T - Z
Turmeric
Curcuma longa
Constituents: Volitile oil, gum, starch, chloride of calcium, curcumin (1-alpha curcumene, 1-beta-curcumene, camphene, camphor, various forms of curcumin)
Actions: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimutagenic, digestive aid
Indications: Used as an anti-inflammatory it is good for any type of inflammation of the joints, such as arthritis and sciatic pain as well as those of the stomach, such as food allergies. Used as a digestive aid and flavoring in curries. Useful for sluggish livers, hair and skin health, general debility and low blood pressure. Curcumin has also shown promising results in the treatment of cancer.
Precautions: Too much turmeric used for extended periods of time may cause stomach distress. Since turmeric is included in Ayurvedic formulas for birth control, women trying to become pregnant should limit their consumption of the herb, and it should be avoided entirely while pregnant. Excessive use of turmeric should also be avoided in people with congestive heart failure. The curcumin in turmeric activates a gene called p53. This gene deactivates cancer cells, but it also deactivates damaged cells in the heart.
Dosage: May be added to the diet as a spice, taken freely. Capsules: 1-2 capsules, 1-2 times per day. Tincture: usually combined with other herbs, start at ¼ tsp, 2x/day.
NOTES: Curcumin may stop the action of a liver enzyme that activates environmental toxins into carcinogenic forms, and may be especially useful in deactivating the carcinogens in cigarette smoke and chewing tobacco.
Constituents: Volitile oil, gum, starch, chloride of calcium, curcumin (1-alpha curcumene, 1-beta-curcumene, camphene, camphor, various forms of curcumin)
Actions: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimutagenic, digestive aid
Indications: Used as an anti-inflammatory it is good for any type of inflammation of the joints, such as arthritis and sciatic pain as well as those of the stomach, such as food allergies. Used as a digestive aid and flavoring in curries. Useful for sluggish livers, hair and skin health, general debility and low blood pressure. Curcumin has also shown promising results in the treatment of cancer.
Precautions: Too much turmeric used for extended periods of time may cause stomach distress. Since turmeric is included in Ayurvedic formulas for birth control, women trying to become pregnant should limit their consumption of the herb, and it should be avoided entirely while pregnant. Excessive use of turmeric should also be avoided in people with congestive heart failure. The curcumin in turmeric activates a gene called p53. This gene deactivates cancer cells, but it also deactivates damaged cells in the heart.
Dosage: May be added to the diet as a spice, taken freely. Capsules: 1-2 capsules, 1-2 times per day. Tincture: usually combined with other herbs, start at ¼ tsp, 2x/day.
NOTES: Curcumin may stop the action of a liver enzyme that activates environmental toxins into carcinogenic forms, and may be especially useful in deactivating the carcinogens in cigarette smoke and chewing tobacco.
Uva Ursi (Bearberry)
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Constituents:Glycosides, including arbutin and ericolin. 6% tannin, flavonoids and resin.
Actions: Diuretic, astringent, antiseptic, demulcent.
Indications: It’s astringent and healing action on the membranes of the urinary system makes it a good remedy for urinary tract infections. Can also be used for chronic kidney problems and calculus or gravel.
Combinations: Goes well with couchgrass and yarrow
Precautions: Cranberry juice sweetened with sugar cancels out the benefits of uva ursi, although unsweetened cranberry juice, cranberry extracts, and whole cranberries (served without sugar) do not. Do not take vitamin C on days you take uva ursi; vitamin C cancels out its effects. Uva ursi is only appropriate for short-term use, no more than two weeks at a time, no more than 5 times a year. Uva ursi should not be taken by young children, pregnant or nursing women, or by persons with severe liver or kidney disease.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15min, take 3x/day. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day.
Constituents:Glycosides, including arbutin and ericolin. 6% tannin, flavonoids and resin.
Actions: Diuretic, astringent, antiseptic, demulcent.
Indications: It’s astringent and healing action on the membranes of the urinary system makes it a good remedy for urinary tract infections. Can also be used for chronic kidney problems and calculus or gravel.
