used as a digestive tonic, for indigestion and to stimulate a poor appetite. The walnut is high in omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFA’s) and contains vitamins A, B, C, and E and a number of minerals. They help thin people put on weight and build strength. Studies suggest that walnuts delay the hardening of arteries, lower the risk of a coronary and have been shown to drop cholesterol levels. Walnuts are "brain food" (due to the EFA’s), but are a little too acidic. Traditionally, an infusion of the rind was used to darken the hair, treat diarrhea, and as a tonic in anemia. Today an extract of the hulls is used to combat eczema, psoriasis, herpes simplex, skin parasites and many other skin conditions, internally and externally. The inner bark of the tree, which is sometimes referred to as butternut, is a fine laxative and is one of the only few herbal laxatives appropriate for use during pregnancy. Walnut helps build digestion, stimulates the liver, and is helpful in alleviating many skin conditions. Its antiseptic and anti-fungal properties make it useful for treating Candida.

Source Whole walnut.

Preparations The walnut can be eaten freely (less by those who do not wish to put on a few pounds). Infusion: An infusion is used for the leaves and the hulls. Combine 1 teaspoon herb with 1 cup water and infuse for 10 minutes. Take 3 times daily. Tincture: A tincture of the hulls and inner bark can be used. Take 20 to 40 drops as needed, up to 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications, except for possible weight gain from excess walnut consumption.

Latin Name: Quercus robur Family: Cupuliferae

Description The oak tree is known for both its slow growth and remarkable size. King Arthur’s round table was made of a single slice of an enormous oak trunk. The wood is highly valued for its hardness, as well as its indestructibility, an example being a shrine in Westminster Abbey that is over 800 years old. The acorns used to be fed to swine and in England, during times of famine, was thankfully accepted by peasants as well.

Ailments/Situations Where Used The inner bark of this tree is usually used medicinally. The acorns are used too, but to a lesser extent. The decoction of the inner bark makes a very astringent tea and can be used for diarrhea, dysentery, hemorrhaging, or any excessive bleedings or discharges. For diarrhea, it is taken in small but frequent doses in the acute stage. A wash, using the strong decoction, can be used on external ulcers, hemorrhoids, injuries, or swollen tissues. It is also a good anti-inflammatory with antiseptic properties. The decoction can be gargled to help treat spongy gums, mouth ulcers, laryngitis, pharyngitis, and tonsillitis. It should be gargled freely in these conditions. Oak can be used quite well in leucorrhea or any vaginal discharge.

Source Inner bark and acorns.

Preparations Decoction: A decoction should be make by bringing 3 1/2 cups water and 2 1/2 to 3 teaspoons of bark to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes. Cool, strain, and take in mouthful or capful doses 3 times daily, until condition improves.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid in pregnancy.

Salicin Willow, Willow Latin Name: Salix alba Family: Salicaceae

Description The willow tree is native to Central and Southern Europe and is usually found in moist areas such as along streams. The bark should be collected in the summer when it separates easy from he trunk. NOTE: do not strip the bark in a full circumference around the tree as this will kill it. Traditionally, the leaves were used in the same way as the bark is today. White willow was amongst the first herbs to undergo scientific research and was the forerunner of aspirin.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Willow contains salicin, or methyl salicylate, (the basis of aspirin) and can be used as a substitute without any harmful side effects. Use it for fevers, headaches, sciatica, arthritis, rheumatism, neuralgia, and general aches and pains. Due to its high tannin content it can be used in diarrhea, dysentery or any excessive discharges. When taken in tea form, the salicylic acid from the plant is excreted in the urine and is therefore good for urinary tract infection and congestion. White willow is used in the treatment of any connective tissue injury or painful inflammatory condition. The plant’s naturally bitter flavour can have a stimulating effect on the digestive tract. The leaves are a good astringent used externally on cuts and wounds and can be used as a gargle for sore throats or mouth and gum ulcers. The branches of the tree are quite strong and flexible and can make pretty good baskets and other related crafts.

Source Bark and leaves.

Preparations Infusion: Bring 1 1/2 cups water and 1 teaspoon herb to a boil and simmer 10 minutes. Cool, strain, and enjoy.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings White willow’s strong bitter flavours can cause mild stomach disturbances. It is advisable to combine it with either licorice, ginger, or cinnamon. Many others can be used, but these three seem to work best.

