A - B
Alfalfa
Medicago sativa
Constituents: As a food, alfalfa provides beta-carotene and vitamins C, E, and K (although it is not, as frequently claimed, a source of vitamin A), protein, calcium and B vitamins.
Actions: Galactagogue, nutritive, coagulant, digestive
Indications: Rich source of vitamin K, which is a factor in the clotting of blood and helps prevent hemorrhage in both mother and baby after childbirth. Alfalfa is high in protein, calcium, B vitamins, vitamin C and E. It can aid with digestion and the assimilation of nutrients. It has been known to lower blood pressure and balance hormones. This nutritional powerhouse can also be used to help the production of breast milk.
Vitamin K also helps knit bones by working with vitamin D and glutamic acid to activate osteocalcin. The combination of these three nutrients is essential to building good bone. Your body cannot use calcium without it. Alfalfa not only helps keep calcium in bones, it helps keep calcium out of the linings of arteries and helps prevent arteriosclerosis.
Combos: For milk production: Blessed thistle, fenugreek, and marshmallow.
Precautions: For most people, alfalfa sprouts are inherently safe, but they do interact with certain medications. If you’re taking anti-rejection drugs for kidney transplant, don’t use any form of alfalfa. The herbs and the medications you need to benefit from the transplant simply may not mix. There’s no need to panic if you are a transplant patient and you’ve been using alfalfa products because the risk of adverse reaction is low. The reason not to use alfalfa is that while the risk of damage to the kidneys is very remote, it is also very serious. Similarly, you probably should treat alfalfa the same way you treat any other green, leafy vegetable if you take Coumadin. Alfalfa is rich in vitamin K that can interfere with the drug’s anti-coagulant effects. If you are on Coumadin, you should have been advised on the safe consumption of not just alfalfa but also of all other green, leafy vegetables. For everyone else, the main concern about alfalfa is the chemical L-cavanine. It’s found in alfalfa herb, alfalfa sprouts, and alfalfa seeds, and any product made from them without heating. L-cavanine, in extremely rare instances of excessive consumption, can cause abnormal red blood cell counts, enlargement of the spleen, or relapses of lupus.
Dosage: 1 tsp, per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15 min, drink 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2 dropperfulls, 3x/day. Capsules: 2-3 caps, 2-3x/day.
NOTES: Start at low dosage and work your way up to make sure it doesn’t cause gastrointestinal upset.
Constituents: As a food, alfalfa provides beta-carotene and vitamins C, E, and K (although it is not, as frequently claimed, a source of vitamin A), protein, calcium and B vitamins.
Actions: Galactagogue, nutritive, coagulant, digestive
Indications: Rich source of vitamin K, which is a factor in the clotting of blood and helps prevent hemorrhage in both mother and baby after childbirth. Alfalfa is high in protein, calcium, B vitamins, vitamin C and E. It can aid with digestion and the assimilation of nutrients. It has been known to lower blood pressure and balance hormones. This nutritional powerhouse can also be used to help the production of breast milk.
Vitamin K also helps knit bones by working with vitamin D and glutamic acid to activate osteocalcin. The combination of these three nutrients is essential to building good bone. Your body cannot use calcium without it. Alfalfa not only helps keep calcium in bones, it helps keep calcium out of the linings of arteries and helps prevent arteriosclerosis.
Combos: For milk production: Blessed thistle, fenugreek, and marshmallow.
Precautions: For most people, alfalfa sprouts are inherently safe, but they do interact with certain medications. If you’re taking anti-rejection drugs for kidney transplant, don’t use any form of alfalfa. The herbs and the medications you need to benefit from the transplant simply may not mix. There’s no need to panic if you are a transplant patient and you’ve been using alfalfa products because the risk of adverse reaction is low. The reason not to use alfalfa is that while the risk of damage to the kidneys is very remote, it is also very serious. Similarly, you probably should treat alfalfa the same way you treat any other green, leafy vegetable if you take Coumadin. Alfalfa is rich in vitamin K that can interfere with the drug’s anti-coagulant effects. If you are on Coumadin, you should have been advised on the safe consumption of not just alfalfa but also of all other green, leafy vegetables. For everyone else, the main concern about alfalfa is the chemical L-cavanine. It’s found in alfalfa herb, alfalfa sprouts, and alfalfa seeds, and any product made from them without heating. L-cavanine, in extremely rare instances of excessive consumption, can cause abnormal red blood cell counts, enlargement of the spleen, or relapses of lupus.