Combinations: Goes well with couchgrass and yarrow
Precautions: Cranberry juice sweetened with sugar cancels out the benefits of uva ursi, although unsweetened cranberry juice, cranberry extracts, and whole cranberries (served without sugar) do not. Do not take vitamin C on days you take uva ursi; vitamin C cancels out its effects. Uva ursi is only appropriate for short-term use, no more than two weeks at a time, no more than 5 times a year. Uva ursi should not be taken by young children, pregnant or nursing women, or by persons with severe liver or kidney disease.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15min, take 3x/day. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day.
Valerian
Valeriana officinalis
Constituents: Volatile oil including valerianic acid, isovalerianic acid, borneol, pinene, camphene; volatile alkaloids.
Actions: Sedative, hypnotic, anti-spasmodic, hypotensive, carminative.
Indications: Inclusion in many pharmacopoeias as a sedative. It may safely be used to reduce tension and anxiety, over-excitability and hysterical states. It is an effective aid in insomnia, producing a natural healing sleep. As an anti-spasmodic herb it will aid in the relief of cramp and intestinal colic and will also be useful for the cramps and pain of periods. As a pain reliever it is most indicated where that pain is associated with tension. Valerian can help in migraine and rheumatic pain. Known Combos: Insomnia: Passion Flower and Hops. Cramps: Cramp Bark
Precautions: In large amounts Valerian can cause giddiness or disorientation, headaches and night terrors. In rare cases it can have the opposite effect by stimulating instead of sedating.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2tsp/cup for 10-15 min. Drunk when needed. Tincture: 2-4ml 3x/day.
Constituents: Volatile oil including valerianic acid, isovalerianic acid, borneol, pinene, camphene; volatile alkaloids.
Actions: Sedative, hypnotic, anti-spasmodic, hypotensive, carminative.
Indications: Inclusion in many pharmacopoeias as a sedative. It may safely be used to reduce tension and anxiety, over-excitability and hysterical states. It is an effective aid in insomnia, producing a natural healing sleep. As an anti-spasmodic herb it will aid in the relief of cramp and intestinal colic and will also be useful for the cramps and pain of periods. As a pain reliever it is most indicated where that pain is associated with tension. Valerian can help in migraine and rheumatic pain. Known Combos: Insomnia: Passion Flower and Hops. Cramps: Cramp Bark
Precautions: In large amounts Valerian can cause giddiness or disorientation, headaches and night terrors. In rare cases it can have the opposite effect by stimulating instead of sedating.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2tsp/cup for 10-15 min. Drunk when needed. Tincture: 2-4ml 3x/day.
Wild Cherry Bark
Prunus serotina
Constituents: Cyanogenic glycosides including prunasin; volatile oil; coumarins; gallitannins; resin Acetylcholine, HCN, kaempferol, p-coumaric acid, prunasin, quercetin, scopoletin, tannins
Actions: Anti-tussive, expectorant, astringent, sedative, digestive bitter, analgesic, antiarrhythmic, antibacterial, anticonstrictive (in the bronchial tubes), antihepatotoxic, anti-inflammatory, fungicide
Indications: Great at reducing coughs, due to the sedative action on that reflex. Great for bronchitis, whooping cough and sometimes asthma. Lowering blood pressure and blood sugar.
Precautions: Contains very low amounts of hydrogen cyanide in the bark and pits. Not for long term use, very small children, pregnant or lactating women.
Dosage: Usually taken as a syrup, 1tsp every 4 hours. Tea, 1tsp per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15 min 3x/day. Tincture, 1-2ml, 3x/day
Constituents: Cyanogenic glycosides including prunasin; volatile oil; coumarins; gallitannins; resin Acetylcholine, HCN, kaempferol, p-coumaric acid, prunasin, quercetin, scopoletin, tannins
Actions: Anti-tussive, expectorant, astringent, sedative, digestive bitter, analgesic, antiarrhythmic, antibacterial, anticonstrictive (in the bronchial tubes), antihepatotoxic, anti-inflammatory, fungicide
Indications: Great at reducing coughs, due to the sedative action on that reflex. Great for bronchitis, whooping cough and sometimes asthma. Lowering blood pressure and blood sugar.
Precautions: Contains very low amounts of hydrogen cyanide in the bark and pits. Not for long term use, very small children, pregnant or lactating women.
Dosage: Usually taken as a syrup, 1tsp every 4 hours. Tea, 1tsp per cup boiling water, let steep 10-15 min 3x/day. Tincture, 1-2ml, 3x/day
Wild Yam
Dioscorea villosa
Constituents: steroidal saponins, dioscin and trillin, which yields diosgenin, alkaloids, tannis, starch.