Colic Root, Rheumatism Root Latin Name: Dioscorea villosa Family: Dioscoreaceae

Description There are over 150 varieties of this plant and most of them are edible. Since its medicinal value is lost after one year, wild yam should be collected and prepared fresh every year. Until 1970, diosgenin (a female hormone precursor) derived from the mexican wild yam was the only source of the hormone material used to make the contraceptive pill. Today, it is still occasionally used as the start-up material in the manufacturing of steroidal preparations such as cortisone, sex hormones, "the pill", and anabolic hormones.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Due to the steroidal saponins found in the plant, wild yam makes an excellent antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory herb. It is used for colic, gall stones, menstrual cramps, and abdominal and intestinal cramps. Wild yam may be given in problems of gas and flatulence and works wonders when given for pains associated with diverticulosis, irritable bowel syndrome, and colitis. Wild yam increases the flow of bile and helps remove any excess from the body. It is very handy when given to people with degenerative diseases as the plant assists liver function. Traditionally, wild yam has been given to women to ease menstrual cramping and for preventing miscarriage. It works quite favourably when given during the inflammatory stages of rheumatism and arthritis. Wild yam's diuretic properties, combined with the plant’s antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory actions, make for a well rounded treatment for painful urinary tract infections.

Source Root

Preparations Decoction: Bring 3 cups water and 3 teaspoons root to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Let cool, strain, and divide into 3 doses for the day. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops of tincture three times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Wild yam should be avoided during pregnancy.

Witch Hazel Winter Bloom Latin Name: Hamamelis virginiana Family: Hamamelidaceae

Description North American Indians commonly used witch hazel for its beneficial effect on swellings and even tumours. It is native to Canada and eastern parts of the United States. After the leaves have fallen in autumn, the yellow flowers start growing before the black nuts appear, which hold edible seeds.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Witch hazel is seldom used internally these days, although the bark is a little milder than the twigs and leaves which. It is fine in small doses and in moderation. The high tannin content in the plant makes it useful for the external treatment of hemorrhoids, varicose veins, cuts, chilblains, nose bleeds, and to refresh tired skin and sore eyes. This plant contains vitamin P (bioflavonoids) which helps protect capillaries and small blood vessels. The bioflavonoids are also antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Witch hazel is used for spontaneous bruising and capillary fragility induced by steroid therapy, diarrhea, dysentery, hemorrhages, excessive mucous discharge, vaginal and penile discharge, and prolapsed uterus or intestines. It is good to take witch hazel as a tonic after abortions or miscarriages to restore the normal size of the womb.

Source Leaves, branches, and bark.

Preparations Decoction: Bring 1 cup water and 1/2 teaspoon bark to a boil, simmer for 10 minutes, and take when needed. This tea can be applied externally as well. Witch hazel distillate can be purchased from your local herbalist or quality health food store.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Witch hazel should not be taken internally during pregnancy unless medically supervised. External treatment is all right, in moderation.

Latin Name: Betonica officianalis Family: Labiatae

Description "...it is good whether for a man’s soul or his body; it shields him against visions and dreams." -- Herbarium Apuleii, 9th century Wood betony has earned a reputation for being useful in close to fifty ailments throughout the ages, from the Greeks to the Middle Ages. It was said to drive away evil spirits and, for this reason, was a popular herb to be worn in amulets.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Wood betony is a fine medicinal that is stimulating to the circulation system and relaxing to the nervous system. It works well on headaches and migraines and can relieve neuralgia. The plant helps feed and strengthen the central nervous system, is mildly sedating, and is good for various aches and pains. It is used in nervous debility, anxiety, tension, sciatica, dizziness, and hiatus hernia. Combined with equal parts rosemary and scullcap, it makes a useful remedy for most types of headaches, especially those stemming from nervousness. This plant has an affinity for the liver and is used in France for liver and gallbladder complaints. It is traditionally used to clear head colds, loss of memory, sinusitis, and chronic rheumatism. Recent studies have shown that the plant's active constituent, trigonelline, has been shown to lower blood sugar levels. The high content of tannins in the plant makes it a very handy plant to apply externally to cuts and bruises.

Source Aerial portions of plant.

Preparations Infusion: Infuse one teaspoon herb in one cup water for 10 minutes and take three times daily, or when needed. Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops of quality tincture three times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There are no known contraindications.

