C - D
Calendula
Calendula officinalis
Constituents: Carotenoids, resin, essential oil, flavonoids, sterol, bitters, saponins, mucilage.
Actions: Antiseptic, astringent, anti-viral, diaphoretic, detoxifying, antispasmodic, estrogenic, anti-inflammatory, bitter tonic, diuretic.
Indications: Used frequently as an antiseptic and astringent, stimulating the immune system and helping the body fight against infections such as flu and herpes viruses. It reduces lymphatic congestion and swollen lymph glands. Antibacterial and is useful for treating fungal infections such as thrush. Hot infusions stimulate circulation and promotes perspiration, helping the body with toxins and eruptions such as chicken pox. Its estrogenic effect helps menopause and reduces breast congestion. The astringent properties also help reduce excessive bleeding and uterine congestion. It has a reputation for treating tumors and cysts. Very well known for its use as a first aid remedy for cuts, abrasions, and as antiseptic healer for sores, ulcers and a variety of skin inflammations due to infection or physical damage.
Precautions: Do not use during pregnancy.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15 min taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-4ml, 3x/day. Externally: Can be used as a salve, poultice or ointment, applied 3x/day or as needed.
Constituents: Carotenoids, resin, essential oil, flavonoids, sterol, bitters, saponins, mucilage.
Actions: Antiseptic, astringent, anti-viral, diaphoretic, detoxifying, antispasmodic, estrogenic, anti-inflammatory, bitter tonic, diuretic.
Indications: Used frequently as an antiseptic and astringent, stimulating the immune system and helping the body fight against infections such as flu and herpes viruses. It reduces lymphatic congestion and swollen lymph glands. Antibacterial and is useful for treating fungal infections such as thrush. Hot infusions stimulate circulation and promotes perspiration, helping the body with toxins and eruptions such as chicken pox. Its estrogenic effect helps menopause and reduces breast congestion. The astringent properties also help reduce excessive bleeding and uterine congestion. It has a reputation for treating tumors and cysts. Very well known for its use as a first aid remedy for cuts, abrasions, and as antiseptic healer for sores, ulcers and a variety of skin inflammations due to infection or physical damage.
Precautions: Do not use during pregnancy.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15 min taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-4ml, 3x/day. Externally: Can be used as a salve, poultice or ointment, applied 3x/day or as needed.
Catnip
Nepeta cataria
Constituents: Volatile oils including nepetalactone, camphor, cryophyllenes, humulene, thymol, geraniol, tannins, bitter principle.
Actions: Refrigerant, diaphoretic, relaxant, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, astringent.
Indications: Works well for bringing down fevers and respiratory infections. Taken hot it increases perspiration and works as a decongestant. Good for babies and children for: relaxing and helping them sleep, aids digestive tension, colic, diarrhea and wind. For adults it can help headaches related to tension, stomach upset. Commonly used in enemas for inflammatory bowel conditions, infections, constipation and diarrhea. Used to relieve menstrual pain and tension and bring on delayed periods. Catnip is also strongly antifungal and a bactericide for Staphylococcus aureus, as well as a close chemical relative to a number of insect repellants that affect mosquitoes and termites.
Combos: Boneset, Elder, Yarrow or Cayenne for fevers or colds.
Precautions: Not for use during pregnancy.
Dosage: 2 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Scientists have ascertained that the feline reaction to catnip is due to the its content of nepetalactone. Folklore of the early Americans settlers suggested that they felt that ingesting catnip would somehow make even the kindest person mean.
Constituents: Volatile oils including nepetalactone, camphor, cryophyllenes, humulene, thymol, geraniol, tannins, bitter principle.
Actions: Refrigerant, diaphoretic, relaxant, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, astringent.
Indications: Works well for bringing down fevers and respiratory infections. Taken hot it increases perspiration and works as a decongestant. Good for babies and children for: relaxing and helping them sleep, aids digestive tension, colic, diarrhea and wind. For adults it can help headaches related to tension, stomach upset. Commonly used in enemas for inflammatory bowel conditions, infections, constipation and diarrhea. Used to relieve menstrual pain and tension and bring on delayed periods. Catnip is also strongly antifungal and a bactericide for Staphylococcus aureus, as well as a close chemical relative to a number of insect repellants that affect mosquitoes and termites.
Combos: Boneset, Elder, Yarrow or Cayenne for fevers or colds.
Precautions: Not for use during pregnancy.
