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Agastache (Cana) Four varieties

All parts of the Agastache are edible, including flower and leaf. In addition to attracting pollinators and hummingbirds it can be used as an herb. The flowers make a beautiful and perfect garnish, and the leaves are especially delicious when brewed in tea. Medicinally, Agastache has been used to help with coughs, fevers, wounds and diarrhea.

 

Astragalus (Astragalus Membranaceus)

Astragalus is a superior adaptongenic tonic; it is one of the most used herbs in Asia and is also extremely popular in the United States. Rich in immune-stimulating polysaccharides, it is used to treat many immune deficiencies and is a very effective supportive therapy for people undergoing cancer treatment. Studies show that astragalus helps the body deal with stress and stimulates white blood cell production in bone marrow. Studies have shown that regular use of astragalus helps reduce tumor growth, and its antioxidant properties strengthen the blood and improve cardiac function. A favorite way to use astragalus is cooking the roots to make a nourishing broth. The root is boiled with other vegetables and medicinal mushrooms, then removed before serving, as it is fibrous and hard to chew. Astragalus roots are commonly powdered to male capsules and lozenges. Roots can also be tinctured and used in herbal extracts and longevity elixirs.

 

Anise Hyssop (Agastache Foeniculum)

Anise Hyssop has a long history of use. Leaves can be used in tea, as seasoning, fresh in salads, or made into jellies. Hyssop is also a stimulating expectorant demonstrating marked antiviral activity. The herb promotes elimination of toxins via sweating and diuretic effects. The specific application is in symptomatic relief and swift resolution of the common cold.

 

Angelica (Archangelica L.)

Angelica is a useful expectorant for coughs, bronchitis, and pleurisy, especially when accompanied by fever, colds, or influenza. Angelica leaf may be used as a compress to treat inflammations of the chest. The content of carminative essential oil explains its use easing intestinal colic and flatulence. As a digestive agent, angelica stimulates appetite and may be helpful in anorexia nervosa. It has also been shown to help ease rheumatic inflammations.

 

Aronia Berry (A. Melanocarpa)

Aronia Berry is rich in vitamin C and K as well as powerful antioxidants that may have heart healthy, immune-boosting, and anticancer properties. It's an excellent source of polyphenols, which is a group of antioxidants that includes phenolic acids, anthocyanins, and flavanols making it a superior antioxidant. These beneficial antioxidants protect your cells from potentially harmful molecules called free radicals.

 

Artichoke (Cynara scolymus)

Artichoke is a valuable medicinal plant.  Like milk thistle it benefits the liver, protecting against toxins and infection.  Though the leaves are particularly effective, all parts of the plant are bitter and stimulate digestive secretion, especially bile.  This makes artichokes useful for the treatment of gallbladder problems, nausea, indigestion and abdominal distension, with the added benefit that it lowers blood cholesterol levels.

 

Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)

The roots of Ashwagandha are used to help build energy, reduce nervous tension, and considered a strong reproductive tonic for both men and women. A unique property of Ashwagandha is that while it is energizing to the system, it does not over stimulate the body and is often used to help with insomnia.

 

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Sweet basil acts principally on the digestive and nervous systems, easing flatulence, stomach cramps, colic, and indigestion.  It can be used to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting and helps to kill intestinal worms. Sweet basil has a mildly sedative action, proving useful in treating nervous irritability, depression, anxiety, and difficulty in sleeping.  It may also be taken for epilepsy, migraine, whooping cough as well as an established antibacterial action.

 

Bergamot “Spielarten Mix Bee Balm”

The native Americans have used this plant for a variety of ailments and was even used to treat bee stings (hence the name Bee Balm). Oswego tea, or Bergamot, is said to have been used as one alternative for regular black tea after the Boston Tea Party by those boycotting British goods. All aerial parts of the Bergamot plant are edible and quite aromatic. The flower can be used in teas, salads, and baked goods. Medicinally, Bergamot is used as an antiseptic and for its antimicrobial properties, which make it helpful to use for colds, coughs, nausea, sore throats, gas, colic, and fever.

 

Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

The roots of the Rudbeckia can be used much like Echinacea purpurea to boost immunity and fight colds, flus, and infections. It is also an astringent when used in a warm infusion as a wash for sores and swellings.

