Herbal Actions
Herbs can be used at the first sign of a cold or flu to help fight off the virus along with proper nutrition and adequate rest. They can also be used as pain relievers, to stop bleeding and heal cuts, burns and rashes. For herbs to be effective, they must be used, always . . . with safety and the proper knowledge of their actions.
As we explore herbs in Herb of the Month, we will expand upon our definitions and link the herb to it’s respective herbal action(s).
Adaptogen – corrects errant conditions
Alterative – gradually restores health
Analgesic – Pain Reliever
Anodyne – Pain Reliever
Anti-atheroma – helps arterial build-up
Anthelmintic – worm destroyer
Antibacterial – prevents the growth or spread of bacteria
Anticatarrhial – mucous membrane anti-inflammatory
Antidepressant – used for mild depression
Antihypothyroid – thyroid stimulant
Anti-inflammatory – swelling reducer
Antimicrobial – inhibits growth of microorganisms
Anti-neoplastic – inhibits tumors
Antioxidant – attacks free radicals
Anti-rheumatic – helps joints and muscles
Antiseptic – kills germs
Antispasmodic – muscle relaxer
Antitussive – cough suppresser
Antiviral – kills viruses
Aperient – mild laxative
Aphrodisiac – makes you horny
Astringent – causes contraction or constriction
Bitter – appetite stimulant
Carminative – gas expelling
Cathartic – purgative (bm-inducing)
Cholagogue – promotes flow of bile
Decongestant – reduces congestion
Demulcent – soothes irritated internal tissue
Depurative – blood cleansing
Diaphoretic – perspiration inducer
Diuretic – urine increasing
Discutient (Discussive) – tumor, cyst, growth eradicator or diffuser
Emetic – causes vomiting
Emmenagogue – promotes menstruation
Emollient – skin softener
Endocrine Restorative – helps regulate stress response
Expectorant – saliva producer
Febrifuge – fever reducing
Galactagogue – milk producing
Hemostatic – stops bleeding
Hepatic – aids liver
Hypnotic – induces hypnotic state
Hypotensive – reduces blood pressure
Immunomodulator – stimulates or suppresses immune system
Laxative – relieves constipation
Lymphatic – aiding the lymph system
Nervine – soothes the nerves
Nutritive – providing nourishment
Pectoral – aids the lungs
Relaxant – induces relaxation
Restorative – restores
Rubefacient – skin reddener
Sedative – calming and soothing
Sialagogue – promotes salivation
Stimulant – stimulates nervous system
Stomachic – stimulates stomach
Sudorific – sweat inducing
Tonic – invigorator, strengthener
Vasoconstrictor – reduces blood flow
Vasodilator – increases blood flow
Vulnerary – wound healing
