L - P
Lavender
Lavendula Officinalis
Constituents: Volatile oil linalyl acetate, linalool, geraniol, cineole, limonene and sesquiterpenes, tannins, coumarins, flavonoids, titerpenoids.
Actions: Aromatic, carminative, ant-spasmodic, anti-depressant, rubefacient, antiseptic, decongestant, expectorant, analgesic.
Indications: Good for stress headaches, depression, nervous debility. Externally the oil may be used as a stimulating liniment to help ease the aches and pains of rheumatism. Essential oil is good for soothing insect bites, bee stings and burns (mixed with honey). Effective in vapour rubs for repiratory illnesses. Also used as a antiseptic against bacteria. Causes sweating and reduces fever. Used as disinfectant or cuts and wounds, sores and ulcers. Stimulates tissue repair and minimizes scar formation.
Combinations: Feverfew, Valerian for migraines. Rosemary, Gotu Kola or Skullcap for depression.
Precautions: May cause sneezing for people who are allergic, rare.
Dosage: Only use a pinch in teas, can taste like perfume. Extracts well in glycerin and alcohol. 2-3 drops of lavender EO to temples and nape of neck for headaches and tension. To make an external wash use 1tsp/cup boiling water, steep 10 min.
Constituents: Volatile oil linalyl acetate, linalool, geraniol, cineole, limonene and sesquiterpenes, tannins, coumarins, flavonoids, titerpenoids.
Actions: Aromatic, carminative, ant-spasmodic, anti-depressant, rubefacient, antiseptic, decongestant, expectorant, analgesic.
Indications: Good for stress headaches, depression, nervous debility. Externally the oil may be used as a stimulating liniment to help ease the aches and pains of rheumatism. Essential oil is good for soothing insect bites, bee stings and burns (mixed with honey). Effective in vapour rubs for repiratory illnesses. Also used as a antiseptic against bacteria. Causes sweating and reduces fever. Used as disinfectant or cuts and wounds, sores and ulcers. Stimulates tissue repair and minimizes scar formation.
Combinations: Feverfew, Valerian for migraines. Rosemary, Gotu Kola or Skullcap for depression.
Precautions: May cause sneezing for people who are allergic, rare.
Dosage: Only use a pinch in teas, can taste like perfume. Extracts well in glycerin and alcohol. 2-3 drops of lavender EO to temples and nape of neck for headaches and tension. To make an external wash use 1tsp/cup boiling water, steep 10 min.
Lemon Balm
Melissa Officinalis
Constituents: Rich in essential oil containing citral, citronellal, geraniol and linalol; bitter principles; flavones, resin.
Actions: Carminative, anti-spasmodic, anti-depressive, diaphoretic, hypotensive.
Indications: Balm is an excellent carminative herb that relieves spasms in the digestive tract and is used in flatulent dyspepsia. Because of its anti-depressive properties, it is primarily indicated where there is dyspepsia associated with anxiety or depression, as the gently sedative oils relieve tension and stress reactions, thus acting to lighten depression. Balm has a tonic effect on the heart and circulatory causing mild vaso-dilation of the peripheral vessels, thus acting to lower blood pressure. It can be used in feverish conditions such as influenza.
Combos – Digestive: hops, chamomile and meadowsweet. Stress and tension: Lavender and Lime Blossom.
Precautions: Might cause too much drowsiness if combined with other medications.
Dosage: Infusion: 2-3tsp/cup 10-15 min, well covered until drunk (for oils). Drunk morning and evening or as needed. Tincture: 2-6mil 3x/day.
Constituents: Rich in essential oil containing citral, citronellal, geraniol and linalol; bitter principles; flavones, resin.
Actions: Carminative, anti-spasmodic, anti-depressive, diaphoretic, hypotensive.
Indications: Balm is an excellent carminative herb that relieves spasms in the digestive tract and is used in flatulent dyspepsia. Because of its anti-depressive properties, it is primarily indicated where there is dyspepsia associated with anxiety or depression, as the gently sedative oils relieve tension and stress reactions, thus acting to lighten depression. Balm has a tonic effect on the heart and circulatory causing mild vaso-dilation of the peripheral vessels, thus acting to lower blood pressure. It can be used in feverish conditions such as influenza.
Combos – Digestive: hops, chamomile and meadowsweet. Stress and tension: Lavender and Lime Blossom.
Precautions: Might cause too much drowsiness if combined with other medications.