Actions: Antispasmodic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, cholagogue, relaxant, peripheral vasodilator
Indications: Eases menstrual cramps and used for any know of muscular spasm and colic, ovarian and uterine pain. Useful for treating rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory conditions of the bowel.
Combos: Chamomile and Ginger for intestinal colic. Black Cohosh for rheumatoid arthritis.
Precautions: None found
Dosage: Decoction: 1-2tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15min, take 3x/day. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Plant is considered at risk, use sparingly. Until 1970 was the sole source of the hormone material diosgenin (used to synthesize progesterone) used in the contraceptive pill.
Constituents: steroidal saponins, dioscin and trillin, which yields diosgenin, alkaloids, tannis, starch.
Actions: Antispasmodic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, cholagogue, relaxant, peripheral vasodilator
Indications: Eases menstrual cramps and used for any know of muscular spasm and colic, ovarian and uterine pain. Useful for treating rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory conditions of the bowel.
Combos: Chamomile and Ginger for intestinal colic. Black Cohosh for rheumatoid arthritis.
Precautions: None found
Dosage: Decoction: 1-2tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15min, take 3x/day. Tincture: 2-4ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Plant is considered at risk, use sparingly. Until 1970 was the sole source of the hormone material diosgenin (used to synthesize progesterone) used in the contraceptive pill.
Witch Hazel
Hamamelis virginiana
Constituents: Rich in tannin and gallic acid, bitters, traces of volatile oil.
Actions: Astringent
Indications: Most popularly used, distilled, for skin care to cleanse the face and improve elasticity. Can be used wherever there is bleeding, both internally and externally. It is very useful in the treatment and easing of hemorrhoids. Also treats bruises, inflamed swellings and varicose veins. Has also been used to treat diarrhea in children.
Combos: For hemorrhoids, combine with pilewort.
Precautions: Do not give to children for more than 3 days.
Dosage: Infusion: 1 tsp leaves per cup boiling water, steep 10-15 min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2 ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Makes excellent addition to ointments and lotions.
Constituents: Rich in tannin and gallic acid, bitters, traces of volatile oil.
Actions: Astringent
Indications: Most popularly used, distilled, for skin care to cleanse the face and improve elasticity. Can be used wherever there is bleeding, both internally and externally. It is very useful in the treatment and easing of hemorrhoids. Also treats bruises, inflamed swellings and varicose veins. Has also been used to treat diarrhea in children.
Combos: For hemorrhoids, combine with pilewort.
Precautions: Do not give to children for more than 3 days.
Dosage: Infusion: 1 tsp leaves per cup boiling water, steep 10-15 min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-2 ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Makes excellent addition to ointments and lotions.
Wormwood
Artemisia absinthium
Constituents: Volatile oil (including thujone and chamazulene), bitters, tannins, carotene, vitamin C.
Actions: Bitter tonic, anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic, carminative, emmenagogue
Indications: One of the bitterest herbs used in herbal medicine. Wonderful for aiding digestion by increasing the secretion of digestive enzymes and bile from the liver and gallbladder and stimulates peristalsis. It is also popularly named for its effect on worms and parasites and is commonly used in parasite cleanses for that purpose. Good for those with weak, sluggish digestion, toxins and congestion in the gut, liver problems, those feeling run down and debilitated and during convalescence. The volatile oil, chamazulene, has an anti-inflammatory effect on the digestive tract. It is also useful for treating fevers and infections. It boosts the immune system and detoxifies the body of heat and congestion. Works well as a hot infusion (paired with an herb like mint for palatability) for colds, flu, chronic fevers, food poisoning, catarrh, skin problems and arthritis. Throughout history women have also been using wormwood to stimulate contractions during childbirth when it is slow going. Also used to bring on delayed menses, ease painful periods and reduce fluid retention.
Precautions: Avoid during pregnancy due to its effect on the uterus. The active constituent thujone * most often absinthol * can be toxic in high doses, and may induce hallucinogenic visions. Not for excessive use or for long periods of time.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15 min, taken 3x/day. Capsules: 2 caps, 3x/day Tincture: 1-4ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Used to be used for making absinthe. Named after the Greek goddess Artemis, the plant is said to have been delivered to Chiron, the father of medicine, by the goddess herself. Wormwood, often called absinth, has hallucinogenic and psychoactive properties and is said to affect the brain in much the same way as THC.