Dosage: 2 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Scientists have ascertained that the feline reaction to catnip is due to the its content of nepetalactone. Folklore of the early Americans settlers suggested that they felt that ingesting catnip would somehow make even the kindest person mean.
Cayenne
Capsicum minimum
Capsicum frutescans
Constituents: Vitamins A and C, flavonoids, essential oil, carotenoids, alkaloid (capsaicin)
Actions: Stimulant, rubefacient, antiseptic, tonic, carminative, analgesic, diaphoretic, decongestant, expectorant, digestive, detoxifying
Indications: Powerful stimulant to the heart and circulation. Good for those who feel cold, chills and warding off winter blues. Causes sweating and enhancing the body’s resistance to infection. Increases the secretion of fluid in the bronchial tubes, thinning phlegm and easing its expulsion. Relieving stuffiness and catarrh, helps clear airways. Increases appetite, promotes the secretion of digestive juices and improves digestion and absorption. Used to relieve sluggish digestion that causes wind, nausea and indigestion. The burning sensation on the tongue sends messages to the brain to secrete endorphins, natural opiates, which block pain and induce a feeling of wellbeing. Externally it is used as a rubefacient in problems like lambago and rheumatic pains. As a gargle in laryngitis is combines well with Myrrh.
Precautions: Not for those with blood clotting disorders or are taking blood thinners. Not good for those who tend to overheat or have acidic stomachs.
Dosage: Infusion: ½-1tsp per cup of boiling water. Let steep 10 minutes. Take 1 tablespoon at a time diluted with hot water and drunk when needed. Tincture take .25-1ml, 3 times per day or when needed.
Capsicum frutescans
Constituents: Vitamins A and C, flavonoids, essential oil, carotenoids, alkaloid (capsaicin)
Actions: Stimulant, rubefacient, antiseptic, tonic, carminative, analgesic, diaphoretic, decongestant, expectorant, digestive, detoxifying
Indications: Powerful stimulant to the heart and circulation. Good for those who feel cold, chills and warding off winter blues. Causes sweating and enhancing the body’s resistance to infection. Increases the secretion of fluid in the bronchial tubes, thinning phlegm and easing its expulsion. Relieving stuffiness and catarrh, helps clear airways. Increases appetite, promotes the secretion of digestive juices and improves digestion and absorption. Used to relieve sluggish digestion that causes wind, nausea and indigestion. The burning sensation on the tongue sends messages to the brain to secrete endorphins, natural opiates, which block pain and induce a feeling of wellbeing. Externally it is used as a rubefacient in problems like lambago and rheumatic pains. As a gargle in laryngitis is combines well with Myrrh.
Precautions: Not for those with blood clotting disorders or are taking blood thinners. Not good for those who tend to overheat or have acidic stomachs.
Dosage: Infusion: ½-1tsp per cup of boiling water. Let steep 10 minutes. Take 1 tablespoon at a time diluted with hot water and drunk when needed. Tincture take .25-1ml, 3 times per day or when needed.
Chamomile
Matricaria chamomilla
Constituents: Volatile oil which includes chamazulene and isadol; mucilage; coumarin; flavones glycosides.
Actions: Anti-spasmodic, carminative, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiseptic, vulnerary.
Indications: Renowned for its medical and household uses. Relaxing, carminative and anti-inflammatory actions can aid. It is an excellent, gentle sedative, useful and safe for use with children. It will contribute its relaxing actions in any combination and is thus used in anxiety and insomnia. Indigestion and inflammations such as gastritis are often eased with chamomile. Similarly, it can be used as a mouth wash for inflammations of the mouth such as gingivitis and for bathing inflamed and sore eyes. As a gargle it will help sore throats. As an inhalation over a steam bath, it will speed recovery from nasal catarrh. Externally it will speed wound healing and reduce swelling due to inflammation. As a carminative with relaxing properties it will ease flatulence and dyspeptic pain. Also used in hair rinses for blonde highlights.
Precautions: Not for people allergic to ragweed.
Dosage: Infusion: 2 tsp/cup 5-10 min. For digestive problems, drink after meals. A stronger infusion should be used as a mouthwash for conditions such as gingivitis. ½ cup flowers in four pints water for steam bath. Cover head with a towel and inhale steam. Tincture: 2-4ml 3x/day.
Constituents: Volatile oil which includes chamazulene and isadol; mucilage; coumarin; flavones glycosides.
Actions: Anti-spasmodic, carminative, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiseptic, vulnerary.
