Herb
(Scientific Name) |
|
Parts
Used |
|
Phytochemical
and Nutrient Content |
|
Actions
and Uses |
|
Comments |
Sage
(Salvia officinalis)
|
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Leaves. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Alpha-amyrin, alpha-pinene, alpha-terpineol, apigenin, beta-carotene, beta-sitosterol,
betulin, borneol, caffeic acid, campesterol, camphene, camphor, camosolic
acid, caryophyllene, catechin, chlorogenic acid, citral, farnesol, ferulic
acid, gallic acid, genkwanin, geraniol, hispidulin, limonene, linalool,
luteolin, maslinic acid, oleanolic acid, 1,8-cineole, p-coumaric acid, pinene,
rosmarinic acid, saponin, stigmasterol, tannins, terpineol, thymol, ursolic
acid, vanillic acid. Nutrients: Boron, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese,
phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, and C. |
|
Stimulates
the central nervous system and digestive tract, and has estrogenic effects
on the body Reduces sweating and salivation. Good for hot flashes and other
symptoms of estrogen deficiency, whether in menopause or following hysterectomy.
Beneficial for disorders affecting the mouth and throat, such as tonsillitis.
In tea form, can be used as a hair rinse to promote shine (especially for
dark hair) and hair growth. Also used to dry up milk when women wish to
stop nursing. |
|
Caution:
Interferes with the absorption of iron and other minerals when taken internally,
and decreases milk supply in nursing mothers. Should not be taken by individuals
with seizure disorders. Should not be taken during pregnancy. |
St.
John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
|
|
Flowers,
leaves, stems, oil. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Carotenoids, caryophyllene, chlorophyll, flavonoids, hyperoside, isoquercitrin,
limonene, lutein, mannitol, myristic acid, phenol, phloroglucinol, phytosterols,
quercetin, quercitrin, rutin, saponin, tannins. Nutrients: Vitamin C. |
|
Good
for depression and nerve pain. Helps control stress. In laboratory studies,
protects bone marrow and intestinal mucosa from x-ray damage. Applied topically,
the oil aids wound healing. |
|
Caution:
Large amounts can cause heightened sun sensitivity, especially in light-sensitive
people. Should not be used by people who take prescription anti- depressants
or any medication that interacts with MAO inhibitors. Should be used with
caution during pregnancy. |
Sangre
de grado (Croton lechleri)
|
|
Bark,
resin. |
|
Alpha-pinene,
betaine, beta-pinene, borneol, camphene, dipentene, eugenol, gamma-terpinene,
lignin, linalool, myrcene, p-cymene, tannins, taspine, vanillin. |
|
Fights
free radicals, inflammation, and bacterial, viral, and fungal infection.
Helps heal wounds and stop bleeding. Good for respiratory and skin disorders,
mouth and skin ulcers, sore throat, colds and flu, candida, psoriasis, herpes,
and vaginitis. |
|
A
rainforest herb whose name means "dragon's blood." |
Sarsaparilla
(Smilax species)
|
|
Roots,
rhizomes. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-sitosterol, saponin, stigmasterol. Nutrients: Iron, magnesium, manganese,
phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc. |
|
Promotes
excretion of fluids, increases energy, protects against harm from radiation
exposure, and regulates hormones. Useful for frigidity, hives, impotence,
infertility, nervous system disorders, premenstrual syndrome, psoriasis,
rheumatoid arthritis, and disorders caused by blood impurities. |
|
Also
called Chinese root, small spikenard. |
Saw
palmetto (Serenoa repens)
|
|
Berries,
seeds. |
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Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, beta- sitosterol, ferulic acid, mannitol, myristic acid,
tannins, vanillic acid, vanillin. |
|
Acts
as a diuretic, urinary antiseptic, and appetite stimulant. Inhibits production
of dihydrotestosterone, a form of testosterone that contributes to enlargement
of the prostate. May also enhance sexual functioning and sexual desire.
|
|
Used
clinically in Europe to treat benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). Can be
combined with nettle root for BPH also. |
Skullcap
(Scutellaria laterfolia)
|
|
Leaves,
shoots. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, lignin, tannins. Nutrients: Calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese,
phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Aids
sleep, improves circulation, and strengthens the heart muscle. Relieves
muscle cramps, pain, spasms, and stress. Good for anxiety, fatigue, cardio-
vascular disease, headache, hyperactivity, nervous disorders, and rheumatism.
