Ailment Appropriate Herbs

[Taz Baby]

I have a medical garden and I make my own medince with herbs. I have done this for years. I don't know if anyone else does but thought you might find this interesting. If there are no doctors you might need to take care of your self.






Ailment Appropriate Herbs



Acne Aloe Vera, Bee Balm, Calendula, Cornflower, Dandelion, Evening Primrose, Feverfew, Goldenseal, Green Tea, Lemongrass, Periwinkle, Violet, Yarrow
Age Spots Onion
After-Shave Sage
Alertness Ginkgo
Allergic Reactions Aloe Vera
Allergies Evening Primrose, Ginkgo, Goldenrod
Alzheimer's Disease Broccoli, Ginkgo, Sage
Antiseptic Bee Balm, Cornflower, Eucalyptus, Goldenrod, Lavender, Sage, St. John's Wort
Anti-Aging Broccoli, Ginkgo, Ginseng, Green Tea
Anti-Bacterial Bee Balm, Eucalyptus, Green Tea, Lavender, Lemon Balm
Antiperspirant Sage
Anti-Viral Aloe Vera, Green Tea, St. John's Wort
Anxiety St. John's Wort, Lavender, Poppy, Valerian
Aphrodisiac Ginkgo, Ginseng
Appetite Stimulant Bee Balm, Mint, Lavender, Tarragon, Thyme, Yarrow
Appetite Suppressant Beans, Fennel
Arthritis Aloe Vera, Angelica, Broccoli, Feverfew, Goldenrod, Lavender, Mint, St. John's Wort
Asthma Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Evening Primrose, Feverfew, Ginkgo, Lobelia, Plantain, Marjoram, Valerian
Astringent Scented Geranium, Yarrow
Atherosclerosis Ginkgo
Athlete's Foot Aloe Vera, Calendula, Garlic, Goldenseal, Lavender, Lemongrass, Thyme
Attention Span (increase) Ginkgo
Back Pain Lavender, St. John's Wort
Back Pain (due to kidney problems) Hydrangea
Bacterial (Anti) Eucalyptus, Green Tea, Lavender, Lemon Balm
Bedwetting Valerian
Bee Stings Bee Balm, Calendula, Dandelion, Lavender, Parsley, Plantain, Savory (Summer)
Bladder (overall health) Ground Ivy, Hydrangea, Plantain, Uva Ursi
Bladder Infections Garlic, Goldenrod, Hydrangea, Parsley, Uva Ursi
Bleeding Cayenne, Periwinkle, Yarrow
Blisters Aloe Vera, Calendula, Lavender, Plantain
Bloating Bee Balm, Evening Primrose, Oregano, Uva Ursi
Blood Circulation (increase) Ginkgo, Periwinkle
Blood Oxygen (increase) Periwinkle
Blood Pressure (lower) Chervil, Chives, Garlic, Green Tea, Onion, Periwinkle, Tomato, Valerian
Blood Pressure (regulate) Ginseng, Green Tea
Blood Purifier Echinacea
Blood Sugar Normalizer Aloe Vera, Beans, Ginseng, Green Tea, Plantain
Blood Thinner Garlic
Boils Eucalyptus, Plantain
Bowels - Inflammatory Disease Green Tea
Breath Freshener Anise, Fennel, Lavender, Parsley
Breast - Increase Mother's Milk Dill, Fennel
Breast - Fullness while Nursing Dill, Fennel
Breast Pain - Pre-Menstrual Evening Primrose
Bronchitis Borage, Eucalyptus, Hyssop, Chamomile, Oregano, Lobelia, Plantain, Poppy, St. John's Wort, Thyme, Violet
Bruises Bay, Borage, Calendula, Caraway, Cornflower, Feverfew, Hydrangea, Hyssop, Lavender, Plantain, Sage, St. John's Wort, Rosemary
Burns Aloe Vera, Calendula, Chamomile, Echinacea, Eucalyptus, Hydrangea, Lavender, Onion, Plantain, St. John's Wort, Yarrow
Callouses Dandelion
Canker Sores Goldenseal, Lavender
Cardiovascular Disease Ginkgo, Green Tea
Cerebral vein and artery dilator Periwinkle
Chicken Pox Calendula, Lantana
Cholesterol (lower) Beans, Evening Primrose, Garlic, Lemongrass, Onion, Tomato
Circulatory Problems Evening Primrose, Lemongrass
Cirrhosis Aloe Vera, Dandelion, Evening Primrose
Cognitive Function - Improve Ginkgo, Periwinkle
Cold Angelica, Anise, Bee Balm, Cayenne, Chamomile, Echinacea, Eucalyptus, Feverfew, Garlic, Goldenrod, Ground Ivy, Horehound, Lantana, Lavender, Marjoram, Plantain, Poppy, Radish, Rosemary, Violet, Yarrow
Cold Sores Bee Balm, Echinacea, Green Tea, Hyssop, Lavender, Uva Ursi
Colic Bee Balm, Caraway, Catnip, Chamomile, Dill, Fennel, Garlic, Ground Ivy, Lovage, Mint, Savory (Summer), Valerian
Colitis Aloe Vera
Congestion Aloe Vera, Angelica, Anise, Bee Balm, Borage, Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Garlic, Ginseng, Goldenseal, Ground Ivy, Horehound, Lobelia, Marjoram, Periwinkle, Plantain, Poppy, Rosemary
Conjunctivitis Aloe Vera
Constipation Basil Chicory, Dandelion, Violet
Cough Angelica, Anise, Bee Balm, Borage, Echinacea, Garlic, Ginseng, Horehound, Lantana, Lobelia, Marjoram, Oregano, Plantain, Poppy, Radish, St. John's Wort, Violet
Crabs Thyme
Cuts Bee Balm, Calendula, Cornflower, Garlic, Goldenrod, Goldenseal, Green Tea, Hyssop, Lantana, Lemon Balm, Lemongrass, Lavender, Oxalis, Plantain, Uva Ursi, Yarrow
Cystitis Chamomile, Ground Ivy, Plantain, Uva Ursi
Dandruff Mint, Lavender, Rosemary
Depression Borage, Lavender, Periwinkle, Rosemary, St. John's Wort, Valerian
Depression (PMS) Evening Primrose
Dermatitis Periwinkle
Detoxifier Aloe Vera, Ground Ivy, Plantain
Diabetes - Alleviate Thirst Savory (Summer)
Diabetes - Blood Sugar Reduction Broccoli, Ginseng, Green Tea, Lantana, Plantain, Sage
Diabetes - Poor Circulation Evening Primrose
Diaper Rash Calendula, Lavender, Plantain
Diarrhea Borage, Chamomile, Goldenseal, Ground Ivy, Plantain, St. John's Wort, Savory (Summer), Thyme, Uva Ursi Valerian, Yarrow
Diet Aid Fennel
Digestion/Indigestion/Gastrointestinal Aloe Vera, Angelica, Anise, Basil, Bee Balm, Caraway, Catnip, Cayenne, Chamomile, Chervil, Chicory, Coriander, Dandelion, Dill, Fennel, Feverfew, Goldenrod, Goldenseal, Green Tea, Ground Ivy, Hyssop, Lantana, Lavender, Lovage, Marjoram, Mint, Oregano, Parsley, Radish, Rosemary, Sage, St. John's Wort, Savory (Summer), Thyme, Tansy, Tarragon, Valerian, Yarrow
Dizziness Marjoram
Diuretic Chervil, Goldenrod, Ground Ivy
Dry Skin Aloe Vera, Evening Primrose
Dysentery Green Tea
Dysmennhorea Uva Ursi
Earache Caraway, Garlic
E-Coli Bacteria Green Tea
Eczema Aloe Vera, Bee Balm, Chervil, Goldenrod, Periwinkle, Plantain, Rosemary
Emphysema Plantain
Energy (Increase) Ginseng
Epilepsy (Relieve Symptoms) Valerian
Exhaustion Goldenrod, Lavender, Valerian
Expectorant Anise, Chervil, Horehound, Hyssop, Rosemary, Savory (Summer)
Extremities - Cold Cayenne
Extremities - Numbness Ginkgo, Valerian
Extremities - Pain Ginkgo, Valerian
Extremities - Tingling Ginkgo, Valerian
Eye Inflammation Periwinkle
Eye Fatigue Cornflower, Parsley
Eye Pain Cornflower, Anise
Eye Swelling Cornflower, Parsley
Eye Wash Chervil, Chicory, Cornflower, Fennel, Goldenseal, Plantain
Facial Cleanser Fennel, Mint
Facial - Steam Cornflower
Fatigue Dandelion, Goldenrod, Periwinkle, St. John's Wort, Tarragon
Fear (Reduce Anxiety) Bee Balm, Lavender, Valerian
Fever Reducer Bee Balm, Borage, Calendula, Cayenne, Chamomile, Lantana, Lemon Balm, Oxalis, Plantain, Radish, Tansy, Yarrow
Flatulence Angelica, Anise, Basil, Bay, Bee Balm, Caraway, Chamomile, Coriander, Dill, Fennel, Feverfew, Lavender, Lovage, Mint, Oregano, Sage, Savory (Summer), Tansy, Yarrow
Flea Repellant Fennel
Flu Calendula, Echinacea, Eucalyptus, Feverfew, Garlic, Goldenrod, Green Tea, Ground Ivy, Lantana, Plantain, Radish, St. John's Wort, Tarragon
Freckles Onion
Frostbite Aloe Vera, Cayenne
Fungicide Aloe Vera, Garlic, Goldenseal, Lemongrass
Gallbladder Dandelion, Lavender
Gallstones Dandelion
Gas Angelica, Anise, Basil, Bay, Bee Balm, Caraway, Chamomile, Coriander, Dill, Feverfew, Lavender, Oregano, Sage, Savory (Summer), Tansy, Valerian
Gastritis Plantain
Glands (swollen) Oregano
Goiter Plantain
Gout Chervil, Chicory, Fennel, St. John's Wort, Tansy
Gums - bleeding Periwinkle
Hair Conditioner Yarrow
Hair Coloring Sage
Hair Highlighter Calendula, Chamomile
Hair Loss Lavender, Onion, Rosemary
Hay Fever Chamomile, Marjoram, Plantain
Headache Basil, Chamomile, Evening Primrose, Lavender, Lovage, Marjoram, Oregano, Periwinkle, Poppy, Rosemary, Scented Geranium, Valerian, Violet
Heart (strengthen) Cayenne, Ginseng
Heartburn Aloe Vera
Heart Disease (Prevention) Broccoli, Carrot, Cayenne, English Pea, Green Tea, Tomato
Heart Problems Due to Stress Valerian
Hangover Cayenne, Ginkgo, Violet
Hemorrhoids Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Ground Ivy, Periwinkle, Plantain, St. John's Wort, Uva Ursi, Yarrow
Hepatitis Aloe Vera, Dandelion, Green Tea
Herpes Sores Aloe Vera, Bee Balm, Green Tea, Hyssop, Lavender, St. John's Wort, Tarragon, Uva Ursi
Hiccups Fennel
Hoarseness Plantain
Hyperactivity Valerian
Hypertension Chervil, Chives, Garlic, Green Tea, Onion, Periwinkle, Plantain, Tomato, Valerian, Yarrow
Immune System Booster Ginseng, Green Tea, Snap Pea
Impotence Ginkgo
Indigestion Aloe Vera, Bay, Bee Balm, Calendula, Caraway, Cayenne, Chamomile, Dandelion, Lantana, Lavender, Savory (Summer)
Insect Bites & Stings Aloe Vera, Bee Balm, Echinacea, Feverfew, Lantana, Lavender, Lemon Balm, Parsley
Insect Repellant Bee Balm, Eucalyptus, Feverfew, Lavender, Lemongrass
Insomnia Anise, Chamomile, Ginseng, Lavender, Poppy, St. John's Wort, Violet
Intestines Dandelion, Plantain
Intestinal Worms Aloe Vera, Plantain, Thyme, Tansy
Irritability Lavender, St. John's Wort, Valerian
Irritability (PMS) Evening Primrose
Irritable Bowel Plantain
Itching Skin Aloe Vera, Evening Primrose, Garlic, Lavender, Oregano
Jaundice Chicory, Fennel, Parsley
Joint Pain Lantana, Lavender, Mint
Kidney Infection Aloe Vera, Ground Ivy, Hydrangea, Uva Ursi
Kidney Weaknesses Dandelion, Ground Ivy, Hydrangea, Lovage, Tansy, Uva Ursi
Kidney Stones Chervil, Dandelion, Fennel, Goldenrod, Hydrangea, Parsley, Plantain, Uva Ursi
Kidneys (strengthen) Dandelion, Ginseng, Hydrangea, Plantain, Uva Ursi, Yarrow
Laryngitis Goldenrod, Thyme
Laxative Chicory, Plantain, Violet
Lice Parsley, Thyme
Lips (Cracked or Dry) Goldenseal, Plantain
Liver (alcohol damage) Dandelion, Fennel
Liver (strengthen) Dandelion, Ginseng
Liver Problems Aloe Vera, Chicory, Dandelion, Fennel, Lavender, Yarrow
Lower Back Pain Lemongrass
Lungs (strengthen) Ginseng
Lupus Evening Primrose
Lymph Nodes (swollen) Echinacea
Macular Degeneration Ginkgo
Measles Echinacea, Lantana
Memory Ginkgo, Ginseng
Menopause Fennel, Periwinkle
Mental Clarity Ginseng
Menstruation (Cramps) Chamomile, Evening Primrose, Feverfew, Mint, St. John's Wort, Tarragon, Yarrow
Menstruation (Promote) Calendula, Oregano
Menstruation (Regulate) Evening Primrose, Lemon Balm, Periwinkle, Plantain, St. John's Wort, Uva Ursi
Migraines Feverfew, Lavender, Valerian
Mood - (Improve) Bee Balm, Ginkgo, Lavender
Mouth Sores or Ulcers Lavender, Oxalis, Periwinkle, Sage
Mouthwash Goldenseal, Lavender, Marjoram, Oregano, Thyme
Multiple Sclerosis (Relieve Symptoms) Ginkgo, Valerian
Muscle Aches Eucalyptus, Hydrangea, Lavender, Oregano
Muscle Cramps Feverfew, Hydrangea, Lavender, Valerian
Muscle Pain Eucalyptus
Muscle Stiffness Eucalyptus
Muscle Weakness Valerian
Muscular Sclerosis Evening Primrose
Nail Biting Valerian
Nausea Bee Balm, Fennel, Mint
Nephritis Uva Ursi
Nerve Pain St. John's Wort
Nerves & Nervousness Bee Balm, Lavender, Valerian
Nervous Disorders & Hysteria Chamomile, Ginseng, Lavender, Marjoram, Tansy, Tarragon, Valerian
Neuralgia Eucalyptus, Lemongrass, St. John's Wort
Nosebleeds Periwinkle
Obesity Evening Primrose
Osteoporosis Broccoli
Pain Killer Lavender, Poppy, St. John's Wort
Pancreas (strengthen) Dandelion, Ginseng, Uva Ursi
Panic Attacks Valerian
Peripheral Neuropathy Ginkgo, Valerian
Peripheral Vascular Disease Ginkgo
Perspiration Calendula, Sage
Pinkeye Lovage
Pleurisy Chervil
PMS Evening Primrose, Plantain
Pneumonia Eucalyptus
Poison Ivy Aloe Vera, Plantain
Prostate - Inflammation Evening Primrose, Hydrangea, Uva Ursi
Prostate - Enlarged Evening Primrose, Hydrangea, Uva Ursi
Psoriasis Aloe Vera
Rashes Aloe Vera, Bay, Borage, Calendula, Chamomile, Evening Primrose, Lavender, Oxalis, Savory (Summer), Tarragon, Yarrow
Respiratory distress/infection Angelica, Anise, Borage, Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Garlic, Horehound, Lantana, Lobelia, Marjoram, Radish, Rosemary, Violet
Rheumatism Aloe Vera, Bay, Cayenne, Chicory, Coriander, Eucalyptus, Feverfew, Goldenrod, Lantana, Lavender, Lemongrass, Marjoram, Oregano, Plantain, St. John's Wort, Tansy, Valerian, Violet, Yarrow
Rheumatoid Arthritis Evening Primrose, Goldenrod, Ground Ivy
Rosacea Aloe Vera,
Scabies Lantana, Thyme
Scalds Aloe Vera, Lavender
Scars Aloe Vera, Hyssop, Plantain
Sciatica Lemongrass, St. John's Wort, Valerian
Scleroderma Evening Primrose
Scrapes Bee Balm, Calendula, Cornflower, Eucalyptus, Garlic, Goldenseal, Green Tea, Hyssop, Lantana, Lavender, Lemon Balm, Lemongrass, Oxalis, Uva Ursi, Yarrow
Scurvy Ground Ivy
Sedative Bee Balm, Catnip, Lavender, Lemon Balm, Poppy, Valerian
Shingles Aloe Vera, Valerian
Shortness of Breath Ginseng
Sinus - Clogged Goldenseal, Ground Ivy
Sinusitis Chamomile, Ground Ivy, Marjoram, Plantain
Skin Irritations Bee Balm, Ground Ivy, Lavender, Lovage, Oxalis, Plantain
Skin Eruptions (misc) Bay, Borage, Chamomile, Chicory, Cornflower, Garlic, Lantana, Lavender, Savory (Summer), Tansy, Tarragon, Violet
Skin Health Dandelion
Skin Pores (unclog) Lemongrass, Yarrow
Skin Ulcers Echinacea, Lantana, Lavender, Plantain
Skin Freshener Chervil, Yarrow
Sleep Aid Bee Balm, Lavender, Valerian
Sluggishness Dandelion
Small Intestines (strengthen) Uva Ursi
Smoking Cessation Plantain
Snakebite Lantana, Plantain
Sores Aloe Vera, Bee Balm, Dandelion, Eucalyptus, Garlic, Goldenrod, Ground Ivy, Horehound, Lavender, Lemon Balm, Oregano, Sage, Thyme, Rosemary, Violet, Yarrow
Sore Throat Bee Balm, Cayenne, Echinacea, Eucalyptus, Garlic, Goldenrod, Goldenseal, Hyssop, Lantana, Periwinkle, Sage, Savory (Summer)
Spleen Dandelion, Uva Ursi
Sprains Bay, Borage, Cayenne, Hydrangea, Lavender, Lemongrass, Marjoram, Plantain, Tansy
Spring Tonic Chervil, Dandelion, Ground Ivy, Yarrow
Spleen (strengthen) Ginseng
Splinters (draw out) Plantain
Stomach Dandelion
Strep Throat Garlic
Stress Basil, Bay, Bee Balm, Chamomile, Ginseng, Lavender, Valerian
Stroke (Preventative) Carrot, English Pea, Green Tea
Stroke (Reduce Damage) Ginkgo
Stomach Ache Calendula, Lavender, Marjoram
Stomach Cramps Basil, Bee Balm, Calendula, Chamomile, Echinacea, Mint, Tarragon, Valerian, Yarrow
Stomach Ulcers Aloe Vera, Garlic, Scented Geranium
Sty Aloe Vera
Sunburn Aloe Vera, Lavender, St. John's Wort
Sweating (Induce) Lemon Balm
Swelling Borage, Cayenne, Chicory, Oregano, Parsley, Plantain
Teething Pain in Babies Chamomile
Tendonitis Lemongrass
Tension Bee Balm, Lavender, Valerian
Tinnitus Ginkgo, Ground Ivy, Periwinkle
Tonic (general) Dandelion
Toothache Cayenne, Garlic, Marjoram, Oregano, Poppy, Tarragon
Toothbrush Lantana
Tooth Decay Green Tea
Tranquilizers Periwinkle
Ulcers Eucalyptus, Garlic, Lantana, Plantain, St. John's Wort, Valerian
Upset Stomach Aloe Vera, Angelica, Anise, Basil, Caraway, Catnip, Cayenne, Chamomile, Chervil, Chicory, Coriander, Lavender, Marjoram, Mint, Oregano, Parsley, Rosemary, Sage, Savory (Summer), Thyme, Tansy, Tarragon
Urinary Tract Health (overall) Hydrangea, Uva Ursi
Urinary Tract Infections Aloe Vera, Goldenrod, Hydrangea, Oxalis, Uva Ursi, Yarrow
Urinary Problems Calendula, Echinacea, Hydrangea, Oregano, Uva Ursi
Urticaria Aloe Vera
Uterine Cramps Valerian
Vaginal Infection Aloe Vera
Varicose Veins St. John's Wort
Vertigo Ginkgo
Virus Prevention Garlic, Lemon Balm, Tarragon
Vomiting Basil, Bee Balm, Chamomile, Mint
Warts Aloe Vera, Dandelion, Onion
Wasp Stings Lavender, Periwinkle, Savory (Summer)
Weight Loss Evening Primrose
Wheezing Feverfew, Ginseng
Worms in Children Garlic, Fennel, Lantana, Plantain, Tarragon
Wounds Aloe Vera, Bee Balm, Cayenne, Cornflower, Eucalyptus, Garlic, Goldenseal, Green Tea, Horehound, Lavender, Onion, Plantain, Rosemary, Sage, St. John's Wort, Thyme, Yarrow
Wrinkles Aloe Vera
Yeast Infection Echinacea, Goldenseal, Uva Ursi

[izzyscout21]

good stuff, Taz. thanks for posting this.

[bacpacker]

Nice list Taz. Thanks for posting.

[LUNCHBOX]

Great list, thanks.

[Taz Baby]

this is the list I use. I put a check mark next to the ones I think will be most used and make sure I have the herbs for that. I use egg whites for burns. It works faster. I use sliced onion for warts and a slice onion in a bowl next to a sick person will absorb the bacteria from that person. It will turn colors as this is happening. I have done that for years.

[Katrina]

Great list Taz. What do you do with eve primrose ? Do you have anything for thyroid? I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus and nw my thyroid is being destroyed by my own white blood cells. I am not active, no SEL cells present, so not on meds but am on Levoxyl for thyroid. If it comes to a shtf situation , I know there won't be my friendly pharmacy to get meds from.Oh and for us redheads out there, paprika brightens up the color.

[Sniper-T]

^ paprika? do you eat it, or rinse with it?

[Taz Baby]

@katrina livestrong.com/artical/1161. That is a list of all the plants you need.


livestrong.com is a good resource of herbs and ailiments.

[realist]

Holly crap Taz that list is pretty incredible. I guess it is time that I start looking into it. I do have an aloe plant that is huge that I have used along with sage. I was planning on putting together a large herb garden I guess I can just expand it some.

[realist]

Hay Taz one more thing is there a shelf life on this stuff? What I mean is there a site to go to so I can find out. There are too many to break them all down.

[Taz Baby]

livestrong.com is a good resource. I Also have a lot of downloaded links too but you will have to wait because they are on my desk computer. I have to have electricity for that one. When I get to the land of the living March 23 I will have accest and then I can give you everything I have.

[Katrina]

Silly sniper, you add it to the conditioner, let conditioner stay in hair per directions on bottle , then rinse out.
Taz, you're a peach!! thanks for the site will help immensely

[IDTANDY]

This link is to a PDR for Herbal Medicines.Large file,1108 pages.Very usefull for those interested in Herbal Medicine.
The file is clean.

http://www.scbaghdad.com/e-library/biobooks/PDR.for.Herbal.Medicines.2nd.ed-1563633612.pdf

Example of a page.