Indications: Renowned for its medical and household uses. Relaxing, carminative and anti-inflammatory actions can aid. It is an excellent, gentle sedative, useful and safe for use with children. It will contribute its relaxing actions in any combination and is thus used in anxiety and insomnia. Indigestion and inflammations such as gastritis are often eased with chamomile. Similarly, it can be used as a mouth wash for inflammations of the mouth such as gingivitis and for bathing inflamed and sore eyes. As a gargle it will help sore throats. As an inhalation over a steam bath, it will speed recovery from nasal catarrh. Externally it will speed wound healing and reduce swelling due to inflammation. As a carminative with relaxing properties it will ease flatulence and dyspeptic pain. Also used in hair rinses for blonde highlights.
Precautions: Not for people allergic to ragweed.
Dosage: Infusion: 2 tsp/cup 5-10 min. For digestive problems, drink after meals. A stronger infusion should be used as a mouthwash for conditions such as gingivitis. ½ cup flowers in four pints water for steam bath. Cover head with a towel and inhale steam. Tincture: 2-4ml 3x/day.
Chaparral (Creosote Bush)
Larrea tridentata
Constituents: gums and resins, protein, partially characterized esters, acids, alcohol and a small mixture of sterols, sucrose, and volatile oils.
Actions: Anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, antiseptic, diuretic, expectorant, tonic.
Indications: Long used by the native people of the American Southwest as a cure-all. Considered a superior blood cleanser. Often used to address tumors, fibroids and cysts. Sometimes used as a replacement for golden seal in cases of deep seated colds and flus that don’t respond to treatment. Also useful in cases of mouth sores and tooth infections as a gargle. Commonly used with black walnut for anti-parasitic and anti-fungal as a wash or salve to treat mange in animals, foot fungus (athlete’s foot) and ringworm. Other common uses are as a whole body cleanser, used during fasting to rid the body of toxins. An old time remedy for cancer.
Precautions: Use with respect and caution. Do not use over an extended period of time. Cases of liver toxity reported in the past, but unproven and bans were dropped by the FDA
Dosage: Externally: use as a wash, gargle or salve, 3x/day or as needed. Tincture: start with ¼ tsp, 3x/day, no more than a few weeks at a time. (Unless serious indications and physician assisted).
NOTES: Extremely bitter, usually used in salves or tincture form. Due to high resins, not very soluble in water.
Constituents: gums and resins, protein, partially characterized esters, acids, alcohol and a small mixture of sterols, sucrose, and volatile oils.
Actions: Anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, antiseptic, diuretic, expectorant, tonic.
Indications: Long used by the native people of the American Southwest as a cure-all. Considered a superior blood cleanser. Often used to address tumors, fibroids and cysts. Sometimes used as a replacement for golden seal in cases of deep seated colds and flus that don’t respond to treatment. Also useful in cases of mouth sores and tooth infections as a gargle. Commonly used with black walnut for anti-parasitic and anti-fungal as a wash or salve to treat mange in animals, foot fungus (athlete’s foot) and ringworm. Other common uses are as a whole body cleanser, used during fasting to rid the body of toxins. An old time remedy for cancer.
Precautions: Use with respect and caution. Do not use over an extended period of time. Cases of liver toxity reported in the past, but unproven and bans were dropped by the FDA
Dosage: Externally: use as a wash, gargle or salve, 3x/day or as needed. Tincture: start with ¼ tsp, 3x/day, no more than a few weeks at a time. (Unless serious indications and physician assisted).
NOTES: Extremely bitter, usually used in salves or tincture form. Due to high resins, not very soluble in water.
Chaste Tree
Vitex Agnus-castus
Constituents: Volatile oil, bitter principle (castine), alkaloids, iridoid glycosides (including aucbin and agnoside), flavonoids (including caticin, isovitexin and orientin)
Actions: Hormone regulator, glactagogue, reproductive tonic
Indications: Often used to balance female sex hormones, having a normalizing effect on FSH & LH produced by the anterior pituitary gland. Very helpful in cases of PMS and a wide range of menstrual and gynecological problems that are related to hormone imbalance. Can be used for irregular and painful period, heavy bleeding, fibroids, and to re-establish a normal menstrual cycle after taking birth control pills. It is also used for menopausal problems including depression.
Precautions: Men shouldn’t take chaste berry. Testicular atrophy could result after repeated use. Binging on sugar, alcohol, or marijuana will block the herb’s action on dopamine receptors in the brain and cancel out its effects. Not recommended while pregnant.
