Coming Soon

Agrimony [Agrimonia eupatoria] An effective diuretic and astringent. Agrimony is used in urinary-tract infections and as a treatment for intestinal problems, particularly loose bowels. Gargling with an Agrimony solution is often used in treating sore throats. For external uses, Agrimony is often applied to insect bites, wounds, sores, athlete's foot, and hemorrhoids.
Parts used: that which grows above the ground.

Alfalfa [Medicago sativa] A great restorative and purifier of the blood, rich in vitamins (D, C, K, E and A) and minerals (including: potassium, iron, calcium). Alfalfa can stimulate the appetite, and serves an energizing boost to the system. This herb might also prove helpful in treating cholesterol
problems.

Angelica [Angelica archangelica] Stimulates the circulation of blood, producing an overall 'warm' sensation in the body when taken internally. Good for colds and other ailments causing lung congestion.

Aniseed [Pimpinella snisum] Often used in combination with other herbs in cold remedies for treating coughs and bronchial ailments. Also a digestive aid and good in treating flatulence.
Parts used: seeds.

Arnica [Arnica montana] For use as an anti-inflammatory and pain relieving agent for bruises, arthritis, swelling, pulls, and strains. This herb can prove toxic when ingested, and most Holistic professionals suggest not using it on broken skin or where cuts are involved, which may produce irritation or more problematic complications.

Balm of Gilead [Populus gileadensis] Supports the proper function of mucus membranes, used in treating coughs, colds, upper respiratory infections, and even sore throats.
Parts used: bark (of stem or root).

Barberry [Berberis vulgaris] An antibiotic that supports the immune system. Good for fevers, sore throats, urinary-tract infections and bowel problems. Barberry stimulates proper liver function and is often used in ridding the liver of toxins.
Parts used: buds, rhizomes, or roots.

Bayberry [Myrica cerifera] An antibiotic herb, Bayberry mouth-rinses/gargles and teas are great for sore throats and gum ailments. Externally, in compresses/poultices, this herb is good for ulcers, sores, bites, and bruises.

Betony [Stachys officinalis] The high tannin content of Betony makes for an effective astringent useful in treating irritations of the throat and diarrhea (though, overdoing it might prove irritating to the stomach).

Black Cohosh [Cimicifuga racemosa] A muscle-relaxer good for menstrual cramps and help in menstrual flow and muscle spasms. Black Cohosh also helps in the circulation of blood and the reduction of hypertension.

Black Haw [Viburnum prunifolium] Popularly used in easing menstrual cramps and to prevent miscarriages- though, this latter use is often not recommended these days due to the presence of salicin in the herb, an aspirin-like agent (though, this does make it effective for use in treating aches, pains, and fever!).

Boneset [Eupatorium perfoliatum] Its primary use is for treating flues and fevers- here, Boneset is employed to bring on sweating. This herb is also good for indigestion, and can be used where a mild laxative might be desired. Parts used: that which grows above the ground (dried).

Burdock [Arctium lappa] A blood purifier that rids the bodies of toxins, and an effective tonic for the blood and kidneys. Good for sluggishness. Externally, helps in treating arthritis, sores, and skin ailments such as acne, psoriasis, rashes (including the effects of poison ivy) and eczema.

Butcher's Broom [Ruscus aculeatus] Good for reducing inflammation, and easing the pain/discomfort from varicose veins, or poor circulation. Also good for treating hemorrhoids.
Parts used: leaves.

Catnip [Nepeta cataria] A natural sedative (for humans) and good for hyperactivity and insomnia. Helps with digestive problems and headaches caused by frail nerves.
Parts used: flowers and leaves.

Cayenne [Capsicum frutescens] Good as a tonic for the digestive system, particularly useful in treating indigestion. Cayenne is very beneficial to the circulatory system- it contains an abundance of antioxidants and vitamin C; this herb supports the health of the heart, arteries and veins, and can be used in bringing blood pressure to normal levels. Cayenne is an organic, and generally mild stimulant.