4 7 0 /LICORICE PDR FOR HERBAL MEDICINES
DESCRIPTION
Medicinal Parts: The medicinal parts are the unpeeled, dried
roots and the runners, the peeled dried roots, and the rhizome
with the roots.
Flower and Fruit: The axillary inflorescences are upright.
spike-like and 10 to 15 cm long. The individual flowers are 1
to 1.5 cm long, bluish to pale violet and short-pedicled. The
calyx is short, bell-shaped and glandular-haired. The tips of
the calyx are longer than the tube, and are pointed lanceolate.
The petals are narrow, the carina petals are not fused, and
they are pointed but not beaked. The fruit is a pod, 1.5 to 2.5
cm long, and 4 to 6 mm wide. It is erect and splayed, flat
with thick sutures, glabrous, somewhat reticulate-pitted, and
usually has 3 to 5 brown, reniform seeds.
Leaves, Stem and Root: The plant is a herbaceous perennial.
It is 1 to 2 m high and has a long sturdy primary taproot. The
taproot is 15 cm long and subdivides into 3 to 5 subsidiary
roots, 1.25 m in length. There are several horizontal woody
stolons which may reach 8 m. New stems are produced every
year. They are sturdy, erect, branched either from the base or
from further up, and are generally rough at the top. The
foliage leaves are alternate, odd pinnate and 10 to 20 cm
long. The leaflets are in 3 to 8 pairs. The stipules are very
small and drooping.
Habitat: Individual varieties of Glycyrrhiza are found in
different regions. Glycyrrhiza glanulifera is found in southeastern
Europe and western Asia. Glycyrrhiza pallida and
violocea are found in Iraq. Glycyrrhiza typica is indigenous
to southern Europe and southwest Asia.
Production: Licorice root consists of the peeled and unpeeled,
dried roots and stolons of Glycyrrhiza glabra.
I irnrir^jtiipg is the extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra.
. ..**•' 7* "* ... •• ~
Other Names: Sweet Root, sweet wort
ACTIONS AND PHARMACOLOGY
COMPOUNDS: LICORICE EXTRACT
Triterpene saponins (3-15%): (according to DAB 1996, 4-
6% in the adjusted Licorice extract, according to D AC 1995,
5-7% in the dry Licorice extract): chief components are
glycyrrhetic acid (sweet-tasting, aglycone 18 beta^glycyrrhetic
acid, salts termed glycyrrizin)
Flavonoids: aglycones, including liquiritigenin, isoliquiritigenin
(its chalcone), isolicoflavonol
Isoflavonoids: aglycones formononetin, glabren, glabridin,
glabrol, 3-hydroxyglabroI, glycyrrhisoflavone
Cumestan derivatives: glycyrol, isoglycyrol, liqcoumarin
Hydroxycoumarins: including herniarin, umbelliferone, glycycoumarin,
licopyranocumarin
Steroids: sterols, including beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol
The drug contains considerably more free flavonoid and
isoflavonoid aglycones than the root drug does, due to the
hydrolysis that takes place during the extraction procedure.
COMPOUNDS: LICORICE ROOT
Triterpene saponins (3-15%): chief components glycyrrhetic
acid (sweet-tasting, aglycone 18beta-glycyrrhetic acid, salts
termed glycyrrhizin), 18-alpha-glycrrhetic acid, glycyrrhetic
acid methyl ester, glabric acid, glabrolide, uralenic acid
Flavonoids: aglycones including liquiritigenin, isoliquiritigenin
(its chalcone), isolicoflavonol, isoliquiritin, licoricidin
Isoflavonoids: aglycones formononetin, glabren, glabridin,
glabrol, 3-hydroxygIabrol, glycyrrhisoflavone
Cumestan derivatives: glycyrol, isoglycyrol, liquocoumarin
Hydroxycoumarins: including herniarin, umbelliferone, glycycoumarin,
licopyranocoumarin
Steroids: sterols, including beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol
Volatile oil (very little): with anethole, estragole, eugenol,
hexanoic acid
EFFECTS: LICORICE EXTRACT AND ROOT
Anti-Inflammatory/Anti-platelet Effects
Glabridin exerts anti-inflammatory effects through inhibition
of tyrosinase activity, superoxide anion production, and
cyclooxygenase activity (Yokota, 1998). Licoricidin, a
potent compound in the root, has an inhibitory effect on
isoPAF(platelet-activating factor) acetyltransferase resulting
in anti-inflammatory activity (Nagumo, 1999). Isoliquiritigenin,
an aldose reductase inhibitor, exerts anti-platelet effects
through inhibition of cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase, and
peroxidase activity (Tawata, 1992). The anti-inflammatory
effects of glycyrrhizin is attributed to its anti-thrombin action
through inhibition of thrombin induced platelet aggregation
(Francischetti, 1997).
Antiulcer Effects
Licorice has protective effects against gastric ulcers induced
by aspirin (Dehpour, 1994). Licorice has the ability to
release endogenous secretin, which is a potential mediator of
the antiulcer actions (Shiratori, 1986). Carbenoxolone, a
succinate derivative of glycyrrhetic acid, has been shown to
accelerate the healing of ulcers (Barbara, 1979; Bianchi,
1985). Deglycyrrhizinated licorice is also effective for
healing ulcers and lacks undesirable side effects seen with
carbenoxolone (Morgan, 1982).

[Sniper-T]

Silly sniper, you add it to the conditioner, let conditioner stay in hair per directions on bottle , then rinse out.
Taz, you're a peach!! thanks for the site will help immensely

conditioner... conditioner... that is one of the 12,982 bottles that my wife has in the bathroom right?

:rolleyes:

[Taz Baby]

I was hoping too see you here. You and I love herbal med. I learn so much from you. Glad too see ya.

[IDTANDY]

Thanks Taz.

[IDTANDY]

Here's something to start.


Methods of preparing herbs

PoulticesA soft, moist mass about the consistency of cooked cereal, spread between layers of muslin, linen, gauze, or towels and applied hot to a given area in order to create moist local heat or counter-irritation.

Tinctures
A tincture is a solution prepared by steeping or soaking (maceration) plant materials in alcohol and water.
Some herbs you can make into tinctures include: phytolacca (poke root), prickly ash, dandelion, black walnut, salvia, propolis (bee pollen), myrrh, arnica, calendula, black cohosh, cayenne, cannabis, lobelia, blue cohosh, valerian, echinacea, hoodia, garlic and lemon.

Oil Infusions
Making an oil infusion is a very simple process. Use high-quality organic herbs and a good quality oil like olive oil. It’s like making a tea with oil, instead of water only you usually make it in a sealable jar and turn the jar upside down every day often for 30 days.
Infusions
An infusion is a method of preparing herbs in which 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herb or 2 to 4 fresh herbs (flowers and berries are substitutable) is "infused" or placed in oil or water (which does not need to be boiled), and then, after about ten minutes, is strained and ingested.
Things you can infuse include barks (like birch) leaves, and Chinese medicinal teas.

For those who are researching and want to understand the actions of Herbs.

The Classification of Herb

Most herbs are classified botanically according to plant genius and specie. Herbs can also be classified by chemical activity or plant attributes. Herbs are frequently classified according to their medicinal or remedy properties. Medicinal herbs are indexed according to their applied benefits for specific treatments or conditions. Typically, the herbs plant parts are identified and discussed according to their medicinal value or benefits.

Although there is no formal herbal classification system apart from the botanical genius and specie, herbs generally fall into five major categories according to their activity.
They are:
1. Aromatic Herbs
2. Astringent Herbs
3. Bitter Herbs
4. Mucilagnious Herbs
5. Nutritive Food Stuffs (Herb based)

This practical classification system simplifies how herbalists and natural health consumers understand and use herbs. These five categories rely on the senses of smell, taste, and touch which improves their practical identification and use.

Aromatic Herbs

Aromatic Herbs or herbs with a pleasant odor, gain their aromatic smell from volatile oils. The volatile oils create the odor that most herbs have. Most herbs possess a fragrant distinct taste and stimulate the mucus membranes in the gastro-intestinal track. Aromatic herbs are used extensively for therapeutic, food flavorings and perfumes. Aromatic herbs are generally divided into two based categories: stimulants and nervines.

Stimulant Herbs

stimulates the body, adding energy and zest to its parts and organs, including the respiratory, digestive, and circulatory systems.

Stimulant herb chemical activities or properties include analgesic, antipyretic, antiasthmatic, antibiotic, antiseptic, carminative, diaphoretic, expectorant, galactogogue, parasiticide, rubefacient, stimulant, and stomachic.

Several examples of stimulant herbs include fennel, garlic, ginger, peppermint, sage, thyme, catnip, feverfew, lemon grass, pennyroyal, and damiana.

Nervine Herbs

are soothing herbs that improve healing to the central nervous, respiratory, digestive, and circulatory systems. They are frequently administered via teas or in gel capsules.

Nervine herbal chemical activities include: analgesic, antispasmodic, carminative, antipyretic, antiasthmatic, antibiotic, antiseptic, sedative, and stomachic.

Examples of Nervine herbs are chamomile, crampbark, dong quai, ginger, hops, lobelie, scullcap, valerian, catnip, lady's slipper, and sarsaparilla.

Astringent Herbs

Astringent Herbs are known as "tannins" that constricts, tightens or tones tissue and reduces fluid discharge. Astringent herbs impact the digestive, urinary, and circulatory systems, and can be considered toxic if taken in large amounts.

Astringent herb chemical activities include analgesic, antiseptic, antiabortive, astringent, emmenaggogue, homostatic, and styptic.

Astrinigent herbs are bayberry, comfrey, eyebright, golden seal, pau d'arco, peppermint, red raspberry, slippery elm, white oak, white willow, black walnut, crampbark, mullein, and pennyroyal.

Bitter Herbs

Bitter Herbs are herbs with a high presence of phenols and phenolic glycosides, alkaloids, or saponins. They are divided into four categories: laxative herbs, diuretic herbs, saponin-containing herbs, and aloaloid-containing herbs.

Laxative Herbs

are divided into three categories: bulk laxative herbs, lubricant laxatives (such as mineral oil), and stimulant laxatives (the antraquinone type). Laxative herbs, associated with the Bitter Herb family, stimulate the lower intestinal tract stimulating bile movement without acting as irritants to the bowel. Laxative herbs are commonly used for "purging" the digestive tract of toxins.

Laxative (bitter) herb chemical activities include: anticatarrhal, antipyretic, cholagogue, purgative, hepatonic, sialagogue, vermifuge, and blood purifier.

Laxative herbs are aloe, cascara, barberry, gentian, licorice, pumpkin, senna, yellow dock, yucca, safflowers, and golden seal.
Diuretic Herbs are herbs the increase urination or the eliminating of fluids from the body. It is commonly believed that the "release" of fluids help cleanse the vascular system, kidneys, and liver.

Diuretic herb chemical activities include: alterative, antibiotic, anticatarrhal, antipyretic, antiseptic, lithotriptic, and blood purifier.

Diuretic herbs are asparagus, blessed thistle, burdock, butcher's broom, buchu, chaparral, chickweed, cornsilk, dandelion, dog grass, grapevine, hawthorn, horsetail, ho shou wu, hydrangea, juniper berries, milk thistle, nettle, parsley, peach bark, and uva ursi.
Saponin Herbs are herbs that produce a frothing or foaming action when mixed with water. The term "saponin" is derived from the Latin word for soap. Saponins emulsify fat-soluble molecules in the digestive tract and increase the body's ability to absorb other active compounds.

Saponins possess the ability to dissolve cell membranes of red blood cells disrupting their production. When taken orally they are generally considered harm less as they are absorbed in great quantities. Saponin herbs like yucca and sarsaparilla are used in the beverage industry for their foaming properties.

Saponin chemical activities include: anticatarrhal, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, emmenagugue, and cardiac stimulant. Some saponins are also considered diuretic and antispasmodic.

Saponin herbs are wild yam root, schizandra, black cohosh, blue cohosh, devil's claw, licorice, alfalfa, yucca, ginseng, and gotu kola.
Alkaloid herbs are herbs with any organic compound that contains nitrogen and has physiologic activity. Alkaloid herbs are difficult to classify as each group of alkaloids has very different physiological structures. Many high alkaloid herbs like alerian and capsicum are also found under other herbal classifications.

Alkaloid herb chemical activities include: emetic, astringent, expectorant, antiseptic, respiratory tonic, stimulant, and nervine.

Alkaloid herbs are ephedra, golden seal, lobelia, pau d'arco, valerian, and capsicum.

Mucilaginous Herbs

Mucilaginous herbs contain polysaccharides that give the class of herbs a slippery mild taste that is considered sweet in water. Mucilage is produced in all plants for storing water, hydrating and to act as a food reserve. Most mucilage herbs are not broken down by digestive system and give bulk to the stool. Mucilaginous herbs are commonly used as topic poultices or "knitting" agents.

Mucilaginous herbs have four major attributes. They:
1. Increase bowel movement action or frequency.
2. Absorb and eliminate toxins via the intestinal tract.
3. Regulate and promote positive intestinal flora growth.
4. Produce a demulcent and vulnerary action.
Mucilaginous herb chemical activities include: antibiotic, antacid, demulcent, emollient, culnerary, and detoxifier.

Mucilaginous herbs are althea, aloe, burdock, comfrey, dandelion, echinacea, fenugreek, kelp, psylium, slippery elm, dulse, glucomannan from Konjak root, Irish moss, and mullein.

Nutritive Herbs

Nutritive herbs are herbs classified according to their nutritive value. They are not considered true foods, however they provide fiber, mucilage, and cause diuretic actions. There are an important source of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins and minerals necessary for proper nutrition.

Nutritive herbs are rosehips, acerola, apple, asparagus, banana, barley grass, bee pollen, bilberry, broccoli, cabbage, carrot, cauliflower, grapefruit, hibiscus, lemon, oatstraw, oniono, orange, papaya, pineapple, red clover, spirulina, stevia, and wheat germ.

[Taz Baby]

The book Heral Antibiotics by Stephen Harrod Buhner is a very good book. We have it. A must have book. It,s $12.95. No color pics but good info.

[Sniper-T]

Taz, great first post... but what is the method of application for each of them? does it follow your friends latest post, or is there another general rule?

[Taz Baby]

huh-sniper? First post? I started this thread, lol. The book is a referance for herbs you can use for antibiotics. Just saying it's a cheap book for that list of herbs.

[Sniper-T]

lol!

yes.... but are those herbs (in your op thread) used as a lotion, or a drink? as a poultice or a tea?

etc

[Taz Baby]

poultice a lotion. sorry Im tired

[IDTANDY]

Information I thought might useful mostly Poultice

Insect bites and stings
Several plant materials used for treatment of bites and stings were chewed by primal people before being applied to the wound. Defensin in our saliva is a naturally occurring antibiotic. It is anti-microbial and stimulates immune function both systemically and at the wound site. By chewing and mixing saliva with plant parts we release plant chemistry plus enzymes from our mouth and antibiotics to increase immune response and accelerate the healing process. I prefer chewing my own poultice, my mouth flora--the bacteria, fungi and viruses in my mouth-- are my own. If someone else chews your poultice you get what they have in their mouth, including potential disease causing organisms. NOTE: Urine (your own) is an antiseptic wash to irrigate wounds and neutralize venom. Urine for irrigation is used worldwide by people who have nothing else that is clean to irrigate a wound. Urine works, it has venom neutralizing acidic pH, and if it is your own-it's antiseptic. In addition, a few venoms are denatured or neutralized by acids such as: vinegar, acetic acid, malic acid and urine.

Aloe, Aloe vera, Leaves may be cut from the plant, placed cut surface down in a bowl and the gel will exude from the leaf. This gel, turns to a liquid that is an excellent wash or bites, stings, burns scrapes and wounds.

Burdock, Arctium lappa, root slices, leafy second year stems, poulticed over bites, stings.

Canada lily, Lilium canadense, root poultice over spider bites.

Dioscorea, wild yam, Dioscorea villosa , D. opposita, D. hypoglauca, tubers are used as a poultice to bite, sting. Contains saponin phytosterols, steroid like compounds analogous to cortisone. Used to treat spider bites.

Echinacea angustifolia, E. purpurea, E. pallida, root chewed and applied to bites, stings, wounds snake bites.

Goatsbeard, Aruncus dioicus, chewed and poulticed root over bites, stings.

Hound's tongue, Cynoglossum officinale, leaf poulticed used to apply to bites.

Jewelweed, spotted touch-me-not, Impatiens capensis, crushed whole plant except roots applied to bites, stings and poison ivy.

Jimsonweed, datura, Datura stramonium, leaf chewed and applied, contains scopolamine and atropine. Used for bites, stings, and snake bites.

Lemon balm, Melissa officinalis, leaves are chewed or crushed and applied to bite or sting (poultice).

Lopseed, Phryma leptostachya, root poultice for bites.

Mayweed, or dog fennel, Anthemis catula, leaves crushed and rubbed over insect stings.

Mullein, Verbascum thapsus, yellow flower mortared with epsom salts and vinegar and used as a wash for spider bites. Claimed very effective for ulcerated wound of Brown Recluse bite.

Plantain, Plantago ovata, Plantago lanceolata, leaves crushed, chewed or used as wash (tea) over bites and stings.

Prickly pear, Opuntia spp., leaf pad sliced in half, inner half applied to bite, hydrophilic, draws serum, lymph, and immune system cells and chemistry to wound site.

Spiderwort, Tradescantia virginiana, smashed, crushed or chewed leaf applied to bite, sting.

Sunflower, Helianthus borealis, leaves poulticed for spider bites.

Wild Strawberry, strawberry, Duchesnea indica, whole plant crushed or poultice over bite or sting, also used to treat excema.




Bee Stings

Bowman's root, Gillenia trifoliata, poulticed leaf applied to sting.

Goat's Beard, Aruncus dioicus, poulticed root applied to sting.

Beebalm, Monarda didyma, fistulosa, crushed flowers and leaves applied to sting.

Jewelweed, Impatiens capensis, also was crushed aerial parts, flowers, leaves, succulent stem applied, actually rubbed into sting.

Prickly pear, Opuntia spp., leaf pad sliced in half, inner half applied to bite, hydrophilic, draws serum, lymph, and immune system cells and chemistry to wound site. ONE OF MY FAVORITES!

Dog Bites:
Butterflyweed, pleurisy root, Asclepias tuberosa, roots crushed and poulticed over bite.

Clintonia, bluebeard lily, Clintonia borealis, poulticed leaves over sting.

Jimsonweed, Datura stramonium, crushed leaves over bite.

Prickly pear, Opuntia spp., leaf pad sliced in half, inner half applied to bite, hydrophilic, draws serum, lymph, and immune system cells and chemistry to wound site.

Insect Repellent and Animal Repellent Herbs

Allium sativum and tricoccum (garlic, and wild leeks.) Grow plants as companion planting around plants vulnerable to insect pests. Repellent.

Artemisia ludoviciana (silver king artemisia)... may be dried and smudged to repel mosquitoes.

Artemisia abrotanum (Southernwood...) may be used fresh or dried (then powdered) to repel moths and fleas.

Juniperus spp. (Juniper). Boughs were placed around shelters to repel snakes.

Mentha pulegium (pennyroyal). Pulegone in pennyroyal is insecticidal and a repellent. Grow as a companion plant here and there in garden, but pot or tile it in. Very invasive.

Pelargornium cintronellum Put in pots around garden and patio to help ward off mosquitoes.

TIP: Mosquitoes home in and fly toward CO2 exuded from your pores and breath. Watch for wind direction. For example, we have a patio at the lake's edge. When the wind blows from the shore to the lake our CO2 is blown out to sea and not into the woods. This keeps mosquito invasions to a minimum.

Sanquinaria canadensis (blood root). Root juice may be mortared into water to make a wash.
This wash wards off mosquitoes, but may cause dermatitis in some people. Sanquinarine in blood root is toxic and must not be ingested.

Tanacetum vulgare and T. cinerariifolium (tansy and pyrethrum respectively). Tansy purported to repel ants. Dried flowers of T. cinerariifolium used as insecticide, fumigant and repellent.

Thuja spp. (cedar) Boughs were placed around Native American shelters to repel snakes and insects.

Yucca spp. make a water based spray from this plant. dig up the root carefully and cut away about a cubic inch for each gallon of water. Take the cubic inch of Yucca and blend it into 4 cups of water. Blend thoroughly. Strain this through a screen, then cheese cloth or a cotton T-shirt into your sprayer. Add enough water to make one gallon. For all fruits and vegetables.

Tobacco tobacum. Tobacco may be prepared into a water infusion. Purchase a pouch of tobacco. Heat about a quart of water, then add tobacco from pouch to water, close jar and let sit in refrigerator for three or four days. Sieve and strain into your sprayer. Use on potato plants and young (in bloom) tomato plants.


Snake Bites
Burdock, Arctium lappa, poulticed leaves over bite, I might try root but have no knowledge of its utility, save it has unique chemistry that might make it chemotactic like opuntia.

Prickly pear, Opuntia spp., leaf pad sliced in half, inner half applied to bite, hydrophilic, draws serum, lymph, and immune system cells and chemistry to wound site.

Sunflower, Helianthus tuberosa, poultice root and leaves.

White lettuce, rattlesnake root, Prenanthes alba, whole plant crushed, pounded and applied.

[IDTANDY]

For Diabetics post SHTF here are some alternative methods to manage your Glucose.

Herbs for Diabetes
Since antiquity, diabetes has been treated with plant medicines. Recent scientific investigation has confirmed the efficacy of many of these preparations, some of which are remarkably effective. Only those herbs that appear most effective, are relatively non-toxic and have substantial documentation of efficacy are covered here.

Pterocarpus marsupium (Indian Kino, Malabar Kino, Pitasara, Venga)
The tree is the source of the Kino of the European pharmacopeas. The gum-resin looks like dried blood (Dragon's blood), much used in Indian medicine. This herb has a long history of use in India as a treatment for diabetes.
Both epicatechin and a crude alcohol extract of Pterocarpus marsupium have actually been shown to regenerate functional pancreatic beta cells. No other drug or natural agent has been shown to generate this activity.

Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia)
Bitter melon, also known as balsam pear, is a tropical vegetable widely cultivated in Asia, Africa and South America, and has been used extensively in folk medicine as a remedy for diabetes. The blood sugar lowering action of the fresh juice or extract of the unripe fruit has been clearly established in both experimental and clinical studies.

Bitter melon is composed of several compounds with confirmed anti-diabetic properties. Charantin, extracted by alcohol, is a hypoglycaemic agent composed of mixed steroids that is more potent than the drug tolbutamide which is often used in the treatment of diabetes. Momordica also contains an insulin-like polypeptide, polypeptide-P, which lowers blood sugar levels when injected subcutaneously into type 1 diabetic patients. The oral administration of 50-60 ml of the juice has shown good results in clinical trials.

Excessively high doses of bitter melon juice can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea. Small children or anyone with hypoglycemia should not take bitter melon, since this herb could theoretically trigger or worsen low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. Furthermore, diabetics taking hypoglycemic drugs (such as chlorpropamide, glyburide, or phenformin) or insulin should use bitter melon with caution, as it may potentiate the effectiveness of the drugs, leading to severe hypoglycemia.

Gymnema Sylvestre (Gurmar, Meshasringi, Cherukurinja)
Gymnema assists the pancreas in the production of insulin in Type 2 diabetes. Gymnema also improves the ability of insulin to lower blood sugar in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. It decreases cravings for sweet. This herb can be an excellent substitute for oral blood sugar-lowering drugs in Type 2 diabetes. Some people take 500 mg per day of gymnema extract.