Dosage: Infusion: 1 tsp per boiling cup, steep 10-15min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Has a very peppery taste, as a tea it can be formulated with other herbs to make a kind of chai. Another noticeable effect for some women has been an increase in libido.
Constituents: Volatile oil, bitter principle (castine), alkaloids, iridoid glycosides (including aucbin and agnoside), flavonoids (including caticin, isovitexin and orientin)
Actions: Hormone regulator, glactagogue, reproductive tonic
Indications: Often used to balance female sex hormones, having a normalizing effect on FSH & LH produced by the anterior pituitary gland. Very helpful in cases of PMS and a wide range of menstrual and gynecological problems that are related to hormone imbalance. Can be used for irregular and painful period, heavy bleeding, fibroids, and to re-establish a normal menstrual cycle after taking birth control pills. It is also used for menopausal problems including depression.
Precautions: Men shouldn’t take chaste berry. Testicular atrophy could result after repeated use. Binging on sugar, alcohol, or marijuana will block the herb’s action on dopamine receptors in the brain and cancel out its effects. Not recommended while pregnant.
Dosage: Infusion: 1 tsp per boiling cup, steep 10-15min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Has a very peppery taste, as a tea it can be formulated with other herbs to make a kind of chai. Another noticeable effect for some women has been an increase in libido.
Cinnamon
Cinnamomum zeylanicum
Constituents: Volitile oils, tannins, mucilage and coumarins, catechins, proanthocyanidins, resins, gum, sugars, calcium oxalate, cinnzelanin, cinnzelanol
Actions: Carminative, astringent, aromatic, stimulant, antiviral, anteseptic
Indications: As a flavoring, a warming digestive aid and infection fighter. Can be combined with ginger to treat circulatory and digestive problems. Lowers blood sugar.
Precautions: Can be irritating to some. Allergic reactions can show on skin or mucus membranes. Diabetics/Hypoglycemic be careful.
Dosage: Not usually taken by itself. May be added to right flavor or in combination with other herbs. The essential oil is mostly used for fragrance or increased circulation.
NOTES: The German Commission E recommended cinnamon for treating the loss of appetite, as well as gastronomical complaints including cramps, flatulence, and nausea. Cinnamons beneficial effects on the digestive tract are attributed to its antioxidant catechins, which may also help fight bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections. Cassia bark has been used for over a thousand years in both Eastern and Western medicine in treating chronic diarrhea, colds, kidney trouble, abdominal and heart pains, hypertension, and even cancer , among others.
Constituents: Volitile oils, tannins, mucilage and coumarins, catechins, proanthocyanidins, resins, gum, sugars, calcium oxalate, cinnzelanin, cinnzelanol
Actions: Carminative, astringent, aromatic, stimulant, antiviral, anteseptic
Indications: As a flavoring, a warming digestive aid and infection fighter. Can be combined with ginger to treat circulatory and digestive problems. Lowers blood sugar.
Precautions: Can be irritating to some. Allergic reactions can show on skin or mucus membranes. Diabetics/Hypoglycemic be careful.
Dosage: Not usually taken by itself. May be added to right flavor or in combination with other herbs. The essential oil is mostly used for fragrance or increased circulation.
NOTES: The German Commission E recommended cinnamon for treating the loss of appetite, as well as gastronomical complaints including cramps, flatulence, and nausea. Cinnamons beneficial effects on the digestive tract are attributed to its antioxidant catechins, which may also help fight bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections. Cassia bark has been used for over a thousand years in both Eastern and Western medicine in treating chronic diarrhea, colds, kidney trouble, abdominal and heart pains, hypertension, and even cancer , among others.
Cleavers
Galium aparine
Constituents: Tannins, rubichloric, Glycoside asperuloside, gallotannic acid, citric acid, saponins, coumarin, chlorophyll
Actions: Diuretic, alterative, anti-inflammatory, tonic, astringent, anti-neoplastic, refrigerant
Indications: Useful as a mild detoxifier and lymphatic tonic. Helpful for a wide range of problems such as swollen glands, tonsillitis and in adenoid trouble. The actions ccombine to make cleavers excellent for fluid retention, skin problems including eczema, psoriasis, acne, boils and abscesses, uti’s, stones, gravel, arthritis and gout. Very useful for the swollen lymps of the breast. Because of its cooling properties it can reduce fevers and resolve eruptive infections such as measles and chickenpox. Its bitter properties stimulate liver function and enhance digestion and absorption.
Combos: For lymph, Poke, Echinacea, Calendula. For skin, Yellow Dock and Burdock.