 

Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum)

Boneset stimulates the immune response and is best used during the secondary phase of colds and flu (i.e. swelling of mucous membranes and yellow phlegm.)  Using this herb speeds the resolution of infections and supports rapid convalescence.  The specific indications are upper respiratory infection, especially if accompanied by aches and pains. This includes:  COVID, chronic cough, pneumonia, malarial chills, and fevers.  Boneset is intensely bitter and gently laxative.

 

Borage (Borago officinalis)

Borage is used to strengthen the heart and limbs. Mildly laxative, it is good for ailments of the digestive system. A jaundice remedy. Tonic and nervine borage is said to cleanse all poisons from the blood. It’s flowers are used in the Mediterranean as a salad herb; the women eat it to increase their milk when nursing babies.

 

Burdock (Arctium lappa)

Burdock was a traditional remedy for gout, fever, and kidney stones.  In the 17th century, Culpeper wrote “the seed is much commended to break the stone and cause it to be expelled by urine. Burdock is used in both western and Chinese herbal medicine as a detoxifying herb.  The seeds are used to remove toxins in fevers and infections such as mumps and measles, and the root helps the body to eliminate waste products in chronic skin and arthritic conditions.

 

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula is most appropriately used externally for its antiseptic and healing properties.  The tea or the tincture in water can be swished and swallowed to help heal oral lesions, sore throat, or gastric ulcer.

 

California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica)

California poppy is the nonaddictive cousin of the opium poppy and is a very useful nervine.  The leaves, flowers, and seeds are analgesic and antispasmodic, both qualities that make it highly sought after.  California poppy also has a calming and sedative effect and is used to reduce anxiety, promote sleep, and ease nervous tension and hyperactivity.  Extremely safe, it is often used for children and can be taken in teas or tinctures.

 

Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Catnip is a gentle antispasmodic for relieving indigestion and ga.  The herb is a mild and specific remedy for infant colic.  The warm tea is often effective in bringing on a delayed menstrual period. It is also used as a sedative for treating sleeplessness, for dispelling headaches, and sweating out fever.  Of course, it is a favorite of cats, some of which develop an almost unnatural affection for it.  The bruised, fresh herb may be given to cats, to make them happy or to silence nighttime yowling.

 

Chamomile German (Chamomilla recutita syn. Matricaria recutita)

German chamomile has been taken for digestive problems since at least the 1st century AD.  Gentle and efficacious, it is very suitable for children.  The herb is valuable for pain, indigestion, acidity, gastritis, wind, bloating and colic.  It is also used for hiatus hernia, peptic ulcer, Crohn’s disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.  Chamomile flowers also reduce irritability and promote sleep especially in children.

 

Chicory (Cichorium intybus)

The whole plant is a valuable digestive and nerve tonic and an excellent remedy for jaundice and all liver disorders.  Also, for anemia, weak sight, infertility.  Will restore appetite, tone up the entire digestive system and strengthen the digestive juices.  The long mineral rich roots, gently roasted and then ground, are a well-known substitute for coffee.

 

Chives (Allium schoenopraesum)

A general tonic and blood cleanser.  Improves appetite.  Chives possess all the pungent, antiseptic powers of onions in a mild form, and are one of the best means of giving onion elements to infants.

 

Chrysanthemum (Coronanium)

Chrysanthemum has many medicinal uses. It is a diuretic, cold nutritive, tonic, and is anti-inflammatory in action. Chrysanthemums is also found useful in blood

purification, urinary fluid retention, swelling of feet, as well as cosmetic usage stones.

 

Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)

An antispasmodic and aromatic plant, clary sage is used today mainly to treat digestive problems such as wind and indigestion.  It is also regarded as a tonic, calming herb that helps relieve period pain and premenstrual problems. Owing to its oestrogen-stimulating action, it is most effective when levels of this hormone are low.  The plant can therefore be a valuable remedy for complaints that are associated with menopause, particularly hot flushing.

 

Comfrey (Symphytum Officinal)

Comfrey speeds healing of cuts, ulcerations, bruises, broken bones, pulled muscles and ligaments, and sprains. Because Comfrey contains high levels of allantoin, it makes it a powerful cell proliferate externally and is a common ingredient in salves, poultices, oils, and ointments.

 

 

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelion is highly medicinal and used for many different health needs. Dandelion roots and leaves are highly nutritive and are rich in calcium, potassium, protein and vitamins A and C.  Dandelion is used as a tonic for the liver and the kidneys. It helps the body produce bile and is a safe, effective diuretic for the kidneys.

