Q - S
Red Clover
Trifolium pratense
Constituents: Isoflavones, phenolic glycosides, flavonoids, coumarins, cyanogenic glycosides.
Actions: Alterative, expectorant, anti-spasmodic
Indications: Used often as remedy for children who have skin problems such as childhood eczema and psoriasis. The expectorant and anti-spasmodic action make it useful in the treatment of coughs and bronchitis, but especially in whooping cough. A great detoxification and blood purifier herb and respiratory tonic. Rich in minerals such as calcium, nitrogen and iron. Also used in anti-tumor formulas. Has an estrogen-like action and helps reduce hot flashes in menopausal women. Studies have suggested that red clover isoflavones are more effective in reducing heat flashes than pharmaceutical preparations. Among its common uses are to relieve the symptoms of PMS in premenopausal women, and in place of hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women.
Combos: Mullein for respiratory issues.
Precautions: Hemophiliacs or those with thin blood should not take red clover regularly. Do not take while pregnant.
Dosage: Infusion: 1 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15 min, drink 3x/day. Tincture: 2-6 ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Modern science has recently isolated isoflavones from red clover plants that are similar in shape and action to estrogen.
Constituents: Isoflavones, phenolic glycosides, flavonoids, coumarins, cyanogenic glycosides.
Actions: Alterative, expectorant, anti-spasmodic
Indications: Used often as remedy for children who have skin problems such as childhood eczema and psoriasis. The expectorant and anti-spasmodic action make it useful in the treatment of coughs and bronchitis, but especially in whooping cough. A great detoxification and blood purifier herb and respiratory tonic. Rich in minerals such as calcium, nitrogen and iron. Also used in anti-tumor formulas. Has an estrogen-like action and helps reduce hot flashes in menopausal women. Studies have suggested that red clover isoflavones are more effective in reducing heat flashes than pharmaceutical preparations. Among its common uses are to relieve the symptoms of PMS in premenopausal women, and in place of hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women.
Combos: Mullein for respiratory issues.
Precautions: Hemophiliacs or those with thin blood should not take red clover regularly. Do not take while pregnant.
Dosage: Infusion: 1 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15 min, drink 3x/day. Tincture: 2-6 ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Modern science has recently isolated isoflavones from red clover plants that are similar in shape and action to estrogen.
Red Raspberry
Rubus idaeus
Constituents: Leaves: Fruit sugar, volatile oil, pectin, citric acid, malic acid.
Actions: Astringent, tonic, refrigerant, parturient, galactagogue
Indications: Has both a relaxing and toning effect on the uterus. The astringentcy and stimulating properties help to strengthen and tone up the uterine and pelvic muscles. They also tone the mucous membranes throughout the body, soothe the urinary tract and are useful for diarrhea and stopping hemorrhage. The digestive properties help relieve nausea in pregnancy and are also relaxing. Used throught history to encourage a safe, easy and speedy childbirth, as well as afterwards to stimulate milk production and to speed recovery after birth. Can also be used for healing mouth sores, bleeding gums and inflammations. As a gargle it may help sore throats.
Precautions: Not for use with women who are pregnant and have had problems with preterm labor. To be safe it is recommended for use after the 3rd gestational month.
Dosage: Infusion: 2tsp per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15min (if pregnant, start from 3 months on gradually increasing from one to 3 cups per day.) If not pregnant it can be drunk freely. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day
Constituents: Leaves: Fruit sugar, volatile oil, pectin, citric acid, malic acid.
Actions: Astringent, tonic, refrigerant, parturient, galactagogue
Indications: Has both a relaxing and toning effect on the uterus. The astringentcy and stimulating properties help to strengthen and tone up the uterine and pelvic muscles. They also tone the mucous membranes throughout the body, soothe the urinary tract and are useful for diarrhea and stopping hemorrhage. The digestive properties help relieve nausea in pregnancy and are also relaxing. Used throught history to encourage a safe, easy and speedy childbirth, as well as afterwards to stimulate milk production and to speed recovery after birth. Can also be used for healing mouth sores, bleeding gums and inflammations. As a gargle it may help sore throats.