Dosage: Infusion: 2-3tsp/cup 10-15 min, well covered until drunk (for oils). Drunk morning and evening or as needed. Tincture: 2-6mil 3x/day.
Licorice
Glycyrrhiza glabra
Constituents: Glycosides called glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhizinic acid; saponins; flavonoids; bitter; volatile oil; coumarins; asparagine; oestrogenic substances.
Actions: Expectorant, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, adrenal agent, anti-spasmodic, mild laxative.
Indications: Has a great effect upon the endocrine system, specifically the reproductive system. Used to treat adrenal fatigue and Addison’s disease. Used in a wide range of bronchial problems such as catarrh, bronchitis and coughs in general.
Precautions: Don’t use licorice if you have high blood pressure, and if you eat a meat and potatoes diet. Your body needs potassium from fruit and vegetables to compensate for the excretion of potassium stimulated by licorice. If you use steroids or an asthma inhaler, licorice will increase both the effectiveness of the drug and the severity of its side effects. Its long term use is not recommended, and it is not recommended for use by pregnant women. May cause stomach upset if taken in large quantities.
Dosage: Decoction: ½-1tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-3ml, 3x/day
NOTES: It has constituents that are similar in function to the natural steroids in the human body.
Constituents: Glycosides called glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhizinic acid; saponins; flavonoids; bitter; volatile oil; coumarins; asparagine; oestrogenic substances.
Actions: Expectorant, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, adrenal agent, anti-spasmodic, mild laxative.
Indications: Has a great effect upon the endocrine system, specifically the reproductive system. Used to treat adrenal fatigue and Addison’s disease. Used in a wide range of bronchial problems such as catarrh, bronchitis and coughs in general.
Precautions: Don’t use licorice if you have high blood pressure, and if you eat a meat and potatoes diet. Your body needs potassium from fruit and vegetables to compensate for the excretion of potassium stimulated by licorice. If you use steroids or an asthma inhaler, licorice will increase both the effectiveness of the drug and the severity of its side effects. Its long term use is not recommended, and it is not recommended for use by pregnant women. May cause stomach upset if taken in large quantities.
Dosage: Decoction: ½-1tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-3ml, 3x/day
NOTES: It has constituents that are similar in function to the natural steroids in the human body.
Marshmallow
Althaea officinalis
Constituents:
Indications: Both leaf and roots are good for dry coughs and sore throats. Marshmallow leaf relieves irritation by coating inflamed surfaces. Its primary use in modern herbal medicine is to relieve sore throat, but it also relieves perianal inflammation (when taken orally) caused by severe diarrhea. Marshmallow leaf coats better than marshmallow root, but marshmallow root has greater antibacterial and anti-allergy effects.
Precautions: Marshmallow root (and leaf) is completely non-toxic, but its mucilage can interfere with the absorption of other medicines if taken at the same time. The asparagine in the root can cause a mild odor in the urine, but has no other physiological effect.
Dosage: Cold macerations, warm infusions, tincture, and fluid extract or encapsulation
Constituents:
- Leaves: Mucilage (arabinogalactans and galacturonorhamnan), antioxidant flavonoids 8-hydroxyluteolin and 8-b-gentiobioside, phenolic acids, tannins, and volatile oil.
- Root: Mucilage (arabinogalactans and galacturonorhamnan), the amino acid asparagines, antioxidant flavonoids 8-hydroxyluteolin and 8-b-gentiobioside, coumarins, fats, kaempferol, phenolic acids, quercetin, sugars, tannins, and volatile oil.
Indications: Both leaf and roots are good for dry coughs and sore throats. Marshmallow leaf relieves irritation by coating inflamed surfaces. Its primary use in modern herbal medicine is to relieve sore throat, but it also relieves perianal inflammation (when taken orally) caused by severe diarrhea. Marshmallow leaf coats better than marshmallow root, but marshmallow root has greater antibacterial and anti-allergy effects.
Precautions: Marshmallow root (and leaf) is completely non-toxic, but its mucilage can interfere with the absorption of other medicines if taken at the same time. The asparagine in the root can cause a mild odor in the urine, but has no other physiological effect.
Dosage: Cold macerations, warm infusions, tincture, and fluid extract or encapsulation
Meadowsweet
Filipendula ulmaria
Constituents: Essential oil with salicylic acid compounds called spiraeine and gaultherin; salicylic acid; tannin, mucilage, citric acid.