Useful in treating barbiturate addiction and drug withdrawal. |
|
Caution:
Should not be given to children under 6. |
Slippery
elm (Ulmus rubra)
|
|
Inner
bark. |
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Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, campesterol, mucilage, starch, tannin. Nutrients: Calcium,
iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins
B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Soothes
inflamed mucous membranes of the bowels, stomach, and urinary tract. Good
for diarrhea and ulcers and for treatment of colds, flu, and sore throat.
Beneficial for Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis, diverticulitis,
and gastritis. |
|
Also
called moose elm, red elm. |
Squawvine
(Mitchella repens)
|
|
Leaves,
stems. |
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Phytochemicals:
Alkaloids, glycosides, mucilage, saponins, tannins. |
|
Relieves
pelvic congestion and soothes the nervous system. Good for menstrual cramps
and preparation for childbirth. |
|
Also
called partridgeberry. |
Stone
root (Collinsonia canadensis)
|
|
Whole
plant, fresh root. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Alpha-pinene, caffeic acid, caryophyllene, limonene. Nutrients: Magnesium.
|
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Acts
as a diuretic, sedative, antispas- modic, astringent, and tonic. Good for
the urinary tract. Breaks up mucus. Helpful for bronchitis, headache, cramps,
indigestion, and hemorrhoids. |
|
|
Suma
(Pfaffia paniculata)
|
|
Bark,
berries, leaves, roots. |
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Phytochemicals:
Beta-sitosterol, saponin, stigmasterol. Nutrients: Iron, magnesium, zinc,
vitamins A, B1, B2, B5, E, and K. |
|
Fights
inflammation, boosts the immune system, and combats anemia, fatigue, and
stress. Good for AIDS, arthritis, can- cer, liver disease, menopausal symptoms,
high blood pressure, Epstein-Barr virus and weakened immune system. |
|
Also
known as Brazilian ginseng. |
Tea
tree (Meialeuca alternifolia)
|
|
Essential
oil. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Alpha-pinene, alpha-terpineol, aromadendrene, beta-pinene, camphor, caryophyllene,
limonene, linalool, 1,8-cineole, p-cymene, terpinenes, terpinolene. |
|
Used
topically, disinfects wounds and heals virtually all skin conditions, including
acne, athlete's foot, boils, cuts and scrapes, earache, fungal infections,
hair and scalp problems, herpes outbreaks, insect and spider bites, scabies,
and warts. Added to water, can be used as a douche for vaginitis and a gargle
for colds, sore throats, and mouth sores (do not swallow it, however). |
|
Caution:
Should not be taken internally; can be toxic. If irritation occurs, discontinue
use or dilute with distilled water, vegetable oil, primrose oil, or vitamin
E oil. If irritation persists after dilution, discontinue use. |
Thyme
(Thymus vulgaris)
|
|
Berries,
flowers, leaves. |
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Phytochemicals:
Alpha-pinene, apigenin, beta-carotene, borneol, caffeic acid, camphor, caprylic
acid, carvacrol, carvone, chlorogenic acid, cinnamic acid, citral, eugenol,
ferulic acid, gallic acid, geraniol, kaempferol, lauric acid, limonene,
linalool, luteolin, myristic acid, naringenin, oleanolic acid, p-coumaric
acid, p-cymene, phytosterols, rosmarinic acid, salicylates, tannin, thymol,
ursolic acid, vanillic acid. Nutrients: Amino acids, calcium, essential
fatty acids, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium,
zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Eliminates
gas and reduces fever, headache, and mucus. Has strong antiseptic properties.