Dosage: 1 tsp, per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15 min, drink 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2 dropperfulls, 3x/day. Capsules: 2-3 caps, 2-3x/day.
NOTES: Start at low dosage and work your way up to make sure it doesn’t cause gastrointestinal upset.
Angelica
Archangelica officinalis (European)
Angelica atropurpurea (Wild American, has purple stems)
Angelica sinsensis (Chinese Angelica or Dong Quai, see Dong Quai for description of use.)
Common Names: Garden Angelica, Alexanders, American Dong Qui, Archangel, Purple-stem Angelica, American Angelica, High Angelica, Wild Archangel, Wild Angelica, Masterwort
(Note: There are about 50 species in the angelica family. Here I only cover the European and Wild American strain. Do not wild craft angelica, as the wild herb is too easily confused with its deadly look-alike, water hemlock.)
Constituents: Volatile oil, valeric acid, angelic acid, sugar, bitter principal, and a peculiar resin called Angelicin, which is stimulating to the lungs and to the skin. The essential oil of the roots contains terebangelene and other terpenes; the oil of the ‘seeds’ contains in addition methyl-ethylacetic acid and hydroxymyristic acid.
Angelica root contains vitamin B12, Zinc, Thiamin, Sucrose, Riboflavin, Potassium, Magnesium, Iron, Fructose, Glucose, and many other trace minerals.
Actions: The root stalks, leaves and fruit possess carminative, stimulant, diaphoretic, stomachic, tonic and expectorant properties, which are strongest in the fruit, though the whole plant has the same virtues.
Indications: Angelica is a good remedy for colds, coughs, pleurisy, wind, colic, rheumatism and diseases of the urinary organs, though it should not be given to patients who have a tendency towards diabetes, as it causes an increase of sugar in the urine.
It is generally used as a stimulating expectorant, combined with other expectorants the action of which is facilitated, and to a large extent diffused, through the whole of the pulmonary region.
It is a useful agent for feverish conditions, acting as a diaphoretic. (A Modern Herbal)
Angelica’s unusual flavor is a musky, bittersweet mixture of celery and anise.
Precautions: Not recommended for pregnant or nursing mothers.
Dosage:Decoction: 1 tsp root per cup boiling water, simmer for 2 minutes, let steep 15. Take one cup 3x/day. Tincture: 2-5ml, 3x/day.
Angelica atropurpurea (Wild American, has purple stems)
Angelica sinsensis (Chinese Angelica or Dong Quai, see Dong Quai for description of use.)
Common Names: Garden Angelica, Alexanders, American Dong Qui, Archangel, Purple-stem Angelica, American Angelica, High Angelica, Wild Archangel, Wild Angelica, Masterwort
(Note: There are about 50 species in the angelica family. Here I only cover the European and Wild American strain. Do not wild craft angelica, as the wild herb is too easily confused with its deadly look-alike, water hemlock.)
Constituents: Volatile oil, valeric acid, angelic acid, sugar, bitter principal, and a peculiar resin called Angelicin, which is stimulating to the lungs and to the skin. The essential oil of the roots contains terebangelene and other terpenes; the oil of the ‘seeds’ contains in addition methyl-ethylacetic acid and hydroxymyristic acid.
Angelica root contains vitamin B12, Zinc, Thiamin, Sucrose, Riboflavin, Potassium, Magnesium, Iron, Fructose, Glucose, and many other trace minerals.
Actions: The root stalks, leaves and fruit possess carminative, stimulant, diaphoretic, stomachic, tonic and expectorant properties, which are strongest in the fruit, though the whole plant has the same virtues.
Indications: Angelica is a good remedy for colds, coughs, pleurisy, wind, colic, rheumatism and diseases of the urinary organs, though it should not be given to patients who have a tendency towards diabetes, as it causes an increase of sugar in the urine.
It is generally used as a stimulating expectorant, combined with other expectorants the action of which is facilitated, and to a large extent diffused, through the whole of the pulmonary region.
It is a useful agent for feverish conditions, acting as a diaphoretic. (A Modern Herbal)
Angelica’s unusual flavor is a musky, bittersweet mixture of celery and anise.
Precautions: Not recommended for pregnant or nursing mothers.