Actions: anti-rheumatic, anti-inflammatory, stomachic, antacid, anti-emetic, astringent, diaphoretic, analgesic, relaxant.
Indications: Protects and soothes the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, reducing acidity and nausea. Useful for the treatment of heartburn, hyperacidity, gastritis, peptic ulceration and hiatus hernia.. The presence of asprin like chemicals reduce fevers and relieve pain in cases of rheumatism, sore muscles and joints, headaches and neuralgia. The tannins have an astringent action on the bowels, protecting and healing the mucous membranes and relieving enteritis and diarrhea, while it’s mild antiseptic action combats infections and relaxant properties soothe griping and colic.
Precautions: Information varies, about the safety of using meadowsweet during pregnancy for nausea. Since meadowsweet contains small amounts of salicilate, it should not be used by people with sensitivity to aspirin or similar products. For the same reason, it should not be used by children under the age of sixteen with high fevers, particularly if the cause may be viral, because of the rare but very real risk of Reyes syndrome. It is not recommended for use by those taking blood thinning medications.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15min, take 3x/day or as needed. Tincture: 1-4ml, 3x/day or as needed.
Constituents: Essential oil with salicylic acid compounds called spiraeine and gaultherin; salicylic acid; tannin, mucilage, citric acid.
Actions: anti-rheumatic, anti-inflammatory, stomachic, antacid, anti-emetic, astringent, diaphoretic, analgesic, relaxant.
Indications: Protects and soothes the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, reducing acidity and nausea. Useful for the treatment of heartburn, hyperacidity, gastritis, peptic ulceration and hiatus hernia.. The presence of asprin like chemicals reduce fevers and relieve pain in cases of rheumatism, sore muscles and joints, headaches and neuralgia. The tannins have an astringent action on the bowels, protecting and healing the mucous membranes and relieving enteritis and diarrhea, while it’s mild antiseptic action combats infections and relaxant properties soothe griping and colic.
Precautions: Information varies, about the safety of using meadowsweet during pregnancy for nausea. Since meadowsweet contains small amounts of salicilate, it should not be used by people with sensitivity to aspirin or similar products. For the same reason, it should not be used by children under the age of sixteen with high fevers, particularly if the cause may be viral, because of the rare but very real risk of Reyes syndrome. It is not recommended for use by those taking blood thinning medications.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15min, take 3x/day or as needed. Tincture: 1-4ml, 3x/day or as needed.
Milk Thistle
Silybum marianum
Constituents: Flavones silybin, silydianin and silychristin; essential oil; bitter principle, mucilage.
Actions: Cholagogue, galactogogue, demulcent
Indications: Antioxidant. Stimulates liver function and rebuilds liver cells that have been damaged by illness, rich food, hepatitis, or alcohol consumption. Also used for problems associated with the gallbladder. Increases milk flow for nursing mothers. Reported use during pregnancy for pregnancy related skin issues without incident.
Precautions: No toxicities reported, safe for breastfeeding mothers. Reported use by midwives during pregnancy for pregnancy related skin issues without incident.
Dosage: Seeds usually tinctured or powdered for encapsulation or sprinkled on food. Leaves infused, 1tsp/cup, steep 10-15min. Take 1-2ml 3x/day.
Constituents: Flavones silybin, silydianin and silychristin; essential oil; bitter principle, mucilage.
Actions: Cholagogue, galactogogue, demulcent
Indications: Antioxidant. Stimulates liver function and rebuilds liver cells that have been damaged by illness, rich food, hepatitis, or alcohol consumption. Also used for problems associated with the gallbladder. Increases milk flow for nursing mothers. Reported use during pregnancy for pregnancy related skin issues without incident.
Precautions: No toxicities reported, safe for breastfeeding mothers. Reported use by midwives during pregnancy for pregnancy related skin issues without incident.
Dosage: Seeds usually tinctured or powdered for encapsulation or sprinkled on food. Leaves infused, 1tsp/cup, steep 10-15min. Take 1-2ml 3x/day.
Motherwort
Leonurus cardiaca
Constituents: Bitter glycosides including leonurin and leonuridine; alkaloids including leonuinine and stachydrene; colatile oil; tannin.
Actions: Sedative, emmenagogue, antispasmodic, cardiac tonic.