Precautions: Not for use with women who are pregnant and have had problems with preterm labor. To be safe it is recommended for use after the 3rd gestational month.
Dosage: Infusion: 2tsp per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15min (if pregnant, start from 3 months on gradually increasing from one to 3 cups per day.) If not pregnant it can be drunk freely. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day
Rhubarb Root
Rheum palmatum
Constituents: Anthrraquinone derivatives such as chrysophanic acid thvarious cinnamoyl and coumaroyl golloyl glucosides and fructoses. Stilbene derivatives; related stilbene glycosides present in other types Miscellaneous; volatile oil, containing disobutyl phthalate, cinnamic and ferulic acids; rutin, fatty acids, calcium oxalate etc.
Actions: Bitter, laxative, astringent.
Indications: Rhubarb Root has a purgative act for use in the management of constipation, but also has an astringent effect following this. It therefore has a truly cleansing action upon the gut, removing waste and then astringing with antiseptic properties as well. Note: Rhubarb Root may color the urine yellow or red.
Precautions: Pregnant and nursing women should not use Rhubarb Root, nor should it be used by those who suffer from Colitis or have intestinal obstruction. Long-term use is not recommended, as it may cause dependence and tendency toward chronic constipation, nor should it be taken when the Colon is already empty. People with a history of renal stones should avoid Rhubarb Root (and any herbs with oxalates).
Dosage: Decoction: put ½ to 1tsp root per cup, boil then simmer 10-15 min. This should be drunk morning and evening. Tincture: take ½ tsp 3x/day.
Constituents: Anthrraquinone derivatives such as chrysophanic acid thvarious cinnamoyl and coumaroyl golloyl glucosides and fructoses. Stilbene derivatives; related stilbene glycosides present in other types Miscellaneous; volatile oil, containing disobutyl phthalate, cinnamic and ferulic acids; rutin, fatty acids, calcium oxalate etc.
Actions: Bitter, laxative, astringent.
Indications: Rhubarb Root has a purgative act for use in the management of constipation, but also has an astringent effect following this. It therefore has a truly cleansing action upon the gut, removing waste and then astringing with antiseptic properties as well. Note: Rhubarb Root may color the urine yellow or red.
Precautions: Pregnant and nursing women should not use Rhubarb Root, nor should it be used by those who suffer from Colitis or have intestinal obstruction. Long-term use is not recommended, as it may cause dependence and tendency toward chronic constipation, nor should it be taken when the Colon is already empty. People with a history of renal stones should avoid Rhubarb Root (and any herbs with oxalates).
Dosage: Decoction: put ½ to 1tsp root per cup, boil then simmer 10-15 min. This should be drunk morning and evening. Tincture: take ½ tsp 3x/day.
Rose (hips, leaves & flowers)
Rosa spp
Constituents: Vitamins C, B,E, K, tannins, pectin, carotene, fruit acids, fatty oil, nicotinamide
Actions: Relaxant, nutrient, mild laxative, diuretic, astringent, refrigerant, detoxifying, decongestant, nervine.
Indications: Leaves and petals have a cooling effect and can be used to bring down fever, clear toxins and restrain the development of infections. Useful for colds, flu symptoms, sore throat, runny nose, blocked bronchial tubes and those prone to infections. They also help fight infection in the digestive tract and help re-establish the normal bacterial population of the intestines. Petals and seeds have a diuretic action, relieving fluid retention and increasing kidney function. Astringency makes it good for diarrhea and dysentery. All kinds of roses have commonly been used to uplift the spirits and relax the nervous system. Can be used for insomnia, depression, dispel fatigue and soothes irritability.
Precautions: Not for use during pregnancy (hips are ok)
Dosage: Infusion: 1 tsp flowers per cup boiling water, let steep 5-10min, as needed. Decoction or syrup maybe taken freely. Decoction: 2 ½ tsp hips per cup boiling water, simmer 10 min. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Kiva Rose noted seeing improvement with cellulitis that was not resolved with repeated doses of antibiotics. The patient was instructed to soak the infected area in a strong infusion several times a day.
