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18 Cards in this Set
- Front
- Back
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Adaptogenic |
Aid the body through a nonspecific boost in resistance to external stressors, supports its ability to adapt to change, and may stimulate or modulate immunity. Herbalists use adaptogens to improve immune response, increase stamina, normalize sexual function, etc. - Ashwagandha - Eleuthero - Ginseng - Holy basil (tulsi) - Reishi - Rhodiola |
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Alterative |
An alterative "purifies the blood" and assists the body in nutrient and protein assimilation, neutralization of acid, and elimination of waste. Used for blood toxicity, arthritis, skin problems, etc. - Alfalfa - Burdock root - Dandelion leaf and root - Nettles - Oregon grape root - Yellow dock root |
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Anticatarrhal |
Thins and promotes flow of mucus/phlegm associated with pathogenic causes like cold or flu, especially from sinuses.
- Black pepper - Cayenne - Ginger - Mullein - Sage - Wild cherry bark |
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Anticatarrhal |
Thins and promotes flow of mucis/phlegm associated with pathogenic causes like cold or flu, especially from sinuses. - Black pepper - Cayenne - Ginger - Mullein - Sage - Wild cherry bark |
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Antimicrobial |
Aid the body in destroying or resisting pathogens. An herbal constituent may have a direct effect on the pathogenic organism or may strengthen the body’s immune system, improving resistance. Antimicrobials are further divided into more specific terms such as antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, etc. Note: Not all herbs will have a systemic antimicrobial effect. Antimicrobial - Goldenseal - Sage - Thyme Antibacterial - Goldenseal - Hyssop - Yarrow Antiviral - Elder berry - Lemon balm - Licorice Antifungal - Calendula - Cardamom - Wormwood |
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Antioxidant |
Prevent damage from free radicals and oxidation in the body. Free radicals are reactive molecules in the body that can cause damage to healthy tissues and cells. Free radicals are formed in the body when we are exposed to environmental toxins, waste products of our own metabolism, UV light, etc. - Goldenrod - Hawthorn - Reishi - Tulsi - Turmeric |
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Astringent |
Astringents are notably high in tannins, and have a binding effect on tissue. Many astringents are barks. If you’ve used witch hazel, that tightening sensation on your skin is due to the astringent tannins. Used for hemorrhoids, swollen tonsils, secretions, etc. - Bayberry bark - Blackberry root - Calendula - Oak bark - Rose - Witch hazel |
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Bitter |
Stimulate the release of digestive enzymes through a taste bud reflex. Used for enhancing digestion and absorption of food. - Angelica - Chamomile - Dandelion - Gentian - Goldenseal - Horehound |
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Carminative |
Help expel gas from the bowels, relieve bowel griping, and ease the stomach. Anise Cardamom Dill Fennel Ginger Peppermint |
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Demulcent |
Demulcents are rich in substances called mucilage that soothe and protect irritated, damaged, and inflamed tissues. Used for sore throats, colitis, and urinary tract inflammations. Chia seeds Burdock Flax seeds Marshmallow root Oatmeal Slippery elm |
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Diaphoretic |
Diaphoretics, when taken hot, induce perspiration (when taken cold, they are diuretic). Herbalists use them for flu and fever, to help body expel pathogens through the skin. Diaphoretics can be relaxing or stimulating. |
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Diuretic |
Diuretics increase urine flow. Increase urine flow is useful for conditions like edema, water retention, kidney stones, urinary tract infections, etc. It is wise to pair diuretics with a demulcent herb to shield the kidneys from any irritating effects of diuretic action. |
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Emmenagogue |
Emmenagogues encourage menstruation, both by bringing on earlier bleeding and increasing flow. Should be avoided when pregnant. |
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Expectorant |
Expectorants help expel excess or stuck mucus from the respiratory system. Used for colds, flus, lung congestion, etc. |
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Hepatic |
Hepatics tone the liver by strengthening and increasing bile flow. Used for hepatitis and other chronic liver diseases. |
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Nervine |
Nervines tone the nervous system, through nourishment and calming. Used for anxiety, panic, nervous tension, headaches, etc. |
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Stimulant |
Stimulants increase circulation and energy in the body; most stimulants have a warming effect. Used for stagnation and circulatory issues. Many stimulants are used as “synergists” in herbal formulas. |
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Tonic |
Tonics strengthen the body through a general tonifying effect on the body, or through specific affinities to certain organs. Raspberry leaf, for example, is a uterine tonic, and hawthorn is a cardiac tonic. |