Latin Name: Artemisia absinthum Family: Compositae

Description Next to rue, this is one of the most bitter herbs known. Its medicinal properties have been known for hundreds of years and wormwood was said to be an antidote for hemlock poisoning. When cooked with marjoram and thyme and applied before bed on "St. Luke’s Day", it was thought to reveal one’s true love in a dream. The plant should be collected while flowering in the months of July and August.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Wormwood is a very strong bitter that stimulates and invigorates the entire digestive tract. It increases the flow of bile and aids the liver in its detoxification process. Wormwood is used in poor appetite, convalescence, indigestion, gas, jaundice, hepatitis, high or low blood sugar levels, aches and pains, and gastritis. This plant helps the body deal with infections and fevers and also has immune-enhancing properties. As the name suggests, wormwood is a very popular remedy for worms, especially against roundworm and pinworm. It destroys any parasites (likely due to the bitter taste) and then drives them away. When combined with black walnut hulls, it is all the more powerful. Wormwood was traditionally given before a journey to ward off travel sickness and is given to elderly people to promote stomach acid production. Wormwood is very useful in the garden as a natural pesticide when used liberally on plants. The plant's mere presence in the garden is very useful in keeping it pest free. A related species, Artemisia annua, contains the compound artemisinin that works by destroying membranes of parasites causing starvation and eventually death. This species has been shown clinically to have very high cure rates on tertian malaria and subtertian malaria (cerebral). It is currently being investigated as a possible treatment for drug resistant malaria, and is used as a substitute for cloroquine to prevent malaria when travelling overseas. (Adapted from Michael Tierra’s Way of Herbs, 1990.)

Source Aerial portions of plant.

Preparations Infusion: Pour 1 cup warm water over 1/2 to 1 tsp. herb, cover, and let sit 10 minutes. Take three times daily before meals. Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops tincture 3 times daily.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Avoid in pregnancy. Do not use in hypertension or heart failure. Not advisable to take large doses. Wormwood’s properties deteriorate when applied to heat for long periods.

Latin Name: Achillea millefolium Family: Compositae

Description This aromatic perennial is closely associated with Divination, giving rise to sayings and verses in many parts of the world. In China, yarrow stalks are used in consulting the I Chin (book of changes). Over 40 different constituents have been isolated from yarrow, these include an essential oil, which contains anti-inflammatory azulene. Achillea was named after Achilles, who reputedly used it to heal his soldiers wounds after the siege of Troy. Yarrow is native to Europe and Western Asia and also widely naturalized in North America, Australia, and New Zealand. It has tough stems, feathery leaves and white to pink flowres that appear from early summer to late autumn. It makes an attractive border plant with long-lived flowers.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Yarrow has aromatic, bitter, and astringent properties that reduce inflammation, increase perspiration, relieve indigestion, and has diuretic effects. It is also effective in lowering blood pressure, relaxing spasms, and arresting hemorrhage. Yarrow is used internally to treat feverish illnesses such as the common cold and influenza. It is also useful for digestive problems, rheumatism, arthritis, and hypertension. Yarrow has been found to protect against thrombosis after stroke or heart attack.

Source Aerial parts.

Preparations Infusion: Add 1 to 2 teaspoons to one cup boiling water. Drink twice daily, as hot as possible. Tincture: Take 20 to 80 drops twice daily. Yarrow works well when combined with elder flower, peppermint, boneset, cayenne, and ginger for fever, hawthorn and mistletoe for high blood pressure, and chamomile for digestive problems.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings Prolonged use of yarrow may cause allergic rashes and make the skin more sensitive to sunlight.

Joshua Tree, Soap Tree, Spanish Bayonet Latin Name: Yucca spp. Family: Liliaceae

Description This dry-climate plant has long been used by the natives of the southwest deserts. The flowers, as well as the pulp of the fruit, are edible and the whole plant is very medicinal. While the Navajo Indians used yucca as soap, others took the juice of the spiky leaves and poisoned the tips of their arrows with it.

Ailments/Situations Where Used Yucca was the source of natural soap used by Navajo Indians for washing their hair and for bathing. They would also combine it with iodine to restore sight in blind animals. Yucca contains steroidal saponins similar to the mexican wild yam used to produce progesterone hormones. This natural source of progesterone is used in gynecology for bleeding of the womb and in menstrual disorders. The saponins also help resolve the clumping of blood cells and have a tendency to stimulate the flow of bile which, in turn, has a tonic effect on the liver and digestion. Yucca is an excellent anti-inflammatory (due to the saponins) and is used for arthritis, rheumatism, and for urethral and prostatic inflammation. The plant has good blood purifying properties and is handy in skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, boils, and abscesses. Yucca has quite a reputation in its ability to shrink tumours and a water extract has been shown to have anti-cancer properties against B1 melanoma in mice. The plant is used mainly for hormonal imbalances, inflammations, varicose veins, skin conditions, ulcers, and to cleanse the gallbladder.

Source Root

Preparations Decoction: 3 cups water and 3 teaspoons root are brought to a boil and simmered for 10 minutes. This final mix should be separated into 3 doses for the day.

Contraindications/Precautions/Warnings There is some question to whether long term use of this plant can slow down the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).