Constituents: Volatile oil (including thujone and chamazulene), bitters, tannins, carotene, vitamin C.
Actions: Bitter tonic, anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic, carminative, emmenagogue
Indications: One of the bitterest herbs used in herbal medicine. Wonderful for aiding digestion by increasing the secretion of digestive enzymes and bile from the liver and gallbladder and stimulates peristalsis. It is also popularly named for its effect on worms and parasites and is commonly used in parasite cleanses for that purpose. Good for those with weak, sluggish digestion, toxins and congestion in the gut, liver problems, those feeling run down and debilitated and during convalescence. The volatile oil, chamazulene, has an anti-inflammatory effect on the digestive tract. It is also useful for treating fevers and infections. It boosts the immune system and detoxifies the body of heat and congestion. Works well as a hot infusion (paired with an herb like mint for palatability) for colds, flu, chronic fevers, food poisoning, catarrh, skin problems and arthritis. Throughout history women have also been using wormwood to stimulate contractions during childbirth when it is slow going. Also used to bring on delayed menses, ease painful periods and reduce fluid retention.
Precautions: Avoid during pregnancy due to its effect on the uterus. The active constituent thujone * most often absinthol * can be toxic in high doses, and may induce hallucinogenic visions. Not for excessive use or for long periods of time.
Dosage: Infusion: 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, steep 10-15 min, taken 3x/day. Capsules: 2 caps, 3x/day Tincture: 1-4ml, 3x/day
NOTES: Used to be used for making absinthe. Named after the Greek goddess Artemis, the plant is said to have been delivered to Chiron, the father of medicine, by the goddess herself. Wormwood, often called absinth, has hallucinogenic and psychoactive properties and is said to affect the brain in much the same way as THC.
Yarrow
Achillea millefolium
Constituents: Volatile oil, coumarins, lactones, amino acids, sterols,asponins,salicylic acid, cyanidin, achillein, and achilleic acid, resin, tannin, gum and ash, flavinoids, bitter alkaloid, nitrates, phosphates and chlorides of patash and lime.
Actions: Diaphoretic, hypotensive, astringent, vulnerary, antispasmodic, diuretic, antiseptic, tonic, stimulant and mild aromatic.
Indications: Taken hot, excellent for lowering fevers. Lowers blood pressure due to a dilation of the peripheral vessels. It stimulates the digestion and tones the blood vessels. As a urinary antiseptic it is indicated in infections such as cystitis. Used externally it aids tissue repair. These properties promote healing of cuts and wounds, burns, ulcers and inflammatory skin disorders. It is considered to be a specific in thrombotic conditions associated with high blood pressure. Used for appetite loss, gallbladder disorders, indigestion, liver disorders. Its astringent properties curb diarrhea and dysentery, and stem bleeding from the lining of the gut. Even though Yarrow has few “documented” uses it has been in the past used to resolute bleeding and to relieve skin inflammation, bruises, burns and piles. Yarrow contains sterols which have a hormone like action and help to regulate the menstrual cycle. It reduces heavy bleeding and uterine congestion, and relieves heavy periods. It has also been engaged as a remedy for pelvic cramps.
Yarrow was said to be discovered by the great warrior Achilles. Yarrow has a long and rich history and folkloric past. It has been said that sleeping with Yarrow under your pillow would bring dreams of your future spouse.
Combinations: For fevers it combines well with Elder Flower, Peppermint, Boneset, Cayenne and Ginger. For raised blood pressure it may be used with Hawthorn, Lime Blossom and Mistletoe.
Precautions: If an allergic reaction occurs discontinue use; some do have an allergic reaction to it. No drug interactions have been accounted for. External use only, if pregnant or breastfeeding. There are no known harmful effects, as with anything use with education and common sense.
Dosage: 1-2tsp per cup boiling water, infuse 10-15min, 3x/day. When feverish drink hourly. Yarrow bath add 4 teaspoonful of yarrow per gallon of water. Tincture 2-4ml 3xday.