Chamomile [Matricaria chamomilla] This popular herb is widely employed in easing stress and the physical complications that accompany it (such as upset stomach or insomnia). Chamomile is quite effective in settling nervous stomachs, easing indigestion, and soothing irritable bowels. It is also useful in relieving menstrual cramps and discomfort.

Chaparral [Larrea tridentata] A powerful, organic antibiotic, Chaparral works well in fighting bacterial or other forms of parasitic infections. It's often used in remedies to treat colds and flu. Chaparral also contains a powerful antioxidant (NDGA), and is often used as a holistic addition to the treatment of cancer.

Chasteberry [Vitex agnus-castus] A good herb for feminine use: a restorative used in treating PMS and menopause (particularly as a holistic alternative to hormone-replacement therapy). Chasteberry stimulates the body's production of progesterone.

Cleavers [Galium aparine] Both a diuretic and good for swollen glands and tonsil inflammation. Cleavers is also good for skin disorders as well, such as rashes, psoriasis, and the like.
Parts used: that which grows above the ground.

Cloves [Caryophyllus aromaticus] Cloves are good for circulation and digestive system. Cloves contain eugenol, which lend the herb antiseptic and anesthetic qualities- hence, Herbalists/Holistic Healers often utilize clove oil in treating toothaches, or externally as a topical antiseptic.
Parts used: oil derived, dried flowers.

Coltsfoot [Tussilago farfara] This herb is widely used to treat respiratory problems, such as colds, bronchitis, and even asthma. Coltsfoot suppresses coughing, and acts as an expectorant.
Parts used: (dried) leaves and flowers.

Comfrey [Symphytum officinale] Comfrey contains allantoin, a substance that supports the growth of cells within the body. This herb promotes the regeneration and growth of tissue. Used externally, Comfrey is often applied to wounds and other skin abnormalities to aid in their healing.
Parts used: roots and leaves.

Cramp Bark [Viburnum opulus] As you might guess from the herb's name, Cramp Bark is a great remedy for treating cramped or spasmodic muscles.. also good for treating menstrual cramps and discomforts.

Cranberry [Vaccinium macrocarpon] Cranberry juice is an age-old preventative and treatment of urinary tract infections. Some Herbalists/Holistic Healers utilize capsules instead of juice.
Parts used: fruit.

Dandelion [Taraxacum officinale] Rich in Vitamins A and C, dandelion supports healthy cell function... also a good diuretic and restorative of the liver. Dandelion is known to reduce blood-sugar levels, and so is often used as part of the treatment of diabetes.
Parts used: leaves and roots.

Echinacea [Echinacea angustifolia] Echinacea is an excellent preventative herb that boosts the immune system and fights off invasive germs. As a curative, it is popularly used in fighting colds, flu, and bronchitis. Echinacea contains caffeic acid glycoside, which supports the healing
processes. Parts used: leaves and roots.

Elecampane [Inula helenium] Used in treating coughs, colds, bronchitis, and other respiratory ailments of the sort. Elecampane also relieves many digestive problems, and is known to both prevent and rid the digestive system of parasites.

Eyebright [Euphrasia officinalis] Washes produced with Eyebright offer an organic alternative to commercially produced eye-drops. This herb is useful in treating red, itchy or irritated eyes, and is used to treat conjunctivitis.

Fennel [Foeniculum vulgare] Fennel is a good digestive aid that sooths an upset stomach, indigestion, and flatulence. It is also good for relieving menstrual discomfort. Fennel seeds are often chewed to get rid of bad breath (a fennel tea, when gargled, also produces the same results).
Parts used: seeds.

Fenugreek [Trigonella foenumgraecum] Fenugreek has been long used by women in bringing on a late menstrual cycle. In other applications, this herb may be used in the treatment of coughs and colds, and is also useful against ulcers and other forms of stomach ailments.
Parts used: seeds.