Indications: Useful in cases of PMS to reduce pain and anxiety and bring about delayed menstruation. Useful for aiding in menopausal changes. Excellent tonic for the heart, strengthening without straining. It is a specific for over-rapid heart beat where it is brought about by anxiety and other such causes. It may be used in all heart conditions that are associated with anxiety and tension. Combines well with Cramp bark for period pains, but it is bitter, so mix with more palatable herbs like ginger.
Precautions: Do not use during pregnancy, it can cause contractions. Overuse can cause drowsiness and brainfog.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2tsp dried herb per cup of boiling water, steep 10-15min. Can be drunk 3 times a day or as needed in specific situations. Tincture, take 1-4ml 3x/day or as needed in specific situations. I find for speaking engagements one capsule is just enough to reduce nervousness without the sedating effect.
NOTES: I have used this herb personally for acute anxiety attacks and loud heart murmurs. It seems to lessen the frequency or lessen the noticeability of the loud murmur.
Constituents: Bitter glycosides including leonurin and leonuridine; alkaloids including leonuinine and stachydrene; colatile oil; tannin.
Actions: Sedative, emmenagogue, antispasmodic, cardiac tonic.
Indications: Useful in cases of PMS to reduce pain and anxiety and bring about delayed menstruation. Useful for aiding in menopausal changes. Excellent tonic for the heart, strengthening without straining. It is a specific for over-rapid heart beat where it is brought about by anxiety and other such causes. It may be used in all heart conditions that are associated with anxiety and tension. Combines well with Cramp bark for period pains, but it is bitter, so mix with more palatable herbs like ginger.
Precautions: Do not use during pregnancy, it can cause contractions. Overuse can cause drowsiness and brainfog.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2tsp dried herb per cup of boiling water, steep 10-15min. Can be drunk 3 times a day or as needed in specific situations. Tincture, take 1-4ml 3x/day or as needed in specific situations. I find for speaking engagements one capsule is just enough to reduce nervousness without the sedating effect.
NOTES: I have used this herb personally for acute anxiety attacks and loud heart murmurs. It seems to lessen the frequency or lessen the noticeability of the loud murmur.
Mullein
Vebascum Thapsus, Verbascum densiflorum
Scrophulariaceae
Parts used: Dried leaves (tea) and flowers (oil)
Constituents: flavinoids such as verbascoside and herperidin, mucilage, saponins, tannins, volatile oil
Actions: Expectorant, demulcent, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, nervine, anti-spasmodic, vulnerary, alterative, astringent.
Indications: Mullein is a very helpful respiratory remedy useful in most situations that affect this vital system. It is an idyllic remedy for toning the mucous membranes of the respiratory system, reducing inflammation while stimulating fluid manufacturing and facilitating expectoration. It is considered very useful in bronchitis where there is a hard cough with soreness. It’s anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties point to its use in inflammation of the throat and connected conditions. Externally an extract made in olive oil is excellent in soothing and healing any inflamed surface or the discomfort associated with ear infections. In addition it is used for a treatment in the following ailments, hay fever, asthma, and enuresis (bedwetting).
Combos: In bronchitis it combines well with White Horehound, Coltsfoot and Lobelia. In painful coughing use with Elder and Red Clover.
Precautions: None found.
Dosage: Infusion 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 15-20 min. Drink 3x/day. Tincture, use 15-30 drops, 3x/day.
Scrophulariaceae
Parts used: Dried leaves (tea) and flowers (oil)
Constituents: flavinoids such as verbascoside and herperidin, mucilage, saponins, tannins, volatile oil
Actions: Expectorant, demulcent, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, nervine, anti-spasmodic, vulnerary, alterative, astringent.
Indications: Mullein is a very helpful respiratory remedy useful in most situations that affect this vital system. It is an idyllic remedy for toning the mucous membranes of the respiratory system, reducing inflammation while stimulating fluid manufacturing and facilitating expectoration. It is considered very useful in bronchitis where there is a hard cough with soreness. It’s anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties point to its use in inflammation of the throat and connected conditions. Externally an extract made in olive oil is excellent in soothing and healing any inflamed surface or the discomfort associated with ear infections. In addition it is used for a treatment in the following ailments, hay fever, asthma, and enuresis (bedwetting).
Combos: In bronchitis it combines well with White Horehound, Coltsfoot and Lobelia. In painful coughing use with Elder and Red Clover.
Precautions: None found.
Dosage: Infusion 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 15-20 min. Drink 3x/day. Tincture, use 15-30 drops, 3x/day.
