Herb
(Scientific Name) |
|
Parts
Used |
|
Phytochemical
and Nutrient Content |
|
Actions
and Uses |
|
Comments |
Acerola
(Malpighia glabra)
|
|
Fruit. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene. Nutrients: Calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium,
vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and C. |
|
Has
antioxidant, antifungal, and astringent properties. Helps to support the
liver and hydrate the skin. Useful for diarrhea and fever. |
|
A
rainforest herb similar to the cherry One of the richest natural sources
of vitamin C; found in numerous multivitamin supplements. |
Alfalfa
(Medicago sativa)
|
|
Flowers,
leaves, petals, sprouted seeds. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Alpha-carotene, beta- carotene, beta-sitosterol, chlorophyll, coumarin,
cryptoxanthin, daidzein, fum- aric acid, genistein, limonene, lutein, saponin,
stigmasterol, zeaxanthin. Nutrients: Calcium, copper, folate, iron, magnesium,
manganese, phosphorus, potassium, silicon, zinc, vitamins A, B1, B2, B3,
B5, B6, C, D, E, and K. |
|
Alkalizes
and detoxifies the body. Acts as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal.
Lowers cholesterol, balances blood sugar and hormones, and promotes pituitary
gland function. Good for anemia, arthritis, ulcers, bleeding-related disorders,
and disorders of the bones and joints, digestive system, and skin. |
|
Must
be used in fresh, raw form to provide all nutrients. Sprouts are especially
effective (be sure to rinse them thoroughly before use to remove mold and
bacteria). |
Aloe
(Aloe vera)
|
|
Pulp
from insides of succulent leaves. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Acemannan, beta- carotene, beta-sitosterol, campesterol, cinnamic acid,
coumarin, lignins, p-coumaric acid, saponins. Nutrients: Amino acids, calcium,
folate, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, vitamins A, B1, B2,
B3, C, and E. |
|
Acts
as an astringent, emollient, anti- fungal, antibacterial, and antiviral.
Applied topically, heals burns and wounds; and stimulates cell regeneration.
Ingested, helps to lower cholesterol, reduces inflammation resulting from
radiation therapy, increases blood-vessel generation in lower extremities
of people with poor circulation, soothes stomach irritation, aids healing,
and acts as a laxative. Good for AIDS and for skin and digestive disorders.
|
|
Allergic
reactions, though rare, may occur in susceptible persons. Before using,
apply a small amount behind the ear or on the under- arm. If stinging or
rash occurs, do not use. Caution: Should not be taken internally during
pregnancy |
Anise
(Pimpinella anisum)
|
|
Seeds,
seed oil. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Alpha-pinene, apigenin, bergapten, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, eugenol,
limonene, linalool, myristicin, rutin, scopoletin, squalene, stigmasterol,
umbelliferone. Nutrients: Calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus,
potassium, zinc, vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, Q and E. |
|
Aids
digestion, clears mucus from air passages, combats infection, and promotes
milk production in nursing mothers. Good for indigestion and for respiratory
infections such as sinusitis. Also helpful for menopausal symptoms. |
|
Used
in many popular products as a fragrance and flavoring. |
Annatto
(Bixa orellana)
|
|
Leaves,
roots, seeds. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, bixin, cyanidin, ellagic acid, salicylic acid, saponin, tannins.
Nutrients: Amino acids, calcium, iron, phosphorus, vitamins B2, B3, and
C. |
|
Has
diuretic, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inf lam matory, and expectorant
properties. Helps to protect the liver and kidneys. May reduce blood sugar
levels. Useful for indigestion, fever, coughs, burns, skin problems, and
weight loss. |
|
A
rainforest herb used in skin care products as an emollient, and as an orange-yellow
food coloring. |
Ashwagandha
(Withania somnifera)
|
|
Roots. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Alkaloids, beta- sitosterol, chlorogenic acid, scopoletin, withaferin. Nutrients:
Amino acids, choline. |
|
Rejuvenates
and energizes the nervous system. Helps prevent stress-related disorders
and stress-related depletion of vitamin C and cortisol. Increases physical
endurance and improves sexual function. Has anti-inflammatory and anti-aging
effects. In laboratory studies, has modulated and stimulated immune function.