 

Dill (Anethum graveolens)

Dill has always been considered a remedy for the stomach, relieving wind and calming digestion.  Dill makes a useful addition to cough, cold and flu remedies, and is a mild diuretic.

 

Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra)

Elderberries and elderflowers are delicious and an effective medicinal. The berries are diaphoretic, and help promote sweating, by bringing down fevers. Elderberry stimulates the immune system, are antiviral, and are commonly used to treat flus, colds, and respiratory infections. In addition to these medicinal attributes, elderberry is highly nutritious, and is rich in bioflavonoids and vitamin C, and is a strong antioxidant.

 

Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia)

Echinacea is one of the primary remedies for helping the body rid itself of microbial infections. It is often effective against both bacterial and viral attacks. Echinacea is used for conditions such as boils, septicemia, and similar infections, and in conjunction with other herbs, it may be used for any infection anywhere in the body. Echinacea is especially useful for infections of the upper respiratory tract, including laryngitis, tonsillitis, the common cold, and other catarrhal conditions of the nose and sinus. In general, echinacea may be used widely and safely.

 

Edelweiss (Leontopodium alpinum)

Historically, Edelweiss extract has been used to treat a number of physical conditions such as abdominal disorders, heart conditions, bronchitis, rheumatism, fever and dysentery. It was cooked with milk and honey and used to treat respiratory ills. Because of the wide array of active compounds found in the plant, edelweiss was and still is used today in traditional medicine of Alpine countries as an astringent, antitussive, anti-rheumatic, and anti-dysenteric. It is mainly utilized in powder form, as an infusion, as an alcohol-based tincture or simply as a preparation when boiled in milk and honey.

 

Elecampane (Inula helenium)

Elecampane is the premier treatment for acute or chronic disorder of the upper respiratory tract.  It is gentle enough even for children. As a cough medicine, the herb is demulcent, antitussive, and expectorant-a specific for arresting irritable coughing when there is abundant expectoration. The herb also imparts a localized anesthetic influence on the tissues of the throat. As a treatment for upper respiratory tract infection, elecampane exerts a deep-seated antimicrobial influence-an excellent choice for treating viral, fungal, or bacterial infections, including staph. Elecampane has even been successful in treating tuberculosis. This is also one of the better herbs to use in treatment of humid bronchial asthma and associated shortness of breath.

 

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)

Eucalyptus is antiseptic to the upper respiratory tract and helps clear the sinuses. The steam arising from hot eucalyptus tea will also quickly clear clogged sinus passages. The tea or diluted tincture may be used as a gargle against sore throat or as a wash or compress for treating wounds and abrasions.

 

Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)

Evening primrose is an anti-inflammatory and nutritious herb that is at its best when employed as a food. The fresh roots of young plants are delicious-sweet and spicy as well as its leaves and flowers. Made into a tincture, the plant serves as a medicine for treating migraine, pelvic fullness, and other uncomfortable symptoms of PMS and menopause. Over time evening primrose will impart lasting tone to the female reproductive organs.

 

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Fennel is a good digestive herb, generally added to dishes containing meat or cheese or taken after the meal to freshen the breath, improve assimilation of food, and decrease gas. The herb is completely safe for infants and will almost always relieve colic when administered as a weak tea by the teaspoon (5ml).

 

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)

Feverfew is a good nervine tonic with specific application against migraine and low spirits. Part of its anti-migraine effect is due to anti-inflammatory activity and part due to the positive bitter digestive effects.

 

Garlic (Allium sativum)

Consuming garlic helps in the digestion of fats by increasing secretion of the bile. The herb deeply affects the blood and the circulation, demonstrating fibrolinic (blood thinning), antitumor, and anti-blood-cholesterol activity. The raw cloves, garlic oil, and tincture contain thiosulfate compounds that exhibit marked antibacterial effects.

 

Gentian (Gentiana lutea)

Gentian is the purest of bitter tonics, directly stimulating the salivary and gastric secretions. The herb acts to improve appetite, reduce acid indigestion, and tonify the digestive tract.

 

Geranium (Geranium maculatum)

An astringent and clotting agent, Geranium-American cranesbill is used today much as in earlier times. The herb is often prescribed for irritable bowel syndrome and hemorrhoids, and it is used to staunch wounds. It may also be used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding and excessive vaginal discharge.