Feverfew [Tanacetum parthenium] Feverfew is wonderful for treating migraine headaches -in either preventing the onset/curing it, or at the very least, alleviating much of the pain, nausea, and/or other complications that come along with it.

Flax [Linum usitatissimum] Flax has been used in fabrics, and its seed in breads since ancient times. Flax is a mainstay in today's organic diet- Nature's Path, a producer of organic cereals, breads, and other foodstuffs include flax seeds in their Optimum Power Breakfast and Flax Plus cereals. Medicinally, Flax is used to treat colds and urinary-tract ailments. Poultices made from the meal of the seeds can be used for burns and sprains. Caution and skill are needed in Medicinal application, though- immature seeds are poisonous when ingested, and overdosing can prove harmful as well (resulting in a range of complications, from excitement, loss of balance, to weakness, paralysis, and convulsions).

Garlic [Allium sativum] Garlic is good in fighting all manner of infections, both internal and external -from cuts and wounds to food poisoning, blood infections, bowel parasites/infections, and bladder ailments in women. Garlic also regulates blood pressure- and is good for both high and low blood pressure problems, and is decreases one's risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Note, however, that cooking garlic might greatly reduce or disable its medical effectiveness.
Parts used: bulbs.

Gentian [Gentiana lutea] Gentian is a bitter digestive aid that stimulates the appetite, and may help in the treatment of nausea or vomiting, as well as the relief of heartburn and flatulence.
Parts used: root.

Ginger [Zingiber officinale] This herb is a great remedy for nausea, indigestion, flatulence, and upset stomach. It works well for motion sickness, and is often used by expectant mothers to ease 'morning sickness'. Ginger is an organic antispasmodic, and so is helpful in treating irritable bowels and menstrual cramping. Tea made from Ginger is effective in helping one 'sweat out' a fever.
Parts used: root.

Ginkgo [Ginkgo biloba] Ginkgo is great for the circulation of blood- it improves the flow to all parts of the body, which can help prevent stroke, improve concentration, memory and reaction time, and many of such withering effects that come with aging. Parts used: nuts and leaves.

Gotu Kola [Cantella asiatica] Externally, Gotu Kola is often used in treating wounds and skin inflammations. When taken internally, this herb supports the circulation of blood, and is a tonic to the nervous system. It's not surprising to find that this herb promotes a Healthy memory and learning ability, and is also beneficial to one's overall longevity.

Goose Grass see Cleavers.

Hawthorn [Crataegus oxyacantha] Amoung most Holistic Healers, this herb is the top choice when it comes to dealing with matters of the heart and circulation of blood. Hawthorn opens up blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more freely (and so, lowering blood pressure). It also works directly on the heart itself, particularly as a restorative to damaged tissue. As always, consult a physician before using the herb in any form of treatment!
Parts used: berries.

Hops [Humulus lupulus] Hops are well renown for their sedative quality when taken internally and used externally- an old folk remedy for insomnia involves laying hops flowers under one's pillow (or within a hop-stuffed pillow) to help bring on sleep. This herb is also effective in easing digestive ailments. Brewers have long used Hops in beer as both a bittering agent and preservative/protection against bacterial infections- needless to say, Hops can be used for one's own personal, external-medicinal needs within a hot poultice as an anti-septic and anti-inflammatory agent.

Horehound [Marubium vulgare] Horehound promotes the flow of bile, serving well as a tonic to the stomach. This herb also promotes the flow of mucus, and so is useful in treating sinus and respiratory disorders, such as hay fever and colds.

Horseradish [Armoracia rusticana] Horseradish is a great diuretic, and is rich in vitamin C. Holistic Healers often use grated horseradish in compresses for treating stiffness and neck-pain. Grated horseradish can also be mixed in a solution of water and honey to treat soreness in the throat.

Horsetail [Equisetum arvense] This herb was popularly employed by the Romans as an effective way to stop bleeding /in the treatment of wounds. Horsetail is also good in treating sores and ulcerations, and may be of help (internally) in treating urinary-tract and prostrate disorders.
Parts used: stems.