Onion and Garlic ( Allium cepa and Allium sativum)
Onion and garlic have significant blood sugar lowering action. The principal active ingredients are believed to be allyl propyl disulphide (APDS) and diallyl disulphide oxide (allicin), although other constitutents such as flavonoids may play a role as well.

Experimental and clinical evidence suggests that APDS lowers glucose levels by competing with insulin for insulin-inactivating sites in the liver. This results in an increase of free insulin. APDS administered in doses of 125 mg/ kg to fasting humans was found to cause a marked fall in blood glucose levels and an increase in serum insulin. Allicin doses of 100 mg/kg produced a similar effect.

Onion extract was found to reduce blood sugar levels during oral and intravenous glucose tolerance. The effect improved as the dosage was increased; however, beneficial effects were observed even for low levels that used in the diet (eg., 25 to 200 grams). The effects were similar in both raw and boiled onion extracts. Onions affect the hepatic metabolism of glucose and/or increases the release of insulin, and/or prevent insulin's destruction.

The additional benefit of the use of garlic and onions are their beneficial cardiovascular effects. They are found to lower lipid levels, inhibit platelet aggregation and are antihypertensive. So, liberal use of onion and garlic are recommended for diabetic patients.

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
Experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated the antidiabetic properties of fenugreek seeds. The active ingredient responsible for the antidiabetic properties of fenugreek is in the defatted portion of the seed that contains the alkaloid trogonelline, nicotinic acid and coumarin.

Blueberry leaves (Vaccinium myrtillus)
A decoction of the leaves of the blueberry has a long history of folk use in the treatment of diabetes. The compound myrtillin (an anthocyanoside) is apparently the most active ingredient. Upon injection it is somewhat weaker than insulin, but is less toxic, even at 50 times the 1 g per day therapeutic dose. A single dose can produce beneficial effects lasting several weeks.

Blueberry anthocyanosides also increase capillary integrity, inhibit free-radical damage and improve the tone of the vascular system. In Europe, it is used as an anti-haemorrhagic agent in the treatment of eye diseases including diabetic retinopathy.

Asian Ginseng
Asian ginseng is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat diabetes. It has been shown to enhance the release of insulin from the pancreas and to increase the number of insulin receptors. It also has a direct blood sugar-lowering effect.
A recent study found that 200 mg of ginseng extract per day improved blood sugar control as well as energy levels in Type 2 diabetes (NIDDM).

Bilberry
Bilberry may lower the risk of some diabetic complications, such as diabetic cataracts and retinopathy.

Stevia
Stevia has been used traditionally to treat diabetes. Early reports suggested that stevia might have beneficial effects on glucose tolerance (and therefore potentially help with diabetes), although not all reports have confirmed this. Even if stevia did not have direct antidiabetic effects, its use as a sweetener could reduce intake of sugars in such patients.

Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba extract may prove useful for prevention and treatment of early-stage diabetic neuropathy.

Cinnamon - Triples insulin's efficiency


After all is considered, it wise for you to refer to your family doctor before proceeding to use the herbal treatments. Even though there is little to worry about when taking these natural herbs, they still might have interaction with whatever medication you are taking. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Hope this info is helpful.

[IDTANDY]

Here's some general information,in 3 parts
Part 1


Achillea millefolium, Yarrow
Achilleus, the greatest hero of the Trojan War in Homer’s “Iliad”, is reported to have used yarrow to stop the flow of blood from his wounds inflicted in battle. It has been scientifically proven that this plant has substances that have blood clotting and anti-inflammatory properties. In the Middle Ages in Europe, yarrow tea was taken to stop internal bleeding. Micmac Indians drank it with warm milk to treat upper respiratory infections.

Alcea rosea, Hollyhock
The flowers are used in the treatment of repiratory and inflammatory ailments and the root extracts to produce marshmallow sweets.

Alchemilla vulgaris, Lady’s Mantle
The common English name is accounted for by the leaves resemblance to a cloak worn by English women in medieval times. A preparation of dried leave was used to control diarrhea and to stop bleeding.

Allium cepa, Onion
Like garlic, onions contain antibiotics and substances that lower blood sugar, serum cholesterol and blood pressure. Onion juice sweetened with sugar or honey is a traditional remedy for colds and coughs. Onions are rich in vitamins B-1, B-2 and Vitamin C.

Allium sativum, Garlic
It has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes and as a culinary herb. In the Talmud Book of Ezra, Jews are encouraged to partake of garlic at the Friday night Shabbat meal for the following five reasons: (1) to keep the body warm; (2) to brighten the face; (3) to kill intestinal parasites; (4) to increase the volume of semen; and (5) to foster love and to do away with jealousy. Garlic is mentioned more than twenty times in the ancient Egyptian medical papyrus called the Codex Ebers dating back to ca. 1550 B.C. Pliny the Elder sited more than sixty therapeutic uses for garlic. Dioscorides, chief physician for the Roman army, prescribed garlic for intestinal parasitic disorders.
Garlic oil was first isolated in 1844. More than one hundred compounds have been identified as constituents of garlic oil. In the Middle Ages, it was eaten daily as a protection against the bubonic plagues that ravished the European continent. Louis Pasteur described its antibacterial properties in 1858. Tons of garlic were used in World War I in field dressings to prevent infection. Alliin and allicin are sulfur-containing compounds that are antibacterial and anti-fungal. When garlic cloves are sliced, diced, or minced, alliin converts allicin into a large number of thioallyl compounds that are effective in lowering blood pressure, blood sugar, serum cholesterol and serum triglycerides It is effective in boosting the immune system. Garlic is a natural pesticide against mosquito larvae.

Allium schoenoprasum, Chives
In traditional folk medicine Chives were eaten to treat and purge
intestinal parasites, enhance the immune system, stimulate digestion,
and treat anemia.
Garlic and scallions, along with onions, leeks, chives, and shallots, are rich in flavonols, substances in plants that have been shown to have anti tumor effects. New research from China confirms that eating vegetables from the allium group (allium is Latin for garlic) can reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

Allium tuberosum, Garlic Chives
In Chinese herbal medicine, garlic chives have been used to treat fatigue, control excessive bleeding, and as an antidote for ingested poisons. The leaves and bulbs are applied to insect bites, cuts, and wounds, while the seeds are used to treat kidney, liver, and digestive system problems.

Althea officinalis, True Marshmallow
It is a native of Asia that has been naturalized in America. Marshmallow syrup from the roots is used in treating coughs and irritated throats.

Anchusa officinalis, Bugloss
Preparations made from roots and/or stems have been used in modern folk medicine primarily as an expectorant (to raise phlegm) or as an emollient (a salve to sooth and soften the skin).

Anethum graveolens 'Fernleaf', Dill
Dill is recorded as a medicinal plant for at least five thousand years in the writings of the Egyptians. Oil extracted from the seeds is made into potions and given to colicky babies. Adults take the preparation to relieve indigestion.

Angelica archangelica, Angelica
Though all parts of the plant are medicinal, preparations are made mainly from the roots. Its medicinal uses include:relief of ingestion, flatulence and colic; improvements of peripheral arterial circulation e.g. Buerger’s disease; a tonic for bronchitis

Anthemis nobilis a.k.a Chamaemelum nobile, Roman Chamomile
It is used for the relief of gastric distress. Peter Rabbit’s mother treated Peter with chamomile tea to alleviate the distress that followed the overindulgence of eating too much in Mr. McGregor’s vegetable garden. Roman Chamomile resembles German Chamomile. Both Chamomiles are members of the same family. They have pale green feathery leaves and have flowers that resemble daisies with an apple-like fragrance.

Antirrhinum majus, Snapdragon
Preparations made from leaves and flowers are used to reduce fever and inflammation. In a poultice, it be applied to the body surface to treat burns, infections and hemorrhoids.

Apium graveolens, Celery
Essential oils have a sedative and anticonvulsant effect, and are used in the treatment of hypertension. Seeds used to treat arthritis and urinary tract infections.

Aquilegia canadensis, Columbine
Preparations of this plant are used as an astringent, analgesic, and a diuretic. American Indians used crushed seeds to relieve headaches.

Artemisia vulgaris, Mugwort
It is a natural insect repellant of moths as well as a culinary herb used in flavoring foods such as poultry stuffing. It is alleged to have many medicinal properties from hastening and easing labor to producing sedation. Its medicinal properties are questionable.

Asarum europeaum, European Ginger
In the past, it was used as an emetic, but it is obsolete because of toxicity. It is similar in use to Asarum canadense which was used by American Indians in the form of a root tea to treat respiratory, cardiac and “female” ailments. Asarum canadense contains aristocholic acid, an anti-tumor compound.

Asclepius incarnata, Butterfly Weed
It is used primarily in the treatment of respiratory disorders. Its uses are very similar to those of Asclepias tuberosa.

Asclepias tuberosa, Butterfly Weed or Pleurisy Root
This plant is native to North America. Omaha Indians ate the raw root to treat bronchitis and taught the pioneers to do the same. It is an expectorant; it promotes coughing that raises phlegm. It also contains cardiac glycosides and an estrogen-like substance. It is a component of Lydia E. Pinkham’s Vegetable Compound (1875 to 1960) advertised for use in “womb trouble, sick headache, and nervous breakdowns”.

Asperula odorata, Sweet Woodruff
Research suggests that it may have anti-arthritic properties. Historically, it has been used to treat liver disorders. In Germany, it is an essential ingredient in May wine drunk as a “spring tonic”. The fragrance of dry leaves gives linen closets a sweet aroma that keeps moths away.

Baptisia australis, Blue False Indigo
American Indians used root tea as an emetic (to produce vomiting) and as a laxative. Root poultices were used to reduce inflammation, and held in the mouth against an aching tooth.

Baptisia tinctoria, Wild Indigo
Preparations made from the roots and leaves were used by North American Indians (Mohicans and Penobscots) in poltices to treat bruises, snake bites and superficial lacerations. Such preparations have effective antiseptic properties.

Borago officinalis, Borage
For centuries it was thought to be a mood elevator when ingested as a tea or as leaves steeped in wine. This may or may not be the case. There is some evidence that perparations made from seed oil have a use in soothing and relieving inflammations associated with respiratory disorders.

Calamintha ascendens, Mountain Balm
A preparation from this plant, calamint, stimulates sweating thereby loweing fever. It is also an expectorant and therefore a cough and cold remedy.

Calendula officinalis, Pot Marigold
Traditionally the flowers were used to impart a yellow color to cheese. Anti-inflammatory and antibiotic (bacteria, fungi and viruses) properties are responsible for the antiseptic healing effect when preparations of this plant are applied to skin wounds and burns. It can be used in the treatment of ringworm, cradle cap and athlete's foot.

Catharanthus rosea a.k.a. Vinca rosea Madagascar Periwinkle
Madagascar Periwinkle contains seventy alkaloids and four are medicinal. It is the source of the chemotherapeutic agents: Vincristine, Vinblastine, Vindesine, and Vinrelbine. Vincristine is used in the treatment of childhood leukemias and breast cancer. Vinblastine is used in the treatment of Hodgkin’s Disease and choriocarcinoma.

Chamomilla recutita or Matricaria recutita, German Chamomile
Tea made from dried flowers is used to treat a large variety of ailments. In experiments, the essential oil is found to be anti-fungal, anti-allergenic and anti-inflammatory.

Colchicum autumnale, Autumn Crocus
Theophrastus (c.371-287 B.C.) noted it to be very toxic. In the fifth century (Byzantine Empire), it was used for the treatment of joint conditions. Colchicine is an alkaloid that relieves the joint pain and inflammation of gout. Colchicine is still derived from the plant itself because chemists have not been able to synthesize it inexpensively in the laboratory. Though they are called autumn crocus, they belong to the lily family and should not be confused with the saffron crocus.

Convollaria majalis, Lily-of-the-valley
A tea of flowers and leaves was used in treating heart disease. It contains cardiac glycosides similar to those of the digitalis plant family.

Dianthus anatolicus, Dianthus
D. anatolicus is a member of large genus of Dianthus (approximately 300) many of which have been used in Chinese and European herbal medicine for a large number of disorders including cardiac, urinary, nervous and gastrointestinal. Preparations are made from the flowers, leaves and stems but not the roots. The flower preparations are markedly diuretic.

Dictamnus albus, Gas Plant
Dittany, a distillate of very volatile essential oils from the roots and flowers, is rarely used today. It is a diuretic, an anti-spasmodic (relaxes the muscles of the gastro-intestinal tract), an anti-helminthic (expels intestinal parasites), and a stimulant to the contraction of uterine muscle.

Digitalis ambigua, Perennial Foxglove
All species of the genus Digitalis contain cardiac glycosides in their roots, stems, leaves and blossoms. Cardiac glycosides are a group of chemical compounds that taken by mouth slow the rate and regulate the rhythm of the heart beat as well as strengthen the heart muscle. These chemical compounds are very complex. They are difficult and very expensive to synthesize in the laboratory. All sources of the digitalis cardiac glycosides are, therefore, plant materials grown in cultivation specifically for medicinal purposes. Preparations made of the dried ground leaves are no longer prescibed. Individually extracted compounds are prescribed instead of the mixture of all the cardiac glycosides present in the dried ground leaf preparations.

Digitalis lanata, Grecian Foxglove
It is also called the wooly foxglove because of the texture of its leaves. It is a very important medicinal plant grown commercially for the cardiac glycoside digoxin. Lanoxin (digoxin) is used in the treatment of congestive heart failure alone or in combination with other drugs prescribed for the same purpose. Digoxin was first isolated from the other cardiac glycosides in 1930.

Digitalis lutea Yellow Foxglove
Like all other foxgloves, it contains cardiac glycosides but they are in weak concentrations and are not extracted commercially for the treatment on chronic congestive heart failure.

Digitalis purpurea, Common Foxglove
Foxglove
In 1775 Dr. William Withering, an English physician, discovered the efficacy of ingesting ground dried leaves of Digitalis purpurea in the treatment of severe congestive heart failure. He attributed its efficacy to a diuretic effect and published his findingsin l785 based on his clinical observations over a ten year period. In his paper, he recommended safe doses and warned of undesirable side effects from overdose including death from cardiac arrest. The pharmacological mechanisms of the cardiac glycosides in regulating the heart rate and rhythm and the strengthening of the heart muscle were discovered later.

Echinacea purpurea syn E. angustifoli, Purple Cone Flower
Preparations of this plant were used by the Plain Indians (Comanche and Sioux) for the treatment of upper respiratory infections, burns, snakebites, and cancers. The European settlers learned about these indications from the Indians. It has been demonstrated that plant extracts stimulate the immune system to combat bacterial and viral infections. It also possesses antibiotic properties. Echinacea's name is derived from the Greek word for hedgehog and was inspired by the appearance of the flower's central cone.

Foeniculum vulgare, Fennel
It is a native of the Mediterranean. In the Middle Ages, it was considered an antidote to witchcraft. It is an antispasmodic that is used to relieve bloating. It is also a diuretic.

Fragaria vesca, Wild Strawberry
America Indians and Europeans found multiple medicinal uses for this plant. The leaves are mildly astringent so that they can be used as a gargle to treat sore throats. The leaves as well as the fruit contain a diuretic.

Geranium Robertainum, Herb-Robert
Tea made from the leaves has been used for the treatment of tuberculosis, malaria and other systemic infectious diseases. It has antibiotic, antiviral properties and contains antioxidants.

Ginkgo biloba fastigiata, Maidenhair tree
The ginkgo tree is the oldest living tree species with at least a 200 million year history. It was present in the time of the dinosaurs. It predates the Mesozoic era. It was considered sacred by Buddhist monks who for centuries planted them around their temples and in nearby forests. It is extremely hardy and resistant to environmental pollutants. The hardy features and the special value placed on these trees insured their preservation into modern times. Extracts from the leaves are used to improve memory and are used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Evidence of efficacy in these treatments is lacking. It is a blood thinner that may be used in cases of poor circulation. Presumed better circulation to the brain is thought to be the reason why it might improve memory and be a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. It is being tried for use in the treatment of glaucoma. The Chinese have used it in treating asthma and cerebral disorders for at least three thousand years.

Hamamelis virginiana, Witch-hazel
Native Americans taught the English settlers to make a decoction of witch-hazel bark, twigs, and leaves to use in cold or warm compresses to treat bruises, to use it as an eye wash, and to take it by mouth for the treatment of diarrhea. Currently, it is used as a topical application for the treatment of eczema. A decoction is an extraction made by boiling a plant in water and removing the resulting mash from the liquid; the liquid contains the active ingredient in a concentrated form.
“Witch” refers to an Anglo-Saxon word meaning to bend; it has no reference to magic. This shrub blooms in the fall. There are other varieties of witch-hazel that bloom in late winter or very early spring.

Helianthus annuus, Common Sunflower
A tea made from the leaves is an astringent, a diuretic, an expectorant and an agent to reduce fever. Crushed leaves are used in poultices to treat snake bites and spider bites.

Helichyrsum italicum, Curry
Essential oils distilled from flowers are used in aromatherapy. The antioxidant activity of carbon dioxide extracts are under investigation. Preparations are used as anticoagulant, anasthetic, antispasmodic agents and for their antiviral and anti-fungal properties.

Hepatica acutiloba, Sharp Lobed Hepatica
A member of the buttercup family, hepatica was used by American Indians to make a tea for the treatment of liver and digestive ailments. The medicinal value of this plant is not established.

Humulus lupulus, Hops
Used to make beer. It contains antiseptic, antibiotic and anti-spasmodic properties.

Hypericum perforatum, St. John's Wort
Several plants bear the name of St. John's Wort and they are so called because they can be counted on to be in bloom on June 24, the feast day of St. John the Baptist. Extracts made from the blossoms have been used for centuries to treat mental disorders and to ward off evil spirits. American Indians treated tuberculosis, wounds and severe pain with a tea made from its flowers. Hypericin, a very complex molecule, is of questionable value in the treatment of mild depression; it is strongly antiviral and is being investigated for use in the treatment of HIV/AIDS.

Hyssopus officinalis, Hyssop
The herb or its oil is used to treat respiratory ailments. In small amounts, it is added to salads, soups, sauces and meat dishes to aid digestion.

Inula helenium, Elecampane
A legend has it that Helen of Troy had this plant in her hand when she left with Paris to live with him in Troy. From this legend, the plant gets its name. The ancient Greeks and Romans used preparations made from this plant to treat upper respiratory infections and to aid digestion. In the Middle Ages, wine was made from this plant and it was called potio Paulino which means Paul’s drink, a reference to St. Paul’s advise to “drink a little wine for the stomach’s sake”.

Iris cristata, Crested Dwarf Iris
American Indians used the roots in tea to treat hepatitis and in animal fat ointments to treat skin ulcers.

Iris germanica, German Flag
The root (orris) is included in cough remedies primarily and never used alone. Dried orris has the fragrance of violets; it is included in some potpourris. Iris cristata and Iris versicolor are also used in Indian Medicine for the relief of symptoms and the treatment of various disorders without any scientific proof of efficacy thus far.

Laurus nobilis, Bay Leaf
Leaf preparations used to treat upper digestive tract disorders.

Lavendula officinalis syn. L. angustifolia, English Lavender
Lavare is the Latin verb "to wash". The Romans used the fragrance of the blossoms in their bath water hence the origin of the name lavendula. In the Middle Ages, it was used alone or in combination with other herbs to treat insomnia, anxiety states, migraine headaches and depression. The fragrance is relaxing hence the dry blossoms were stuffed in pillows and given to agitated patients to produce sedation. The oil is strongly antiseptic and used to heal wounds.

Levisticum officinale, Lovage
Preparations made from the roots or leaves are used to treat edema, indigestion and to prevent the formation of kidney stones.

Liatris spicata, Gayfeather
American Indians used this plant for food as well as medicine. It was used as a cough syrup for the treatment of persistent coughs and urinary tract infections.

Lycopersicon esculentum, Tomato
Lycopene may be beneficial in the treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy.

[IDTANDY]

Part 2

Malva sylvestris, Common Mallow
Pliny II, 1st Century A.D. wrote that tea made from the seeds and mixed with wine relieved nausea. In 16th century Italy, it was considered a cure-all. American Indians made poultices from the plant and applied them to sores, insect stings and swollen limbs to relieve pain. Taken internally, it may be useful in treating digestive and urinary tract infections because it contains a large amount of mucilage.

Marrubium vulgare, Horehound
Fresh or dried aerial parts of this plant are used to treat digestive and respiratory conditions. It is given for digestive complaints such as loss of appetite and indigestion. It is also used to treat the cough of chronic or acute bronchitis.

Matricaria chamomilla, German Chamomille
Essential oils distilled from dried flower heads are used topically for their antibiotic and antiseptic properties and internally for anti-inflammatory (gastritis), antiseptic, antispasmodic and sedative effects.

Melissa officinalis, Lemon Balm
Lemon balm was introduced into medicine by the Arabs for treatment of depression and anxiety. In the 11th century Avicenna, the famous theologian, philosopher-physician, taught that "it causeth the mind and the heart to become merry". New research shows that its polyphenols can help significantly in the treatment of herpes simplex and zoster infections.

Mentha piperita, Peppermint
Peppermint came into general use in the medicine of Western Europe only about the middle of the eighteenth century. Preparations made from fresh or dried leaves or distilled essential oil are used to relieve mild headache, to relieve pain, to relieve bowel spasm, and to relieve chest congestion.

Monarda didyma, Bee Balm
The Oswego Indians made tea from the aromatic leaves and introduced this practice to the original settlers as a beverage. The Shakers thought that the tea was effective in treating upper respiratory infections. They prescribed it for young brides to stimulate the appetite and regulate menstruation. The early settlers steamed the plant and inhaled fumes to clear their sinuses. It contains thymol which is a pleasant aromatic substance used in dentistry as a preservative and a fungicide.
Oswego tea replaced imported tea after the Boston Tea Party on December 16, 1773. The embargo of imported tea by all of the American colonies led to the bankruptcy of the British East India Company.

Nepeta cataria, Catnip
It is a mild sedative for the relief of insomnia. Chewing the leaves relieves toothaches. It lowers fever by increasing sweating because the evaporation of moisture from the skin is a cooling process. It is hallucinogenic in cats but not in humans.

Nicotiana sylvestris, Nicotiana
A member of a large family of Nicotianas whose leaves are used in making prepartions taken by mouth to induce vomiting and diarrhea, to relieve pain and to sedate. Preparations are used externally as a poultice in the treatment of joint swelling from arthritis, of skin diseases and of insect bites. Nicotine is a very effective biodegradable insecticide.

Ocimum basilicum, Sweet Basil
It is a native of India. Eating its leaves was prescribed by the first century Greek physician Dioscorides to relieve the pain of a scorpion’s sting. The Ancient Romans used it to alleviate flatulence, counteract poisonings and to stimulate breast milk production. Applied externally, it is an insect repellant.

Oenothera biennis, Evening Primrose
American Indians had multiple uses for this plant. External application of the seed oil may be useful in the treatment of eczema and other allergic skin disorders. There is some evidence that internal consumption of the oil is beneficial in the treatment of eczema. It is used for this purpose in Europe, but not permitted in the United States. Three to four grams of primrose oil per day may be beneficial in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome.