 

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Hundreds of clinical and animal experiments, most of them conducted in Europe, have established the therapeutic value of ginkgo’s phytochemicals. The bilobalides, ginkgolides, flavonoids, and other substances unique to the tree restore better blood flow to all parts of the body but particularly to the brain, allowing improved use of oxygen. They also stabilized the structure of brain and nerve cells and protect them from oxidative attacks by free radicals. The net result is that you remain more cerebrally supple, able to forestall memory loss, lack of mental dexterity, and depressive tendencies that so often accompany aging.

 

Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis)

Goldenrod is perhaps the first plant to consider for upper respiratory catarrh, whether acute or chronic. The plant may also be used in combination with other herbs to treat influenza.

 

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna, C. oxyacantha)

This is the premier herb for treating heart-related illness. Hawthorn is commonly and effectively used on an ongoing basis in recuperation from heart surgery or heart attack and for treating degenerative heart disease, arteriosclerosis, weakness of the heart muscle, and irregular heartbeat.  The herb regulates blood pressure and promotes a general sense of open-heart well-being.

 

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

Hibiscus(roselle) makes a refreshing, pleasant-tasting tea that is cooling and mildly sedative, soothing hot and feverish conditions. The calyces are gently tonic and will ease colds, coughs and chest problems. They also aid digestion and gently stimulates appetite. Both the calyces and flowers act to reduce cholesterol levels. All parts of hibiscus are demulcent, mildly soothing sore or inflamed mucus membranes within the digestive and respiratory tract. Various clinical studies have shown that hibiscus helps to lower high blood pressure.

 

Horehound (Marrubium Vulgare)

Horehound soothes the upper respiratory tract, suppresses coughing, and promotes expectoration. The gentle laxative and digestive bitter effects are also helpful for treating the common cold, which is a condition of congestion and bodily stasis. Horehound gets things moving. Taken as a hot tea, the herb will help bring on delayed menstruation.

 

Hyssop Arcado Pink (Agastache Hybrida)

Agastache is edible. The flavor of the leaves and flowers ranges from the licorice of anise hyssop (A. Foeniculum) to the more minty Korean hummingbird mint (A. rugosa). All species are useful in                   tea, and the young leaves can be eaten in salads.

 

 

Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

Lavender is a mild sedative for treating headaches, nervousness, and nervous insomnia.  Simply smelling the living flowers or a bundle of the dried flowering stalks is an uplifting experience. Disinfects the sickroom and supports rapid convalescence. Also, a digestive remedy, especially useful for treating any sensation of overfullness or nausea after eating.

 

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Lemon balm promotes longevity. It is a gently sedative and calming herb, especially useful for treating nervousness of adults and over excitement of children. For treating the common cold, the herb has a mild antiviral influence and helps sweat out a fever. Daily consumption of fresh juice or succus may assist in regulating hyperactivity thyroid-potentially helpful in treating goiter and Graves’s disease.

 

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

Lemongrass is principally taken as a tea to remedy digestive problems. It relaxes the muscles of the stomach and gut, relieves cramping pains and flatulence and is particularly suitable for children. In the Caribbean, lemongrass is primarily regarded as a fever-reducing herb. It is applied externally as a poultice or as diluted essential oil to ease pain and arthritis. In India, a paste of the leaves is smeared on patches of ringworm.

 

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra, G. uralensis)

Licorice supports adrenal function. It is a useful demulcent and anti-inflammatory for treating irritated mucous membranes and stomach or duodenal ulcer, also stimulating repair and regeneration of these tissues. Licorice is commonly used in herbal formulas, as a flavoring agent and to harmonize and enhance the activity of other herbs.

 

Lobelia (Indian Tobacco) (Lobelia inflata)

Even ingesting one tiny flower will cause a strong bodily reaction.  This is the reason the tincture is so valuable, because it can be made purposely diluted and taken by the drop.  Among Americans, lobelia has gained a loyal following. The dosage must be carefully regulated, yet the herb maintains its popularity. I believe this is simply because there is no better anti-spasmodic and expectorant available among the entire array of likely choices.  Lobelia is of irreplaceable assistance in addressing chronic, debilitating cough and other lung-related problems, such as asthma and emphysema.