Lowers cholesterol levels. Good for asthma, bronchitis, croup and other
respiratory problems, and for fever, headache, and liver disease. Eliminates
scalp itching and flaking caused by candidiasis. |
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|
Turmeric
(Curcuma longa)
|
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Rhizomes.
|
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Phytochemicals:
Alpha-pinene, alpha- terpineol, azulene, beta-carotene, borneol, caffeic
acid, caryophyllene, cinnamic acid, curcumin, eugenol, guaiacol, limonene,
linalool, 1,8-cineole, p-coumaric acid, p-cymene, turmerone, vanillic acid.
Nutrients: Calcium, iron, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, vitamins
B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Fights
free radicals, protects the liver against toxins, inhibits platelet aggregation,
aids circulation, lowers cholesterol levels, and improves blood- vessel
health. Has antibiotic, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. Good
for all arthritic conditions. |
|
Used
as a seasoning and the main ingredient in curry powder. Has inhibited the
spread of HIV in laboratory tests. Caution: Extended use can result in stomach
distress. Not recom- mended for persons with biliary tract obstruction,
as curcumin stimulates bile secretion. |
Uva
ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
|
|
Leaves. |
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Phytochemicals:
Arbutin, beta- carotene, beta-sitosterol, ellagic acid, gallic acid, hyperin,
isoquercitrin, myricetin, oleanolic acid, quercetin, quercitrin, ursolic
acid. Nutrients: Calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium,
selenium, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Promotes
excretion of fluids, fights bacteria, and strengthens heart muscle. Good
for disorders of the spleen, liver, pancreas, and small intestine. Useful
for bladder and kidney infections, diabetes, and prostate disorders. |
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Also
called bearberry. Caution: Not recom- mended for women who are pregnant
or nursing, nor for children under 12. |
Valerian
(Valeriana officinalis)
|
|
Rhizomes,
roots. |
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Phytochemicals:
Azulene, beta- carotene, beta-ionone, beta-sitosterol, borneol, bornyl acetate,
caffeic acid, caryophyllene, chlorogenic acid, isovaleric acid, kaempferol,
limonene, p-coumaric acid, quercetin, valepotriates, valerenic acid, valerenone,
valeric acid. Nutrients: Calcium, choline, essential fatty acids, iron,
magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins B1,
B2, B3, and C. |
|
Acts
as a sedative, improves circulation, and reduces mucus from colds. Good
for anxiety, fatigue, high blood pressure, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome,
menstrual and muscle cramps, nervousness, pain, spasms, stress, and ulcers.
|
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A
water-soluble extract form is best. Caution: Should not be combined with
alcohol. |
Vervain
(Verbena officinalis)
|
|
Flowers,
leaves, shoots, stems. |
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Phytochemicals:
Adenosine, aucubin, beta-carotene, caffeic acid, citral, tannin, ursolic
acid, verbenalin, verbenin. |
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Strengthens
the nervous system. Promotes liver and galibladder health. Reduces tension
and stress. Induces sweating. Promotes menstruation and increases mother's
milk. Useful for mild depression, insomnia, headache, toothache, wounds,
colds, fever. |
|
Caution:
Should not be used during pregnancy, as it stimulates uterine contractions.
|
White
oak (Quercus alba)
|
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Bark. |
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Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, beta- sitosterol, catechin, gallic acid, pectin, quercetin,
quercitrin, tannin. Nutrients: Calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus,
potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Acts
as an antiseptic. Good for skin wounds, bee stings, burns, diarrhea, fevers
and cold, bronchitis, nosebleed, poison ivy, and varicose veins. Also good
for the teeth. Can be used in enemas and douches. |
|
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White
willow (Salix alba)
 |
|
Bark. |
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Phytochemicals:
Apigenin, beta- carotene, catechin, isoquercitrin, lignin, p-coumaric acid,
quercetin, rutin, salicin, salicylic acid, tannin. Nutrients: Calcium, iron,
magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins B1,
B2, B3, and C. |
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Relieves
pain. Good for allergies, headache, backache, nerve pain, joint pain, inflammation,
menstrual cramps, toothache, and injuries. |
|
Contains
compounds from which aspirin was derived. Caution: Not recom- mended for
use during pregnancy May inter- fere with absorption of iron and other minerals
when taken internally Should not be used by people who are allergic to aspirin.