Nettle
Urtica dioica & urens
Constituents: Formic acid, histamine, acetylcholine, vitamins A and C, 5-hydroxytryptamine, glucoquinones, chlorophyll, minerals, serotonin, choline, minerals, amino acids, lecithin, carotenoids, flavonoids, sterols, tannins and vitamins, acetophenone, acetylcholine, agglutinins, alkaloids, astragalin, butyric acid, caffeic acids, carbonic acid, chlorogenic acid, choline, coumaric acid, folacin, friedelins, histamine, kaempherols, koproporphyrin, lectins, lecithin, lignans, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, neoolivil, palmitic acid, pantothenic acid, quercetin, quinic acid, scopoletin, secoisolariciresinol, serotonin, sitosterols, stigmasterol, succinic acid, terpenes, violaxanthin, and xanthophylls
Actions: Nutrient, diuretic, detoxifying, astringent, galactagogue, decongestant, hypoglycemic
Indications: Highly nutritious full of vitamins and minerals such as iron, silica and potassium. It has been used for centuries as a tonic for weakness and debility, convalescence and anemia. It has a gentle detoxifying action by stimulating the bladder and kidneys to rid the body of toxins and waste. Relieves fluid retention, bladder infections, stones and gravel. By aiding excretion of uric acid it makes an excellent remedy for gout and arthritis as well as skin problems. The astringent action reduces bleeding. Has been used to stem heavy periods. Stimulates milk production in nursing mothers. Helps clear catarrhal congestion in the respiratory system such as allergies, hay fever and asthma. It has been found to reduce blood sugar and the seeds are said to raise thyroid function and reduce goiter. The stinging hairs of the fresh nettle contain formic acid and histamine and have been used traditionally to stimulate the circulation and relive arthritis and rheumatism.
Precautions: May lower blood pressure. Do not take with other diuretics or other drugs meant to lower blood pressure.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-3 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15min, take 3x/day. Tincture: 1-4ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Nettle’s purported anti-inflammatory effects have been repeatedly confirmed by modern research over the past ten years. It is particularly effective in treating allergic rhinitis, relieving nearly all the symptoms of itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and runny nose. It also has performed better than the prescription drug furosemide in reducing blood pressure, increasing urine output as a diuretic and increasing salt excretion. It is important to keep in mind that the medicinal effects of the leaf and root of the nettle are markedly different. Nettle root, for instance, shows exceptional efficacy in treating prostate complaints in men. Nettle leaf has some of the same effects, but not to the same extent. The leaf, on the other hand, shows some promise in boosting immune system function and is an effective treatment for many skin conditions. One final use should be noted and that is nettle leaf has been used as a hair and scalp treatment for centuries, and again, those uses are being supported by research as well. Nettle leaf extract seems to promote hair regrowth and thicken hair, as well as reducing dandruff and scalp conditions when used as a rinse.
Constituents: Formic acid, histamine, acetylcholine, vitamins A and C, 5-hydroxytryptamine, glucoquinones, chlorophyll, minerals, serotonin, choline, minerals, amino acids, lecithin, carotenoids, flavonoids, sterols, tannins and vitamins, acetophenone, acetylcholine, agglutinins, alkaloids, astragalin, butyric acid, caffeic acids, carbonic acid, chlorogenic acid, choline, coumaric acid, folacin, friedelins, histamine, kaempherols, koproporphyrin, lectins, lecithin, lignans, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, neoolivil, palmitic acid, pantothenic acid, quercetin, quinic acid, scopoletin, secoisolariciresinol, serotonin, sitosterols, stigmasterol, succinic acid, terpenes, violaxanthin, and xanthophylls
Actions: Nutrient, diuretic, detoxifying, astringent, galactagogue, decongestant, hypoglycemic
Indications: Highly nutritious full of vitamins and minerals such as iron, silica and potassium. It has been used for centuries as a tonic for weakness and debility, convalescence and anemia. It has a gentle detoxifying action by stimulating the bladder and kidneys to rid the body of toxins and waste. Relieves fluid retention, bladder infections, stones and gravel. By aiding excretion of uric acid it makes an excellent remedy for gout and arthritis as well as skin problems. The astringent action reduces bleeding. Has been used to stem heavy periods. Stimulates milk production in nursing mothers. Helps clear catarrhal congestion in the respiratory system such as allergies, hay fever and asthma. It has been found to reduce blood sugar and the seeds are said to raise thyroid function and reduce goiter. The stinging hairs of the fresh nettle contain formic acid and histamine and have been used traditionally to stimulate the circulation and relive arthritis and rheumatism.