Juniper [Juniperus communis] Juniper is a main component in gin, which the adventurous and enterprising Dutch invented sometime in the seventh century. Medicinally, Juniper is often included in both commercial and non-commercially produced diuretic treatments.
Parts used: berry.

Lady's Mantle [Alchemilla vulgaris / Alchemilla xanthochlora] Lady's Mantle is good for treating wounds. Mouthwashes made from this herb are useful to help the healing of mouth sores, ulcers and bleeding gums. It is also effective in relieving excessive menstrual bleeding, and is good against diarrhea.

Lavender [Lavandula angustifolia / Lavandula officinalis] Lavender is a great herb to fight stress, stress-related headaches, bad nerves, and a bout of the 'blues', in both infusions and a nice, hot bath. Herbalists often add Lavender to other treatments to help with the taste.
Parts used: flowers.

Lemon Balm [Melissa officinalis] This herb is wonderful against tension and stress, and is useful for treating hyper-activity and colic in children. Lemon Balm is also great in treating nervous stomachs, flatulence, and other digestive ailments, and is good for settling cold and flu symptoms. Like Lavender, it's also good in treating a bout of the 'blues'.
Parts used: leaves.

Lemon Verbena [Aloysia triphylla] Lemon Verbena acts as a tonic for the digestive system, and is good as a mild relaxant. It's also useful for the relief of minor cold symptoms and discomforts, and may help reduce fevers.

Licorice [Glycyrrhiza glabra] Licorice is often used as a treatment in colds and flu- it is a good expectorant, and is soothing for sore throats and congestion. This herb is also good as a mild laxative.

Lobelia [Lobelia inflata] This herb is useful for a wide array of upper-respiratory problems, and is often used in treating bronchitis and asthma. Lobelia also has strong sedative properties, and is sometimes used in combination with cramp bark to help break nicotine addiction. Care must be taken when using this herb- too great a dosage can prove harmful or even toxic.

Lovage [Levisticum officinale] Lovage is used as a diuretic, and is sometimes employed by Holistic Healers in the treatment of jaundice and kidney stones. Externally, Lovage is often added to baths to help ease skin ailments. Included in a solution of water, it is used to help cure 'pink-eye'.
Parts used: root (fresh or dried).

Marigold [Calendula officinalis] Marigold is often used in ointment form to treat minor burns and wounds, as well as varicose veins. Further, can be useful in the treatment of conjunctivitis ('pink eye'). When taken internally, Marigold helps ease indigestion, and may be soothing to the discomforts and pain brought on by ulcers.

Marsh Mallow [Althaea officinalis] As you can guess, this isn't the same as today's soft, puffy treat... rather, it's an herb useful in treating the inflammation/irritation of both the respiratory and urinary organs. Marsh Mallow is most typically utilized in treating rough coughs, bronchitis, as well as the passing of kidney stones.

Meadowsweet [Spiraea ulmaria / Filipendula ulmaria] Meadowsweet contains the agent, Salicin- before the invention of aspirin, Salicin was used in the relief of aches, pains and in the reduction of fever. This herb is particularly important for folk who normally suffer side effects from using commercially prepared aspirin (such as upset stomach).
Parts used: tops of flowers, leaves.

Milk Thistle [Silybum marianum] This is one of the best promoters of healthy liver function- Milk Thistle is used to increase the flow of bile, which is essential for breaking-down the garbage flowing through our systems, such as alcohol, fats, and inorganic poisons often used in our commercially-produced foods.

Mint [Peppermint: Mentha piperita] The mint family encompasses a small handful of variants, such as spearmint (Mentha apicata), apple-mint (Mentha suaveolens), etc- but it is peppermint which yields the best medicinal value (hence, the specific reference here). Mint is great for relieving digestive ailments, including indigestion, flatulence, and colic in children. This herb functions as an anti-spasmodic, and can be quite useful in treating abdominal cramps and the discomforts of diarrhea and menstruation.