Dosage:Decoction: 1 tsp root per cup boiling water, simmer for 2 minutes, let steep 15. Take one cup 3x/day. Tincture: 2-5ml, 3x/day.
Arnica
Arnica Montana
Constituents: Essential oils, sesquiterpene lactones, bitter glycosides, alkaloid, polyacetylenes, flavonoids, tannin.
Actions: Anti-inflammatory, vulnerary
Indications: Used topically for bruises and sprains. Used in cases of rheumatic pain, inflammation of phlebitis and arthritis. Used wherever there is pain or inflammation on the skin as long as it isn’t broken.
Combos: Goes well with witch hazel as a liniment and St. John’s Wort for muscle injuries.
Precautions: Not for internal use, potentially toxic, cause gastrointestinal upset.
Dosage: No internal dosage.
NOTES: Commonly tinctured for use as a liniment. Can be made into an herbal oil for muscle rubs.
Constituents: Essential oils, sesquiterpene lactones, bitter glycosides, alkaloid, polyacetylenes, flavonoids, tannin.
Actions: Anti-inflammatory, vulnerary
Indications: Used topically for bruises and sprains. Used in cases of rheumatic pain, inflammation of phlebitis and arthritis. Used wherever there is pain or inflammation on the skin as long as it isn’t broken.
Combos: Goes well with witch hazel as a liniment and St. John’s Wort for muscle injuries.
Precautions: Not for internal use, potentially toxic, cause gastrointestinal upset.
Dosage: No internal dosage.
NOTES: Commonly tinctured for use as a liniment. Can be made into an herbal oil for muscle rubs.
Ashwagandha
Withania somnifera
Constituents: Alkaloids, Withanolides, Steroidal lactones: tropine, cuscohygrine
Actions: adaptogen, anti-inflammatory, relaxant, antispasmodic, astringent, anti-depressive
Indications: Exhaustion, adrenal fatigue, over stressed situations. Has also been tested for improving low thyroid. Improves physical energy and sexual vitality. It calms and strengthens the nervous system and supports adrenal function, cognition and memory.
Precautions: Botanical safety guidelines in the US and Germany have suggested that Ashwagandha may be a mild abortifacient and it is not recommended for pregnant women. Ashwagandha should not be consumed for long periods of time and is better reserved for the “times of need”.
Dosage: 1 to 2 capsules, 1 to 2 times per day. Tincture, 30-40 drops, 2x/day
NOTES: Ashwagandha is a member of the nightshade family, however it should be noted that that unlike other Nightshades, Ashwagandha lacks the poisonous attributes. Ashwagandha in Sanskrit means “horse’s smell”, probably originating from the odor of its root which resembles that of a sweaty horse.
Citing a total of 31 studies, the Indian Central Council for Research on Ayurveda and Siddha tells us that ashwaganda root exerts its most powerful pharmacological influence on the reproductive system, neuropharmacological disorders, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, bacteria, fungi, inflammation and gastric acidity (Pandley et al., eds, 1996).
Constituents: Alkaloids, Withanolides, Steroidal lactones: tropine, cuscohygrine
Actions: adaptogen, anti-inflammatory, relaxant, antispasmodic, astringent, anti-depressive
Indications: Exhaustion, adrenal fatigue, over stressed situations. Has also been tested for improving low thyroid. Improves physical energy and sexual vitality. It calms and strengthens the nervous system and supports adrenal function, cognition and memory.
Precautions: Botanical safety guidelines in the US and Germany have suggested that Ashwagandha may be a mild abortifacient and it is not recommended for pregnant women. Ashwagandha should not be consumed for long periods of time and is better reserved for the “times of need”.
Dosage: 1 to 2 capsules, 1 to 2 times per day. Tincture, 30-40 drops, 2x/day
NOTES: Ashwagandha is a member of the nightshade family, however it should be noted that that unlike other Nightshades, Ashwagandha lacks the poisonous attributes. Ashwagandha in Sanskrit means “horse’s smell”, probably originating from the odor of its root which resembles that of a sweaty horse.
Citing a total of 31 studies, the Indian Central Council for Research on Ayurveda and Siddha tells us that ashwaganda root exerts its most powerful pharmacological influence on the reproductive system, neuropharmacological disorders, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, bacteria, fungi, inflammation and gastric acidity (Pandley et al., eds, 1996).