Constituents: Vitamins C, B,E, K, tannins, pectin, carotene, fruit acids, fatty oil, nicotinamide
Actions: Relaxant, nutrient, mild laxative, diuretic, astringent, refrigerant, detoxifying, decongestant, nervine.
Indications: Leaves and petals have a cooling effect and can be used to bring down fever, clear toxins and restrain the development of infections. Useful for colds, flu symptoms, sore throat, runny nose, blocked bronchial tubes and those prone to infections. They also help fight infection in the digestive tract and help re-establish the normal bacterial population of the intestines. Petals and seeds have a diuretic action, relieving fluid retention and increasing kidney function. Astringency makes it good for diarrhea and dysentery. All kinds of roses have commonly been used to uplift the spirits and relax the nervous system. Can be used for insomnia, depression, dispel fatigue and soothes irritability.
Precautions: Not for use during pregnancy (hips are ok)
Dosage: Infusion: 1 tsp flowers per cup boiling water, let steep 5-10min, as needed. Decoction or syrup maybe taken freely. Decoction: 2 ½ tsp hips per cup boiling water, simmer 10 min. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Kiva Rose noted seeing improvement with cellulitis that was not resolved with repeated doses of antibiotics. The patient was instructed to soak the infected area in a strong infusion several times a day.
Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis
Constituents: Volatile oil, flavonoids, phenolic acids, carnosic acid (rosmaricine), triterpenic acids, tannins, bitter principle, resins.
Actions: Diuretic, antiseptic, circulatory stimulant, rejuvenating tonic, antioxidant, expectorant, decongestant, digestive, bitter tonic, astringent, relaxant, carminative, antispasmodic, antidepressant
Indications: The volatile oils in rosemary are antiseptic with antibacterial and antifungal properties which also enhance the function of the immune system. Causes sweating and may bring down fevers. Its warming and stimulating effects help clear phlegm from head and chest colds, as well as relief from flu, catarrh, coughs, wheezing, bronchitis, and whooping cough. The relaxant effects help relieve spasm in the bronchial tubes like asthma. It is a good tonic for the heart, brains and nervous system. It increases blood flow to the head, stimulating the brain and heightens concentration. It has been used for anxiety, tension, exhaustion, lethargy, depression, insomnia and as a tonic during convalescence and for the elderly. Helps prevent and treat headaches and migraines. It improves vitality and stimulates digestion, relieves flatulence, distension and enhances the appetite and increases flow of digestive juices. Good for sluggish digestion. The bitters stimulate the liver and gallbladder, increasing the flow of bile and aiding digestion of fats. It is a powerful antioxidant, preventing damage by free radicals. Externally it maybe be used to ease muscular pain, sciatica and neuralgia.
Combos: For depression, skullcap, kola and oats.
Precautions: Women who have heavy periods should avoid excessive use of rosemary, since it stimulate menstrual flow. The herb should not be used medicinally during pregnancy. Small amounts of rosemary used in cooking, however, are safe for pregnant women and for women who have heavy periods.
Dosage: Infusion: 1 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15 min, 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2 ml, 3x/day
Constituents: Volatile oil, flavonoids, phenolic acids, carnosic acid (rosmaricine), triterpenic acids, tannins, bitter principle, resins.