Paeonia officinalis, ‘Mollis’ Peony
A plant named after Paeon, physician to the Greek gods, by Theophrastus (372-c. 287 B.C.) For centuries, it has had a large place in classical antiquity as well as in ancient and modern Chinese medicine. In the time of Hippocrates, it was used to treat epilepsy. Dioscorides (40-90 A.D.) wrote that the root of the plant provokes menstruation and that it could be used to expel the placenta following childbirth. The root of herbaceous peonies has been used in Chinese medicine for 1500 years for menstrual disorders and to relieve the symptoms of menopause.

Paeonia suffruticos ‘Renkaku’, White Tree Peony
Root and bark preparations are used in Chinese medicine as an antiseptic, a liver tonic , for relief of menstrual cramps and in the treatment of female infertility. Bark and root preparations are under study for possible analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic medical uses.

Papaver rhoeas, Flanders Poppy or Corn Poppy
It is a native of Europe, North Africa and the temperate zones of Asia. Its latex contains substances very similar to the Opium Poppy but they are much milder in strength. It is called the “Corn Poppy” because of its frequent appearance as a wild flower in grain fields in England and elsewhere in Europe.

Papaver somniferum, Opium Poppy
It is a plant native to Turkey and Asia Minor with medicinal and recreational properties that have been known for more than six thousand years. By three thousand B.C., the Sumerians had named it the joy plant because consuming the dried milky sap of unripe pods caused euphoria.
By three hundred B.C., opium (sun dried milky sap taken from unripe pods) was being used by Arabs, Greeks and Romans as a sedative, a pain reliever and a soporific (a substance to induce sleep). Opium can be lethal; Agrippina, the fifth wife of the Roman Emperor Claudius (10 B.C.-A.D. 54) mixed opium with wine to poison Claudius and his son after Claudius adopted her son, Nero, making it possible for Nero to ascend the throne.
Opium has been the cause of international conflict: The Opium Wars of 1839-1842 and 1856-1860 between the United Kingdom and China.
Morphine was isolated from opium in 1803 by a twenty-year old German pharmacist who named it after Morpheus, the god of dreams. Morphine is the most effective painkiller known to medicine; it has ten times the pain relieving potency of aspirin. Heroin, a synthetic derivative of morphine, has all the properties of morphine to a much more dangerous degree. Heroin and opium are illegal and forbidden to be used in the practice of medicine. Opium, referred to as “brown sugar” in the legal and illegal trade is so-called because of its appearance to brown sugar. Opium dissolved in sherry is laudanum. Paregoric is a camphorated tincture of opium. Opium contains approximately twenty eight natural organic compounds that collectively are called the “opiates”. Five of the natural occurring opiates used in the practice of medicine are: morphine, codeine, thebaine, papaverine and noscapine. Synthetic derivatives of opiates (opioids) are created in the laboratory. They are: meperidene Demerol);diacetylmorpine (Heroin); Oxycodone (OxyContin): and Hydrocodone (Vicodin).

Passiflora incarnata, Passion Flower
The 16th Spanish explorers were enchanted by the beauty of the blossoms of this flowering vine and give it its name. For them, the blossom was full of the symbolism of Christ’s crucifixion; hence the name Passion Flower. The fringed corona reminded them of the crown of thorns, the three stigmas reminded them of the three nails piercing the hands and feet, white stood for purity and blue-purple for heaven, and the 10 sepals for ten of the twelve apostles. Peter and Judas were excluded because the former denied Christ and the later betrayed him. American Indians used the flowers and dried fruits in making sedative preparations.

Physalis alkekengi, Chinese Lantern
Physalis is the Greek word for bladder. It provides the plant its botanical name because the pod resembles a bladder; and because of the pod’s appearance, preparations from the red berry in the pod were used in the past as a diuretic and for the treatment of kidney and bladder stones. These medicinal properties have not been scientifically confirmed. It has not been prescribed since the end of the seventeenth century.

Podophyllium peltatum, May Apple
Extracts of the dried rhizome are used as a topical agent for removing warts. The drug etoposide is synthesized from podophyllotoxin taken from the underground parts and taken internally to treat testicular cancer.

Polemonium reptans, Jacob's Ladder or Greek Valerian
American Indians used the root in preparations to treat skin conditions such as eczema, lung conditions such as pleurisy, and for abdominal complaints.

Pulmonaria officinalis, Lungwort
It is a native of Europe and the Caucasus. The plant is so called because the spotted leaves resemble lung tissue. It is used to treat chest ailments such as chronic bronchitis and asthma.

Prunella vulgaris, Self Heal
It has been shown to possess antibiotic and antiviral properties. It is used in the treatment of labial herpes (herpes simplex) and genital herpes.

Rheum officinale, English Rhubarb
Anthraquinones in the rhizomes (roots) are strong laxatives and antibiotic against staphylococcus aureus.

Ricinus cummunis 'rubra', Castor Bean Plant
A native of East Africa that in some locations can grow as high as thirty feet. It has a striking red stalk and green palmate leaves making it a striking accent in the garden. The white flowers are male and female. The seed capsules are red. The seeds are very poisonous. Oil extracted from the seeds is not poisonous and has been used as a laxative for about four thousand years.

Rosa gallica officinalis, Apothecary Rose
A native of Persia (Iran) that was described by the Ancient Greek poet Sappho as “ the queen of flowers”, this rose has had many uses over time. The Ancient Romans consumed the petals as food and marinated them in wine to use them as a cure for hangovers. Avicenna, a famous eleventh century Arab physician and philosopher living in Moslem Spain, prepared rose water from the petals that he used in treating his patients for a variety of ailments. Knights returning from the Crusades brought the plant to Europe. It was grown chiefly in monastic gardens for medicinal purposes. In the Middle Ages, the blossoms were used in aroma therapy for the treatment of depression. In the nineteenth century beginning in the time of Napoleon, French pharmacists grew them in pots at the entrances of their shops, hence the origin of the common name Apothecary Rose. The Apothecary Rose became the professional symbol of the pharmaceutical profession much as the balanced scales became the professional symbol of the legal profession. French druggists dispensed preparations made from this rose to treat indigestion, sore throats and skin rashes.

Rosa rugosa Wrinkled Rose
This plant is indigenous to Asia; it gets its common English name, the wrinkled rose, from the appearance of its leaves. It has naturalized itself in the sand dunes of the New England seacoast. In China, the flowers are used to make tea to improve the circulation and to “soothe a restless fetus”. Tea and Jelly made from the rose hips are a very rich source of Vitamin C. The rose hips of this plant have the highest natural concentration of Vitamin C of any other natural source of Vitamin C, including all of the citrus fruits. For the sufferer of scurvy, the Rosa rugosa is a medicinal plant; for the rest of us, it is a nutritional plant.

Rosmarinus officinalis, Rosemary
"Rosemary that's for remembrance," Shakespeare. It is a symbol of fidelity between lovers. For centuries it has been used in bridal bouquets to make the statement that the bride will never forget the family she is leaving. It has been buried with the deceased and used in funeral bouquets to signify that the deceased member will never be forgotten by members of his or her family. In ancient Greece, students wore sprigs of this herb in their hair while they studied. Rosemary is believed to stimulate cerebral circulation thereby improving concentration and memory. The oil of the flowering spikes is anti-fungal and anti-biotic. The leaves contain COX-2 inhibitors that inhibit tumor growth and have anti-HIV activity. Rosemary aids in the digestion of fats. Possible improvement in memory may be related to improving circulation to the brain. Rosemary, used in food flavoring, is also important to the perfume industry.

Rudbechia hirta, Black-Eye-Susan
American Indians used root tea to treat parasitic infestations such as pinworm. They used it externally to treat snake bits, superficial wounds and earaches.

Ruta graveolens, Rue
It is native to the Mediterranean that was used in Ancient Greece to stimulate menstrual bleeding and to induce abortion.

[IDTANDY]

Part 3

Salix elaeagnos syn. Salix rosmarinifolia, Rosemary Willow
In Ancient Greece, the bark of the white willow (Salix alba) was chewed to relieve the pain of gout and to reduce fever. In the fifth century B.C., Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, prescribed ground willow bark to ease aches and pains. In the 1st century A.D. Dioscorides, a Greek physician in service to the Romans, wrote that the ingested bark and leaves of Salix alba reduce fever and relieve pain. For centuries, Europeans used tea made of the roots and leaves to lower fever and relieve aches. The Chickasaw Indians used tea made from the roots to relieve headache.
In 1830, German researchers isolated salicin from the bark of the white willow tree and from other plants. Their research determined that ingested salicin becomes salicylic acid in the stomach, and that salicylic acid is responsible for the desired effects as well as undesirable toxic side effects that include gastrointestinal bleeding. In 1875 a derivative, acetylsalicylic acid, was synthesized from salicylic acid. Acetylsalicylic acid was discovered to have the properties of and to have many fewer side effects than salicylic acid. In 1899 acetylsalicylic acid appeared in powder form for the first time; 1915 was the first time that it appeared in pill form. A part of the terms of the peace treaty with Germany following World War I was the surrender of the patent and of the trade mark ASPIRIN for acetylsalicylic acid. Since then acetylsalicylic acid (abbreviated as ASA) has been universally known as aspirin. Aspirin is one of the most important and one of the cheapest drugs in the medical armamentarium for the treatment of human diseases, for the relief of pain, and as a blood thinner in the prevention of heart attacks and strokes caused by disease in the blood vessel walls.

Salvia sclarea, Clary Sage
The seeds were once commonly used to treat eye diseases therefore it is also know as clear eye. It has also been used for gastro-intestinal disorders such as indigestion and flatulence. It stimulates estrogen production so it is used as a remedy for menopausal complaints such as hot flashes.

Salvia officinalis, Sage
Sage is better known as a culinary than as a medicinal herb. Its Latin name, Salvia, is derived from the Latin salvere, "to be saved", in reference to the curative properties of the plant. Sage has numerous traditional medicinal uses as an astringent, as an antiseptic, as a carminative and as an estrogenic.

Sanguisorba officinalis, Salad burnet
It grows in the wild from Maine to Minnesota and beyond. It is used to stop bleeding. American soldiers in the Revolutionary War drank tea made from the leaves before going into battle to prevent excessive bleeding if they were wounded. It is antibacterial. It is currently in use in Chinese herbal medicine to control bleeding and to stop vomiting.

Scilla siberica, Siberian Squill
Syrups and tinctures are used as emetics and cathartics as well as diuretics in the treatment of congestive heart failure. It is also used in expectorants to treat lung disorders. It was used by the Greek physician Epimerides hence it is also know as Epemenidiea.

Sedum purpureum, Live-forever
In the first century A.D., Pliny, the Roman naturalist, stated that the juice of this plant was good for treating wounds and fistulas. In more recent herbal medicine, it has been prescribed to be taken internally for the treatment of ulcers, lung disorders, and diarrhea; and externally it has been prescribed for slow healing ulcers.

Sempervivum tectorum, Hen-and-chicks or Houseleek
The Latin botanical name has an historical reference. Charlemagne (742-814 A.D.) recommended that his subjects plant these hardy prolific plants on the roof of their houses to ward off lightening and fire. The leaves contain tannins and mucilage that are soothing to skin. It is used in the treatment of burns, skin wounds and infections.

Silphium perfoliatum, Cup Plant
A perennial native prairie wildflower whose roots are used in an oral preparation to increase sweating, to reduce fever, to induce abortion and as an expectorant in the treatment of pulmonary diseases.

Solidago canadensis, Golden Rod
The name Solidago, from the Latin solido, "to make whole", indicates its use as a wound-healing herb. Goldenrod is a safe and gentle remedy for a number of disorders. It is a valuable astringent remedy treating wounds and bleeding. Antioxidant and diuretic, goldenrod is a valuable remedy for urinary tract disorders. The plant contains saponins that are antifungal and act specifically against the Candida fungus, the cause of yeast infections and oral thrush. The herb can also be taken for sore throats, chronic nasal congestion, and diarrhea. Due to its mild action, goldenrod is appropriate for treating gastroenteritis in children. It may be used as a mouthwash or douche for yeast infections.

Stachys byzantina, Lamb's Ears
Lamb's ears foliage bandages wounds and reputedly reduces the pain of bee stings.

Stachys officinalis, Betony
In ancient times wood betony had no fewer than 29 uses in treating physical diseases and was used well into the Middle Ages to ward off evil or ill humors. In Europe, the aerial (above the ground) portions of the plant are harvested when the plant is in bloom and is used to treat almost any disease! It is a sedative. In addition, it has anti-diarrhea, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Stylophorum diphyllum, Calendine Poppy
It contains glaucine . Preparations are used in the treatment of insomnia, upper respiratory infections, and to reduce fever as well as in ointments for the treatment of burns and superficial abrasions. In veterinary medicine, ointments are used in the treatment of mastitis.


Symphytum officinale, Comfrey
Comfrey contains allantoin used in ointments for psoriasis and other skin problems. It has been known since Greek and Roman antiquity and used primarily externally as a poultice for surface wounds and to form a cast to hold broken bones immobile while they knit. Comfrey is a corruption of the Latin "con firma" implying that the bone is "made firm". "Symphyton" is derived from the Greek "plants growing together" in the sense of "causing to unite".

Tanacetum parthenium syn. Chrysanthemum parthenium, Feverfew
Parthenion is the Greek word for girl. Feverfew is Elizabethan English and comes from febrifuge, an old medical term for a medicine that reduces fever. Feverfew is an effective remedy for migraine. Parthenolide appears to inhibit the release of the hormone serotonin that triggers migraine. It has also been shown to reduce fever, hence the name Feverfew.

Tanacetum vulgare, Tansy
The blossoms were used as insect repellents in bedding and scattered on bedroom floors and ward floors of hospitals in The Middle Ages. The leaves were used as a preservative in meats and food products.

Taraxacum officinale, Dandelion
Used primarily in Eastern European traditional medicine. It is used primarily as a diuretic but also taken internally to treat arthritis and gastro-intestinal disorders. It is applied externally to treat eczema and other skin conditions. It is eaten raw in “spring salads” and cooked as a vegetable when the plants are very young before flowering.

Teucrium chamaedrys, Germander
Native to Central Europe and harvested when in bloom for tonics to treat diarrhea. It is also an astringent. It contains anti-microbial properties and has been shown to lower cholesterol levels.

Thymus citriodorus, Lemon Thyme
Used to make pediatric oral preparations that are tasty and sweet to relieve an “upset tummy”. It is also in ointments and in “sleep pillows”.

Thymus vulgaris, Thyme
It was used in the Middle Ages as a treatment of epilepsy and depression. In 1975, a German pharmacist discovered that the plant’s essential oil, thymol, was a powerful disinfectant topically and an antibiotic/antifungal agent when taken orally. It is an antispasmodic and an anti-tussive used effectively in cough syrups to raise sputum and relieve coughing.

Tilia cordata ‘Greenspsire’ Linden Tree
A deciduous tree that is native of Europe and Southwest Asia. Pale yellow flowers and lime colored bracts are made into a lime tea that may be consumed simply as a beverage or as a remedy for the relief of headaches, tension, and insomnia.

Tropaelum majus, Nasturtium
A native of Peru, it is a culinary as well as a medicinal herb that is used in Andean Indian herbal medicine. All parts of the plant posses an antibiotic and vitamin C. Taken internally, it stimulates coughing and reduces phlegm production. Applied externally, it is antiseptic. Blossoms and leaves can be used in green salads for their high Vitamin C content.

Vaccinium angustifolium syn V. myrtilloides, Lowbush blueberry
The Chippewa Indians used the flowers to treat psychosis. The fruit contains anthocyanosides. These chemical compounds are very powerful antioxidants that are very effective in the prevention of heart disease and cancer.

Valeriana officinalis, Garden Heliotrope
Heliotrope's botanical name comes from the Latin, valere, which means "to be well". In the first century A.D., Dioscorides, a Greek physician in service to the Romans, described its pharmaceutical properties. It was used in the Middle Ages for treating epilepsy. It is used now to relieve stress, to reduce anxiety and to induce sleep. It is a muscle relaxant and it lowers the blood pressure. Preparations of this plant have very low toxicity and are not addictive; they are made from the root of the plant.

Verbascum thapsus, Mullein
An infusion of leaves and flowers is used to treat sore throats and bronchitis. It reduces the formation of mucous and stimulates coughing to raise phlegm. It is also applied externally to heal wounds. In Germany, the flowers are steeped in olive oil, and the olive oil is then used to treat ear infections. A cotton plug soaked in olive oil is placed in the ear canal.

Veronica officinalis, Speedwell
In modern herbal medicine, speedwell tea, brewed from the dried flowering plant, sometimes serves as a cough remedy or as a lotion applied to the skin to speed wound healing and relieve itching.

Viola tricolor, Johnny-jump-up or Heartease
From this plant a bitter tea is made that is taken internally for lung disorders and is applied externally for skin diseases. The tea is an expectorant and a diuretic. Its other common name, Heartease, refers to a romantic notion that it provides comfort and consolation to separated lovers. In the nineteenth century, the juice of the plant constituted the main ingredient of love potions.

Waldsteinia fragarioides, Barren Strawberry
American Indians preparations of leaves, roots, and flowers to induce labor and to regulate menstruation as well as for the treatment of other disorders.

Zingiber officinale, Ginger
It is a native of tropical rain forests. It contains a powerful substance that is very effective in the treatment of motion sickness and nausea following surgery. It is also used as a digestive remedy; and as a circulation stimulant, it causes blood vessels to dilate.

[IDTANDY]

BURDOCK


Parts Used Medicinally
The dried root from plants of the first year's growth forms the official drug, but the leaves and fruits (commonly, though erroneously, called seeds) are also used.

The roots are dug in July, and should be lifted with a beet-lifter or a deep-running plough. As a rule they are 12 inches or more in length and about 1 inch thick, sometimes, however, they extend 2 to 3 feet, making it necessary to dig by hand. They are fleshy, wrinkled, crowned with a tuft of whitish, soft, hairy leaf-stalks, grey-brown externally, whitish internally, with a somewhat thick bark, about a quarter of the diameter of the root, and soft wood tissues, with a radiate structure.

Burdock root has a sweetish and mucilaginous taste.

Burdock leaves, which are less used than the root, are collected in July for dryingThey have a somewhat bitter taste.

The seeds (or fruits) are collected when ripe. They are brownish-grey, wrinkled, about 1/4 inch long and 1/16 inch in diameter. They are shaken out of the head and dried by spreading them out on paper in the sun.

Constituents
Inulin, mucilage, sugar, a bitter, crystalline glucoside - Lappin-a little resin, fixed and volatile oils, and some tannic acid.

Burdock provides significant amounts of chromium, copper, iron, and magnesium.

The roots contain starch, and the ashes of the plant, burnt when green, yield carbonate of potash abundantly, and also some nitre.


Medicinal Action and Uses
Alterative, diuretic and diaphoretic. One of the best blood purifiers. In all skin diseases, it is a certain remedy and has effected a cure in many cases of eczema, either taken alone or combined with other remedies, such as Yellow Dock and Sarsaparilla.

The root is principally employed, but the leaves and seeds are equally valuable. Both root and seeds may be taken as a decoction of 1 OZ. to 1 1/2 pint of water, boiled down to a pint, in doses of a wineglassful, three or four times a day.

The anti-scorbutic properties of the root make the decoction very useful for boils, scurvy and rheumatic affections, and by many it is considered superior to Sarsaparilla, on account of its mucilaginous, demulcent nature; it has in addition been recommended for external use as a wash for ulcers and scaly skin disorders.

An infusion of the leaves is useful to impart strength and tone to the stomach, for some forms of long-standing indigestion.

When applied externally as a poultice, the leaves are highly resolvent for tumours and gouty swellings, and relieve bruises and inflamed surfaces generally. The bruised leaves have been applied by the peasantry in many countries as cataplasms to the feet and as a remedy for hysterical disorders.

From the seeds, both a medicinal tincture and a fluid extract are prepared, of benefit in chronic skin diseases. Americans use the seeds only, considering them more efficacious and prompt in their action than the other parts of the plant. They are relaxant and demulcent, with a limited amount of tonic property. Their influence upon the skin is due largely to their being of such an oily nature: they affect both the sebaceous and sudoriferous glands, and probably owing to their oily nature restore that smoothness to the skin which is a sign of normal healthy action.

The infusion or decoction of the seeds is employed in dropsical complaints, more especially in cases where there is co-existing derangement of the nervous system, and is considered by many to be a specific for all affections of the kidneys, for which it may with advantage be taken several times a day, before meals.

Indicated Usages - Internal
• Acne, dermatitis, rashes
•Diabetes
•Boils, indolent ulcers, lesions
•Dropsy, edema
•Eczema, psoriasis
•Fever
•Fibroid growths, tumors
• Gout, arthritis
•HIV, AIDS
• Hives, shingles
•Inflamed kidneys, scalding urine
• Kidney stones
•Lymphatic congestion
• Respiratory problems
•Rheumatism, sciatica
• Syphilis, STD’s


Indicated Usages - External:
• Burns, scalds
• Rashes, poison ivy
• Swollen glands


Burdock tea.
1. Cut about a two-inch piece of the root
2. Slice in half or quarters.
3. Cover with between 2–6 cups of water, about half a pint/liter approx.
4. Bring to the boil
5. Steep: as it cools, the tea will turn blue. If you wish, you could add more water to make a second amount.

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[IDTANDY]

Antibiotic herbs.
Thyme – A very antiseptic herb. It contains Thymol, a very potent germ killer. It acts like phenol but much milder in terms of human tissue but harsher in terms of microbes (both internally and externally).

Clove – A feeble anaesthesia, and a mild antiseptic if the herbs are used. If Clove oil is used instead, it will be a very powerful antiseptic herb and irritating as well. It assists Thyme in its germ killing mission.

Cinnamon – If you choose to include this herb, this will also further the antiseptic property of the mixture.

Chamomile – Painkiller, sedative, and stomachic. It is used to treat gastric disorder and included to combat the undesirable effect of clove. The same goes to Fennel to exclude bloating from the list of side-effects.

Lavender – Nervine, used synergistically with Chamomile to provide extra relaxation . Also, Lavender is used to speed up recovery and somewhat to boost the immune system.

Herbal Antibiotic
1 part Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
1 part Lavender (Lavandula vera)
1 part Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)
½ part Clove (Eugenia caryophyllata)
1 part Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
1 part Cinnamon

Put all the ingredients in a bowl, mix well, and grind the mixture into fine powder (use a blender )
Pack the powdered mixture in empty gelatinous capsule (medium size – about the size of conventional mid-potent antibiotics) and take a capsule every three hours.

[Taz Baby]

thanks I lost my info I had on this. You can get the empty capsule to fill at a health or herbal store. I get mine from a store in Jackson MS.

[ladyhk13]

This is a really great thread although I would like to see more of how to prepare each item instead of just a listing of the herb and what it's used for. It seems a little "cut and paste" to me and if those who are posting would site their sources it would be good also. Please also try to keep in mind that some of these items may not be able to be grown by the average prepper and that is something that maybe we should be looking at...how these things should be grown, if at all so it's realistic for us to use? Just some thoughts.

[IDTANDY]

What I post is taken from my reference books.Here some good references.