"Astragalus" Huang Qi
Astragalus membranaceus
Constituents: Linoleic acid, linolenic acid, betaine, choline, glycosides, isoamnitine, kumatakenin
Actions: Stimulant, tonic, diuretic, immunostimulant, antimicrobial, cardiotonic
Indications: A great Chinese tonic herb said to be an appropriate ginseng for younger people. A great tonic for the immune system. Acts to balance fluids in the body and prevents fluid retention. Also good for the circulatory system, dilating blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and acts as a heart tonic, increasing the endurance of fatigued hearts. Speeds recovery in those who have undergone chemotherapy or radiation therapy. It has been shown to enhance the function and increase production of white blood cells, and to promote adrenal cortex and bone marrow function which are depressed in cancer patients. It increases resistance to viral infection and is being looked into as a possible treatment for HIV and AIDS. Acts to reduce “T-suppressor cells” which inhibit immunity and tend to be found in large numbers in AIDS patients and elderly. It has also been shown to have antibiotic properties and to reduce toxicity in the liver.
Precautions: Do not take while on blood thinners. Astragalus is non-toxic in any dosages.
Dosage: Most authorities on traditional Chinese medicine recommend taking 9-15 grams (3 to 5 tablespoons) of the whole herb per day as a decoction, made by boiling the ground, dried root in water for a few minutes and then brewing the tea. May also be taken in capsule or extract form.
NOTES: In Chinese medicine, it is said to energize the outside of the body and tonify the protective energy known as the Chi, which protects the body from external “pathogenic factors”, such as cold, damp, wind and heat.
Constituents: Linoleic acid, linolenic acid, betaine, choline, glycosides, isoamnitine, kumatakenin
Actions: Stimulant, tonic, diuretic, immunostimulant, antimicrobial, cardiotonic
Indications: A great Chinese tonic herb said to be an appropriate ginseng for younger people. A great tonic for the immune system. Acts to balance fluids in the body and prevents fluid retention. Also good for the circulatory system, dilating blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and acts as a heart tonic, increasing the endurance of fatigued hearts. Speeds recovery in those who have undergone chemotherapy or radiation therapy. It has been shown to enhance the function and increase production of white blood cells, and to promote adrenal cortex and bone marrow function which are depressed in cancer patients. It increases resistance to viral infection and is being looked into as a possible treatment for HIV and AIDS. Acts to reduce “T-suppressor cells” which inhibit immunity and tend to be found in large numbers in AIDS patients and elderly. It has also been shown to have antibiotic properties and to reduce toxicity in the liver.
Precautions: Do not take while on blood thinners. Astragalus is non-toxic in any dosages.
Dosage: Most authorities on traditional Chinese medicine recommend taking 9-15 grams (3 to 5 tablespoons) of the whole herb per day as a decoction, made by boiling the ground, dried root in water for a few minutes and then brewing the tea. May also be taken in capsule or extract form.
NOTES: In Chinese medicine, it is said to energize the outside of the body and tonify the protective energy known as the Chi, which protects the body from external “pathogenic factors”, such as cold, damp, wind and heat.
Black Cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa
Constituents: Triterpene glycosides, including actein and cimigoside, resins, volatile oil, tannin, salicylates, ranunculin.
Actions: Anodyne, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, hypotensive, sedative (cardiac), uterine tonic, parturient, ammenagogue, alterative
Indications: The painkilling properties can be used for a variety of ailments including childbirth, menstrual pain, headache, neuralgia, tinnitus, reflex mammary pains during pregnancy, mastitis and for ovarian and uterine pain. It is very popular as a uterine contraction regulator during childbirth and is commonly used prior to labor to prepare the uterus for birth. Also used for fertility. It has a balancing effect on the female sex hormones and may safely be used to regain normal hormonal activity. Black cohosh is a popular remedy for hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness of menopause. As a nervine it can be used in many cases were pain of the nervous system is present (such as sciatica).
Combos: For uterine contractions combine with Blue Cohosh. For rheumatic problems use with Bogbean.
Precautions: Never use in early pregnancy. In menopausal women, black cohosh is not likely to cause any complications other than mild stomach upset. Black cohosh must be avoided during pregnancy because of its potential ability to stimulate uterine contractions. The safety of black cohosh in breastfeeding mothers and the degree of transmission of black cohosh in breast milk has not been established. There is controversy regarding the safety of black cohosh in women with a personal history or strong family history of breast cancer.