Actions: Diuretic, antiseptic, circulatory stimulant, rejuvenating tonic, antioxidant, expectorant, decongestant, digestive, bitter tonic, astringent, relaxant, carminative, antispasmodic, antidepressant
Indications: The volatile oils in rosemary are antiseptic with antibacterial and antifungal properties which also enhance the function of the immune system. Causes sweating and may bring down fevers. Its warming and stimulating effects help clear phlegm from head and chest colds, as well as relief from flu, catarrh, coughs, wheezing, bronchitis, and whooping cough. The relaxant effects help relieve spasm in the bronchial tubes like asthma. It is a good tonic for the heart, brains and nervous system. It increases blood flow to the head, stimulating the brain and heightens concentration. It has been used for anxiety, tension, exhaustion, lethargy, depression, insomnia and as a tonic during convalescence and for the elderly. Helps prevent and treat headaches and migraines. It improves vitality and stimulates digestion, relieves flatulence, distension and enhances the appetite and increases flow of digestive juices. Good for sluggish digestion. The bitters stimulate the liver and gallbladder, increasing the flow of bile and aiding digestion of fats. It is a powerful antioxidant, preventing damage by free radicals. Externally it maybe be used to ease muscular pain, sciatica and neuralgia.
Combos: For depression, skullcap, kola and oats.
Precautions: Women who have heavy periods should avoid excessive use of rosemary, since it stimulate menstrual flow. The herb should not be used medicinally during pregnancy. Small amounts of rosemary used in cooking, however, are safe for pregnant women and for women who have heavy periods.
Dosage: Infusion: 1 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15 min, 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2 ml, 3x/day
Sarsaparilla
Smilax officinalis
Constituents: Sapogenins, glycosides, essential oil, resin
Actions: Alterative, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, diaphoretic.
Indications: Used for skin and rheumatic conditions. Especially useful for rheumatoid arthritis. It has been shown that sarsaparilla contains chemical with properties that aid testosterone activity in the body. Considered a “blood purifier” for the genitourinary system, liver and gallbladder. Roots are rich in steroidal saponins. Rich in trace minerals, selenium and zinc. Also indicated for psoriasis, arthritis, hormonal imbalances, low energy, poor elimination and sluggish liver.
Combos: For skin issues use: Burdock, Yellow Dock and Cleaver.
Precautions: Excessive use may cause gastrointestinal upset. Not for long term use.
Dosage: Decoction: 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15 min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Nice herb for tea, because of its root beer like taste. There is some evidence to support the use of sarsaparilla root in treating skin conditions, and in increasing general health, as well as evidence that some constituents of sarsaparilla have antiviral action, and are useful in treating rheumatism and syphilis.
There are approximately 350 species worldwide in the genus. Sarsaparilla seems to be another case where science is slowly learning that many of the traditional uses are valid. Jamaican Sarsaparilla has been traditionally used as a treatment to restore virility, ease skin conditions, combat leprosy, treat syphilis and reduce the pain and inflammation associated with autoimmune joint diseases like rheumatism.
Constituents: Sapogenins, glycosides, essential oil, resin
Actions: Alterative, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, diaphoretic.
Indications: Used for skin and rheumatic conditions. Especially useful for rheumatoid arthritis. It has been shown that sarsaparilla contains chemical with properties that aid testosterone activity in the body. Considered a “blood purifier” for the genitourinary system, liver and gallbladder. Roots are rich in steroidal saponins. Rich in trace minerals, selenium and zinc. Also indicated for psoriasis, arthritis, hormonal imbalances, low energy, poor elimination and sluggish liver.
Combos: For skin issues use: Burdock, Yellow Dock and Cleaver.
Precautions: Excessive use may cause gastrointestinal upset. Not for long term use.
Dosage: Decoction: 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15 min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Nice herb for tea, because of its root beer like taste. There is some evidence to support the use of sarsaparilla root in treating skin conditions, and in increasing general health, as well as evidence that some constituents of sarsaparilla have antiviral action, and are useful in treating rheumatism and syphilis.
There are approximately 350 species worldwide in the genus. Sarsaparilla seems to be another case where science is slowly learning that many of the traditional uses are valid. Jamaican Sarsaparilla has been traditionally used as a treatment to restore virility, ease skin conditions, combat leprosy, treat syphilis and reduce the pain and inflammation associated with autoimmune joint diseases like rheumatism.
Saw Palmetto
Serenoa serrulata
Constituents: Volatile oils, steroidal saponins, dextrose, tannins, resins
Actions: Sedative, diuretic, urinary antiseptic, endocrine agent, nutritive.