 

 

Lovage (Levisticum officinalis)

Lovage is an aromatic stimulant to digestion and an anti-flatulent. The weak tea is a good treatment for infant colic, administered by the teaspoonful. The tincture of the root or seeds is stronger than that made from other parts of the plant. This has been used as a substitute for dang-gui (Angelica sinensis), providing many of the same benefits.

 

Marjoram (Origanum vulgare)

Marjoram is mainly used for flavoring although the plant contains an aromatic oil that is highly tonic and greatly beneficial to man and animals. Marjoram is used as an aid to good digestion, and to expel poisons from the body. It’s a treatment of all digestive complaints, including sour stomach, fermentation, and bad breath. It will soothe a sore throat and relieve coughs.

 

Marshmallow (Althaea Officinalis)

Marshmallow is soothing in every sense of the word. The leaves, flowers, and roots are medicinal, and full of gooey mucilage that is good for healing irritated mucosa. Traditionally, marshmallows were used to treat inflammation of the urinary tract and respiratory systems. The whole plant has anti-inflammatory properties.

 

Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)

Meadowsweet is one of the best digestive remedies available. The herb protects and soothes the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, reducing excess acidity and easing nausea. It is used in the treatment of heartburn, hyperacidity, gastritis, and peptic ulceration. Its gentle astringency is especially helpful in children’s diarrhea. The presence of aspirin-like chemicals (salicylates) explains Meadowsweet’s ability to reduce fever and relieve the pain of rheumatism in the muscles and joints.

 

 

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)

Motherwort has been documented to have been used in the 17th century to promote women’s health but could have been used much earlier than that. Motherwort brings on delayed menstruation and promotes regularity of the menstrual cycle. Motherwort has been used for the heart and often given for heart palpitations as well as hyperactive thyroids (not for those exhibiting hypoactive thyroids).

 

 

 

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Mullein has been traditionally used for its ability to promote the discharge of mucus and to soothe mucous membranes. It’s classified in herbal literature as both an expectorant, to promote the discharge of mucus, and a demulcent, to soothe and protect mucous membranes. There are no common or severe side effects associated with the use of Mullein.

 

 

Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)

Nasturtium is an antiseptic for the blood and digestive organs; to stimulate appetite, to cure nervous depression, tiredness, poor sight, and the treatment of all worms.

 

Navajo Tea (Thelesperma filifolium)

This plant is taken as a tea to relieve stomachaches and other digestive ailments. It is also used to reduce fevers, to treat kidney problems, to purify the blood against gonorrhea, as a stimulant for the nervous system, and applied as a mouthwash to reduce tooth pain.

Onion (Allium cepa - Liliaceae)

Onion boasts a long list of medicinal actions – diuretic, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, expectorant, and antirheumatic. It is also beneficial to circulation. Onions are taken the world over for colds, flu and coughs, much like garlic (A. sativum). Onion offsets tendencies to angina, arteriosclerosis, and heart attack.  It is also useful in preventing oral infection and tooth decay. The warmed juice can be dropped into the ear for earache, and baked onion is used as a poultice to drain pus from sores. Onion has a long-standing reputation as an aphrodisiac, and it is also used cosmetically to stimulate hair growth.

 

Oregan Grape (Berberis aquilfolium syn.)

Oregan grape is chiefly used for gastritis and general digestive weakness, to stimulate gallbladder function, and to reduce catarrhal problem (mainly of the gut) It also treats eczema, psoriasis, acne, boils and herpes, and skin conditions linked to poor gallbladder function.

 

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) (Zaatar)

Oregano is used to add flavor to savory dishes, but even more than that, oregano was esteemed by the ancient Greeks and considered a cure-all in medieval times. Oregano was also one of the medicinal plants cultivated by early New England settlers. It is an antiseptic with potent activity against bacteria and fungi, notably E. coli and candida strains. It can aid many acute and chronic infections affecting the gastro-intestinal and respiratory tract, especially gastroenteritis, dysentery, bronchitis, coughs, and tonsillitis.

 

 

Papalo (Porophyllum ruderale)

In Bolivia, Papalo is believed to help lower blood pressure, and indigenous populations consumed the herb to reduce inflammation. In Mexico, curanderos or Mexican herbalist recommended eating papalo to improve digestion and assist with other stomach ailments. Papalo is mainly used fresh as a garnish and flavor enhancement, added at the end of preparations to preserve the herb’s unique taste. It is important to note that papalo can be used as a cilantro substitute, but stronger flavor and should be used sparingly.