Dosage: Decoction: ½ to 1 tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15 min, drunk 3x/day. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day
NOTES: The resin has been found to dilate the peripheral blood vessels and to lower blood pressure. In one well-designed study, 62 women going through menopause received black cohosh, estrogen, or a placebo for 90 days. Women who took black cohosh had the same reduction in hot flashes as women taking estrogen. Black cohosh did not stimulate growth of cells in the uterus, suggesting that, unlike estrogen, the herb does not increase the risk of uterine cancer. Black cohosh also increased the thickness of the vaginal wall. The study also suggested that black cohosh could help prevent osteoporosis.
Constituents: Triterpene glycosides, including actein and cimigoside, resins, volatile oil, tannin, salicylates, ranunculin.
Actions: Anodyne, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, hypotensive, sedative (cardiac), uterine tonic, parturient, ammenagogue, alterative
Indications: The painkilling properties can be used for a variety of ailments including childbirth, menstrual pain, headache, neuralgia, tinnitus, reflex mammary pains during pregnancy, mastitis and for ovarian and uterine pain. It is very popular as a uterine contraction regulator during childbirth and is commonly used prior to labor to prepare the uterus for birth. Also used for fertility. It has a balancing effect on the female sex hormones and may safely be used to regain normal hormonal activity. Black cohosh is a popular remedy for hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness of menopause. As a nervine it can be used in many cases were pain of the nervous system is present (such as sciatica).
Combos: For uterine contractions combine with Blue Cohosh. For rheumatic problems use with Bogbean.
Precautions: Never use in early pregnancy. In menopausal women, black cohosh is not likely to cause any complications other than mild stomach upset. Black cohosh must be avoided during pregnancy because of its potential ability to stimulate uterine contractions. The safety of black cohosh in breastfeeding mothers and the degree of transmission of black cohosh in breast milk has not been established. There is controversy regarding the safety of black cohosh in women with a personal history or strong family history of breast cancer.
Dosage: Decoction: ½ to 1 tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15 min, drunk 3x/day. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day
NOTES: The resin has been found to dilate the peripheral blood vessels and to lower blood pressure. In one well-designed study, 62 women going through menopause received black cohosh, estrogen, or a placebo for 90 days. Women who took black cohosh had the same reduction in hot flashes as women taking estrogen. Black cohosh did not stimulate growth of cells in the uterus, suggesting that, unlike estrogen, the herb does not increase the risk of uterine cancer. Black cohosh also increased the thickness of the vaginal wall. The study also suggested that black cohosh could help prevent osteoporosis.
Black Walnut
Juglans nigra
Constituents: Juglone, vitamin C, zinc, oil, mucilage, albumin
Actions: Alterative, laxative, astringent, detergent, purgative, diaphoretic, antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, fungicide.
Indications: Predominantly used as a wash or salve for the treatment of fungus, yeast and ringworm. Used internally to treat intestinal worms and prevent infection (hulls). Also useful in cases of eczema, herpes and allergic reactions where the skin “leaks”. The leaf is used in topical remedies for scalp itching, peeling, dandruff, sunburns and superficial burns.
Combos: Wormwood and Cloves
Precautions: Black walnut hulls are safe for occasional use of up to 2 weeks at a time. Not for use during pregnancy.
Dosage: Wash: 1 oz, per pint, paint affected area 3x/day. Tincture: Start with ¼ tsp and work up to 2 tsp, 2x/day. Capsules: First day I take 1 capsule twice a day on an empty stomach. Second day I take 2 capsules twice a day on an empty stomach. Third day I take 2 capsules three times a day on an empty stomach.
NOTES: In India, a walnut leaf decoction is used as a wash for malignant sores and pustules. The German Commission E notes their benefit for mild, superficial inflammations of the skin, and excessive perspiration of the hands and feet.
Constituents: Juglone, vitamin C, zinc, oil, mucilage, albumin
Actions: Alterative, laxative, astringent, detergent, purgative, diaphoretic, antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, fungicide.
Indications: Predominantly used as a wash or salve for the treatment of fungus, yeast and ringworm. Used internally to treat intestinal worms and prevent infection (hulls). Also useful in cases of eczema, herpes and allergic reactions where the skin “leaks”. The leaf is used in topical remedies for scalp itching, peeling, dandruff, sunburns and superficial burns.