|
|
An
Ayurvedic herb also known as Indian ginseng and winter cherry. An important
herb in Ayurvedic medicine. |
Astragalus
(Astragalus membranaceus)
|
|
Roots. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Betaine, beta- sitosterol, formononetin, isoliquiriti- genin. Nutrients:
Calcium, choline, copper, essential fatty acids, iron, magnesium, manganese,
potassium, zinc. |
|
Acts
as a tonic to protect the immune system. Aids adrenal gland function and
digestion. Increases metabolism, produces spontaneous sweating, promotes
healing, and provides energy to combat fatigue and prolonged stress. Increases
stamina. Good for colds, flu, and immune-deficiency- related problems, including
AIDS, cancer, and tumors. Effective for chronic lung weakness. |
|
Also
called huang qi. Caution: Should not be taken if fever is present. |
Barberry
(Berberis vulgaris)
|
|
Bark,
berries, roots. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Berbamine, berberine, beta-carotene, caffeic acid, kaempferol, lutein, quercetin,
sinapic acid, zeaxanthin. Nutrients: Calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese,
phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and
C. |
|
Decreases
heart rate, slows breathing, reduces bronchial constriction. Kills bacteria
on the skin and stimulates intestinal movement. |
|
Caution:
Should not be used during pregnancy. |
Bayberry
(Myrica cerifera)
|
|
Root
bark. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, gallic acid, myristic acid, phenol. Nutrients: Calcium, iron,
magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, zinc, vitamins
B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Acts
as a decongestant and astringent. Aids circulation, reduces fever. Helps
stop bleeding. Good for circulatory disorders, fever, hypothyroidism, and
ulcers. Also good for the eyes and the immune system. |
|
The
wax of the berries is used to make fragrant candies. Caution: Should not
be used at high dosages or for prolonged periods. May temporarily irritate
sensitive stomachs. |
Bilberry
(Vaccinium myrtillus)
|
|
Entire
plant. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Anthocyanosides, beta-carotene, caffeic acid, caryo- phyllene, catechin,
chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, gallic acid, hyperoside, lutein, quercetin,
quercitrin, ursolic acid, vanillic acid. Nutrients: Calcium, inositol, magnesium,
manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, sulfur, zinc, vitamins
B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Acts
as an antioxidant, diuretic, and urinary tract antiseptic. Keeps blood vessels
flexible, allowing increased blood flow. Helps control insulin levels and
strengthen connective tissue. Sup- ports and strengthens collagen str i
uc- tures, inhibits the growth of bacteria, and has anti-aging and anticarcino-
genic effects. Useful for hypoglycemia, inflammation, stress, anxiety, night
blindness, and cataracts. May help halt or prevent macular degeneration.
|
|
Also
known as European blueberry. Related to the American blueberry. Caution:
Interferes with iron absorption when taken internally. Should not be used
by people with diabetes except under the supervision of a knowledgable health
professional. |
Birch
(Betula alba)
|
|
Bark,
leaves, sap. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Betulin, betulinic acid, hyperoside, luteolin and quercetin glycosides,
methyl salicylate. |
|
Acts
as a diuretic, anti -i nf lam matory, and pain reliever. Good for joint
pain and urinary tract infections. Applied topically, good for boils and
sores. |
|
Betulinic
acid in birch bark has been found to kill cancer cells. |
Black
cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)
|
|
Rhizomes
roots. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, cimicifugin, formononetin, gallic acid, phytosterols, salicylic
acid, tannic acid, tannin. Nutrients: Calcium, chromium, iron, magnesium,
manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, zinc, vitamins B1,
B2, B3, and C. |
|
Lowers
blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Reduces mucus production. Helps cardiovascular
and circulatory disorders. Induces labor and aids 'in childbirth (many herbalists
recommend taking small amounts 2 weeks before expected delivery). Relieves
meno- pausal symptoms, menstrual cramps with back pain, morning sickness,
and pain. Helpful for poisonous snake bites. Good for arthritis. |
|
Also
known as black snakeroot. Caution: Should not be used during pregnancy (until
just before birth) or in the presence of chronic disease. |
Black
walnut (Juglans nigra)
|
|
Husks,
inner bark, leaves, nuts. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, ellagic acid, juglone, myricetin, tannin. Nutrients: Calcium,
iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, zinc,
vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Aids
digestion and acts as a laxative. Helps heal mouth and throat sores. Cleanses
the body of some types of parasites. Good for bruising, fungal infection,
herpes, poison ivy, and warts. May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol
levels. |
|
When
boiled, the hulls produce a dye that is used to color wool. |
Blessed
thistle (Cnicus benedictus)
|
|
Flowers,
leaves, stems. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, beta-sitosterol, cnicin, ferulic acid, kaempferol, luteolin,
oleanolic acid, stigmasterol. Nutrients: Calcium, essential fatty acids,
iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, zinc,
vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Stimulates
the appetite and stomach secretions. Heals the liver. Lessens inflammation,
improves circulation, cleanses the blood, and strengthens the heart. May
act as brain food. Good for female disorders and increases milk flow in
nursing mothers. |
|
Also
called St. Benedict thistle, holy thistle. Caution: Should be handled with
care to avoid toxic skin effects. |
Blue
cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides)
|
|
Roots. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Anagyrine, beta- carotene, caulophylline, caulophyllo- saponin, caulosaponin,
hederagenin, phytosterols, saponin. Nutrients: Cal- cium, iron, magnesium,
manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and
C. |
|
Eases
muscle spasms and stimulates uterine contractions for childbirth. Useful
for memory problems, menstrual disorders, and nervous disorders. |
|
Caution:
Should not be used during the first two trimesters of pregnancy. |
Boldo
(Peumus boldus)
|
|
Leaves. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Alpha-pinene, ascaridole, benzaidehyde, beta- pinene, boldin, boldine, camphor,
coumarin, eugenol, farnesol, kaempferol, limonene, linalool, 1,8-cineole.