Herbal Medicine - National Institutes of Health (NIH) (http://health.nih.gov/topic/HerbalMedicine)

Cherokee Messenger - Native American Herbal Remedies (http://www.powersource.com/cherokee/herbal.html)

Organic and Wildcrafted Herbs Site Map (http://www.theherbprof.com/SiteMapHerbs.htm)

Herb Database - A-C - Treatments (http://www.pioneerthinking.com/health/herbal/herbsa-c.html)

Here's how.
Methods of preparing herbs

Poultices
A soft, moist mass about the consistency of cooked cereal, spread between layers of muslin, linen, gauze, or towels and applied hot to a given area in order to create moist local heat or counter-irritation.

Tinctures
A tincture is a solution prepared by steeping or soaking (maceration) plant materials in alcohol and water.
Some herbs you can make into tinctures include: phytolacca (poke root), prickly ash, dandelion, black walnut, salvia, propolis (bee pollen), myrrh, arnica, calendula, black cohosh, cayenne, cannabis, lobelia, blue cohosh, valerian, echinacea, hoodia, garlic and lemon.

Oil Infusions
Making an oil infusion is a very simple process. Use high-quality organic herbs and a good quality oil like olive oil. It’s like making a tea with oil, instead of water only you usually make it in a sealable jar and turn the jar upside down every day often for 30 days.
Infusions

An infusion is a method of preparing herbs in which 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herb or 2 to 4 fresh herbs (flowers and berries are substitutable) is "infused" or placed water (which does not need to be boiled), and then, after about ten minutes, is strained and ingested.
Things you can infuse include barks (like birch) leaves, and Chinese medicinal teas.

[ladyhk13]

Thanks for the sources! They will come in handy to have. As far as making them, I meant the specific way for each herb. Not all herbs are used the same way, does that help? Some are only used in a tea and others only as an ointment...

[IDTANDY]

Thanks for the sources! They will come in handy to have. As far as making them, I meant the specific way for each herb. Not all herbs are used the same way, does that help? Some are only used in a tea and others only as an ointment...

Most herbs are prepared as Tinctures,Poultices,Infusions and Ointments.

Here's this link on preparing herbs.

Make Your Own Simple Herbal Remedies | DoItYourself.com (http://www.doityourself.com/stry/herbalhow)

Infusions (Herbal Teas)
Herbal infusions are essentially herbal teas, also known as tisanes. You can make herbal tea yourself by simply infusing the aerial parts of herbs (including the flowers, stems, and leaves) in water.
•If using dried herbs: use 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb for each cup (8 ounces) of water, or 1 ounce per each pint. Steep the herbs for 10 minutes in water that has just been boiled. Then strain the infusion.
•If using fresh herbs: use 3 teaspoons of the fresh plant parts per each pint of water. Make the same way as above, and strain.
•You can make the concoction in cup-sized doses or larger teapot doses. If using for medicinal value, the infusion should be consumed in 8-ounce doses, three times a day.
•For storage: cover mixture, store in a cool place, and use within 24 hours.

Macerations

A maceration is essentially an infusion that is made by soaking the herbs in cold instead of boiling water. Some herbs are most effectively infused in cold water, including marshmallow root and valerian. Be sure to research your herbs before you begin the process.
•Use the same proportions of herb to water as for an infusion, and steep the herbs in the cold water.
•Leave the mixture overnight in a cool place.
•Strain the mixture in the morning, and consume the same way you would an infusion.

Decoctions

A decoction is also similar to an infusion, and necessary when using tougher plant material like herbal roots, barks, seeds, berries, and stems. These parts need to have their active components extracted in a more intense process.
•Chop up the plant material thinly. Use 1-2 teaspoons of the dried or fresh herbs for 1 ½ pints of water.
•Place the herbs in a saucepan with the water, and boil the decoction.
•Simmer the mixture until the volume of the liquid has been reduced by about a third. This will take about 15 minutes.
•Strain the mixture.
•The decoction should be used in three wine-glass-sized doses throughout the day. It should be stored in a pitcher in a cool place.
•The decoction can be reheated and flavored with a little honey if desired.

Tinctures

A tincture is a liquid herbal preparation in which the active ingredient of an herb is extracted with alcohol. Tinctures can be prepared in large volumes and stored for a long time, available at hand to be used in quick preparations of infusions, creams, and other herbal recipes.
•Vodka is a good choice to use since it is more tasteless than most other alcohol. A standard herbal tincture should have 1 fluid ounce of pure alcohol for every 3 ounces of water; essentially 25% alcohol.
•You can prepare a tincture using either dried or fresh herbs, but be sure to cut the herbs into small pieces first.
•If using dried herbs: put 8 ounces of the dried herb into a large, glass jar and pour in 1 ½ pints of the liquid mixture.
•If using fresh herbs: you will need three times as much of the herb. Use 1 1/2 pounds of the herb for 1 1/2 pints of the liquid mixture. Put herbs and mixture in a large, glass jar.
•Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks. Make sure to shake the mixture every day
I wanted to add Everclear,shine works better than Vodka..

•Filter the mixture through a wine press, cheesecloth bag, coffee filter, or fine cloth, capturing the tincture liquid below in another container.
•Store the tincture in clean, dark glass containers, out of the sun. If stored properly the tincture will be preserved for two or more years.

Syrups

You can make an herbal infusion, decoction, or tincture into a syrup, using sugar or honey as a preservative. Herbal syrups are soothing for coughs, sore throats, and other common respiratory ailments.
•First make an infusion, decoction, or tincture according to the above directions, and strain.
•For each pint of liquid add one pound of unrefined sugar or honey.
•Stir mixture together in a saucepan and boil until the sugar or honey has dissolved completely. The mixture has become a syrup at this point.
•Let the syrup cool.
•Store the syrup in dark, glass bottles capped with a cork or another non-sealing lid. It is important that the syrup is not kept in a tightly sealed container because as the syrup begins to ferment it may cause the bottle to explode.
•Store in the refrigerator.

Tonic Wines

Like herbal tea, a glass of tonic wine is a delicious way to intake herbal remedies. Using root remedies of tonic herbs like ginger, licorice, or Dang Gui can be a refreshing remedy for ailments. Choose a tonic herb to suit your needs and then begin preparation.
•Fill a large glass pot, jar, or vat with your chosen tonic herb.
•Pour in a good quality red wine, covering the herbs.
•Leave the mix for at least 2 weeks.
•Filtering out the liquid, drink the mixture in one sherry-sized glass (2-3 fluid ounces) dose per day.
•As you pour out the liquid, keep adding more red wine to cover the herb so it doesn't get moldy.
•This mixture will last you for several months, as the wine continues to extract the active components of the herbal roots, before the herbs will need to be replaced.

Infused Oils

You can make multi-purpose herbal oils that can be used for cooking or massaging into sore body parts. Herbal oils can be prepared through either cold or hot infusion. You can select any kind of vegetable oil to extract the active constituents from the herbs, the best being olive, canola, sesame, and almond oils.

Cold Infusion
•Obtain a large jar with a tightly sealing lid, and fill it compactly with herb flowers or leaves.
•Pour in the oil, covering the herbs, and screw on the lid.
•Place jar on a sunny windowsill for about a month. Remember to shake the mixture daily.
•Strain the mixture, capturing the oil in another container.
•Transfer the oil into a dark bottle, and store in a cool, dark place.

Hot Infusion
•For dried herbs: for each 2 cups of oil use 1 cup of dried herbs.
•For fresh herbs: for each 2 cups of oil use 2 cups of fresh herbs.
•Prepare a glass bowl over a pot of simmering water. Place the herbs and oil in the glass bowl.
•Heat mixture slowly over low heat for about 3 hours.
•Strain into a bowl. Let the oil cool, then transfer into dark, glass bottles sealed with a cap. Store in a cool, dark place.

Creams

You can make herbal skin cream with a simple recipe, combining herbs of your choice with an emulsifying cream.
•Melt about 2 tablespoons of emulsifying cream in a bowl placed over a pot of boiling water.
•Add one large tablespoon of dried herbs to the mixture. Stir slowly until you see the cream taking on the color of the herbs.
•Remove the mixture from heat and strain. Squeeze out the remaining liquid from the clump.
•Allow the cream to cool in a glass bowl.
•Spoon the cream into small, dark bottles, and store in a cool, dark place. Cream will be preserved for use for up to one year.

Salves and Ointments

Choose herbs with healing, soothing properties to prepare your own salves and ointments to apply to sore skin and wounds. Simply combine an infused oil with chosen herbs and beeswax.
•Pour 3-4 fluid ounces of an infused oil into a glass bowl, and place over a pot of boiling water.
•Add a small, square piece of beeswax to the infused oil, stirring constantly until the wax has completely melted. The beeswax will thicken the mixture, giving it just the right consistency.
•Pour the warm liquid into small, dark ointment jars.
•Store in a cool, dark place.

[IDTANDY]

Here's a link to a good Pdf.
Pocket guide to herbal medicine.
http://tipmra.com/soft/Pocket%20Atlas%20of%20Herbal%20Medicine.pdf

Copy of a page.

Clinical Considerations
➤ General comments
– Around 20–30 % of the population is affected by sleep disorders, and the
frequency of these disorders increases with age.
– Alternation between different depths of sleep is essential for restful
sleep. Mental performance and general well-being are also greatly dependent
on restful sleep.
– A progressive sleep deficit (insomnia) due to deficient quality and/or quantity
of sleep is classified as a manifest disease when the difficulties in falling
asleep or staying asleep and general poor quality of sleep persist for more
than one month, recur at a rate of at least three times a week, and have a
negative effect on the patient’s daytime well-being.
– Primary insomnia is a separate entity characterized by disturbances in the
rhythmic change between sleep and wakefulness. Melatonin and various
neurotransmitters play a role in the complex control mechanisms underlying
these changes. The production of melatonin, the substance that synchronizes
the sleeping–waking rhythm, slackens with age.
– Secondary insomnia may occur due to organic causes (e. g., restless legs
syndrome) or psychiatric diseases as well as due to the consumption of alcohol,
drugs, or medications.
➤ General and herbal treatment measures
– So-called sleep hygiene measures and behavioral therapy play an important
role in the treatment of sleep disorders. Pharmaceutical agents should
not be used unless these measures have failed.
– Herbal sleep aids should be taken orally. They are mainly used for treatment
of nervous sleep disorders.
– Certain herbal baths also promote sleep. See Herbal Hydrotherapy, p. 285.
➤ Clinical value of herbal medicine: In light of the known side effects and danger
of habit formation of benzodiazepine tranquilizers and other synthetic and
chemical tranquilizers, herbal sedatives containing valerian, hops, passion
flower, and lemon balm are becoming increasingly important in the treatment
of mild to moderate sleep disorders.
Recommended Herbal Remedies and Range of Applications
➤ Valerian root (Valerianae radix, see p. 125); hop cones (Lupuli strobulus, see
p. 75); balm leaf (Melissae folium, see p. 84); passion flower herb (Passiflorae
herba, see p. 101); lavender flower oil (Lavandulae flosoleum. see p. 59)
– Action
• Valerian root: The most important constituents in valerian root are the
essential oil, valepotriates, and amino acids, which were shown to have
overall central sedative and muscle relaxant effects in animals. No study
data are available on their absorption, distribution and excretion in humans.
Recent clinical studies in insomnia patients demonstrated that
valerian root was able to normalize the sleep profile while improving
the quality of sleep as well as the patient’s daytime well-being. However,
it took several days for the herbal remedy to take effect.
• Hop cones: Oxidation products of the bitter principles humulone and lupulone
as well as flavonoids are assumed to be responsible for the sleeppromoting
effect of the herb. Hop cones are generally used in combina-

[IDTANDY]

Basil.
Easy to grow.Lots of uses besides culinary.


Healing Power: The basil has many medicinal properties. The leaves are a nerve tonic and also sharpen memory. They promote the removal of the catarrhal matter and phlegm from the bronchial tube. The leaves strengthen the stomach and induce copious perspiration. The seed of the plant are mucilaginous.

Fever & Common Cold: The leaves of basil are specific for many fevers. During the rainy season, when malaria and dengue fever are widely prevalent, tender leaves, boiled with tea, act as preventive against theses diseases. In case of acute fevers, a decoction of the leaves boiled with
powdered cardamom in half a liter of water and mixed with sugar and milk brings down the temperature. The juice of basil leaves can be used to bring down fever. Extract of basil leaves in fresh water should be given every 2 to 3 hours. In between one can keep giving sips of cold water. In children, it is every effective in bringing down the temperature.

Coughs: Basil is an important constituent of many Ayurvedic cough syrups and expectorants. It helps to mobilize mucus in bronchitis and asthma. Chewing basil leaves relieves cold and flu. Sore Throat: Water boiled with basil leaves can be taken as drink in case of sore throat. This water can also be used as a gargle.

Respiratory Disorder: The herb is useful in the treatment of respiratory system disorder. A decoction of the leaves, with honey and ginger is an effective remedy for bronchitis, asthma, influenza, cough and cold. A decoction of the leaves, cloves and common salt also gives immediate relief in case of influenza. They should be boiled in half a liter of water till only half the water is left and add then taken.

Kidney Stone: Basil has strengthening effect on the kidney. In case of renal stone the juice of basil leaves and honey, if taken regularly for 6 months it will expel them via the urinary tract.

Heart Disorder: Basil has a beneficial effect in cardiac disease and the weakness resulting from them. It reduces the level of blood cholesterol.
Children's Ailments: Common pediatric problems like cough cold, fever, diarrhea and vomiting respond favorably to the juice of basil leaves.

Stress: Basil leaves are regarded as an 'adaptogen' or anti-stress agent. Recent studies have shown that the leaves afford significant protection against stress. Even healthy persons can chew 12 leaves of basil, twice a day, to prevent stress. It purifies blood and helps prevent several common elements.

Mouth Infections: The leaves are quit effective for the ulcer and infections in the mouth. A few leaves chewed will cure these conditions.

Insect Bites: The herb is a prophylactic or preventive and curative for insect stings or bites. A teaspoonful of the juice of the leaves is taken and is repeated after a few hours. Fresh juice must also be applied to the affected parts. A paste of fresh roots is also effective in case of bites of insects and leeches.

Skin Disorders: Applied locally, basil juice is beneficial in the treatment of ringworm and other skin diseases. .

Teeth Disorder: The herb is useful in teeth disorders. Its leaves, dried in the sun and powdered, can be used for brushing teeth. It can also be mixed with mustered oil to make a paste and used as toothpaste. This is very good for maintaining dental health, counteracting bad breath and for massaging the gums. It is also useful in pyorrhea and other teeth disorders.

Headaches: Basil makes a good medicine for headache. A decoction of the leaves can be given for this disorder. Pounded leaves mixed with sandalwood paste can also be applied on the forehead for getting relief from heat, headache, and for providing coolness in general.

Eye Disorders: Basil juice is an effective remedy for sore eyes and night-blindness, which is generally caused by deficiency of vitamin A. Two drops of black basil juice are put into the eyes daily at bedtime.

[Taz Baby]

I can vouch on basil. I treated the people in the village close to me when I lived in the jungle. Works real good on a lot of things. I like chewing on the leaves

[IDTANDY]

Sumac
Here are the four key items to look for in order to positively identify staghorn and smooth sumac.
1.Compound Toothed Leaves: Both species have pinnately compound leaves with serrated edges..
2.Unique Stems and Twigs: Staghorn sumac has velvet (hairy) twigs and smooth sumac has no hair but instead a fine white powder that is easily removed when touched.
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POISON SUMAC
WarningCare should be taken to identify Sumac correctly. Other varieties of Rhus can be very toxic (poison ivy and poison oak). Sumacs with smooth white berries, toothless leaves, and (usually) grows in or near swamps are poisonous. Poison Sumacs may cause allergic skin reactions in sensitive people.
•Grows usually in wetlands
•Not common
• Leaves are smooth
• No hair on stems
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HERBAL USES
Used extensively by Native Americans for food and medicine. Young shoots and roots are peeled and eaten raw. The fruit is also eaten raw, cooked or made into a lemonade-like drink. The active constituents in Sumac are being studied for use in many diseases some possible applications are in the treatment of TB, diabetes, and some cancers. The plant contains Calcium malate, Dihydrofisetin, Fisetin, Iodine, Gallic-acid-methylester, tannic and gallic acids, Selenium, Tartaric-acid, and many beneficial minerals. An infusion of the bark or roots is alterative, antiseptic, astringent, diuretic, galactogogue, haemostatic, rubefacient and tonic. It is used in alternative medicine for the treatment of colds, diarrhea, fevers, general debility, to increase the flow of breast milk, sore mouths and throats, rectal bleeding, inflammation of the bladder and painful urination, retention of urine and dysentery and is applied externally to treat excessive vaginal discharge, burns and skin eruptions. The powdered bark is made into a good antiseptic salve. An infusion of the leaves is used for asthma, diarrhea and stomatosis. A poultice of the leaves used to treat skin rashes. The leaves also chewed for sore gums and rubbed on sore lips. An infusion of the berries is diuretic, emetic, emmenagogue, purgative and refrigerant. It is used in the treatment of late-onset diabetes, constipated bowel complaints, febrile diseases, dysmenorrhoea (painful or difficult menstruation). The berries have been chewed as a remedy for bed-wetting. An infusion of the blossoms used as an eye wash for sore eyes. The milky latex from the plant is used as a salve on sores. When broken or cut the plant produces a milky substance which forms a solid gum-like body or gall, containing large quantities of tannic and gallic acid. These galls are used in tanning leather. A medicinal wine can also be prepared from them. An oil extracted from the seeds is used in making candles. Brown, red, and black dye are obtained from the berries, said to be excellent for wool.
Folklore
Believed by some Native American tribes to foretell the weather and the changing of the seasons, for this reason it was held as a sacred plant.

Recipes
Cooling Drink: To a handful of berries add 2 cups cold water, let site overnight in cool place, do not heat or liquid will become bitter and astringent. Strain and sweeten to taste.
Sumac berries, bark, root and leaves have many uses in traditional medicine.
Native Americans used the split bark and stems in basket-making and the roots for a yellow dye. Also the pipe-stem was made with sumac, a sumac that grows close to the pipestone quarry. This stem is about 24 inches long and an inch wide, but quite thick, flat like a carpenter’s pencil. They gathered the sumac in the spring when the sap was up in the large pith. Some meat or fish was put out where blowflies could work on it. When large maggots were on the meat, the piece of sumac which had previously been put in a can of oil or bear grease, was brought in. As the large pith had taken up the oil, it was soft, and quite a bit was dug out. The maggots were then sealed up in the stem, to either eat their way through, or die. Sometimes they did both, but there was plenty of time to do it all over again, patiently, until a long perfect hole was drilled through. Then the finishing touches could be applied to the pipe.

When the leaves turn red in the fall, the Native Americans would gather and dry them to use in tobacco mixtures for the pipes.

Root bark is useful in the treatment of gonorrhea, gleet, leukorrhea, scrofula, diarrhea, restless fever, scrofula, and profuse perspiration from debility. Combined with the barks off white pine and slippery elm and applied externally, used effectively to treat syphilitic ulcerations, old sores, canker sores, wounds, and ulcers. As a douche it is used for leukorrhea, prolapsed uterus, kidney and bladder problems, diabetes, and hemorrhoids. As a mouthwash, for sore and bleeding gums. The berries are used in an infusion for diabetes, strangury, bowel complaints and febrile diseases. It makes a pleasant drink. Berries good for ringworm, tetters, and ulcers.


Formulas or Dosages
Use 1 tsp. of either bark, leaves or berries steeped 1/2 hour in 1 cup of boiling water. When cool, 2-4 cups a day. Use as a gargle or mouthwash also.

Tincture: a dose is 10-20 drops in liquid 2 times a day.

[IDTANDY]

YARROW

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Yarrow has seen historical use as a medicine, often because of its astringent effects. Decoctions have been used to treat inflammations, such as hemorrhoids, and headaches. Confusingly, it has been said to both stop bleeding and promote it. Infusions of yarrow, taken either internally or externally, are said to speed recovery from severe bruising. The most medicinally active part of the plant is the flowering tops. They also have a mild stimulant effect, and have been used as a snuff. Today, yarrow is valued mainly for its action in colds and influenza, and also for its effect on the circulatory, digestive, excretory, and urinary systems. In the nineteenth century, yarrow was said to have a greater number of indications than any other herb.

The leaves encourage clotting, so it can be used fresh for nosebleeds. The aerial parts of the plant are used for phlegm conditions, as a bitter digestive tonic to encourage bile flow, and as a diuretic. The aerial parts act as a tonic for the blood, stimulate the circulation, and can be used for high blood pressure. Also useful in menstrual disorders, and as an effective sweating remedy to bring down fevers.


This herb has an action in many different systems of the body. Primarily, it is probably best known for its action in the respiratory system, its diaphoretic (increases sweating) properties being used for colds and fevers. It can also be used for allergy for example, in hay fever. Its combined properties make it useful following flu or illness where there is little appetite as a tonic to promote digestion. In the cardiovascular system its antispasmodic and slightly diuretic action has made it valuable for lowering high blood pressure, and improving the venous circulation. In the reproductive system it is known as a menstrual regulator, which also helps to reduce heavy bleeding. Conversely, it can also bring on a period.

CAUTIONS: Not for internal use during pregnancy as this herb is a uterine stimulant

Yarrow is a highly versatile remedy, with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic volatile oils, and astringent tannins. The resins are also astringent and antiseptic, while silica promotes tissue repair. These properties promote healing of cuts and wounds, burns and ulcers, and inflammatory skin conditions. In the digestive system, yarrow stimulates the appetite, enhances digestion and absorption; its astringent properties curb diarrhea and dysentery, and stem bleeding from the lining of the gut. The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties treat infections and inflamed conditions such as gastritis and enteritis, the bitters stimulate liver function, while its antispasmodics relax tensioning cramp, wind, colic or nervous dyspepsia.
This herb is a traditional digestive aid and stomach tonic useful in treating gastrointestinal conditions.Used as a tea or yarrow infusion it induces sweating and helps lower a fever.It's mild sedative properties make it useful in treating insomnia, cramps and menstrual pain.Aerial parts are used medicinally as teas, infusions and poultices.

Taken hot, yarrow is excellent for helping to throw off fevers and infections such as colds, flu, coughs, and sore throats. Yarrow clears heat and toxins from the system by causing sweating. As a tonic to the circulatory system, yarrow helps improve varicose veins, hemorrhoids, phlebitis and thrombosis, and reduces blood pressure. Yarrow's diuretic action aids the elimination of fluid and toxins from the system via the urine. Yarrow also relieves cystitis, irritable bladder, stones, and gravel. Yarrow helps relieve painful joints and clear the skin. Yarrow contains sterols which have a hormone-like action and help to regulate the menstrual cycle. Yarrow reduces heavy bleeding and uteric congestion, and relieve heavy periods. Yarrow is also a tonic to the nervous system.



Yarrow Tea Recipe
So, how to make yarrow tea. There are a few different methods of going about it. One suggests that you pour 6 cups
of boiling water over one cup of yarrow and let it sit for a while. Then strain the tea and drink it, one or half
cup at a time. Another suggestion is to add two or three fresh or dried leaves to a cup, and pour boiling water
over it. Let it brew for 5 minutes, and then add honey to sweeten, or serve with a slice of lemon.


Yarrow tincture:
Counters all bacteria internally and externally, repels insects.
Pick Achillea millefolium flowing tops, white ones only, when in bloom.
Fill, don't stuff, a jar, with the coarsely chopped herb.
Fill jar to the top with alcohol. Cap tightly. Label.
Your fresh yarrow tincture is ready to use in six weeks.