Constituents: Volatile oil, coumarins, lactones, amino acids, sterols,asponins,salicylic acid, cyanidin, achillein, and achilleic acid, resin, tannin, gum and ash, flavinoids, bitter alkaloid, nitrates, phosphates and chlorides of patash and lime.
Actions: Diaphoretic, hypotensive, astringent, vulnerary, antispasmodic, diuretic, antiseptic, tonic, stimulant and mild aromatic.
Indications: Taken hot, excellent for lowering fevers. Lowers blood pressure due to a dilation of the peripheral vessels. It stimulates the digestion and tones the blood vessels. As a urinary antiseptic it is indicated in infections such as cystitis. Used externally it aids tissue repair. These properties promote healing of cuts and wounds, burns, ulcers and inflammatory skin disorders. It is considered to be a specific in thrombotic conditions associated with high blood pressure. Used for appetite loss, gallbladder disorders, indigestion, liver disorders. Its astringent properties curb diarrhea and dysentery, and stem bleeding from the lining of the gut. Even though Yarrow has few “documented” uses it has been in the past used to resolute bleeding and to relieve skin inflammation, bruises, burns and piles. Yarrow contains sterols which have a hormone like action and help to regulate the menstrual cycle. It reduces heavy bleeding and uterine congestion, and relieves heavy periods. It has also been engaged as a remedy for pelvic cramps.
Yarrow was said to be discovered by the great warrior Achilles. Yarrow has a long and rich history and folkloric past. It has been said that sleeping with Yarrow under your pillow would bring dreams of your future spouse.
Combinations: For fevers it combines well with Elder Flower, Peppermint, Boneset, Cayenne and Ginger. For raised blood pressure it may be used with Hawthorn, Lime Blossom and Mistletoe.
Precautions: If an allergic reaction occurs discontinue use; some do have an allergic reaction to it. No drug interactions have been accounted for. External use only, if pregnant or breastfeeding. There are no known harmful effects, as with anything use with education and common sense.
Dosage: 1-2tsp per cup boiling water, infuse 10-15min, 3x/day. When feverish drink hourly. Yarrow bath add 4 teaspoonful of yarrow per gallon of water. Tincture 2-4ml 3xday.
Yellow Dock
Rumex crispus
Constituents: Anthraquinon glycosides, tannins, iron
Actions: Alterative, purgative, cholagogue, astringent, diuretic, tonic
Indications: A rich source of iron, and is thus used for anemia. Its laxative action makes it good for problems with constipation and general gut heath. The bitters stimulate the liver, enhancing bile production, making it a good remedy for a sluggish liver, weak digestion, distension and wind. It is also a great remedy for skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, nettle rash, boils and abscesses. Helps pull toxins out of tissues as well as ensures their elimination through the bowl and kidneys.
Combos: Goes well with Dandelion, Burdock and Cleavers
Precautions: Start with the smallest recommended dose (usually 6 grams or 3 rounded teaspoons a day) and increase dosage slowly until you get the desired effect. Don’t take yellow dock or any other stimulant laxative (coffee & cigarettes count) if you take Lasix (furosemide); the combination can lead to potassium depletion.
Dosage: Decoction: 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-4ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Midwives are known to use it frequently for anemia and constipation during pregnancy.
Constituents: Anthraquinon glycosides, tannins, iron
Actions: Alterative, purgative, cholagogue, astringent, diuretic, tonic
Indications: A rich source of iron, and is thus used for anemia. Its laxative action makes it good for problems with constipation and general gut heath. The bitters stimulate the liver, enhancing bile production, making it a good remedy for a sluggish liver, weak digestion, distension and wind. It is also a great remedy for skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, nettle rash, boils and abscesses. Helps pull toxins out of tissues as well as ensures their elimination through the bowl and kidneys.
Combos: Goes well with Dandelion, Burdock and Cleavers
Precautions: Start with the smallest recommended dose (usually 6 grams or 3 rounded teaspoons a day) and increase dosage slowly until you get the desired effect. Don’t take yellow dock or any other stimulant laxative (coffee & cigarettes count) if you take Lasix (furosemide); the combination can lead to potassium depletion.
Dosage: Decoction: 1-2 tsp per cup boiling water, simmer 10-15min, taken 3x/day. Tincture: 1-4ml, 3x/day.
NOTES: Midwives are known to use it frequently for anemia and constipation during pregnancy.