Motherwort [Leonurus cardiaca] Motherwort promotes healthy heart function, and is often used for its calming qualities in soothing heart palpitations and other ailments brought on by bad nerves or tension disorders. This herb shouldn't be used by pregnant women, or women trying to conceive- Motherwort can bring on menstruation (incidentally, it's often used to stimulate the cycle when a woman's period is late).

Mugwort [Artemisia vulgaris] This herb is best used externally, where it is good in baths to help sooth aches, pains, and the discomforts of skin irritations (such as the effects of poison ivy).

Mullein [Verbascum thapsus] Mullein is used for treating respiratory ailments such as: coughs and colds, bronchitis, asthma, and the symptoms of allergies such as hay fever. It is also good for relieving the discomforts of a sore throat and congestion.
Parts used: leaves, roots, flowers.

Myrrh [Commiphora myrrha] Myrrh is an excellent anti-septic and astringent, and has been used for thousands of years to treat wounds and abrasions. Myrrh can be used to treat a number of mouth ailments, such as bad breath, sore or bleeding gums, aching teeth, mouth ulcers, and the like. Gargling with a mouthwash containing myrrh is good for soothing a sore throat.
Parts used: resin from gum.

Parsley [Petroselinum crispum] This herb is excellent for promoting overall health- parsley contains a good measure of iron (which is good against anemia), variations of vitamin B, vitamin A, and a wealth of vitamin C. Parsley has diuretic properties, and is also thought to be good in relieving flatulence. Chewing parsley freshens up the breath.
Parts used: fresh root and leaves (fresh and dried).

Pau D'Arco [Tabebuia heptaphylla] Pau D'Arco is good for fighting fungal infections (such as athlete's foot) and yeast infections. Taken internally, Pau D'Arco can help reduce blood-sugar levels.

Pennyroyal [Mentha pulegium] As a tea, pennyroyal has been used to soothe nerves and nervous stomachs. Pennyroyal oil can be applied topically as an insect repellent (good for fighting fleas on animals, too!), but should not be taken internally, which can prove to be fatal if ingested. Crushing the leaves of the plant and rubbing them on your skin would also produce the same effect.
Parts used: leaves.

Pipsissewa [Chimaphila umbellata] Pipsissewa is good for treating kidney ailments, and for use as a diuretic- here, it is especially useful for folk who've experienced complications or discomforts of other diuretics.

Plantain [Plantago major] Plantain is good for coughs and colds. It can also prove useful in relieving urinary-tract problems and diarrhea. American Indians use the root to relieve toothaches and sore gums (that is, through chewing on the root itself). When applied externally, crushed plantain leaves (or better yet, and ointment derived from the herb) are great for insect bites and
stings.

Psyllium [Plantago psyllium] Psyllium is a safe organic laxative, and is fiber-rich (which, might also prove helpful for reducing levels of blood cholesterol).
Parts used: seeds.

Raspberry [Rubus idaeus] The leaves of the raspberry plant are very beneficial to the overall health of the uterus, and might prove a help in feminine ailments such as menstrual cramping and heavy flow. It is a popular remedy for diarrhea, and gargling with a mouthwash made from raspberry leaves is great for sore throats and sore/bleeding gums.
Parts used: leaves.

Red Clover [Trifolium pratense] This herb has superb immune-boosting capabilities, and is often used by Holistic Healers in conjunction with mainstream medical care to treat immune-system abnormalities and diseases (including HIV/Aids). Red Clover also contains chemical agents known to prevent certain forms of cancer and cancerous tumors. When used on a regular basis, this herb provides a good remedy for an assortment of skin problems.
Parts used: heads of flowers.