Precautions: Do not take with blood thinners.
Dosage: Infusion: 2-3tsps per cup boiling water, steep 10-15min, take 3x/day. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: A cooling drink of cleavers was traditionally given every spring to “clear the blood”.
Constituents: Tannins, rubichloric, Glycoside asperuloside, gallotannic acid, citric acid, saponins, coumarin, chlorophyll
Actions: Diuretic, alterative, anti-inflammatory, tonic, astringent, anti-neoplastic, refrigerant
Indications: Useful as a mild detoxifier and lymphatic tonic. Helpful for a wide range of problems such as swollen glands, tonsillitis and in adenoid trouble. The actions ccombine to make cleavers excellent for fluid retention, skin problems including eczema, psoriasis, acne, boils and abscesses, uti’s, stones, gravel, arthritis and gout. Very useful for the swollen lymps of the breast. Because of its cooling properties it can reduce fevers and resolve eruptive infections such as measles and chickenpox. Its bitter properties stimulate liver function and enhance digestion and absorption.
Combos: For lymph, Poke, Echinacea, Calendula. For skin, Yellow Dock and Burdock.
Precautions: Do not take with blood thinners.
Dosage: Infusion: 2-3tsps per cup boiling water, steep 10-15min, take 3x/day. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: A cooling drink of cleavers was traditionally given every spring to “clear the blood”.
Comfrey
Symphytum officinale
Constituents: Mucilage, gum, allantoin, tannin, alkaloids, resin, volatile oil.
Actions: Vulnerary, demulcent, astringent, expectorant.
Indications: Promotes wound healing inside and out. The demulcent mucilage makes comfrey a good healing agent for gastric and duodenal ulcers, hiatus hernia and ulcerative colitis. It’s vulnerary action prevents hemorrhages wherever they occur. Most often used externally to speed wound-healing and guard against scar tissue. May be used for external ulcer, for wounds and fractures as a compress or poultice. Excellent for chronic varicose ulcers and has a reputed anticancer action. One of the best herbs for treating torn ligaments, strains, bruises and any injury to the bones or joints.
Combos: For gastric ulcers and inflammations, Marshmallow and Meadowsweet.
Precautions: Care should be taken with very deep wounds, the external application could cause tissue to form over the wound before it is healed deeper down, possibly causing abscess. Studies found traces of PLA’s in plant (sources say root), but was inconclusive (pyrrolizidine alkaloids, substances that have been linked to fatal liver disease).
Dosage: Suggested usage as a poultice, salve or ointments. Apply at least 3x/day. Decoction: 1-3 tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15 min. Taken 3x/day. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Comfrey root and leave have similar actions, but the root is stronger, leaf tastes better. Both are used to make healing salves.
Constituents: Mucilage, gum, allantoin, tannin, alkaloids, resin, volatile oil.
Actions: Vulnerary, demulcent, astringent, expectorant.
Indications: Promotes wound healing inside and out. The demulcent mucilage makes comfrey a good healing agent for gastric and duodenal ulcers, hiatus hernia and ulcerative colitis. It’s vulnerary action prevents hemorrhages wherever they occur. Most often used externally to speed wound-healing and guard against scar tissue. May be used for external ulcer, for wounds and fractures as a compress or poultice. Excellent for chronic varicose ulcers and has a reputed anticancer action. One of the best herbs for treating torn ligaments, strains, bruises and any injury to the bones or joints.
Combos: For gastric ulcers and inflammations, Marshmallow and Meadowsweet.
Precautions: Care should be taken with very deep wounds, the external application could cause tissue to form over the wound before it is healed deeper down, possibly causing abscess. Studies found traces of PLA’s in plant (sources say root), but was inconclusive (pyrrolizidine alkaloids, substances that have been linked to fatal liver disease).
Dosage: Suggested usage as a poultice, salve or ointments. Apply at least 3x/day. Decoction: 1-3 tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15 min. Taken 3x/day. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Comfrey root and leave have similar actions, but the root is stronger, leaf tastes better. Both are used to make healing salves.
Cornsilk
Zea mays
Constituents: Saponins, Allantoin, Sterols, especially beta sitosterol and stignasterol, alkaloid hordenine; vitamin C & K, cryptoxanthin, anthocyanins, plant acids.
Actions: Diuretic, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, tonic, lithotriptic, alterative
Indications: A great soothing diuretic appropriate for most ages. Useful in cases of urinary irritation, inflammation or infection. Has an antiseptic and healing action on the kidneys and has been used for urinary stones and gravel. May reduce blood pressure by reducing water retention. Very gentle.