Precautions: May lower blood pressure. Do not take with other diuretics or other drugs meant to lower blood pressure.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-3 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15min, take 3x/day. Tincture: 1-4ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Nettle’s purported anti-inflammatory effects have been repeatedly confirmed by modern research over the past ten years. It is particularly effective in treating allergic rhinitis, relieving nearly all the symptoms of itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and runny nose. It also has performed better than the prescription drug furosemide in reducing blood pressure, increasing urine output as a diuretic and increasing salt excretion. It is important to keep in mind that the medicinal effects of the leaf and root of the nettle are markedly different. Nettle root, for instance, shows exceptional efficacy in treating prostate complaints in men. Nettle leaf has some of the same effects, but not to the same extent. The leaf, on the other hand, shows some promise in boosting immune system function and is an effective treatment for many skin conditions. One final use should be noted and that is nettle leaf has been used as a hair and scalp treatment for centuries, and again, those uses are being supported by research as well. Nettle leaf extract seems to promote hair regrowth and thicken hair, as well as reducing dandruff and scalp conditions when used as a rinse.
Oats
Avena sativa
Constituents: Seeds: 50% starch; alkaloids including trigonelline and avenine; saponins; flavones; sterols; vitamin B. Plant straw: Rich in silicic acid; mucin; calcium.
Actions: Nervine tonic, anti-depressant, nutritive, demulcent, vulnerary.
Indications: Oats is one of the best remedies for ‘feeding’ the nervous system, especially when under stress. It is considered a specific in cases of nervous debility and exhaustion when associated with depression. It may be used with most of the other nerviness, both relaxant and stimulatory, to strengthen the whole of the nervous system. It is also used in general debility. The high levels of silicic acid in the straw will explain its use as a remedy for skin conditions, especially in external applications.
Combos: For depression, can be used with skullcap and lady’s slipper.
Precautions: None known.
Dosage: Use Oatstraw for infusion, 1tsp per cup water, steep 10-15min. Oats may most conveniently be taken in the form of porridge or gruel. Fluid Extract: in liquid form it is most often given as a fluid extract. 3-5ml, 3x/day. Bath: a soothing bath for use in neuralgia and irritated skin conditions can be made: 1lb straw is boiled in 2 quarts water for 30 min. Strain and add to the bath.
Constituents: Seeds: 50% starch; alkaloids including trigonelline and avenine; saponins; flavones; sterols; vitamin B. Plant straw: Rich in silicic acid; mucin; calcium.
Actions: Nervine tonic, anti-depressant, nutritive, demulcent, vulnerary.
Indications: Oats is one of the best remedies for ‘feeding’ the nervous system, especially when under stress. It is considered a specific in cases of nervous debility and exhaustion when associated with depression. It may be used with most of the other nerviness, both relaxant and stimulatory, to strengthen the whole of the nervous system. It is also used in general debility. The high levels of silicic acid in the straw will explain its use as a remedy for skin conditions, especially in external applications.
Combos: For depression, can be used with skullcap and lady’s slipper.
Precautions: None known.
Dosage: Use Oatstraw for infusion, 1tsp per cup water, steep 10-15min. Oats may most conveniently be taken in the form of porridge or gruel. Fluid Extract: in liquid form it is most often given as a fluid extract. 3-5ml, 3x/day. Bath: a soothing bath for use in neuralgia and irritated skin conditions can be made: 1lb straw is boiled in 2 quarts water for 30 min. Strain and add to the bath.
Oregon Grape Root
Berberis aquifolium
Constituents – Alkaloids of the isoquinoline type; berbeine, berberine, hydrastine, oxycanthine.
Actions: Alterative, cholagogue, laxative, anti-emetic, anti-catarrhal, tonic.
Indications: Oregon Grape is similar in action to both Golden Seal and Barberry. If finds its main use in the treatment of chronic and scaly skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. As skin problems of the sort are due to systemic causes within the body, the tonic movement of Oregon Grape on the liver and gall bladder may explain its potency. It can be used in stomach and gall bladder conditions, especially where there is connected nausea and vomiting. As a laxative it may safely be used in chronic constipation.