|
Wild
cherry (Prunus serotina)
|
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Inner
bark, root bark. |
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Phytochemicals:
Benzaidehyde, caffeic acid, kaempferol, p-coumaric acid, quercetin, scopoletin,
tannin, ursolic acid. Nutrients: Calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium,
zinc. |
|
Acts
as an expectorant and mild sedative. Good for coughs, colds, bronchitis,
asthma, digestive disorders, and diarrhea. |
|
Also
called choke cherry, wild black cherry, Virginia prune. Caution: Wild cherry
bark should not be used during pregnancy Also, the leaves, bark, and fruit
pits contain hydrocyanic acid, which can be poisonous. A commercially prepared
syrup or tincture is best. |
Wild
oregano (Origanum vulgare)
|
|
Leaves,
shoots,
stems.
|
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Phytochemicals:
Alpha-pinene, apigenin, beta-carotene, borneol, caffeic acid, camphor, capric
acid, carvacrol, caryophyllene, catechol, chlorogenic acid, cinnamic acid,
eriodictyol, eugenol, geraniol, kaempferol, limonene, linalool, luteolin,
myristic acid, naringenin, naringin, oleanolic acid, 1,8-cineole, p-coumaric
acid, phyto- sterols, quereetin, rosmarinic acid, rutin, tannins, thymol,
ursolic acid, vanillic acid, vitexin. Nutrients: Calcium, essential fatty
acids, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, vitamins
A, B1, B3, and C. |
|
Fights
free radicals, inflammation, and bacterial, viral, and fungal infection.
Boosts the immune system. Useful for acne, allergies, animal bites, arthritis,
asthma, athlete's foot, bee stings, bronchitis, chronic infections, cold,
cough, diarrhea, digestive problems, earache, eczema, fatigue, gum disease,
headache, menstrual irregularities, muscle pain, parasitic infections, psoriasis,
sinusitis, skin infections, urinary tract disorders, and wounds. |
|
Oregano
sold in supermarkets is usually a combination of several oregano species,
and does not have the medicinal benefits of Origanum vulgare. |
Wild
yam (Dioscorea villosa)
|
|
Rhizomes,
roots. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, diosgenin. Nutrients: Calcium, chromium, iron, magnesium,
manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and
C. |
|
Relaxes
muscle spasms, reduces inflammation, and promotes perspiration. Contains
compounds similar to the hormone progesterone. Good for colic, galibladder
disorders, hypoglycemia, irritable bowel syndrome, kidney stones, neuralgia,
rheumatism, and female disorders, including premenstrual syndrome and menopause-related
symptoms. |
|
Many
yam-based products are extracted from plants treated with fertilizers and
pesticides, which may end up in the final products. The selection, cleansing,
and processing of the raw materials is very important. Caution: Should not
be used during pregnancy. |
Wintergreen
(Gaultheria procumbens)
|
|
Leaves,
roots, stems. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Caffeic acid, ferulic acid, gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, methyl salicylate,
tannin, vanillic acid. |
|
Relieves
pain and reduces inflamma- tion. Stimulates circulation. Good for arthritis,
headache, toothache, muscle pain, and rheumatic complaints. |
|
Oil
distilled from the leaves is used in perfumes and as a flavoring. Contains
a compound composed of 90 percent methyl salicylate, a substance similar
to aspirin. |
Witch
hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)
|
|
Bark,
leaves, twigs. |
|
Phytochemials:
Beta-ionone, gallic acid, isoquercitrin, kaempferol, leucodelphinidin, myrcetin,
phenol, quercetin, quercetrin, saponins, tannins. |
|
Applied
topically, has astringent and healing properties, and relieves itching.