Wanted to add.
Companion planting
Yarrow is considered an especially useful companion plant, not only repelling some bad insects while attracting
good, predatory ones, but also improving soil quality.It attracts predatory wasps, which drink the nectar and then
use insect pests as food for their larvae. Similarly, it attracts ladybugs and hoverflies. Its leaves are thought
to be good fertilizer, and a beneficial additive for compost.
It is also considered directly beneficial to other plants, improving the health of sick plants when grown near
them.

[IDTANDY]

POKEWEED


http://img687.imageshack.us/img687/3453/pokeweed1.jpg

Don't leave this one out of your herbal medicine bag.
I've covered external use only at this time.

Poke weed has its uses as long as you follow common sense, to much is bad.

As topical: (external use)

Those who suffered from arthritis were able to get relief from pokeweed. Apply directly to joints for chronic joint pain and rheumatism.
Relieves pain and reduces inflammation.

Poke’s movement-stimulating properties, combined with its affinities for the lymphatic system and “glands,” have led to its traditional use for many conditions involving hard, swollen masses in the body, including simple swollen lymph nodes, mumps, tonsillitis, adenitis, orchitis, mastitis, goiter, and cancer.

When it comes to the skin, poke root has many uses that once were very common. It has anti inflammatory properties
that make it a good treatment for problems such as eczema and acne. It can help soothe spots and reduce redness in
the skin. It can also be used to treat infections from fungus such as athlete’s foot.
In addition, someone suffering from the discomfort of scabies can get relief for that problem from using pokeweed.
If you have an ingrown hair or folliculitis, poke root works to help soothe the problem and leaves your skin
feeling much better.

Use tincture or oil infusion for joint pain.A pokeweed poultice works well too.

Pokeweed Tincture
Pokeweed berries are collected and boiled in hot water for 30 minutes, then strained into a concentrated solution. The solution is then added to a small amount of alcohol for use as a tincture.

Traditional preparations of poke for external use often involved extraction in kerosene. Poke-infused olive oil works just fine.

If a tea is made of the root and applied to the skin, it will cure itching.

Though I said only external covered I had to include this one blend that works well on the ole joints.
Arthritis tea:
Bearberry leaves
Black cohosh
Chamomile
Poke weed root,Use the dried root or leaves.Use young roots and leaves. Use the berries without seeds.
Sassafras

Mix in equal parts. Steep 1 1/2 tsp. mixture in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Take 1 cup each morning and evening. Sweeten with honey if desired.

[Katrina]

Yup! Curious does she have the shampoos too?

[IDTANDY]

This is one of the best explanations for using and preparing Poke Weed for internal use that I have found.I use Poke Tincture to manage my joint pain
Pokeweed is a potentially toxic plant; taken in large doses, it can cause severe side effects, including nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Try these recipes at your own risk.
This is written by Corinna Wood, the director of Red Moon Herbs.
Red Moon Herbs (http://www.redmoonherbs.com/)

Growing up in the Northeast, I loved playing with the purple pokeberries, painting designs on my skin. My parents allowed this, though they made it clear that I shouldn't eat the berries of this "poisonous, invasive weed." The huge poke plants were such a bane in their garden that they would actually tie a rope around the roots and use a Jeep to pull them out!

So when I moved to the South, I was surprised to hear a number of people report that their grandmothers always ate poke as a spring green. Intrigued, I discovered that poke root has traditionally been used in tiny doses as an immune stimulant. And swallowing one berry a day is an old treatment for arthritis. This powerful plant actually has a wide range of medicinal uses -- but you have to treat it with respect or risk unpleasant side effects (see below).

As it turns out, there's a long history here in the mountains of using this common "weed" as a potherb. But don't make the all-too-common mistake of confusing "poke sallit" (the English word for cooked greens) with "poke salad." DON'T EAT POKE IN A SALAD! It's considered safe ONLY when boiled in three changes of water (traditionally with some pork or "fatback"). And it should be harvested for cooking greens ONLY when the plant is less than a foot tall.

I've cooked poke this way a few times. It was certainly tasty (especially with the fatback!), but I was still a bit mystified. Why all the focus on poke? This is a time of year when many wild greens are abundant -- dandelion, chickweed and nettles are among my favorites. And with these, you don't need to toss out the cooking water (and a lot of nutrients with it). But I do know folks who say they feel a powerful energy from eating the poke greens.

My favorite way to use poke is to make a tincture from the root for stimulating the immune system. Herbs can rival the effectiveness of antibiotics, and they're generally much gentler on the body. Many herbalists turn to goldenseal for this purpose, but it's an endangered species. Poke, on the other hand, is a weed -- the problem is not having too little of it, but too much. And for most purposes, poke is at least as good, if not better.

Pokeroot is best dug up in the fall, after the plant has died back for the winter. This is when the plant is the most medicinal and the least toxic. The next best time to dig the roots is in the early spring, when the leaves are just coming out (as long as you're sure what you're picking!).

As anyone who's ever tried to pull up a poke plant knows, getting anything but the smallest roots out of the ground is a project. They range in size from a large carrot to a construction cone. Fortunately, just one small root will make enough medicine to last you and your loved ones for years -- proving once again that there's no lack of good medicine all around us.

Once you've dug up the root (and parked the Jeep), the next step -- if you've decided to give pokeweed a try -- is drawing out those medicinal properties. The best way to do that is to make a tincture (alcohol extract). Wash the root, chop it into small pieces, fill a jar with the plant material, and then add enough 100-proof alcohol to cover the roots. Leave it on your counter for six weeks, then strain out the roots. The resulting milky liquid is remarkably mild-looking and -tasting, considering the punch it packs.

Poke is so powerful that it's taken by the drop. Begin with one to three drops (using a dropper, of course). Wait 24 hours. If that doesn't seem to help, add one drop per day to the dosage (and that's drops, not droppersful!).

Individuals show widely varying tolerance for poke. Some people can't handle more than three or five drops per day, while others can take 25 or 50 drops with no adverse effects. The side effects of poke include mental unclarity, spaciness and out-of-body feelings. If you notice such feelings, it means you've found your tolerance level, so back off to a lower dosage. If you take way too much (such as mistaking droppersful for drops, which some people have done!), you may encounter more severe side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

When I was using poke to treat Lyme disease a number of years ago, I found that after taking 10 drops per day for several weeks, I started feeling unclear, spacy and disconnected, as if I weren't really in my body. I cut the dosage back to five drops and the side effects vanished, but the tincture was still very effective in helping resolve the Lyme disease. Remember, everyone's tolerance and needs are different.

Over the years, I've found poke to be invaluable as an herbal alternative to antibiotics when immune or lymphatic stimulation is needed. For many generations, this plant has helped people with immune issues ranging from sore throat to breast cancer. And of course, there are times when antibiotics are called for -- so when in doubt, consult your doctor or herbalist.

In my community, poke tincture is a favorite for sore throats, strep throat, severe colds and respiratory infections. It's also used for infected gums, swollen lymph glands and breast cysts. Studies in Germany and the United States are even finding positive results with HIV, cancer and lymphoma. In addition, it's very effective in treating genital herpes -- taking just a few drops when the tingling begins usually prevents the blister phase entirely and reduces the frequency of outbreaks.

Poke root can also be made into an oil simply by substituting oil for alcohol. Any cooking oil will work, but olive oil is my favorite because of its high resistance to rancidity. And by melting in some beeswax (which gives it a creamy consistency), the oil can be made into a balm or salve. Both the salve and the oil are also used externally to dissolve lumps, bumps, growths and tumors. And many people find them helpful when applied externally to swollen lymph glands, sore throats or breast lumps.

Pokeberries are useful, too -- and not just for body paint. (This paint, by the way, is quite safe; it's only the seeds inside that are toxic, and then only when chewed.) In Appalachian folk medicine, the berries are swallowed as a treatment for arthritis and for immune stimulation -- one berry (either fresh or dried) is the equivalent of one drop of root tincture.

Since the seeds are the toxic part, you just spit them out. And even if you swallow some seeds, don't worry -- they're extremely difficult to break open with your teeth and will come out the other end intact. (That's how poke spreads, in fact -- birds love to eat the berries, and then the seeds spread through their droppings.) Although poke proliferates by seed, the plants are perennial, and the roots will grow larger every year.

So if you find yourself cursing this "dangerous, noxious weed" in your yard or garden this spring, just remember that if you let a few plants thrive until fall, they can reward you with some very powerful medicine -- not to mention beautiful purple berries that make a delightful body paint!"

[ladyhk13]

IDTANDY my mom has RA but is a diabetic, any idea if there are any contraindications using when it comes to Type II diabetics? We have these things all over the place!

[IDTANDY]

I can't find any counterindications of using Poke Weed and Type 2 Diabetes.I would try topical application first and see how it works.

[Taz Baby]

I would stay away from Poke weed. I for one have had a very bad experience with it last summer. I got some of the berry juices on me and didn't know it until that night I saw it on my skin. I got woke up in the middle of the night with chest pains, arms and legs tingling and going numb and I had a hard time breathing. I thought I was having a heart attack. Both both arms and legs were tingling. That lasted 2 days. I remembered about the pokeweed and looked up that side affects it can cause. It hit your respiratory system and nervous system. Very bad bad GU GU.:mad: My Mom always told me that it was a snakeberry and that it gave the snakes their poison.

[IDTANDY]

I would stay away from Poke weed. I for one have had a very bad experience with it last summer. I got some of the berry juices on me and didn't know it until that night I saw it on my skin. I got woke up in the middle of the night with chest pains, arms and legs tingling and going numb and I had a hard time breathing. I thought I was having a heart attack. Both both arms and legs were tingling. That lasted 2 days. I remembered about the pokeweed and looked up that side affects it can cause. It hit your respiratory system and nervous system. Very bad bad GU GU.:mad: My Mom always told me that it was a snakeberry and that it gave the snakes their poison.

Personally I have not had those types of problems with Poke weed.Some are more senitive than others to the effects of the plant .It's ones choice to use any herbal preparation.
You can find pro's and con's when it comes to Poke Weed.

http://digital.library.okstate.edu/OAS/oas_pdf/v43/p54_57.pdf

"If human beings are equally as sensitive (or resistant) to Poke berry
poisoning as were the mice used, it would take about 45 pounds of fresh
berries to kill an average adult male."

http://wildforager.survivalistssite.com/pokeweed.txt

"The poisonous property that is in pokeweed is phytolaccin and is especially in the roots
and in the seeds. It is highly emetic but would probably purge itself from your stomach
before it could have any lasting effects"

A study published in 1995 by Krenzelok and Provost in the Journal of Natural Toxins analyzed information from American Poison Information Centers over a recent ten-year period. They found that Poke was the seventh most frequently ingested poisonous plant, but that 65.3 % of these exposures resulted in "no effect," 5.8 % in a "minor effect," and 0.4 % in a "moderate effect"; there were no fatalities reported. Contrast this to the recent report in the Journal of the American Medical Association (Lazarou, 1998) which informs us that more than 100,000 hospitalized patients die and more than 2 million are seriously injured every year in the U. S. from adverse reactions to properly administered drugs. When considered in context, Poke's toxicity becomes less of a scary boogey-man and more of a reminder to "proceed with caution."

[Taz Baby]

Thanks ID .All I know is I didn,t like what it did and I am steering clear of it.

[IDTANDY]

Found this in my wanderings.For those wanting to start a Medicinal Plant Garden

http://www.imhm.org/resources/Documents/Binder1_MPG_Guide_2010_sfs.pdf

Page example:
Introduction to the Garden
In this modern era of urban civilization, many of us have lost touch with nature. We no longer
have the intimate knowledge of plants and their uses that our ancestors had acquired through
centuries of trial and error. When we want a cure for our headache or fever, we go not to the
meadow and woodland but to the drugstore.
The Medicinal Plant Garden of the Indiana Medical History Museum offers the opportunity to
remember that plants were the original source of most medicines. Many of the miracle drugs of
today are molecules or variations on compounds that were originally available from plant
medicines. For example, Bayer Aspirin (acetyl-salicylic acid) had its beginnings in 1897 from a
compound that occurs naturally in the herbaceous perennial European meadowsweet.
In recent decades, in the United States people have had an increasing interest in using herbal
remedies. A wide variety of herbal preparations are available over the counter at most
pharmacies and grocery stores. It is important to treat these substances with care. Just because a
product is “natural” does not mean that it is safe. As with our modern drugs, herbal medicines
may have undesired side effects as well as potential beneficial effects. For example, an
individual taking feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) for migraine headaches may not realize that
it acts as an anticoagulant and could result in bleeding complications if surgery is needed. When
asked by the doctor, “What medicines are you taking?” one always should include any herbal
remedies or tonics taken regularly in the answer.
In this country, the efficacy and strength of commercial herbal preparations is not controlled by
governmental regulations at this time. They are considered to be food supplements rather than
drugs. The potency of herbal remedies in stores is difficult to predict. Studies even show that
some products on the market have no active ingredient present. By contrast, in Europe,
Germany’s Commission E carefully studies and makes recommendations about herbal medicines,
and products available are better standardized and regulated. Of course, the amount of active
compounds in a plant's flower, leaf, bark, or root will vary with the cultivar, the soil, the weather,
the time of year, the time in the plant’s life cycle at harvest, and the way in which the plant is
dried, preserved, and processed.
Some of the most beautiful medicinal plants are quite poisonous. Examples include foxglove
(digitalis), autumn crocus (colchicine), castor bean (ricin), mayapple (podophyllotoxin), and lily
of the valley (digitalis-like cardiac glycoside). Remember that many of the plants we have
included in this garden can be toxic if misused. Please, do not pick or eat any part of the
plants in the garden!
This brochure offers interesting information about the plants in the garden, presented
alphabetically according to their most-used common name. The information includes the
common name, scientific name, (previous scientific name), a brief description of the plant’s main
medicinal uses and history, indication of where it began as a native plant, and the parts of the
plant that are or were used medicinally. Alphabetical lists of common and scientific names are at
the end of the brochure. More extensive information about some of the plants is available in the
museum.

[IDTANDY]

MULLEIN

ImageShack® - Online Photo and Video Hosting (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/405/imagescaeo8zu3mullin.jpg/)

Mullein: Aaron’s Rod, Lady’s Foxglove, Donkey’s Ears, Bunny’s Ears, Candlewick, Feltwort, Flannel Leaf, Jacob’s Staff, Lungwort, Velvet Dock

Actions and Historical Uses of Mullein:
Anemia
Arthritis
Asthma
Bronchitis
Bruises
Colds
Cough
Diaper rash
Diarrhea
Earache
Enlarged prostate
Gas
Glandular swelling
Hay fever
Hemorrhoids
Insomnia
Laxative
Lymphatic system
Nerves
Pain
Panic attacks
Pneumonia
Respiratory system
Sinus problem
Sore throat
Swollen joints
Tonsillitis
Tuberculosis
Tumors
Urinary tract infection
Venereal diseases
Warts
How Mullein is used and how it Works:
Mullein soothes, lubricates, and tones the respiratory system and aides in expectoration by stimulating fluid production. Mullein is sometimes used with other herbs such as white horehound, lobelia, elder, and red clover.
Mullein leaves and/or flowers for infusion tea for respiratory disorders
Mullein infused oil from flowers for ear infections, hemorrhoids, and skin disorders
Mullein leaf poultice applied to topical boils, sores, ulcers and tumors
Mullein tea from fresh chopped leaves filtered through a coffee filter provide a variety of vitamins and other nutrients
Mullein compress to relieve swelling
Crushed flowers to remove warts
Dry mullein leaves smoked for respiratory problems
Parts of the Mullein Plant Used: Leaves and flowers
Properties of Mullein: Analgesic, antiseptic, bitter, cold remedy, cool, demulcent, dermatological aid, diuretic, ear medicine, emollient, expectorant, gastrointestinal aid, respiratory aid, sedative, tonic.
Chemical Constituents of Mullein: Catalpol, coumarin, crocetin, flavonoids, hesperidin, iridoid glycosides, mucilage rotenone, saponins, tannins, thapsic-acid, triterpenoid saponins, verbascoside, verbasterol, volatile oil
Contraindications, safety issues, concerns, harmful drug interactions and allergy precautions for Mullein: Mullein is generally a safe herb to use even during pregnancy and nursing. There have been reports of skin irritation, mostly from the tiny hairs that cover all parts of the plant except the roots. The diuretic actions of mullein may cause drug interactions with analgesics, hypoglycemic drugs, and corticosteroids. The narcotic nature of mullein seeds are toxic and have been use to stun fish.
Do not put mullein oil or anything in an ear that has a ruptured eardrum. Have a licensed practitioner do an ear examination first.

[IDTANDY]

GOLDENROD

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/3391/goldenrod.png


Medicine: Leaves and flowers are made into a tea for intestinal and urinary disorders.
Technology: A deep yellow dye is produced from the flowers.

Note: Doesn't have airborne pollen. Doesn't cause hayfever suffers as ragweed does.
Goldenrod Herb Benefits and Information

Goldenrod is an aquaretic agent (promotes the loss of water from the body) most frequently used to treat urinary tract inflammation and to prevent the development of kidney stones. Goldenrod's aquaretic effects combined with both antimocrobila and anti-inflammatory properties allow this herb to be used in connection with a variety conditions which include the following:

•Bladder inflammation
•Arthritis
•Allergies
•Colds and flu
•Kidney stones
•Laryngitis (as a gargle)
•Sore throats
Goldenseal may also be used as a topical application to aid in healing injuries and skin conditions such as eczema. Goldenrod has also been used for laryngitis or sore throats (as a gargle).

Possible Side Effects

Most people believe that goldenrod is generally considered safe and has no known side effects. However, you should not use this herb if you have impaired heart or kidneys or if you are pregnant.
Dosage and Usage

•Tea - Mix 2 - 3 teaspoons of dried herb in 1 cup of water, bring to a boil, and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes; strain and drink. Take three times per day.
•Gargle - Make the tea described above, and gargle with it three times per day.

To make your own herbal oils and ointments, combine about 4 ounces of the fresh (or 2 ounces of dried) herb with 1 pint of olive, safflower, or other pure vegetable oil. Heat gently, uncovered, for about one hour. For oil, strain, bottle, and cap tightly when cooled. For a thicker ointment, add 1 to 1-1/2 ounces of beeswax to the mixture as it heats. Let cool and bottle appropriately.

[IDTANDY]

Willow

http://img812.imageshack.us/img812/4870/willowco.jpg

White willow has been used to combat fevers and pain for thousands of years, it may be the oldest herb known to treat pain and inflammation, the oldest recorded use is by Chinese physicians in 500 B.C. White willow was also used in ancient Assyrian, Egyptian, and Greek medicine as well as Native American healers in North America.
The inner bark of the white willow tree contains salicin, which is changed to salicylic acid in the body. The compound in aspirin, acetylsalicylic acid, is derived from salicylic acid. Herbalists use white willow much the same as aspirin, ie; to reduce fevers, pain, and inflammation in conditions such as painful menstruation, arthritis, and neuralgia. White willow works slower, but lasts longer than aspirin, and has less side gastronomic side effects, due to the large amounts of tannins that protect the stomach. White willow is best when used over long periods of time and can take days to improve conditions.
This herb has been used for millennia for natural pain relief, reducing fever and inflammation, and recent studies are proving the traditional indications of white willow to be correct. In the herbal treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and lower back pain
"General dosing guidelines for willow bark are as follows:
Dried herb (used to make tea): boil 1 to 2 tsp of dried bark in 8 oz of water and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes; let steep for 1 hour; drink 3 to 4 cups daily"
It can also be boiled and used as a poultice by binding it with a cravat bandage against the wound, wart, or affected muscle group.
This is an anti-inflammatory as well as a pain reliever, so it is also good for treating fevers. In that case, take it orally as a tea.

Red willow

http://img804.imageshack.us/img804/9186/redwillow.jpg


Red willow bark is a popular medicinal plant used by Native Americans in many forms. It can be made into tea or tincture, or can be chewed raw. It can also be smoked or puffed like a tobacco or cigarette for effects in the lungs, air passage, stomach, eyes, ears and the bloodstream. Although the effectiveness and safety of red willow bark has not been proven, many Native Americans regularly make use of the plant.
Remedy for Coughs, Colds and Fevers
The red willow bark is often made into tea as a remedy for colds. It is also used as an emetic for coughs and fevers. The bark is boiled in water, then the decoction is strained and drunk warm. According to Fredda Paul, a member of the Passamaquoddy who practices traditional tribal medicine, smoking red willow rolled into a cigarette is effective in cleansing the body and relieving coughs and colds as it goes directly into the lungs and into the bloodstream.
Relieving Headaches and Migraines
As a relief for headaches and migraines, the red willow bark is usually mixed with wild sage, then smoked a couple of puffs at a time every two hours. It can also be taken as a tincture or tea. Apart from relieving headaches and migraines, its relaxing effects help those suffering from insomnia to get a good night's sleep.
Relieving Nausea
Whether ingested or smoked, red willow bark opens the liver and digestive organs, allowing the settling of a queasy stomach almost instantly. A couple of puffs can help relieve nausea. It is also used by people who just underwent chemotherapy to relieve nausea and promote a better physical state.
Eye and Ear Medicine
Chewing on the dry bark of red willow can be an excellent medicine for the eyes. It can help heal pink eye or conjunctivitis, as well as improve eye function for those suffering from cataracts and macular degeneration. The bark can also be infused into extra-virgin olive oil. The oil mixture is strained carefully and refrigerated prior to use, then one drop is used to massage the eye or eyelid every morning and evening.
Worldwide, there are hundreds of willow species; and many are sources of botanical medicines, especially the white willow, which has a long history of use for fevers and “hot” conditions. The Cree, Chippewa, Huron, Mohawk, and other tribes used white willow bark in much the same way as the modern day aspirin when treating fevers, headaches, arthritis, and other painful inflammations. The Mesquakies used the willow to treat diarrhea and the leaves to stop hemorrhaging. This tribe was also recorded as being able to distinguish an upland from a lowland variety of willow. The Menominis used the galls to make medicines for spasmodic colic, dysentery, and diarrhea. The Blackfeet made a tea from the crushed fresh root to treat internal hemorrhages, throat constrictions, swollen neck glands, bloodshot or irritated eyes, and for symptoms of "waist trouble". The Cheyenne fashioned a strip of willow bark around a cut to stop bleeding. Many tribes, including the Chicanos in New Mexico, chewed the twigs to clean the teeth to harden the gums in cases of pyorrhoea.

[IDTANDY]

Here's some general information,in 3 parts.
Part 1


Achillea millefolium, Yarrow
Achilleus, the greatest hero of the Trojan War in Homer’s “Iliad”, is reported to have used yarrow to stop the flow of blood from his wounds inflicted in battle. It has been scientifically proven that this plant has substances that have blood clotting and anti-inflammatory properties. In the Middle Ages in Europe, yarrow tea was taken to stop internal bleeding. Micmac Indians drank it with warm milk to treat upper respiratory infections.

Alcea rosea, Hollyhock
The flowers are used in the treatment of repiratory and inflammatory ailments and the root extracts to produce marshmallow sweets.

Alchemilla vulgaris, Lady’s Mantle
The common English name is accounted for by the leaves resemblance to a cloak worn by English women in medieval times. A preparation of dried leave was used to control diarrhea and to stop bleeding.

Allium cepa, Onion
Like garlic, onions contain antibiotics and substances that lower blood sugar, serum cholesterol and blood pressure. Onion juice sweetened with sugar or honey is a traditional remedy for colds and coughs. Onions are rich in vitamins B-1, B-2 and Vitamin C.