Combos: Wormwood and Cloves
Precautions: Black walnut hulls are safe for occasional use of up to 2 weeks at a time. Not for use during pregnancy.
Dosage: Wash: 1 oz, per pint, paint affected area 3x/day. Tincture: Start with ¼ tsp and work up to 2 tsp, 2x/day. Capsules: First day I take 1 capsule twice a day on an empty stomach. Second day I take 2 capsules twice a day on an empty stomach. Third day I take 2 capsules three times a day on an empty stomach.
NOTES: In India, a walnut leaf decoction is used as a wash for malignant sores and pustules. The German Commission E notes their benefit for mild, superficial inflammations of the skin, and excessive perspiration of the hands and feet.
Blackberry
Rubus fruticosus
Constituents: Tannins, gallic acid, villosin, starch, and calcium oxalate.
Actions: Astringent, antioxidant
Indications: Mostly used in cases of diarrhea or dysentery. Leaves are milder in action and better for children, while roots, the highest in astringent tannins work well for adults. It has also been used to heal canker sores and inflamed gums.
Precautions: Blackberry leaf is considered to be generally safe when taken in food amounts, but its safety when taken in higher medicinal amounts is not known, reports the NMCD. Although there are no reported side effects to blackberry leaf, it should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2 tsp leaves per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15 min, take 3x/daily or as needed to relieve symptoms. Can be used as a gargle for mouth sores.
Constituents: Tannins, gallic acid, villosin, starch, and calcium oxalate.
Actions: Astringent, antioxidant
Indications: Mostly used in cases of diarrhea or dysentery. Leaves are milder in action and better for children, while roots, the highest in astringent tannins work well for adults. It has also been used to heal canker sores and inflamed gums.
Precautions: Blackberry leaf is considered to be generally safe when taken in food amounts, but its safety when taken in higher medicinal amounts is not known, reports the NMCD. Although there are no reported side effects to blackberry leaf, it should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2 tsp leaves per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15 min, take 3x/daily or as needed to relieve symptoms. Can be used as a gargle for mouth sores.
Blessed Thistle
Cnicus benedictus
Constituents:Bitter glycoside called cnicin; flavonoids, essential oil, mucilage.
Actions: Stimulant, tonic, digestive, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, antibacterial, astringent.
Indications: Taken for it’s many uses associated with menstruation. It relieves menstrual cramps and headaches, and helps bring on suppressed periods. Great for increasing milk for nursing mothers. The bitters enhance appetite, digestion and absorbtion. Great for anorexia, indigestion, wind colic and any other condition associated with a sluggish liver such as headaches, lethargy and irritability. The bitters are also antimicrobial, enhancing the function of the immune system. When taken as a hot infusion it helps lower fevers and an expectorant for congestion.
Precautions: Not for use during pregnancy, will start contractions. Don’t use if you’re allergic to artichokes. Strong infusions can be emetic and cause diarrhea.
Dosage: Infusion: 1tsp per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15min, 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Tastes extremely bitter, best if added to other herbs with a bitter taste, encapsulated or made into a tincture.
Constituents:Bitter glycoside called cnicin; flavonoids, essential oil, mucilage.
Actions: Stimulant, tonic, digestive, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, antibacterial, astringent.
Indications: Taken for it’s many uses associated with menstruation. It relieves menstrual cramps and headaches, and helps bring on suppressed periods. Great for increasing milk for nursing mothers. The bitters enhance appetite, digestion and absorbtion. Great for anorexia, indigestion, wind colic and any other condition associated with a sluggish liver such as headaches, lethargy and irritability. The bitters are also antimicrobial, enhancing the function of the immune system. When taken as a hot infusion it helps lower fevers and an expectorant for congestion.
Precautions: Not for use during pregnancy, will start contractions. Don’t use if you’re allergic to artichokes. Strong infusions can be emetic and cause diarrhea.
Dosage: Infusion: 1tsp per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15min, 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Tastes extremely bitter, best if added to other herbs with a bitter taste, encapsulated or made into a tincture.
Blue Cohosh
Caulophyllum thalictroides
Constituents: Steroidal saponins, alkaloids
Actions: Uterine tonic, emmenagogue, anti-spasmodic, anti-rheumatic.