 

Parsley (Petroselinum Crispum) (3 varieties)

The leaves of parsley are highly nutritious and because of that can be considered a natural vitamin and mineral supplement. The seeds have a much stronger diuretic action than the leaves and may be substituted for celery seed in the treatment of gout, rheumatism, and arthritis. Both plants act by encouraging the flushing of waste products from the inflamed joints and the wastes subsequent elimination via the kidneys.

 

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)

Passionflower slows the pulse and sedates. The herb can lessen nerve pain, painful menses, and headache, and is most effective for treating nervous restlessness and insomnia. For light sleepers, and if there is a tendency toward bad dreams, passionflower will deepen the sleep and usually brings good dreams.

 

 

Peppermint (Mentha Piperifa)

Peppermint leaves and flowers are used medicinally in teas, extracts, essential oils, and food. Peppermint is an herb that is wonderful for the digestive system, acting as a carminative to reduce gas, ease nausea, and sooth cramping. It also is very uplifting to the nervous system and cooling to the body.

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Plantain (Plantago Major)

Plantain has a long history of use as a treatment for a variety of skin woes. From dandruff and eczema to bug bites and minor cuts. The plant juice is, in fact, antibacterial and quite soothing when applied to a burn. Like comfrey, it contains allantoin, an anti-inflammatory phytochemical that speeds wound healing, stimulates the growth of new skin cells and gives the immune system a lift.

 

Pleurisy (Asclepias Tuberosa)

The root of pleurisy is used to help with deep lung infections and to clear the airways. Pleurisy acts as an expectorant to help the body expel mucus.  It promotes the coughing up of phlegm, reduces inflammation and in addition, helps reduce fever by stimulating perspiration.

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Red Clover (Trifolium Pratense)

Red clover blossoms are very nutritious and are rich in calcium, iron, and nitrogen. It is one of the herbs used to help clean and detoxify the blood and is often found in formulas to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Red clover is an excellent expectorant for the lungs and contains phytoestrogen that can help ease difficulties associated with menopausal changes.

 

 

Rose (Rosa Rogosa)

The rose is currently little used in herbal medicine, but it is probably time for a re-evaluation of its medicinal benefits. The essential oil, is used in aromatherapy as a mildly sedative antidepressant and anti-inflammatory remedy.

 

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosemary is a classic digestive, nerve, and circulatory tonic. It’s a good treatment for low energy, low blood pressure, and poor circulation. The herb improves memory, gives courage, and lifts the spirit.

 

Sage (Salvia Officinalis)

Sage’s combination of antiseptic and astringent action makes it an ideal mouth rinse for sore throat and throat infection. Sage is also a warming and strengthening herb for rebuilding vitality and strength during long-term illness. Note: should not be used medicinally during pregnancy Harvesting: Harvest the leaves avoiding the woody branches.

 

Savory, Summer (Satureja hortensis)

Savory, true to its name, is among the tastiest of all culinary/medicinal herbs. Therefore, it may be added to multi-ingredient tinctures as a flavoring agent and preservative. The tea or diluted tincture may be gargled to treat sore throat. The effects is astringent and pain-relieving, due to the presence of astringent tannins and antiseptic compounds including thymol and carvacrol. The preservative and anxiolytic (calming and antidepressant) effects of summer savory are attributable in part to the presence of rosmarinic acid.

 

Self-heal (Prunella Vulgaris)

Self-Heal is an undervalued astringent and can serve as a wound healer with tonic activity. It is a powerful antioxidant and stimulates the healing of wounds internally and externally.

 

Skullcap (Scutellaria Lateriflora)

. Skullcap is a premier nervine. It is used in tincture and tea form and has a wonderful way of calming the centering the nervous system. Skullcap acts as a mild yet effective sedative and helps relieve nervous tension and anxiety. It also has antispasmodic effects and is wonderful to use for premenstrual tension and cramping. Skullcap can be taken over a long period of time to strengthen and reinvigorate the nervous system, making it resilient and stronger.

 

Spearmint (Mentha Spicata)

Spearmint is helpful in alleviating symptoms of nausea, indigestion, gas, headache, toothache, cramps, and sore throat.  It is also applied topically to the skin, to help reduce swelling due to nerve or muscle pain.