Nutrients: Choline. |
|
Acts
as a diuretic, laxative, antibiotic, liver tonic, and anti-inflammatory
Aids in the excretion of uric acid and stimulates digestion. |
|
Used
by indigenous peoples of Chile and Peru for liver ailments and gallstones.
|
Boneset
(Eupatorium perfoliatum)
|
|
Flower
petals, leaves. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Astragalin, gallic acid, eufoliatin, eufoliatorin, eupatorin, euperfolin,
euperfolitin, gallic acid, hyperoside, kaempferol, quercetin, rutin, tannic
acid. |
|
Acts
as a decongestant, laxative, anti- inflammatory, and diuretic. Loosens phlegm,
reduces fever, increases perspiration, calms the body Useful for colds,
flu, bronchitis, and fever- induced aches and pains. |
|
Also
called white snakeroot. Caution: Long-term use should be avoided, as it
can result in toxicity. |
Borage
(Borago officinalis)
|
|
Leaves,
seeds. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, rosmarinic acid, silicic acid, tannin. Nutrients: Calcium,
choline, essential fatty acids, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium,
zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Acts
as an adrenal tonic and gland balancer. Contains valuable minerals and essential
fatty acids needed for proper cardiovascular function and healthy skin and
nails. |
|
The
flowers of the borage plant are edible. |
Boswellia
(Boswellia serrata)
|
|
Gum
resin. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Borneol, boswellic acids, carvone, caryophyllene, farnesol, geraniol, limonene.
|
|
Acts
as an anti-i nf lam matory, anti- arthritic, antifungal, and antibacterial.
Used topically for pain relief. Lowers cholesterol, protects the liver.
Useful for arthritis, gout, low back pain, myositis, and fibromyalgia. Helps
repair blood vessels damaged by inflammation. Traditionally used as a remedy
for obesity, diarrhea, dysentery, pulmonary diseases, ringworm, and boils.
|
|
An
Ayurvedic herb also known as Indian frankincense. An important herb in Ayurvedic
medicine. |
Buchu
(Barosma betulina)
|
|
Leaves. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Alpha-pinene, alpha- terpinene, barosma-camphor, diosphenol, hesperidin,
limonene, menthone, pulegone, quercetin, quercetrin, rutin. Nutrients: Calcium,
iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, zinc,
vitamins B1, B2, and B3. |
|
Lessens
inflammation of the colon, gums, mucous membranes, prostate, sinuses, and
vagina. Acts as a diuretic. Helps control bladder and kidney problems, diabetes,
digestive disorders, fluid retention, and prostate disorders. A specific
for bladder infections. |
|
Do
not boil buchu leaves. |
Burdock
(Arctium lappa)
|
|
Plant,
roots, seeds. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Acetic acid, arctigenin, arctiin, beta-carotene, butyric acid, caffeic acid,
chlorogenic acid, costic acid, inulin, isovaleric acid, lauric acid, lignin,
myristic acid, propionic acid, sitosterol, stigmasferol. Nutrients: Amino
acids, calcium, copper, chromium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus,
potassium, selenium, silicon, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Acts
as an antioxidant. May help to protects against cancer by helping control
cell mutation. Aids elimination of excess fluid, uric acid, and toxins.
Has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Purifies the blood, restores
liver and galibladder function, and stimulates the digestive and immune
systems. Helps skin disorders such as boils and carbuncles, and relieves
gout and menopausal symptoms. Burdock root used as a hair rinse promotes
scalp and hair health. |
|
Caution:
Interferes with iron absorption when taken internally. |
Butcher's
broom (Ruscus aculeatus)
|
|
Plant,
roots, seeds. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, chrysophanic acid, glycolic acid, neoruscogenin, rutin, saponin.
Nutrients: Calcium, chromium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium,
selenium, silicon, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Reduces
inflammation. Useful for carpal tunnel syndrome, circulatory disorders,
edema, Ménière's disease, obesity, Raynaud's phenomenon, thrombophlebitis,
varicose veins, and vertigo. Also good for the bladder and kidneys. |
|
More
effective if taken with vitamin C. |