Combos: Couchgrass, Bearberry, buchu or yarrow for treatment of UTI’s.
Precautions: Do not use corn silk if you also take Lasix (furosemide).
Dosage: Infusion: 2 tsp per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15 min, taken 3 times per day. Tincture: 15-30 drops, 3x/day.
NOTES: A complex polysaccharide in the silk activates macrophages (white blood cells) to engulf and dissolve infectious microorganisms. The volatile oils neutralize fungi and yeast. Corn silk is both diuretic and kaliuretic, that is, it encourages retention of sodium and excretion of potassium. Not everyone benefits from excretion of potassium, but people with chronic fatigue, adrenal burnout, and generally “cold” symptoms may.
Constituents: Saponins, Allantoin, Sterols, especially beta sitosterol and stignasterol, alkaloid hordenine; vitamin C & K, cryptoxanthin, anthocyanins, plant acids.
Actions: Diuretic, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, tonic, lithotriptic, alterative
Indications: A great soothing diuretic appropriate for most ages. Useful in cases of urinary irritation, inflammation or infection. Has an antiseptic and healing action on the kidneys and has been used for urinary stones and gravel. May reduce blood pressure by reducing water retention. Very gentle.
Combos: Couchgrass, Bearberry, buchu or yarrow for treatment of UTI’s.
Precautions: Do not use corn silk if you also take Lasix (furosemide).
Dosage: Infusion: 2 tsp per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15 min, taken 3 times per day. Tincture: 15-30 drops, 3x/day.
NOTES: A complex polysaccharide in the silk activates macrophages (white blood cells) to engulf and dissolve infectious microorganisms. The volatile oils neutralize fungi and yeast. Corn silk is both diuretic and kaliuretic, that is, it encourages retention of sodium and excretion of potassium. Not everyone benefits from excretion of potassium, but people with chronic fatigue, adrenal burnout, and generally “cold” symptoms may.
Couchgrass
Agropyron repens
Constituents: Rhizome: Triticin, mucilage, silicic acid, potassium, inositol, mannitol, glycoside, Agropyrene (bactericidal), calcium, fructosan, magnesium, manganese, mannitol, phosphorous, selenium, silicon, sodium, tin, zinc.
Actions: Diuretic, demulcent, anti-microbial
Indications: Used for infections of the urinary tract, cystitis, urethritis and prostatitis because of it’s both soothing and antimicrobial action. Also very useful in the treatment of enlarged prostate, kidney stones and gravel.
Combos: Buchu, Bearberry, Yarrow and Corn Silk.
Precautions: Dog grass is toxic to birds. It may also lower blood sugars in people. The August 2005 edition of the Journal of Ethnopharmacology published a study noting a potent blood sugar lowering effect of this herb in rats. Dog grass does not stimulate the release of insulin, but it appears to make cells much more sensitive to insulin, at least in the laboratory. Make sure you monitor your blood sugars if you are diabetic and take this herb. Prolonged use may cause low potassium levels in the body. Preliminary toxicological data is limited, so it may not be safe to consume if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Dosage: Decoction: 2 tsps per cup boiling water, let simmer 10 min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: take 3-6ml, 3x/day.
Constituents: Rhizome: Triticin, mucilage, silicic acid, potassium, inositol, mannitol, glycoside, Agropyrene (bactericidal), calcium, fructosan, magnesium, manganese, mannitol, phosphorous, selenium, silicon, sodium, tin, zinc.
Actions: Diuretic, demulcent, anti-microbial
Indications: Used for infections of the urinary tract, cystitis, urethritis and prostatitis because of it’s both soothing and antimicrobial action. Also very useful in the treatment of enlarged prostate, kidney stones and gravel.
Combos: Buchu, Bearberry, Yarrow and Corn Silk.
Precautions: Dog grass is toxic to birds. It may also lower blood sugars in people. The August 2005 edition of the Journal of Ethnopharmacology published a study noting a potent blood sugar lowering effect of this herb in rats. Dog grass does not stimulate the release of insulin, but it appears to make cells much more sensitive to insulin, at least in the laboratory. Make sure you monitor your blood sugars if you are diabetic and take this herb. Prolonged use may cause low potassium levels in the body. Preliminary toxicological data is limited, so it may not be safe to consume if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Dosage: Decoction: 2 tsps per cup boiling water, let simmer 10 min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: take 3-6ml, 3x/day.