Good for hemorrhoids, mouth and skin inflammation, and phlebitis. Very useful
in skin care. |
|
|
Wood
betony (Stachys officinalis)
|
|
Leaves. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Betaine, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, rosmarinic acid, stachydrine, tannin.
Nutrients: Choline, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus. |
|
Stimulates
the heart and relaxes muscles. Improves digestion and appreciation of food.
Good for cardio- vascular disorders, hyperactivity, nerve pain, headaches,
and anxiety attacks. |
|
Also
called betony. Caution: Should not be used during pregnancy. |
Wormwood
(Artemisia absinthium)
|
|
Leaves,
tops. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, chamazulene, chlorogenic acid, isoquercitrin, p-coumaric
acid, rutin, salicylic acid, tannins, vanillic acid. Nutrients: Vitamin
C. |
|
Acts
as a mild sedative, eliminates worms, increases stomach acidity, and lowers
fever. Useful for loss of appetite and liver, galibladder, gastric, and
vascular disorders, including migraine. Applied topically, good for healing
wounds, skin ulcers and blemishes, and insect bites. |
|
Often
used with black walnut for removal of parasites. Caution: Should not be
used during pregnancy, as it can cause spontaneous abortion. Can be habit-forming
with long-term use. |
Yellow
dock (Rumex crispus)
|
|
Roots. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, hyperoside, quercetin, quercitrin, rutin, tannin. Nutrients:
Calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc,
vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C. |
|
Acts
as a blood purifier and cleanser, and as a general tonic. Improves colon
and liver function. Good for inflammation of the nasal passages and respiratory
tract, anemia, liver disease, and skin dis- orders such as eczema, hives,
psoriasis, and rashes. Combined with sarsaparilla, makes a tea for chronic
skin disorders. |
|
Also
called curled dock. Caution: Yellow dock leaves should not be consumed in
soups or salads. They are high in oxalates and may cause oxalic acid poisoning.
|
Yerba
maté (Ilex paraguariensis)
|
|
Leaves. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Caffeine, chlorogenic acid, chlorophyll, rutin, tannin, theobromine, theophylline,
ursolic acid, vanillin. Nutrients: Choline, inositol, nicotinic acid, pyridoxine,
trace minerals, vitamins B3, B5, B6, C, and E. |
|
Fights
free radicals, cleanses the blood, and suppresses appetite. Fights aging,
stimulates the mind, stimulates the production of cortisone, and tones the
nervous system. Enhances the healing powers of other herbs. Useful for allergies,
constipation, and inflammatory bowel disorders. |
|
Also
called maté Paraguay tea, South American holly Caution: Should not be used
by people who suffer from insomnia. |
Yohimbe
(Pausinystalia yohimbe)
|
|
Bark. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Ajmaline, corynantheine, corynanthine, tannin, yohimbine. |
|
Increases
libido and blood flow to erectile tissue. May increase testosterone levels.
|
|
Yohimbine,
a key component of this herb, is sold as a prescription medication. Caution:
May induce anxiety, panic attacks, and hallucinations in some individuals.
May also cause elevated blood pressure and heart rate, headache, dizziness,
and skin flushing. Should not be used by women or by anyone with high blood
pressure; heart, kidney, or liver disease; or a psychological disorder.
Should not be combined with foods rich in tyramine, such as cheese, red
wine, and liver, as this may increase blood pressure to dangerous levels.
|
Yucca
(Yucca baccata)
|
|
Roots. |
|
Phytochemicals:
Beta-carotene, sarsapogenin, tannin. Nutrients: Calcium, iron, magnesium,
manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and
C. |
|
Purifies
the blood. Beneficial in treating arthritis, osteoporosis, and inflammatory
disorders. |
|
Routinely
prescribed for arthritis in some clinics. Can be cut up, added to water
(1 cup of yucca in 2 cups of water), and used as a soap or shampoo sub-
stitute. Can be added to shampoo also. |