Indications: Tones and strengthens the male reproductive system. Useful in cases of enlarged prostate and urinary tract infections. Well known remedy for atrophy of the testes, low libido, impotence, and any inflammation of the reproductive tract. Also good for maladies of the urinary system, can be taken for infections, fluid retention, incontinence and bedwetting. It relaxes the nervous system, soothes tension and anxiety and also has a toning action on the mucous membranes throughout the body.
Combos: For sexual debility, Damiana and Kola. For enlarged prostate, Horsetail and Hydrangea.
Precautions: According to the German E Commission monograph, there have been extremely rare cases of stomach problems.
Dosage: Decoction: ½ to1tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 5 minutes, take 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Modern research in Europe has shown that saw palmetto may help heal Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)and prostatitis by stopping the conversion of 5-dehydrotestosterone into testosterone, but the whole berries have a gentler effect on the hormone producing effects which help preserve male potency, while offering a wider range of effects to treat the conditions. In cases of prostate infection, the berries gently stimulate urination, causing the infectious microorganisms to be “flushed out” with urine. Other noted modern uses have been for natural breast enlargement, and for hair loss. There has been little or no published research, however, to verify the validity of any claims to these effects.
Constituents: Volatile oils, steroidal saponins, dextrose, tannins, resins
Actions: Sedative, diuretic, urinary antiseptic, endocrine agent, nutritive.
Indications: Tones and strengthens the male reproductive system. Useful in cases of enlarged prostate and urinary tract infections. Well known remedy for atrophy of the testes, low libido, impotence, and any inflammation of the reproductive tract. Also good for maladies of the urinary system, can be taken for infections, fluid retention, incontinence and bedwetting. It relaxes the nervous system, soothes tension and anxiety and also has a toning action on the mucous membranes throughout the body.
Combos: For sexual debility, Damiana and Kola. For enlarged prostate, Horsetail and Hydrangea.
Precautions: According to the German E Commission monograph, there have been extremely rare cases of stomach problems.
Dosage: Decoction: ½ to1tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 5 minutes, take 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Modern research in Europe has shown that saw palmetto may help heal Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)and prostatitis by stopping the conversion of 5-dehydrotestosterone into testosterone, but the whole berries have a gentler effect on the hormone producing effects which help preserve male potency, while offering a wider range of effects to treat the conditions. In cases of prostate infection, the berries gently stimulate urination, causing the infectious microorganisms to be “flushed out” with urine. Other noted modern uses have been for natural breast enlargement, and for hair loss. There has been little or no published research, however, to verify the validity of any claims to these effects.
Schisandra Berries
Schisandra chinensis
Constituents: lignans schizandrin, deoxyschizandrin, gomisins, and pregomisin
Actions: Hepatoprotective, adaptogenic, immune-modulating
Indications: Raises the body’s ability to adapt to stress. Often associated with sexual organs, to increase staying power of men and revitalize women. Used to increase endurance and stamina.
Combinations: Vitex for reproductive tonic, energizing and warming to genital area. Ginseng, to increase stamina and endurance for athletes and hikers.
Precautions: Should not be used by pregnant women.
Dosage: Tinctures well in 80-proof alcohol. May be used in tea
Constituents: lignans schizandrin, deoxyschizandrin, gomisins, and pregomisin
Actions: Hepatoprotective, adaptogenic, immune-modulating
Indications: Raises the body’s ability to adapt to stress. Often associated with sexual organs, to increase staying power of men and revitalize women. Used to increase endurance and stamina.
Combinations: Vitex for reproductive tonic, energizing and warming to genital area. Ginseng, to increase stamina and endurance for athletes and hikers.
Precautions: Should not be used by pregnant women.
Dosage: Tinctures well in 80-proof alcohol. May be used in tea
Senna
Cassia angustifolia and Cassia senna
Constituents : Anthraquinone glycosides: in the leaf; sennosides A and B based on the aglycones sennidin A & B, sennosides C & D which are glycosides of heterodianthrones of aloe.
Actions: Cathartic.