Precautions – Adults should limit use of Oregon grape root or any other herb containing berberine (barberry, coptis, or goldenseal) to seven consecutive days at a time, waiting at least a week before using the herb again. This gives the natural, helpful bacteria of the intestine a chance to recover. Taking vitamin B6 supplements can give infectious bacteria resistance to the antibacterial toxins in the herb. Do not take Oregon grape root if you are taking antibiotics for diarrhea. The herb is not a problem for nursing mothers unless the baby has jaundice, however it should not be used while pregnant.
Dosage: Decoction – 1-2 tsp root/cup, boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes, steep additional 10 minutes. Drunk 3x/day. Tincture – ½-1tsp of tincture 3x/day.
Constituents – Alkaloids of the isoquinoline type; berbeine, berberine, hydrastine, oxycanthine.
Actions: Alterative, cholagogue, laxative, anti-emetic, anti-catarrhal, tonic.
Indications: Oregon Grape is similar in action to both Golden Seal and Barberry. If finds its main use in the treatment of chronic and scaly skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. As skin problems of the sort are due to systemic causes within the body, the tonic movement of Oregon Grape on the liver and gall bladder may explain its potency. It can be used in stomach and gall bladder conditions, especially where there is connected nausea and vomiting. As a laxative it may safely be used in chronic constipation.
Precautions – Adults should limit use of Oregon grape root or any other herb containing berberine (barberry, coptis, or goldenseal) to seven consecutive days at a time, waiting at least a week before using the herb again. This gives the natural, helpful bacteria of the intestine a chance to recover. Taking vitamin B6 supplements can give infectious bacteria resistance to the antibacterial toxins in the herb. Do not take Oregon grape root if you are taking antibiotics for diarrhea. The herb is not a problem for nursing mothers unless the baby has jaundice, however it should not be used while pregnant.
Dosage: Decoction – 1-2 tsp root/cup, boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes, steep additional 10 minutes. Drunk 3x/day. Tincture – ½-1tsp of tincture 3x/day.
Passion Flower
Passiflora incarnata
Constituents: Alkaloids including harmine, Harman, harmol and passiflorine; flavone glycosides; sterols.
Actions: Sedative, hypnotic, anti-spasmodic, anodyne.
Indications: Herb of choice for insomnia, easing transition into sleep without narcotic hangover. Also useful for parkinson’s disease, seizures and hysteria. Can be used as an analgesic for nerve pain such as neuralgia, shingles, toothache, headache and menstrual pain.
Combos: For sleep: Valerian, Hops, Jamaican Dogwood. For depression: St. John’s Wort
Precautions: Pregnant women should avoid passionflower, since it can stimulate uterine contractions. Safe dosages for children under 6 have not been established. Caution should be used buy those on other sedatives as passionflower may intensify the effects.
Dosage: 1 tsp per cup, boiling water, steep 10 min, drink once in the evening for sleep issues or 2x/day for other issues. Tincture: 1-4 ml, as needed.
NOTES: It has a long history of use in South America for treating epilepsy, anxiety, insomnia and panic attacks.
Passionflower is also a source of chrysin, a chemical that helps the body release testosterone. Chrysin stimulates the production of testosterone, and may aggravate conditions caused by excessive testosterone (baldness and prostate problems in men, unusual aggression, hair growth, and skin problems in men and women) so this should be evaluated before consuming too much Passionflower. Currently there is a German E monograph for passionflower citing its use as having sedative qualities.
Constituents: Alkaloids including harmine, Harman, harmol and passiflorine; flavone glycosides; sterols.
Actions: Sedative, hypnotic, anti-spasmodic, anodyne.
Indications: Herb of choice for insomnia, easing transition into sleep without narcotic hangover. Also useful for parkinson’s disease, seizures and hysteria. Can be used as an analgesic for nerve pain such as neuralgia, shingles, toothache, headache and menstrual pain.
Combos: For sleep: Valerian, Hops, Jamaican Dogwood. For depression: St. John’s Wort
Precautions: Pregnant women should avoid passionflower, since it can stimulate uterine contractions. Safe dosages for children under 6 have not been established. Caution should be used buy those on other sedatives as passionflower may intensify the effects.
Dosage: 1 tsp per cup, boiling water, steep 10 min, drink once in the evening for sleep issues or 2x/day for other issues. Tincture: 1-4 ml, as needed.
NOTES: It has a long history of use in South America for treating epilepsy, anxiety, insomnia and panic attacks.