Indications: Used to tone the uterine muscles. Helps ease false labor pains because of its anti-spasmodic properties. When labor has started it’s great at helping the uterus work effectively. It is also used bring on a delayed period and relieves menstrual pain.
Combos: To strengthen uterus, False Unicorn Root, Motherwort, Yarrow. For labor is it most commonly combined with Black Cohosh.
Precautions: Blue Cohosh is a useful herb that should be used with care. Infants should never be given blue cohosh, or be nursed for 12 hours after their mothers or breastfeeding surrogates have taken blue cohosh (need more info). Do not use if there is high blood pressure or heart disease.
Dosage: 1tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10 min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day
NOTES: As an analgesic, blue cohosh is about 50% more effective than aspirin. Plant is considered AT RISK.
Constituents: Steroidal saponins, alkaloids
Actions: Uterine tonic, emmenagogue, anti-spasmodic, anti-rheumatic.
Indications: Used to tone the uterine muscles. Helps ease false labor pains because of its anti-spasmodic properties. When labor has started it’s great at helping the uterus work effectively. It is also used bring on a delayed period and relieves menstrual pain.
Combos: To strengthen uterus, False Unicorn Root, Motherwort, Yarrow. For labor is it most commonly combined with Black Cohosh.
Precautions: Blue Cohosh is a useful herb that should be used with care. Infants should never be given blue cohosh, or be nursed for 12 hours after their mothers or breastfeeding surrogates have taken blue cohosh (need more info). Do not use if there is high blood pressure or heart disease.
Dosage: 1tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10 min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day
NOTES: As an analgesic, blue cohosh is about 50% more effective than aspirin. Plant is considered AT RISK.
Burdock
Arctium lappa
Constituents: Inulin, mucilage, flavonoid glycosides, bitter glycosides, alkaloid, anti-microbial substance.
Actions: Alterative, strongly diuretic, bitter, diaphoretic, nutritive, hypoglycemic, estrogenic cholagogue, stomachic
Indications: Good blood purifier. Contains iron, magnesium, manganese, silicon and thiamine. Can be used internally and externally for eczema, psoriasis, acne and other skin disorders (particularly dry kinds). Promotes healthy kidney function and stimulates digestion and appetite. Clears uric acid from the body, so it is helpful for gout and rheumatism. Has a warming effect on the body and causes you to sweat. (Soothing and cooling to mucus surfaces. Used for chronic colds, smoker’s cough, dry sore throat, emphysema, wheezing lung problems, and swollen respiratory membranes . Also good for intestinal flora, use yeast overgrowth, chronic stomach aches, colitis and colon cancer.*WWH-Healing Wise.)
Precautions: Avoid use or take care when diabetic or hypoglycemic.
Dosage: Use fresh whenever you can in soups and stews or stir fries. Use leaves for salves, ointments and washes. Tincture in 80-proof, may have thick white “milk” that settles at the bottom of the bottle (inulin). Decoct: 1tsp/cup water, simmer 10-15min 3x/day. Tincture2-4ml 3x/day.
Constituents: Inulin, mucilage, flavonoid glycosides, bitter glycosides, alkaloid, anti-microbial substance.
Actions: Alterative, strongly diuretic, bitter, diaphoretic, nutritive, hypoglycemic, estrogenic cholagogue, stomachic
Indications: Good blood purifier. Contains iron, magnesium, manganese, silicon and thiamine. Can be used internally and externally for eczema, psoriasis, acne and other skin disorders (particularly dry kinds). Promotes healthy kidney function and stimulates digestion and appetite. Clears uric acid from the body, so it is helpful for gout and rheumatism. Has a warming effect on the body and causes you to sweat. (Soothing and cooling to mucus surfaces. Used for chronic colds, smoker’s cough, dry sore throat, emphysema, wheezing lung problems, and swollen respiratory membranes . Also good for intestinal flora, use yeast overgrowth, chronic stomach aches, colitis and colon cancer.*WWH-Healing Wise.)
Precautions: Avoid use or take care when diabetic or hypoglycemic.
Dosage: Use fresh whenever you can in soups and stews or stir fries. Use leaves for salves, ointments and washes. Tincture in 80-proof, may have thick white “milk” that settles at the bottom of the bottle (inulin). Decoct: 1tsp/cup water, simmer 10-15min 3x/day. Tincture2-4ml 3x/day.