Indications: Senna is a powerful cathartic used in the treatment of constipation, working through a stimulation of intestinal peristalsis. It is vital to distinguish, however, that the constipation is a result of something else and not the original cause and that this has to be sought and dealt with. Should be combined with other herbs to lessen griping and stomach pain.
Precautions: Not recommended if you have or develop diarrhea. Not for use during pregnancy.
Dosage: Infusion: dried pods or leaves should be steeped in warm water for 6-12 hours. If they are Alexandrian Senna Pods use 3-6 in a cup of water; if they are Tinnevelly Senna, use 4-12 pods. These names are given to two different species when sold commercially. Tincture: take ½-1 tsp of tincture before bedtime.
Constituents : Anthraquinone glycosides: in the leaf; sennosides A and B based on the aglycones sennidin A & B, sennosides C & D which are glycosides of heterodianthrones of aloe.
Actions: Cathartic.
Indications: Senna is a powerful cathartic used in the treatment of constipation, working through a stimulation of intestinal peristalsis. It is vital to distinguish, however, that the constipation is a result of something else and not the original cause and that this has to be sought and dealt with. Should be combined with other herbs to lessen griping and stomach pain.
Precautions: Not recommended if you have or develop diarrhea. Not for use during pregnancy.
Dosage: Infusion: dried pods or leaves should be steeped in warm water for 6-12 hours. If they are Alexandrian Senna Pods use 3-6 in a cup of water; if they are Tinnevelly Senna, use 4-12 pods. These names are given to two different species when sold commercially. Tincture: take ½-1 tsp of tincture before bedtime.
Skullcap
Scutellaria lateriflora
Constituents: Flavonoid glycoside including scutellarin and scutellarein; trace of volatile oil; bitter.
Actions: Nervine tonic, sedative, anti-spasmodic.
Indications: relaxes state of nervous tension whilst at the same time renewing and reviving the central nervous system. It has a specific use in the treatment of seizure and hysterical states as well as epilepsy. It may be used in all exhausted or depressed conditions. It can be used with complete safety in the easing of pre-menstrual tension.
Combines well with valerian.
Precautions: Not toxic in normal amounts, although overdoses of skullcap tincture may cause confusion, giddiness, stupor, and seizures. Due to its use in expelling afterbirth, it should not be used by pregnant women. Skullcap cut with related species can be dangerous (for example, Teucrium chamaedrys, a close relative of pink skullcap, can cause hepatitis and liver damage), so make certain you are getting authentic scutellaria.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2tsp/cup for 10-15 minutes. Drunk 3x/day or when needed. Tincture: 2-4ml of tincture 3x/day.
Constituents: Flavonoid glycoside including scutellarin and scutellarein; trace of volatile oil; bitter.
Actions: Nervine tonic, sedative, anti-spasmodic.
Indications: relaxes state of nervous tension whilst at the same time renewing and reviving the central nervous system. It has a specific use in the treatment of seizure and hysterical states as well as epilepsy. It may be used in all exhausted or depressed conditions. It can be used with complete safety in the easing of pre-menstrual tension.
Combines well with valerian.
Precautions: Not toxic in normal amounts, although overdoses of skullcap tincture may cause confusion, giddiness, stupor, and seizures. Due to its use in expelling afterbirth, it should not be used by pregnant women. Skullcap cut with related species can be dangerous (for example, Teucrium chamaedrys, a close relative of pink skullcap, can cause hepatitis and liver damage), so make certain you are getting authentic scutellaria.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2tsp/cup for 10-15 minutes. Drunk 3x/day or when needed. Tincture: 2-4ml of tincture 3x/day.
Slippery Elm Bark
Ulmus fulva
Constituents: Mucilage, composed of galactose, 3-methyl galactose, rhamnose and galacturonic acid residues.
Actions: Demulcent, emollient, nutrient, astringent, anti-inflammatory.