Allium sativum, Garlic
It has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes and as a culinary herb. In the Talmud Book of Ezra, Jews are encouraged to partake of garlic at the Friday night Shabbat meal for the following five reasons: (1) to keep the body warm; (2) to brighten the face; (3) to kill intestinal parasites; (4) to increase the volume of semen; and (5) to foster love and to do away with jealousy. Garlic is mentioned more than twenty times in the ancient Egyptian medical papyrus called the Codex Ebers dating back to ca. 1550 B.C. Pliny the Elder sited more than sixty therapeutic uses for garlic. Dioscorides, chief physician for the Roman army, prescribed garlic for intestinal parasitic disorders.
Garlic oil was first isolated in 1844. More than one hundred compounds have been identified as constituents of garlic oil. In the Middle Ages, it was eaten daily as a protection against the bubonic plagues that ravished the European continent. Louis Pasteur described its antibacterial properties in 1858. Tons of garlic were used in World War I in field dressings to prevent infection. Alliin and allicin are sulfur-containing compounds that are antibacterial and anti-fungal. When garlic cloves are sliced, diced, or minced, alliin converts allicin into a large number of thioallyl compounds that are effective in lowering blood pressure, blood sugar, serum cholesterol and serum triglycerides It is effective in boosting the immune system. Garlic is a natural pesticide against mosquito larvae.

Allium schoenoprasum, Chives
In traditional folk medicine Chives were eaten to treat and purge
intestinal parasites, enhance the immune system, stimulate digestion,
and treat anemia.
Garlic and scallions, along with onions, leeks, chives, and shallots, are rich in flavonols, substances in plants that have been shown to have anti tumor effects. New research from China confirms that eating vegetables from the allium group (allium is Latin for garlic) can reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

Allium tuberosum, Garlic Chives
In Chinese herbal medicine, garlic chives have been used to treat fatigue, control excessive bleeding, and as an antidote for ingested poisons. The leaves and bulbs are applied to insect bites, cuts, and wounds, while the seeds are used to treat kidney, liver, and digestive system problems.

Althea officinalis, True Marshmallow
It is a native of Asia that has been naturalized in America. Marshmallow syrup from the roots is used in treating coughs and irritated throats.

Anchusa officinalis, Bugloss
Preparations made from roots and/or stems have been used in modern folk medicine primarily as an expectorant (to raise phlegm) or as an emollient (a salve to sooth and soften the skin).

Anethum graveolens 'Fernleaf', Dill
Dill is recorded as a medicinal plant for at least five thousand years in the writings of the Egyptians. Oil extracted from the seeds is made into potions and given to colicky babies. Adults take the preparation to relieve indigestion.

Angelica archangelica, Angelica
Though all parts of the plant are medicinal, preparations are made mainly from the roots. Its medicinal uses include:relief of ingestion, flatulence and colic; improvements of peripheral arterial circulation e.g. Buerger’s disease; a tonic for bronchitis

Anthemis nobilis a.k.a Chamaemelum nobile, Roman Chamomile
It is used for the relief of gastric distress. Peter Rabbit’s mother treated Peter with chamomile tea to alleviate the distress that followed the overindulgence of eating too much in Mr. McGregor’s vegetable garden. Roman Chamomile resembles German Chamomile. Both Chamomiles are members of the same family. They have pale green feathery leaves and have flowers that resemble daisies with an apple-like fragrance.

Antirrhinum majus, Snapdragon
Preparations made from leaves and flowers are used to reduce fever and inflammation. In a poultice, it be applied to the body surface to treat burns, infections and hemorrhoids.

Apium graveolens, Celery
Essential oils have a sedative and anticonvulsant effect, and are used in the treatment of hypertension. Seeds used to treat arthritis and urinary tract infections.

Aquilegia canadensis, Columbine
Preparations of this plant are used as an astringent, analgesic, and a diuretic. American Indians used crushed seeds to relieve headaches.

Artemisia vulgaris, Mugwort
It is a natural insect repellant of moths as well as a culinary herb used in flavoring foods such as poultry stuffing. It is alleged to have many medicinal properties from hastening and easing labor to producing sedation. Its medicinal properties are questionable.

Asarum europeaum, European Ginger
In the past, it was used as an emetic, but it is obsolete because of toxicity. It is similar in use to Asarum canadense which was used by American Indians in the form of a root tea to treat respiratory, cardiac and “female” ailments. Asarum canadense contains aristocholic acid, an anti-tumor compound.

Asclepius incarnata, Butterfly Weed
It is used primarily in the treatment of respiratory disorders. Its uses are very similar to those of Asclepias tuberosa.

Asclepias tuberosa, Butterfly Weed or Pleurisy Root
This plant is native to North America. Omaha Indians ate the raw root to treat bronchitis and taught the pioneers to do the same. It is an expectorant; it promotes coughing that raises phlegm. It also contains cardiac glycosides and an estrogen-like substance. It is a component of Lydia E. Pinkham’s Vegetable Compound (1875 to 1960) advertised for use in “womb trouble, sick headache, and nervous breakdowns”.

Asperula odorata, Sweet Woodruff
Research suggests that it may have anti-arthritic properties. Historically, it has been used to treat liver disorders. In Germany, it is an essential ingredient in May wine drunk as a “spring tonic”. The fragrance of dry leaves gives linen closets a sweet aroma that keeps moths away.

Baptisia australis, Blue False Indigo
American Indians used root tea as an emetic (to produce vomiting) and as a laxative. Root poultices were used to reduce inflammation, and held in the mouth against an aching tooth.

Baptisia tinctoria, Wild Indigo
Preparations made from the roots and leaves were used by North American Indians (Mohicans and Penobscots) in poltices to treat bruises, snake bites and superficial lacerations. Such preparations have effective antiseptic properties.

Borago officinalis, Borage
For centuries it was thought to be a mood elevator when ingested as a tea or as leaves steeped in wine. This may or may not be the case. There is some evidence that perparations made from seed oil have a use in soothing and relieving inflammations associated with respiratory disorders.

Calamintha ascendens, Mountain Balm
A preparation from this plant, calamint, stimulates sweating thereby loweing fever. It is also an expectorant and therefore a cough and cold remedy.

Calendula officinalis, Pot Marigold
Traditionally the flowers were used to impart a yellow color to cheese. Anti-inflammatory and antibiotic (bacteria, fungi and viruses) properties are responsible for the antiseptic healing effect when preparations of this plant are applied to skin wounds and burns. It can be used in the treatment of ringworm, cradle cap and athlete's foot.

Catharanthus rosea a.k.a. Vinca rosea Madagascar Periwinkle
Madagascar Periwinkle contains seventy alkaloids and four are medicinal. It is the source of the chemotherapeutic agents: Vincristine, Vinblastine, Vindesine, and Vinrelbine. Vincristine is used in the treatment of childhood leukemias and breast cancer. Vinblastine is used in the treatment of Hodgkin’s Disease and choriocarcinoma.

Chamomilla recutita or Matricaria recutita, German Chamomile
Tea made from dried flowers is used to treat a large variety of ailments. In experiments, the essential oil is found to be anti-fungal, anti-allergenic and anti-inflammatory.

Colchicum autumnale, Autumn Crocus
Theophrastus (c.371-287 B.C.) noted it to be very toxic. In the fifth century (Byzantine Empire), it was used for the treatment of joint conditions. Colchicine is an alkaloid that relieves the joint pain and inflammation of gout. Colchicine is still derived from the plant itself because chemists have not been able to synthesize it inexpensively in the laboratory. Though they are called autumn crocus, they belong to the lily family and should not be confused with the saffron crocus.

Convollaria majalis, Lily-of-the-valley
A tea of flowers and leaves was used in treating heart disease. It contains cardiac glycosides similar to those of the digitalis plant family.

Dianthus anatolicus, Dianthus
D. anatolicus is a member of large genus of Dianthus (approximately 300) many of which have been used in Chinese and European herbal medicine for a large number of disorders including cardiac, urinary, nervous and gastrointestinal. Preparations are made from the flowers, leaves and stems but not the roots. The flower preparations are markedly diuretic.

Dictamnus albus, Gas Plant
Dittany, a distillate of very volatile essential oils from the roots and flowers, is rarely used today. It is a diuretic, an anti-spasmodic (relaxes the muscles of the gastro-intestinal tract), an anti-helminthic (expels intestinal parasites), and a stimulant to the contraction of uterine muscle.

Digitalis ambigua, Perennial Foxglove
All species of the genus Digitalis contain cardiac glycosides in their roots, stems, leaves and blossoms. Cardiac glycosides are a group of chemical compounds that taken by mouth slow the rate and regulate the rhythm of the heart beat as well as strengthen the heart muscle. These chemical compounds are very complex. They are difficult and very expensive to synthesize in the laboratory. All sources of the digitalis cardiac glycosides are, therefore, plant materials grown in cultivation specifically for medicinal purposes. Preparations made of the dried ground leaves are no longer prescibed. Individually extracted compounds are prescribed instead of the mixture of all the cardiac glycosides present in the dried ground leaf preparations.

Digitalis lanata, Grecian Foxglove
It is also called the wooly foxglove because of the texture of its leaves. It is a very important medicinal plant grown commercially for the cardiac glycoside digoxin. Lanoxin (digoxin) is used in the treatment of congestive heart failure alone or in combination with other drugs prescribed for the same purpose. Digoxin was first isolated from the other cardiac glycosides in 1930.

Digitalis lutea Yellow Foxglove
Like all other foxgloves, it contains cardiac glycosides but they are in weak concentrations and are not extracted commercially for the treatment on chronic congestive heart failure.

Digitalis purpurea, Common Foxglove
Foxglove
In 1775 Dr. William Withering, an English physician, discovered the efficacy of ingesting ground dried leaves of Digitalis purpurea in the treatment of severe congestive heart failure. He attributed its efficacy to a diuretic effect and published his findingsin l785 based on his clinical observations over a ten year period. In his paper, he recommended safe doses and warned of undesirable side effects from overdose including death from cardiac arrest. The pharmacological mechanisms of the cardiac glycosides in regulating the heart rate and rhythm and the strengthening of the heart muscle were discovered later.

Echinacea purpurea syn E. angustifoli, Purple Cone Flower
Preparations of this plant were used by the Plain Indians (Comanche and Sioux) for the treatment of upper respiratory infections, burns, snakebites, and cancers. The European settlers learned about these indications from the Indians. It has been demonstrated that plant extracts stimulate the immune system to combat bacterial and viral infections. It also possesses antibiotic properties. Echinacea's name is derived from the Greek word for hedgehog and was inspired by the appearance of the flower's central cone.

Foeniculum vulgare, Fennel
It is a native of the Mediterranean. In the Middle Ages, it was considered an antidote to witchcraft. It is an antispasmodic that is used to relieve bloating. It is also a diuretic.

Fragaria vesca, Wild Strawberry
America Indians and Europeans found multiple medicinal uses for this plant. The leaves are mildly astringent so that they can be used as a gargle to treat sore throats. The leaves as well as the fruit contain a diuretic.

Geranium Robertainum, Herb-Robert
Tea made from the leaves has been used for the treatment of tuberculosis, malaria and other systemic infectious diseases. It has antibiotic, antiviral properties and contains antioxidants.

Ginkgo biloba fastigiata, Maidenhair tree
The ginkgo tree is the oldest living tree species with at least a 200 million year history. It was present in the time of the dinosaurs. It predates the Mesozoic era. It was considered sacred by Buddhist monks who for centuries planted them around their temples and in nearby forests. It is extremely hardy and resistant to environmental pollutants. The hardy features and the special value placed on these trees insured their preservation into modern times. Extracts from the leaves are used to improve memory and are used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Evidence of efficacy in these treatments is lacking. It is a blood thinner that may be used in cases of poor circulation. Presumed better circulation to the brain is thought to be the reason why it might improve memory and be a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. It is being tried for use in the treatment of glaucoma. The Chinese have used it in treating asthma and cerebral disorders for at least three thousand years.

Hamamelis virginiana, Witch-hazel
Native Americans taught the English settlers to make a decoction of witch-hazel bark, twigs, and leaves to use in cold or warm compresses to treat bruises, to use it as an eye wash, and to take it by mouth for the treatment of diarrhea. Currently, it is used as a topical application for the treatment of eczema. A decoction is an extraction made by boiling a plant in water and removing the resulting mash from the liquid; the liquid contains the active ingredient in a concentrated form.
“Witch” refers to an Anglo-Saxon word meaning to bend; it has no reference to magic. This shrub blooms in the fall. There are other varieties of witch-hazel that bloom in late winter or very early spring.

Helianthus annuus, Common Sunflower
A tea made from the leaves is an astringent, a diuretic, an expectorant and an agent to reduce fever. Crushed leaves are used in poultices to treat snake bites and spider bites.

Helichyrsum italicum, Curry
Essential oils distilled from flowers are used in aromatherapy. The antioxidant activity of carbon dioxide extracts are under investigation. Preparations are used as anticoagulant, anasthetic, antispasmodic agents and for their antiviral and anti-fungal properties.

Hepatica acutiloba, Sharp Lobed Hepatica
A member of the buttercup family, hepatica was used by American Indians to make a tea for the treatment of liver and digestive ailments. The medicinal value of this plant is not established.

Humulus lupulus, Hops
Used to make beer. It contains antiseptic, antibiotic and anti-spasmodic properties.

Hypericum perforatum, St. John's Wort
Several plants bear the name of St. John's Wort and they are so called because they can be counted on to be in bloom on June 24, the feast day of St. John the Baptist. Extracts made from the blossoms have been used for centuries to treat mental disorders and to ward off evil spirits. American Indians treated tuberculosis, wounds and severe pain with a tea made from its flowers. Hypericin, a very complex molecule, is of questionable value in the treatment of mild depression; it is strongly antiviral and is being investigated for use in the treatment of HIV/AIDS.

Hyssopus officinalis, Hyssop
The herb or its oil is used to treat respiratory ailments. In small amounts, it is added to salads, soups, sauces and meat dishes to aid digestion.

Inula helenium, Elecampane
A legend has it that Helen of Troy had this plant in her hand when she left with Paris to live with him in Troy. From this legend, the plant gets its name. The ancient Greeks and Romans used preparations made from this plant to treat upper respiratory infections and to aid digestion. In the Middle Ages, wine was made from this plant and it was called potio Paulino which means Paul’s drink, a reference to St. Paul’s advise to “drink a little wine for the stomach’s sake”.

Iris cristata, Crested Dwarf Iris
American Indians used the roots in tea to treat hepatitis and in animal fat ointments to treat skin ulcers.

Iris germanica, German Flag
The root (orris) is included in cough remedies primarily and never used alone. Dried orris has the fragrance of violets; it is included in some potpourris. Iris cristata and Iris versicolor are also used in Indian Medicine for the relief of symptoms and the treatment of various disorders without any scientific proof of efficacy thus far.

Laurus nobilis, Bay Leaf
Leaf preparations used to treat upper digestive tract disorders.

Lavendula officinalis syn. L. angustifolia, English Lavender
Lavare is the Latin verb "to wash". The Romans used the fragrance of the blossoms in their bath water hence the origin of the name lavendula. In the Middle Ages, it was used alone or in combination with other herbs to treat insomnia, anxiety states, migraine headaches and depression. The fragrance is relaxing hence the dry blossoms were stuffed in pillows and given to agitated patients to produce sedation. The oil is strongly antiseptic and used to heal wounds.

Levisticum officinale, Lovage
Preparations made from the roots or leaves are used to treat edema, indigestion and to prevent the formation of kidney stones.

Liatris spicata, Gayfeather
American Indians used this plant for food as well as medicine. It was used as a cough syrup for the treatment of persistent coughs and urinary tract infections.

Lycopersicon esculentum, Tomato
Lycopene may be beneficial in the treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy.

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Part 2

Malva sylvestris, Common Mallow
Pliny II, 1st Century A.D. wrote that tea made from the seeds and mixed with wine relieved nausea. In 16th century Italy, it was considered a cure-all. American Indians made poultices from the plant and applied them to sores, insect stings and swollen limbs to relieve pain. Taken internally, it may be useful in treating digestive and urinary tract infections because it contains a large amount of mucilage.

Marrubium vulgare, Horehound
Fresh or dried aerial parts of this plant are used to treat digestive and respiratory conditions. It is given for digestive complaints such as loss of appetite and indigestion. It is also used to treat the cough of chronic or acute bronchitis.

Matricaria chamomilla, German Chamomille
Essential oils distilled from dried flower heads are used topically for their antibiotic and antiseptic properties and internally for anti-inflammatory (gastritis), antiseptic, antispasmodic and sedative effects.

Melissa officinalis, Lemon Balm
Lemon balm was introduced into medicine by the Arabs for treatment of depression and anxiety. In the 11th century Avicenna, the famous theologian, philosopher-physician, taught that "it causeth the mind and the heart to become merry". New research shows that its polyphenols can help significantly in the treatment of herpes simplex and zoster infections.

Mentha piperita, Peppermint
Peppermint came into general use in the medicine of Western Europe only about the middle of the eighteenth century. Preparations made from fresh or dried leaves or distilled essential oil are used to relieve mild headache, to relieve pain, to relieve bowel spasm, and to relieve chest congestion.

Monarda didyma, Bee Balm
The Oswego Indians made tea from the aromatic leaves and introduced this practice to the original settlers as a beverage. The Shakers thought that the tea was effective in treating upper respiratory infections. They prescribed it for young brides to stimulate the appetite and regulate menstruation. The early settlers steamed the plant and inhaled fumes to clear their sinuses. It contains thymol which is a pleasant aromatic substance used in dentistry as a preservative and a fungicide.
Oswego tea replaced imported tea after the Boston Tea Party on December 16, 1773. The embargo of imported tea by all of the American colonies led to the bankruptcy of the British East India Company.

Nepeta cataria, Catnip
It is a mild sedative for the relief of insomnia. Chewing the leaves relieves toothaches. It lowers fever by increasing sweating because the evaporation of moisture from the skin is a cooling process. It is hallucinogenic in cats but not in humans.

Nicotiana sylvestris, Nicotiana
A member of a large family of Nicotianas whose leaves are used in making prepartions taken by mouth to induce vomiting and diarrhea, to relieve pain and to sedate. Preparations are used externally as a poultice in the treatment of joint swelling from arthritis, of skin diseases and of insect bites. Nicotine is a very effective biodegradable insecticide.

Ocimum basilicum, Sweet Basil
It is a native of India. Eating its leaves was prescribed by the first century Greek physician Dioscorides to relieve the pain of a scorpion’s sting. The Ancient Romans used it to alleviate flatulence, counteract poisonings and to stimulate breast milk production. Applied externally, it is an insect repellant.

Oenothera biennis, Evening Primrose
American Indians had multiple uses for this plant. External application of the seed oil may be useful in the treatment of eczema and other allergic skin disorders. There is some evidence that internal consumption of the oil is beneficial in the treatment of eczema. It is used for this purpose in Europe, but not permitted in the United States. Three to four grams of primrose oil per day may be beneficial in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome.

Paeonia officinalis, ‘Mollis’ Peony
A plant named after Paeon, physician to the Greek gods, by Theophrastus (372-c. 287 B.C.) For centuries, it has had a large place in classical antiquity as well as in ancient and modern Chinese medicine. In the time of Hippocrates, it was used to treat epilepsy. Dioscorides (40-90 A.D.) wrote that the root of the plant provokes menstruation and that it could be used to expel the placenta following childbirth. The root of herbaceous peonies has been used in Chinese medicine for 1500 years for menstrual disorders and to relieve the symptoms of menopause.

Paeonia suffruticos ‘Renkaku’, White Tree Peony
Root and bark preparations are used in Chinese medicine as an antiseptic, a liver tonic , for relief of menstrual cramps and in the treatment of female infertility. Bark and root preparations are under study for possible analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic medical uses.

Papaver rhoeas, Flanders Poppy or Corn Poppy
It is a native of Europe, North Africa and the temperate zones of Asia. Its latex contains substances very similar to the Opium Poppy but they are much milder in strength. It is called the “Corn Poppy” because of its frequent appearance as a wild flower in grain fields in England and elsewhere in Europe.

Papaver somniferum, Opium Poppy
It is a plant native to Turkey and Asia Minor with medicinal and recreational properties that have been known for more than six thousand years. By three thousand B.C., the Sumerians had named it the joy plant because consuming the dried milky sap of unripe pods caused euphoria.
By three hundred B.C., opium (sun dried milky sap taken from unripe pods) was being used by Arabs, Greeks and Romans as a sedative, a pain reliever and a soporific (a substance to induce sleep). Opium can be lethal; Agrippina, the fifth wife of the Roman Emperor Claudius (10 B.C.-A.D. 54) mixed opium with wine to poison Claudius and his son after Claudius adopted her son, Nero, making it possible for Nero to ascend the throne.
Opium has been the cause of international conflict: The Opium Wars of 1839-1842 and 1856-1860 between the United Kingdom and China.
Morphine was isolated from opium in 1803 by a twenty-year old German pharmacist who named it after Morpheus, the god of dreams. Morphine is the most effective painkiller known to medicine; it has ten times the pain relieving potency of aspirin. Heroin, a synthetic derivative of morphine, has all the properties of morphine to a much more dangerous degree. Heroin and opium are illegal and forbidden to be used in the practice of medicine. Opium, referred to as “brown sugar” in the legal and illegal trade is so-called because of its appearance to brown sugar. Opium dissolved in sherry is laudanum. Paregoric is a camphorated tincture of opium. Opium contains approximately twenty eight natural organic compounds that collectively are called the “opiates”. Five of the natural occurring opiates used in the practice of medicine are: morphine, codeine, thebaine, papaverine and noscapine. Synthetic derivatives of opiates (opioids) are created in the laboratory. They are: meperidene Demerol);diacetylmorpine (Heroin); Oxycodone (OxyContin): and Hydrocodone (Vicodin).

Passiflora incarnata, Passion Flower
The 16th Spanish explorers were enchanted by the beauty of the blossoms of this flowering vine and give it its name. For them, the blossom was full of the symbolism of Christ’s crucifixion; hence the name Passion Flower. The fringed corona reminded them of the crown of thorns, the three stigmas reminded them of the three nails piercing the hands and feet, white stood for purity and blue-purple for heaven, and the 10 sepals for ten of the twelve apostles. Peter and Judas were excluded because the former denied Christ and the later betrayed him. American Indians used the flowers and dried fruits in making sedative preparations.

Physalis alkekengi, Chinese Lantern
Physalis is the Greek word for bladder. It provides the plant its botanical name because the pod resembles a bladder; and because of the pod’s appearance, preparations from the red berry in the pod were used in the past as a diuretic and for the treatment of kidney and bladder stones. These medicinal properties have not been scientifically confirmed. It has not been prescribed since the end of the seventeenth century.

Podophyllium peltatum, May Apple
Extracts of the dried rhizome are used as a topical agent for removing warts. The drug etoposide is synthesized from podophyllotoxin taken from the underground parts and taken internally to treat testicular cancer.

Polemonium reptans, Jacob's Ladder or Greek Valerian
American Indians used the root in preparations to treat skin conditions such as eczema, lung conditions such as pleurisy, and for abdominal complaints.

Pulmonaria officinalis, Lungwort
It is a native of Europe and the Caucasus. The plant is so called because the spotted leaves resemble lung tissue. It is used to treat chest ailments such as chronic bronchitis and asthma.