Rosemary [Rosmarinus officinalis] Rosemary is great for the circulatory and digestive systems, and may even prevent food poisoning from settling in. It is sometimes used in combination with other herbs as an organic treatment for headaches, though it can work well enough on its own to achieve those same ends! Externally, Rosemary can be added to a bath to help sooth aches and pains, and intensify a soothing, calming effect.

Sage [Salvia officinalis] In some parts of Europe, sage is often used in remedies designed to treat sore throats and ailments of the mouth. Sage is beneficial to the digestive tract, and is known to reduce blood-sugar levels (and is especially beneficial for diabetics). This herb also helps slow or prevent perspiration, and its estrogenic qualities make it useful in treating hot flashes and
menopausal symptoms.

St. John's Wort [Hypericum perforatum] St. John's Wort is perhaps the most popular herbal remedy for promoting 'overall personal wellness'. It is great in fighting depression, bad nerves and anxious disorders, and has a general soothing effect on one's Being. This herb is also good for treating complications and physical symptoms associated with or brought on by stress and anxiety, such as headaches and nervous stomach. St. John's Wort has anti-viral properties which might also prove beneficial to folk suffering from immunity disorders or deficiencies- Holistic Healers often recommend it as part of one's regimen in treating HIV/Aids.
Parts used: leaves, flowers.

Saw Palmetto [Serenoa serrulata] Saw Palmetto is renown for its ability in fighting enlarged prostrates in men, and the overall promotion of prostrate health. It can also be a boon to a man's level of fertility.

Slippery Elm [Ulmus rubra] Slippery elm is used for a wide variety of digestive disorders- it can be used to treat diarrhea, upset or nervous stomach, (duodenal) ulcers, and promotes normal bowel function. It is also beneficial to the treatment of coughs and colds.
Parts used: bark.

Thyme [Thymus vulgaris] Thyme has a soothing effect on the digestive system, and is a great, gentle remedy for diarrhea in children. Useful as an antispasmodic, this herb is good for stomach cramping, and respiratory disorders such as asthma and whooping cough. It might also prove to be a boon in the relief of menstrual cramps as well. Thyme also contains antiseptic qualities, which make ointments derived from it a benefit in treating minor wounds and abrasions.
Parts used: flowers and leaves.

Uva-Ursi [Arctostaphylos Uva-ursi] Uva-Ursi promotes healthy functioning of the urinary-tract, and supports the health of the kidneys and bladder. For years, it has been used in fighting bladder and urinary-tract infections, high acid content in the urine, and aiding in the passing of kidney stones. Use caution when taking uva-ursi- too large a dosage can upset the stomach!

Valerian [Valeriana officinalis] Valerian is a superb, organic -and perhaps most importantly: non-addictive sedative. It is quite useful for treating all sorts of stress, anxiety, panic attacks, tension, and other nervous disorders or ailments. It is also useful in treating insomnia and restlessness. Valerian is a great alternative to commercial drugs!

Vervain [Verbena officinalis] Vervain is used by American Indians as a fever reducer and as a pain reliever. Some Holistic Healers suggest that it might be useful for treating everyday stress and the complications that accompany it as well.

White Willow [Salix alba] White Willow contains Salicin, and is used by Herbalists as an organic and gentle alternative to commercially produced aspirin. Needless to say, it's good for the reduction of fevers, and in treating all manner of aches and pains, including menstrual cramps.
Parts used: bark.

Yarrow [Achillea millefolium] Yarrow has been employed since ancient times in the treatment of both internal and external wounds (obviously, one should consult medical advice for any sort of internal problems before administering yarrow as a treatment!). It is excellent for treating the flu, colds, and in breaking fevers. Yarrow also has a noticeable sedative quality, and is sometimes recommended by Holistic Healers to treat / as part of the treatment for hypertension and stress/anxiety disorders. Parts used: stems, flowers, leaves.

Copyright © 2001-2008 Irminen-Gesellschaft Last updated: 21 Heumond 08

Copyright © 2001-2008 Irminen-Gesellschaft
Last updated: 21 Heumond 08