Indications: Slippery Elm Bark is a soothing nutritive demulcent, which is perfectly suited for, susceptible or inflamed mucous membrane linings in the digestive system. It may be used in gastritis, gastric or duodenal ulcer, enteritis, colitis and the like. It is often used as a food during period of recovery as it is gentle and easily absorbed. In diarrhea it will ease and astringe at the same time. Externally it makes a tremendous ease and astringe at the same time. Externally it makes a tremendous poultice for use in cases of boils, abscesses or ulcers.
Precautions: Since slippery elm is a food product, there is no upper limit on dosage, although about 2 tablespoons (10 grams) of the herb is the minimum amount that produces noticeable effects. Avoid taking it with other medications, as the mucilage can prevent proper absorption. Make sure to drink lots of water with slippery elm bark powder or capsules.
Dosage: Decoction – 1part of the powdered bark to 8 parts water. Mix the powder in a little water initially to make sure it will mix. Bring to a boil and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes. Drink half a cup three times a day. Poultice – mix coarse powdered bark with enough boiling water to make a paste. For teething make a thin paste and rub on infant’s gums.
Constituents: Mucilage, composed of galactose, 3-methyl galactose, rhamnose and galacturonic acid residues.
Actions: Demulcent, emollient, nutrient, astringent, anti-inflammatory.
Indications: Slippery Elm Bark is a soothing nutritive demulcent, which is perfectly suited for, susceptible or inflamed mucous membrane linings in the digestive system. It may be used in gastritis, gastric or duodenal ulcer, enteritis, colitis and the like. It is often used as a food during period of recovery as it is gentle and easily absorbed. In diarrhea it will ease and astringe at the same time. Externally it makes a tremendous ease and astringe at the same time. Externally it makes a tremendous poultice for use in cases of boils, abscesses or ulcers.
Precautions: Since slippery elm is a food product, there is no upper limit on dosage, although about 2 tablespoons (10 grams) of the herb is the minimum amount that produces noticeable effects. Avoid taking it with other medications, as the mucilage can prevent proper absorption. Make sure to drink lots of water with slippery elm bark powder or capsules.
Dosage: Decoction – 1part of the powdered bark to 8 parts water. Mix the powder in a little water initially to make sure it will mix. Bring to a boil and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes. Drink half a cup three times a day. Poultice – mix coarse powdered bark with enough boiling water to make a paste. For teething make a thin paste and rub on infant’s gums.
Spearmint
Mentha spicata
Constituents: Volatile oil, menthol, menthone, d-limonene, neomenthol, tannins and very small amounts of essential oil containing about 50% carvone.
Actions: Stimulant, Carminative, Antispasmodic
Indications: Has similar actions as peppermint, but is milder and more appropriate for children. Useful for freshening up after vomiting. Used mostly for its sweet, minty taste. For young children it is a favorite for hiccough, indigestion, nausea and vomiting. The volatile oil stimulates the digestive system. See PEPPERMINT for more indications.
Precautions: Not for infants.
Dosage: 1 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10 min, taken as needed. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day or as needed.
NOTES: Unlike peppermint, spearmint is also diuretic. It may also be helpful in reducing fevers and easing respiratory problems and chronic bronchitis. In aromatherapy, inhaling the essential oil can help relieve stress and lift the mood. In Ayurvedic medicine spearmint is considered a cold, pungent herb that increases mental alertness and is more effective than peppermint in relieving stress.
Constituents: Volatile oil, menthol, menthone, d-limonene, neomenthol, tannins and very small amounts of essential oil containing about 50% carvone.
Actions: Stimulant, Carminative, Antispasmodic
Indications: Has similar actions as peppermint, but is milder and more appropriate for children. Useful for freshening up after vomiting. Used mostly for its sweet, minty taste. For young children it is a favorite for hiccough, indigestion, nausea and vomiting. The volatile oil stimulates the digestive system. See PEPPERMINT for more indications.
Precautions: Not for infants.
Dosage: 1 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10 min, taken as needed. Tincture: 1-2ml, 3x/day or as needed.