 

Saint John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Saint John’s wort is healing and uplifting to the nervous system. It helps when combined with other nervines, to alleviate mild depression especially depression caused by the change of seasons and lack of sunshine. It is used to make medicinal oils and can sooth irritate and inflame nerve endings and damaged tissue.

 

Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana)

Stevia is a non-sugar sweetening agent and flavoring for ordinary drinks or for medicinal teas. The dried herb is said to be 250 times sweeter than white sugar. The herb may be used to normalize hypoglycemia, as a sweetener for use by diabetics, as a digestive aid, and as an astringent wound-healer.

 

Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus)

Tarragon contains caffeic acid, which can stop or kill many bacteria, viruses, and fungi.  It makes a good cleansing disinfectant to rub on wounds or can be used as a deodorant. Components of tarragon help digestion by stimulating the secretion of digestive compounds in the saliva as well as gastric fluids (like bile and other acids) into the lower digestive tract. This stimulates faster processing of foods already in the stomach (which helps get rid of wastes and potential toxins faster) and increases appetite. Its antimicrobial action enables tarragon to kill intestinal worms.

 

Tulsi/Holy Basil (Ocimum Tenuiflorum)

Tulsi is a heavenly adaptogenic herb that makes delicious teas, tinctures, and elixirs. the lore around Tulsi is extremely beautiful and speaks to the holy nature of this “sacred   basil.” As a tonic Tulsi builds energy, is uplifting to the spirit, and brings a sense of wholeness and well-being. Tulsi, besides having a delightful flavor, is also good for releasing stress and easing anxiety and acts as an anti-inflammatory.

 

Thyme, German winter (thymus Vulgaris)

Thyme has a rich history of use throughout Europe, the Mediterranean, and Asia.  Thumus, the Greek word for which our word “thyme” was derived, means courage, and speaks of a time when thyme was used in bouquets given to soldiers before going into battle.  The thyme was thought to strengthen resolve and to ward off evil and sickness. Extremely fragrant and rich in essential oils, thyme is a staple in cooking.  It is also used medicinally in teas, bronchial steams, cough syrups, washes, and extracts.  Thyme has antimicrobial and antispasmodic properties and is often used to treat whooping cough, bronchial infections, and sore throats. In addition to its antiseptic qualities, thyme has a carminative effect that can stimulate digestion and help dispel gas.

 

Valerian (Valeriana Officinalis)

Valerian is a sedative and helps induce sleep. The herb can reduce stress, nervousness, and irritability. It has been considered an effective and safe nervine sedative herb for most people. But in large doses can cause headaches.

 

Violet (viola odorata V. tricolor)

Violet is cooling and healing, mild enough for treating upper respiratory infection and cough of children yet is a sufficiently persistent alterative to effectively treat chronic disease of adults-including even oral cancers.

 

Wood Betony (Stachys Officinalis)

Wood Betony is a nervine tonic and pain-reliever good for treating nerve pain, toothaches, and headaches. The herb supports recuperation from chronic disease or addiction.

 

Wormwood (Artemisia Absinthium L.) and (Artemisia annua-Sweet Annie)

Traditionally, wormwood has been used in a wide range of conditions, from indigestion to depression, many of which have been validated by scientific analysis.  The herb is primarily used as a bitter to stimulate and invigorate the whole digestive process.  It is helpful in indigestion, especially when due to a deficient quantity or quality of gastric juices.  As the name implies, wormwood is a powerful remedy against worm infestations, especially roundworm and pinworm.  The herb may also be used to help the body deal with fever and infections.  It has a long history of use as an antidepressant. (Safety considerations:  Adverse effects are likely only with overdose, and are due primarily to the effects of thujone, which is toxic.) Artemisia annua is used in the treatment of malaria. The herb interrupts the life cycle of the malarial spirochete and results in a rapid clearance of parasites from the blood. It has also shown promise in treating leukemia and non-small-cell lung cancer. Under the care of a qualified health practitioner.

 

Yarrow (Achillea Millefolium)

Yarrow helps stop bleeding and counters inflammation and tissue swelling, so it is of some benefit for wounds, especially those that heal slowly. But researchers have focused on other therapeutic qualities of the herb. Yarrow’s phytochemicals ease muscle spasms, making it helpful against menstrual cramps. It also stimulates the gallbladder’s release of bile, which improves digestion and eases gastric complaints. It’s been considered the poor person’s chamomile.