Cramp Bark
Viburnun opulus
Constituents: Bitters (viburnin), valerianic acid, salicosides, resin, tannin, coumarin, scopolotin
Actions: Anti-spasmodic, sedative, astringent.
Indications: Relaxes muscle spasms, cramps and tension. It is primarily used for menstrual cramps by relaxing the uterus and thus relieves painful cramps associated with periods. It may also benefit someone having a threatened miscarriage. The astringent action also helps women who have very heavy/painful periods and bleeding associated with menopause.
Combos: Wild Yam, Black Haw and Valerian
Precautions: Cramp bark is essentially nontoxic, although taking large quantities of the fruit or leaf can cause diarrhea. Some reports have shown that people with sensitivity to aspirin may also have a sensitivity to cramp bark, so caution should be exercised.
Dosage: Decoction: 2 tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 4-8ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Taste is bitter, combine with a more palatable herb.
Constituents: Bitters (viburnin), valerianic acid, salicosides, resin, tannin, coumarin, scopolotin
Actions: Anti-spasmodic, sedative, astringent.
Indications: Relaxes muscle spasms, cramps and tension. It is primarily used for menstrual cramps by relaxing the uterus and thus relieves painful cramps associated with periods. It may also benefit someone having a threatened miscarriage. The astringent action also helps women who have very heavy/painful periods and bleeding associated with menopause.
Combos: Wild Yam, Black Haw and Valerian
Precautions: Cramp bark is essentially nontoxic, although taking large quantities of the fruit or leaf can cause diarrhea. Some reports have shown that people with sensitivity to aspirin may also have a sensitivity to cramp bark, so caution should be exercised.
Dosage: Decoction: 2 tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 4-8ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Taste is bitter, combine with a more palatable herb.
Damiana
Turnera aphrodisiaca
Constituents: Essential oil that includes pinene, cineol, cymol, arbutin, cymene, cadinne and copaenen; alkaloids, bitter, flavonoid, cyanogenic glycoside; tannins, resin.
Actions: Nerve tonic, antidepressant, laxative
Indications: Used for feelings of exhaustion, sexual vitality, infertility, anxiety, depression and muscle and nerve exhaustion and dream therapy. Strengthens the reproductive systems of both men and women. Its nervine and toning properties make it a good genral herb for the nervous system and as a relaxant and antidepressant. It has an ancient reputation as an aphrodisiac. It has also been used for recovery from drug abuse, in particular marijuana.
Combos: For nerves, can be combines with oats, kola and skullcap.
Precautions: Teas of damiana may lower blood sugars, but tinctures do not. Since one of the traditional uses of the herb was to induce abortion, it should be avoided in pregnancy.
Dosage: Infusion: 1 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15min, drink 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day. Some people state they prefer the effects of smoking the herb, but dosages for that have not been found.
NOTES: Extremely bitter, best taken in tincture or capsule form. The pharmacology of the plant suggests that the alkaloids could have a testosterone like action.
Constituents: Essential oil that includes pinene, cineol, cymol, arbutin, cymene, cadinne and copaenen; alkaloids, bitter, flavonoid, cyanogenic glycoside; tannins, resin.
Actions: Nerve tonic, antidepressant, laxative
Indications: Used for feelings of exhaustion, sexual vitality, infertility, anxiety, depression and muscle and nerve exhaustion and dream therapy. Strengthens the reproductive systems of both men and women. Its nervine and toning properties make it a good genral herb for the nervous system and as a relaxant and antidepressant. It has an ancient reputation as an aphrodisiac. It has also been used for recovery from drug abuse, in particular marijuana.
Combos: For nerves, can be combines with oats, kola and skullcap.
Precautions: Teas of damiana may lower blood sugars, but tinctures do not. Since one of the traditional uses of the herb was to induce abortion, it should be avoided in pregnancy.
Dosage: Infusion: 1 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15min, drink 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day. Some people state they prefer the effects of smoking the herb, but dosages for that have not been found.
NOTES: Extremely bitter, best taken in tincture or capsule form. The pharmacology of the plant suggests that the alkaloids could have a testosterone like action.
Dandelion
Taraxacum officinale
Constituents: Root: Inulin, sterols, triterpenoids, bitter principle, traxacin, sugars, pectin, glycosides, choline, phenolic acids, asparagine, potassium.
Leaves: Lutein, violaxanthin and other carotenoids, bitters, vitamins A, B, C, D, potassium, iron
Actions: Diuretic, cholagogue, anti-rheumatic, laxative, tonic.