NOTES: Unlike peppermint, spearmint is also diuretic. It may also be helpful in reducing fevers and easing respiratory problems and chronic bronchitis. In aromatherapy, inhaling the essential oil can help relieve stress and lift the mood. In Ayurvedic medicine spearmint is considered a cold, pungent herb that increases mental alertness and is more effective than peppermint in relieving stress.
St. John's Wort
Hypericum perforatum
Constituents: Hypericin and related compounds, rutin, bitters, and tannins.
Actions: A cool, bitter herb, St. John’s wort is sedative, anti-inflammatory, astringent, and most famously as an anti-depressant.
Indications: Bruises, Depression and anxiety, skin inflammation, wounds and burns. Has also been used to treat sleep disorders, gallbladder disorders, gastritis, bronchitis, asthma, diarrhea, bedwetting, rheumatism, muscle pain, hemorrhoids, depression and gout.
St. John’s Wort is believed to combat depression by boosting the levels of certain chemical messengers in the brain. It facilitates on two fronts. It seems to increase the amount of serotonin accessible to the nervous system. It is also said to raise levels dopamine and certain additional chemical messengers.
It is a golden yellow perennial flower that secretes and red liquid when pinched. Cut at the start of the flowering season and processed in bunches, it must be dried quickly to preserve its oil and secretions.
This plant has been used medicinally for over 2,000 years. Ancient Greeks believed that is odor repelled evil spirits; it has a wondrous light scent. Early Christians named the plant in honor of St. John the Baptist because they believed it released its blood red oil on the 29th of august, the day the saint was beheaded.
Externally used in lotions & oils for an anti-inflammatory remedy. Speeds healing of wounds and bruises, varicose veins and mild burns. Also beneficial during back labor in childbirth.
Precautions: There are no known reasons to avoid St. John’s Wort at recommended dosage levels. Special precautions if heavy use, some studies show it increases sensitivity to sunlight, in some cases. Any plant with a similar action can also do this. Minimize exposure to the sun while using this herb. This herb has also been known to cause bloating and constipation in some cases. Do not take if on other antidepressants, may minimize their effects.
Dosage: Infuse 1-2tsp of herb per cup boiling water, steep 10-15min, drank 2-3x/day. Tincture 1-4ml 3x/day.
Constituents: Hypericin and related compounds, rutin, bitters, and tannins.
Actions: A cool, bitter herb, St. John’s wort is sedative, anti-inflammatory, astringent, and most famously as an anti-depressant.
Indications: Bruises, Depression and anxiety, skin inflammation, wounds and burns. Has also been used to treat sleep disorders, gallbladder disorders, gastritis, bronchitis, asthma, diarrhea, bedwetting, rheumatism, muscle pain, hemorrhoids, depression and gout.
St. John’s Wort is believed to combat depression by boosting the levels of certain chemical messengers in the brain. It facilitates on two fronts. It seems to increase the amount of serotonin accessible to the nervous system. It is also said to raise levels dopamine and certain additional chemical messengers.
It is a golden yellow perennial flower that secretes and red liquid when pinched. Cut at the start of the flowering season and processed in bunches, it must be dried quickly to preserve its oil and secretions.
This plant has been used medicinally for over 2,000 years. Ancient Greeks believed that is odor repelled evil spirits; it has a wondrous light scent. Early Christians named the plant in honor of St. John the Baptist because they believed it released its blood red oil on the 29th of august, the day the saint was beheaded.
Externally used in lotions & oils for an anti-inflammatory remedy. Speeds healing of wounds and bruises, varicose veins and mild burns. Also beneficial during back labor in childbirth.
Precautions: There are no known reasons to avoid St. John’s Wort at recommended dosage levels. Special precautions if heavy use, some studies show it increases sensitivity to sunlight, in some cases. Any plant with a similar action can also do this. Minimize exposure to the sun while using this herb. This herb has also been known to cause bloating and constipation in some cases. Do not take if on other antidepressants, may minimize their effects.
Dosage: Infuse 1-2tsp of herb per cup boiling water, steep 10-15min, drank 2-3x/day. Tincture 1-4ml 3x/day.