Prunella vulgaris, Self Heal
It has been shown to possess antibiotic and antiviral properties. It is used in the treatment of labial herpes (herpes simplex) and genital herpes.

Rheum officinale, English Rhubarb
Anthraquinones in the rhizomes (roots) are strong laxatives and antibiotic against staphylococcus aureus.

Ricinus cummunis 'rubra', Castor Bean Plant
A native of East Africa that in some locations can grow as high as thirty feet. It has a striking red stalk and green palmate leaves making it a striking accent in the garden. The white flowers are male and female. The seed capsules are red. The seeds are very poisonous. Oil extracted from the seeds is not poisonous and has been used as a laxative for about four thousand years.

Rosa gallica officinalis, Apothecary Rose
A native of Persia (Iran) that was described by the Ancient Greek poet Sappho as “ the queen of flowers”, this rose has had many uses over time. The Ancient Romans consumed the petals as food and marinated them in wine to use them as a cure for hangovers. Avicenna, a famous eleventh century Arab physician and philosopher living in Moslem Spain, prepared rose water from the petals that he used in treating his patients for a variety of ailments. Knights returning from the Crusades brought the plant to Europe. It was grown chiefly in monastic gardens for medicinal purposes. In the Middle Ages, the blossoms were used in aroma therapy for the treatment of depression. In the nineteenth century beginning in the time of Napoleon, French pharmacists grew them in pots at the entrances of their shops, hence the origin of the common name Apothecary Rose. The Apothecary Rose became the professional symbol of the pharmaceutical profession much as the balanced scales became the professional symbol of the legal profession. French druggists dispensed preparations made from this rose to treat indigestion, sore throats and skin rashes.

Rosa rugosa Wrinkled Rose
This plant is indigenous to Asia; it gets its common English name, the wrinkled rose, from the appearance of its leaves. It has naturalized itself in the sand dunes of the New England seacoast. In China, the flowers are used to make tea to improve the circulation and to “soothe a restless fetus”. Tea and Jelly made from the rose hips are a very rich source of Vitamin C. The rose hips of this plant have the highest natural concentration of Vitamin C of any other natural source of Vitamin C, including all of the citrus fruits. For the sufferer of scurvy, the Rosa rugosa is a medicinal plant; for the rest of us, it is a nutritional plant.

Rosmarinus officinalis, Rosemary
"Rosemary that's for remembrance," Shakespeare. It is a symbol of fidelity between lovers. For centuries it has been used in bridal bouquets to make the statement that the bride will never forget the family she is leaving. It has been buried with the deceased and used in funeral bouquets to signify that the deceased member will never be forgotten by members of his or her family. In ancient Greece, students wore sprigs of this herb in their hair while they studied. Rosemary is believed to stimulate cerebral circulation thereby improving concentration and memory. The oil of the flowering spikes is anti-fungal and anti-biotic. The leaves contain COX-2 inhibitors that inhibit tumor growth and have anti-HIV activity. Rosemary aids in the digestion of fats. Possible improvement in memory may be related to improving circulation to the brain. Rosemary, used in food flavoring, is also important to the perfume industry.

Rudbechia hirta, Black-Eye-Susan
American Indians used root tea to treat parasitic infestations such as pinworm. They used it externally to treat snake bits, superficial wounds and earaches.

Ruta graveolens, Rue
It is native to the Mediterranean that was used in Ancient Greece to stimulate menstrual bleeding and to induce abortion.

[IDTANDY]

Part 3

Salix elaeagnos syn. Salix rosmarinifolia, Rosemary Willow
In Ancient Greece, the bark of the white willow (Salix alba) was chewed to relieve the pain of gout and to reduce fever. In the fifth century B.C., Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, prescribed ground willow bark to ease aches and pains. In the 1st century A.D. Dioscorides, a Greek physician in service to the Romans, wrote that the ingested bark and leaves of Salix alba reduce fever and relieve pain. For centuries, Europeans used tea made of the roots and leaves to lower fever and relieve aches. The Chickasaw Indians used tea made from the roots to relieve headache.
In 1830, German researchers isolated salicin from the bark of the white willow tree and from other plants. Their research determined that ingested salicin becomes salicylic acid in the stomach, and that salicylic acid is responsible for the desired effects as well as undesirable toxic side effects that include gastrointestinal bleeding. In 1875 a derivative, acetylsalicylic acid, was synthesized from salicylic acid. Acetylsalicylic acid was discovered to have the properties of and to have many fewer side effects than salicylic acid. In 1899 acetylsalicylic acid appeared in powder form for the first time; 1915 was the first time that it appeared in pill form. A part of the terms of the peace treaty with Germany following World War I was the surrender of the patent and of the trade mark ASPIRIN for acetylsalicylic acid. Since then acetylsalicylic acid (abbreviated as ASA) has been universally known as aspirin. Aspirin is one of the most important and one of the cheapest drugs in the medical armamentarium for the treatment of human diseases, for the relief of pain, and as a blood thinner in the prevention of heart attacks and strokes caused by disease in the blood vessel walls.

Salvia sclarea, Clary Sage
The seeds were once commonly used to treat eye diseases therefore it is also know as clear eye. It has also been used for gastro-intestinal disorders such as indigestion and flatulence. It stimulates estrogen production so it is used as a remedy for menopausal complaints such as hot flashes.

Salvia officinalis, Sage
Sage is better known as a culinary than as a medicinal herb. Its Latin name, Salvia, is derived from the Latin salvere, "to be saved", in reference to the curative properties of the plant. Sage has numerous traditional medicinal uses as an astringent, as an antiseptic, as a carminative and as an estrogenic.

Sanguisorba officinalis, Salad burnet
It grows in the wild from Maine to Minnesota and beyond. It is used to stop bleeding. American soldiers in the Revolutionary War drank tea made from the leaves before going into battle to prevent excessive bleeding if they were wounded. It is antibacterial. It is currently in use in Chinese herbal medicine to control bleeding and to stop vomiting.

Scilla siberica, Siberian Squill
Syrups and tinctures are used as emetics and cathartics as well as diuretics in the treatment of congestive heart failure. It is also used in expectorants to treat lung disorders. It was used by the Greek physician Epimerides hence it is also know as Epemenidiea.

Sedum purpureum, Live-forever
In the first century A.D., Pliny, the Roman naturalist, stated that the juice of this plant was good for treating wounds and fistulas. In more recent herbal medicine, it has been prescribed to be taken internally for the treatment of ulcers, lung disorders, and diarrhea; and externally it has been prescribed for slow healing ulcers.

Sempervivum tectorum, Hen-and-chicks or Houseleek
The Latin botanical name has an historical reference. Charlemagne (742-814 A.D.) recommended that his subjects plant these hardy prolific plants on the roof of their houses to ward off lightening and fire. The leaves contain tannins and mucilage that are soothing to skin. It is used in the treatment of burns, skin wounds and infections.

Silphium perfoliatum, Cup Plant
A perennial native prairie wildflower whose roots are used in an oral preparation to increase sweating, to reduce fever, to induce abortion and as an expectorant in the treatment of pulmonary diseases.

Solidago canadensis, Golden Rod
The name Solidago, from the Latin solido, "to make whole", indicates its use as a wound-healing herb. Goldenrod is a safe and gentle remedy for a number of disorders. It is a valuable astringent remedy treating wounds and bleeding. Antioxidant and diuretic, goldenrod is a valuable remedy for urinary tract disorders. The plant contains saponins that are antifungal and act specifically against the Candida fungus, the cause of yeast infections and oral thrush. The herb can also be taken for sore throats, chronic nasal congestion, and diarrhea. Due to its mild action, goldenrod is appropriate for treating gastroenteritis in children. It may be used as a mouthwash or douche for yeast infections.

Stachys byzantina, Lamb's Ears
Lamb's ears foliage bandages wounds and reputedly reduces the pain of bee stings.

Stachys officinalis, Betony
In ancient times wood betony had no fewer than 29 uses in treating physical diseases and was used well into the Middle Ages to ward off evil or ill humors. In Europe, the aerial (above the ground) portions of the plant are harvested when the plant is in bloom and is used to treat almost any disease! It is a sedative. In addition, it has anti-diarrhea, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Stylophorum diphyllum, Calendine Poppy
It contains glaucine . Preparations are used in the treatment of insomnia, upper respiratory infections, and to reduce fever as well as in ointments for the treatment of burns and superficial abrasions. In veterinary medicine, ointments are used in the treatment of mastitis.


Symphytum officinale, Comfrey
Comfrey contains allantoin used in ointments for psoriasis and other skin problems. It has been known since Greek and Roman antiquity and used primarily externally as a poultice for surface wounds and to form a cast to hold broken bones immobile while they knit. Comfrey is a corruption of the Latin "con firma" implying that the bone is "made firm". "Symphyton" is derived from the Greek "plants growing together" in the sense of "causing to unite".

Tanacetum parthenium syn. Chrysanthemum parthenium, Feverfew
Parthenion is the Greek word for girl. Feverfew is Elizabethan English and comes from febrifuge, an old medical term for a medicine that reduces fever. Feverfew is an effective remedy for migraine. Parthenolide appears to inhibit the release of the hormone serotonin that triggers migraine. It has also been shown to reduce fever, hence the name Feverfew.

Tanacetum vulgare, Tansy
The blossoms were used as insect repellents in bedding and scattered on bedroom floors and ward floors of hospitals in The Middle Ages. The leaves were used as a preservative in meats and food products.

Taraxacum officinale, Dandelion
Used primarily in Eastern European traditional medicine. It is used primarily as a diuretic but also taken internally to treat arthritis and gastro-intestinal disorders. It is applied externally to treat eczema and other skin conditions. It is eaten raw in “spring salads” and cooked as a vegetable when the plants are very young before flowering.

Teucrium chamaedrys, Germander
Native to Central Europe and harvested when in bloom for tonics to treat diarrhea. It is also an astringent. It contains anti-microbial properties and has been shown to lower cholesterol levels.

Thymus citriodorus, Lemon Thyme
Used to make pediatric oral preparations that are tasty and sweet to relieve an “upset tummy”. It is also in ointments and in “sleep pillows”.

Thymus vulgaris, Thyme
It was used in the Middle Ages as a treatment of epilepsy and depression. In 1975, a German pharmacist discovered that the plant’s essential oil, thymol, was a powerful disinfectant topically and an antibiotic/antifungal agent when taken orally. It is an antispasmodic and an anti-tussive used effectively in cough syrups to raise sputum and relieve coughing.

Tilia cordata ‘Greenspsire’ Linden Tree
A deciduous tree that is native of Europe and Southwest Asia. Pale yellow flowers and lime colored bracts are made into a lime tea that may be consumed simply as a beverage or as a remedy for the relief of headaches, tension, and insomnia.

Tropaelum majus, Nasturtium
A native of Peru, it is a culinary as well as a medicinal herb that is used in Andean Indian herbal medicine. All parts of the plant posses an antibiotic and vitamin C. Taken internally, it stimulates coughing and reduces phlegm production. Applied externally, it is antiseptic. Blossoms and leaves can be used in green salads for their high Vitamin C content.

Vaccinium angustifolium syn V. myrtilloides, Lowbush blueberry
The Chippewa Indians used the flowers to treat psychosis. The fruit contains anthocyanosides. These chemical compounds are very powerful antioxidants that are very effective in the prevention of heart disease and cancer.

Valeriana officinalis, Garden Heliotrope
Heliotrope's botanical name comes from the Latin, valere, which means "to be well". In the first century A.D., Dioscorides, a Greek physician in service to the Romans, described its pharmaceutical properties. It was used in the Middle Ages for treating epilepsy. It is used now to relieve stress, to reduce anxiety and to induce sleep. It is a muscle relaxant and it lowers the blood pressure. Preparations of this plant have very low toxicity and are not addictive; they are made from the root of the plant.

Verbascum thapsus, Mullein
An infusion of leaves and flowers is used to treat sore throats and bronchitis. It reduces the formation of mucous and stimulates coughing to raise phlegm. It is also applied externally to heal wounds. In Germany, the flowers are steeped in olive oil, and the olive oil is then used to treat ear infections. A cotton plug soaked in olive oil is placed in the ear canal.

Veronica officinalis, Speedwell
In modern herbal medicine, speedwell tea, brewed from the dried flowering plant, sometimes serves as a cough remedy or as a lotion applied to the skin to speed wound healing and relieve itching.

Viola tricolor, Johnny-jump-up or Heartease
From this plant a bitter tea is made that is taken internally for lung disorders and is applied externally for skin diseases. The tea is an expectorant and a diuretic. Its other common name, Heartease, refers to a romantic notion that it provides comfort and consolation to separated lovers. In the nineteenth century, the juice of the plant constituted the main ingredient of love potions.

Waldsteinia fragarioides, Barren Strawberry
American Indians preparations of leaves, roots, and flowers to induce labor and to regulate menstruation as well as for the treatment of other disorders.

Zingiber officinale, Ginger
It is a native of tropical rain forests. It contains a powerful substance that is very effective in the treatment of motion sickness and nausea following surgery. It is also used as a digestive remedy; and as a circulation stimulant, it causes blood vessels to dilate.

[msomnipotent]

I really appreciate all of this information. I plan on starting a medicinal herb garden this year, but it will just be something small to start out with.

[IDTANDY]

I really appreciate all of this information. I plan on starting a medicinal herb garden this year, but it will just be something small to start out with.

More than glad to.;)

[IDTANDY]

SO YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE

Poison Hemlock or Water Hemlock

http://img585.imageshack.us/img585/6038/waterhemlock1.png

http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/2335/poisonhemlock.png

http://img855.imageshack.us/img855/681/poisonhemlock1.png

Don't even touch this plant
Distinctive features: Wet areas. Alternate twice-compound leaves; leaflets sometimes haphazard in arrangement.

Similar species:
Water Parsnip – very similar, except the leaves are only once-compound
Cowbane – Also poisonous, and closely resembles Water Parsnip.
Mock Bishop’s Weed
Bulb-bearing Water Hemlock
Wild Carrot (Queen Anne’s Lace) – but this plant grows in dry areas
Other members of the Parsley Family.

Height: 3-6 feet tall

Flowers: Small white flowers in a flat or rounded umbel (an umbrella-shaped cluster) 2-5″ wide. Individual flowers about 1/8″ wide, have 5 petals and 5 stamens.

Leaves: Alternate compound leaves with lance-shaped leaflets, pointed, with numerous teeth. Note the sometimes multiples of leaves giving rise to a somewhat haphazard arrangement of leaves along the leaf stem. Sometimes doubly compound or lobed. Sometimes tinged with red. Up to about 4″ long, 1.5″ wide. The veins on the leaflets end at the notches between the teeth (this is unusual in plants).

Stem: Branching, smooth & stout, often mottled or solid purple. Hollow. Lower part of stem chambered. Roots have fat tuberlike branches.
Habitat: Wet open areas such as marshes, along shores, and sometimes open swamps.



Queen-anne lace aka wild carrot

http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/8509/qanlace.gif


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The stems are erect and branched; both stems and leaves are covered with short coarse hairs.
The leaves are very finely divided; the botanical term is tri-pinnate. When a leaf is composed of a number of lateral leaflets, it is said to be pinnate or feather-like; and when these lateral divisions are themselves pinnated, it is said to be bi-pinnate, or twice-feathered. The leaves of this plant are like that but some of the lower leaves are still more divided and become tri-pinnate. The lower leaves are considerably larger than the upper ones, and their arrangement on the main stem is alternate. All of these leaves embrace the stem with a sheathing base.

The attractive two to four inch "flower" is actually a compound inflorescence made up of many small flowers. The umbels of the flowers are terminal and composed of many rays. The flowers themselves are very small, but from their whiteness and number, present a very conspicuous appearance. The central flower of each umbel is often purple.

During the flowering period the head is nearly flat or slightly convex, but as the seeds ripen the form becomes very cup-like; hence one of the popular names for this plant is "bird's nest." The seeds are covered with numerous little bristles arranged in five rows.

[IDTANDY]

SWEET VIOLET or BLUE VIOLET

http://img585.imageshack.us/img585/4397/violetl.jpg



Violets- (flowers) TEA: coughs, bronchitis (gargle) sore throats. laxative, insomnia, aspirin like effects for head ache and neck pain.

Medicinal and edible, the flowers and leaves of viola are made into a syrup used in alternative medicine mainly for
respiratory ailments associated with congestion, coughing, and sore throat. Flowers are also edible and used as
food additives for instance in salad, made into jelly, and candied for decoration. Large doses of the root contain
an alkaloid called violine which is emetic (causing vomiting). A decoction made from the root (dry herb) is used as
a laxative. Tea made from the entire plant is used to treat digestive disorders and new research has detected the
presence of a glycoside of salicylic acid (natural aspirin) which substantiates its use for centuries as a
medicinal remedy for headache, body pains and as a sedative. The plants constituents are being studied and show
these uses to be valid. Eugenol, Ferulic-acid, Kaempferol, Quercetin, Scopoletin, also show promise in the
treatment of many kinds of cancer, arthritis, AIDS, gum disease and more. Used externally the fresh crushed leaves
reduce swelling and soothe irritations. As a bath additive the fresh crushed flowers are soothing to the skin and
the aroma is very relaxing.
Sweet Violet flowers are expectorant and are used in syrups for coughs and colds; the syrup has anti-septic, anti-
inflammatory, laxative and expectorant properties.
POULTICE: muscle pain, skin eruptions, sores.
Recipes
Syrup: Pour 1 pint of boiling water over 1 cup packed, of fresh crushed flowers and leaves cover and let stand for
12 hours. Strain and squeeze through cloth, add 2 lb. of sugar and boil for 1 hour or until syrupy. Store in glass
jar. Give 1 tbs. -1 tsp. for children 2 or 3 times a day.

Tea: Steep ¼ cup dried or fresh herb in 1 cup of water for 10 min. stain, flavor to taste. Take in ½ cup doses
twice a day.

Ointment
Take shortening like Crisco and place 2 oz in a container in the oven. Heat it until clear.
Add about 36 fresh violet leaves. Stew them in the Crisco for about an hour until the leaves are the consistency of cooked cabbage.
Strain (also filter through coffee filters) and place in a lotion jar.

Poultice
When using fresh plant material you can either chew it up, crush it in a mortor with a pestle or even chop in a blender until you have made a gooey blob (always ensure you have positively identified a plant prior to chewing or ingesting). This mass of plant material is then applied directly to the effected area, wrapped with plastic wrap to retain moisture and then secured in place with a gauze or bandage . When using dry material hot water can be added to hydrate the material and then applied to the affected area. Warm or cold applications can be applied on top of the dressing to provide additional relief as indicated.

Precautions
Taking excessive amounts may cause nausea and vomiting

[IDTANDY]

WORMWOOD


http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/1796/wormwood1.jpg

http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/3668/wormwoodlarge.jpg

http://img33.imageshack.us/img33/9986/220pxartemisiaabsinthiu.jpg


The leaves and flowering tops are gathered when the plant is in full bloom, and dried naturally or with artificial heat. Its active substances include silica, two bitter substances (absinthin and anabsinthine), thujone, tannic and resinous substances, malic acid, and succinic acid. It is used medicinally as a tonic, stomachic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, cholagogue, febrifuge and anthelmintic. It has also been used to remedy indigestion and gastric pain.

Wormwood tea is used as a remedy for labor pain. A dried, encapsulated form of the plant is used as an anthelmintic(INTESTIONAL PARACITES) Extracts of the plant have shown to exhibit strong antimicrobial activity, especially against Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria.

A wine can also be made by macerating the herb. It is also available in powder form and as a tincture. The oil of the plant can be used as a cardiac stimulant to improve blood circulation.

Pure wormwood oil is very poisonous, but with proper dosage poses little or no danger.

In terms of general benefits of the herb Wormwood, it has been proven to help with many things, however it is mainly used in the holistic aspect of medicinal use. It is most commonly consumed either as a hot tea or a tincture to be taken before meals and is favorably used for:

◦Stimulating the digestive tract and gallbladder function
◦Effective trigger of producing excessive amounts of bile which aids in the function of the gallbladder
◦Typically mixed with peppermint and/or caraway (in a tea) to aid in the calming of heartburn and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
◦Expelling of intestinal worms
◦Stimulate feminine menstruation.
◦Stimulates cerebral hemispheres and directly stimulates the cortex cerebri which may aid in nervous diseases like neurasthenia
◦Common muscle relaxant
◦May help to quicken the process of childbirth and help with the expulsion of the afterbirth (it is not recommended however due to the toxicity of the herb)
◦Known to treat anxieties by being used a mild sedative
◦Stimulates poor circulation and aids in the relief of painful rheumatic joints by using the leaves a compress
◦Stimulates/remedies a poor appetite

Wormwood tincture:
Counters food-poisoning and parasites.
Pick Artemisia absinthemum leaves in the late summer or early fall, when mature.
Fill, don't stuff, a jar, with the coarsely chopped leaves.
Fill jar to the top with alcohol.(100 PROOF VODKA WORKS WELL) Cap tightly. Label.
Your fresh wormwood tincture is ready to use in six weeks.

[The Stig]

Excellent information. Thank you for taking the time to share it with us.

[IDTANDY]

Thank you.

[bacpacker]

I agree this is crazy good info. Thanks so much for sharing it.

[IDTANDY]

I look at herbal medicine as the thing one will have to rely on if necessary and as an alternate to pharmaceuticals.I think afew within a group should have this knowledge.I want to pass on as much as I can.I truly enjoy this.;)
Thank you

Andy

[IDTANDY]

Nervine herbs.

Been researching this class of herbs.I have an on going neuro problem and the current trend of meds used for treatment are not good for me.
I have had sucess in getting the desired effect.Reduction nerve pain,hyper reflexes and cog wheel movements.When I can find studies I will post them here.

Nervine herbs help soothe, calm and nourish the nervous system. Some of the nervine herbs are black cohosh, blue vervain, boneset, catnip, chamomile, cramp bark. damiana, gotu kola, hops, lady's slipper, lemon balm, lobelia, oatraw, passion flower, skullcap, valerian root and wood betony.
Here some pdf's.

http://www.hawaii.edu/hivandaids/Nervine_Herbs_for_Treating_Anxiety.pdf

http://www.nutraceutical.com/educate/pdf/kava_nervine_herbs.pdf

[Katrina]

I found this site a little while ago, forgot I had printed off of it
Annie's Remedy Medicinal Herbs and Healing Oils (http://www.anniesremedy.com)
It shows a picture of the herb flower and I think the dried plant. Might be useful

[IDTANDY]

Nice find.



Some good info here under sanctuary garden

Norcross Wildlife Sanctuary (http://norcrossws.org/norcross.htm)

[IDTANDY]

Came across this.
Herbal Materia Medica of western, chinese herbs. echinacea, ginseng, st johns wort, liquorice (http://www.nzwellness.com/nervine.html)
Lots of good information.

[Sniper-T]

Thanks again Taz and IDTandy; great lists and links!

Question, a buddy is suffereing from a bad flareup of gout, and as per your first list:

Gout Chervil, Chicory, Fennel, St. John's Wort, Tansy


Would these be best as a tea or poultice. a combination or individually?

Suggestions?

[Taz Baby]

as a tea
1 cup of fresh herbs to make 6 cups of tea. bring the water to a boil then add crushed herbs and let steep for 4 min. strain the leaves and add your sweetener. I use honey not sugar as honey also helps.