Indications: The whole plant can be used as a medicine and is highly nutritious. A great toner and strengthener for the urinary tract system. It’s strong diuretic action is balanced by containing potassium. Used for water retention, congestion of liver and gall-bladder. Used as a general tonic for liver and kidneys.
The bitters in both root and leaf activate the whole of the digestive tract and the liver, increasing the flow of digestive juices, enhancing the appetite, easing digestion and cleansing the liver.
Precautions: Do not suck the milky ‘juice’ of the plant, may lead to neausea, vomiting or diarrhea in children. No known toxicity level. Maintain adequate hydration and do not take with pharmaceutical diuretics.
Dosage: Decoction: put 2-3 teaspoons of root per cup of water, boil then gently simmer for 10-15 min, take 3x/day. Infusion: 1tsp leaves per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15 min. Tincture 5-10ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Leaves seem to have more of an affinity for the kidneys, the root aiding both kidney and liver.
Constituents: Root: Inulin, sterols, triterpenoids, bitter principle, traxacin, sugars, pectin, glycosides, choline, phenolic acids, asparagine, potassium.
Leaves: Lutein, violaxanthin and other carotenoids, bitters, vitamins A, B, C, D, potassium, iron
Actions: Diuretic, cholagogue, anti-rheumatic, laxative, tonic.
Indications: The whole plant can be used as a medicine and is highly nutritious. A great toner and strengthener for the urinary tract system. It’s strong diuretic action is balanced by containing potassium. Used for water retention, congestion of liver and gall-bladder. Used as a general tonic for liver and kidneys.
The bitters in both root and leaf activate the whole of the digestive tract and the liver, increasing the flow of digestive juices, enhancing the appetite, easing digestion and cleansing the liver.
Precautions: Do not suck the milky ‘juice’ of the plant, may lead to neausea, vomiting or diarrhea in children. No known toxicity level. Maintain adequate hydration and do not take with pharmaceutical diuretics.
Dosage: Decoction: put 2-3 teaspoons of root per cup of water, boil then gently simmer for 10-15 min, take 3x/day. Infusion: 1tsp leaves per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15 min. Tincture 5-10ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Leaves seem to have more of an affinity for the kidneys, the root aiding both kidney and liver.
Dong Quai
Angelica sinensis
Constituents: Butylidene phhtalide, ligustilide, n-butylidene-phthalide, sequiterpenes, carvacrol, dihyrophthalic anhydride, sucrose, B vitamins, beta-sitosterol, coumarins
Actions: Hypotensive, Vasodilator, Anti-allergy, Analgesic, Antibiotic, Estrogenic, Laxative, Sedative, Tonic
Indications: Used over time it can strengthen the uterus. It nourishes the blood and has a mild stimulating and cleansing action on the liver. It has no direct hormonal action, but its action on the liver and endocrine system normalizes hormone production. It’s been recommended for many different gynecological imbalances because of its strengthening qualities. Used for easing menopause symptoms.
Precautions: May cause heavy bleeding during menstruation, so it’s best to avoid it one week before menses are due. Avoid when there is diarrhea with flatulence. Not to be used while pregnant, breast feeding, or if you are on blood thinning medications. Make sure client uses this under the care of a physician if they use with any prescription medications.
Dosage: Capsules: Take two caps, 2-3x per day. Tincture: .5-2ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Commonly called the “female ginseng”, usually taken with other herbs for specific ailment.
Constituents: Butylidene phhtalide, ligustilide, n-butylidene-phthalide, sequiterpenes, carvacrol, dihyrophthalic anhydride, sucrose, B vitamins, beta-sitosterol, coumarins
Actions: Hypotensive, Vasodilator, Anti-allergy, Analgesic, Antibiotic, Estrogenic, Laxative, Sedative, Tonic
Indications: Used over time it can strengthen the uterus. It nourishes the blood and has a mild stimulating and cleansing action on the liver. It has no direct hormonal action, but its action on the liver and endocrine system normalizes hormone production. It’s been recommended for many different gynecological imbalances because of its strengthening qualities. Used for easing menopause symptoms.
Precautions: May cause heavy bleeding during menstruation, so it’s best to avoid it one week before menses are due. Avoid when there is diarrhea with flatulence. Not to be used while pregnant, breast feeding, or if you are on blood thinning medications. Make sure client uses this under the care of a physician if they use with any prescription medications.
Dosage: Capsules: Take two caps, 2-3x per day. Tincture: .5-2ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Commonly called the “female ginseng”, usually taken with other herbs for specific ailment.