Passionflower is also a source of chrysin, a chemical that helps the body release testosterone. Chrysin stimulates the production of testosterone, and may aggravate conditions caused by excessive testosterone (baldness and prostate problems in men, unusual aggression, hair growth, and skin problems in men and women) so this should be evaluated before consuming too much Passionflower. Currently there is a German E monograph for passionflower citing its use as having sedative qualities.
Peppermint
Mentha Piperita
Constituents: Up to 2% volatile oil containing menthol, menthone and jasmine; tannins, bitter principle.
Actions: Carminative, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, aromatic, diaphoretic, anti-emetic, nervine, anti-microbial, analgesic.
Indications: Combats flatulence and encourages bile and digestive juice flow. It is used to relieve intestinal colic, flatulent dyspepsia and associated conditions. The volatile oil acts as a mild anesthetic to the stomach wall, which dispels feelings of nausea and the dire to vomit. It helps morning sickness and motion sickness. Peppermint can play a role in the treatment of ulcerative circumstances of the digestive system. It is a conventional healing of fevers, colds and influenza.
Precautions: May worsen heartburn caused by GERD. May reduce milk supply is drank in excess by nursing mothers.
Dosage: Infusion: 1tp per cup boiling water, 10 min infuse. Drunk as often as needed. Tincture: ½-1tsp, 3x/day.
Constituents: Up to 2% volatile oil containing menthol, menthone and jasmine; tannins, bitter principle.
Actions: Carminative, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, aromatic, diaphoretic, anti-emetic, nervine, anti-microbial, analgesic.
Indications: Combats flatulence and encourages bile and digestive juice flow. It is used to relieve intestinal colic, flatulent dyspepsia and associated conditions. The volatile oil acts as a mild anesthetic to the stomach wall, which dispels feelings of nausea and the dire to vomit. It helps morning sickness and motion sickness. Peppermint can play a role in the treatment of ulcerative circumstances of the digestive system. It is a conventional healing of fevers, colds and influenza.
Precautions: May worsen heartburn caused by GERD. May reduce milk supply is drank in excess by nursing mothers.
Dosage: Infusion: 1tp per cup boiling water, 10 min infuse. Drunk as often as needed. Tincture: ½-1tsp, 3x/day.
Plantain
Plantago major
Constituents: Glycosides including aucubin, mucilage, chlorogenic acid and ursolic acid, silicic acid, beta carotene, vitamin C, calcium
Actions: Expectorant, demulcent, astringent, diuretic.
Indications: A valuable healing herb for cuts, abrasions and stings. Most commonly used as a poultice, lotion, salve or ointment for first aid. Known as “Nature’s Band-Aid”. Acts as a gentle expectorant while soothing inflamed and sore membranes, making it ideal for coughs and mild bronchitis. The astringency aids in diarrhea, hemorrhoids and in cystitis when there is bleeding.
Precautions: None known
Dosage: Infusion: 2 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10 min, drink 3x/day. Tincture: 2-3ml, 3x/day. Apply topically as needed.
NOTES: The leaves are quite edible, and often used raw in salads and cooked as greens. Older leaves have a stronger, sometimes objectionable flavor, and can be tough and stringy, but can be used to make tea. Plantain is very high in vitamins A and C and in calcium. Medicinally, Native Americans used plantain leaves to relieve the pain of bee stings and insect bites, stop the itching of poison ivy and other allergic rashes, and promote healing in sores and bruises.
Constituents: Glycosides including aucubin, mucilage, chlorogenic acid and ursolic acid, silicic acid, beta carotene, vitamin C, calcium
Actions: Expectorant, demulcent, astringent, diuretic.
Indications: A valuable healing herb for cuts, abrasions and stings. Most commonly used as a poultice, lotion, salve or ointment for first aid. Known as “Nature’s Band-Aid”. Acts as a gentle expectorant while soothing inflamed and sore membranes, making it ideal for coughs and mild bronchitis. The astringency aids in diarrhea, hemorrhoids and in cystitis when there is bleeding.
Precautions: None known
Dosage: Infusion: 2 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10 min, drink 3x/day. Tincture: 2-3ml, 3x/day. Apply topically as needed.
NOTES: The leaves are quite edible, and often used raw in salads and cooked as greens. Older leaves have a stronger, sometimes objectionable flavor, and can be tough and stringy, but can be used to make tea. Plantain is very high in vitamins A and C and in calcium. Medicinally, Native Americans used plantain leaves to relieve the pain of bee stings and insect bites, stop the itching of poison ivy and other allergic rashes, and promote healing in sores and bruises.