The Basics of Herbal First Aid - The Healing uses of Common Kitchen Herbs
During the first century A.D. Dioscorides was military physician under Nero. He collected and studied medicinal plants in many countries, including the Near East, France, Spain, Germany and Italy.
De Materia Medica, his findings in five volumes, was published in 78 A. D. In it Dioscorides mentions some 600 plants including Anise, Chamomile, Dill, Ginger, Marjoram, Pepper and Thyme
For 1500 years De Materia Medica was the standard reference work on the medical application of plants.
Pliny (23-79 AD) wrote a natural history of 37 volumes which was incomplete at his death. He believed that there was a specific herbal remedy for every disease if only the plants were found and investigated.
In 812 A.D. the Emperor Charlemagne ordered the monasteries and towns of the Holy Roman Empire to preserve and cultivate medicinal flowers, plants and trees. Thus monasteries became repositories for knowledge of herbs, their culture and uses.
In Great Britain there were a number of distinct herbal traditions. The Druids passed along their magical and herbal traditions by word of mouth. Herbs were part of the sacred world to them, and healing was a magic art. Anglo-Saxons, on the other hand, studied the native plants more empirically and produced a number of written herbals distinct from the influence of Greece and Rome. One of the most famous, The Leech Book of Bald was compiled by a friend of King Aethelred and was the first such resource written in the vernacular.
The Physicians of Myddfai, doctors of the Princes of Wales, practiced effective herbal medicine until the Welsh were overthrown by the British. There is evidence that as early as 430 B.C. the art of medicine was protected and encouraged by the state in Wales. The Druids and Welsh physicians probably became acquainted with Greek medicine subsequently, through the Phoenicians who traded with Britain. In later days the name of Hippocrates is mentioned, and his works were much esteemed by the Physicians of Myddfai.
Parsley
The natural richness of Parsley makes it one of the most concentrated foodstuffs in the garden. Medicinally, Parsley is considered nutritive, diuretic, anti-rheumatic, and a digestive tonic. It is a powerfully healthful and nutritious herb - full of vitamin C, vitamin A, provitamin A, Iron, Calcium, Potassium, and Manganese,Riboflavin, Niacin, Thiamin, and Phosphorus as well as 22% protein. The volatile oil apiol which gives it its characteristic smell.
The high amount of Iron and Vitamin C in Parsley make it a real support for anyone suffering from Iron deficiency or anaemia, for Vitamin C aids in the absorption of Iron. Parsley seed has been used as a diuretic for ages, as well as a remedy for urinary stones. It is particularly safe for use as a diuretic because of its high Potassium content. This mineral is often lost in dangerous amounts when more than usual quantities of urine are passed, and parsley balances the situation nicely.
Parsley seed is used as an anti-rheumatic and as a diuretic. It stimulates the kidneys, acting as a cleansing agent, which is the basis for its use in gouty conditions and rheumatism.
As a digestive tonic, Parsley is complex. It is a potent carminative, relaxing the gut and bowel muscles and relieving flatulence and colic. Paradoxically, modern research also shows that it stimulates the stomach and digestive secretions, producing a sensation of hunger, so it is used to pique the appetite in invalids and those suffering from anorexia.
Parsley is presently included in The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Sage
Sage is listed in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia as having carminative, antiseptic, spasmolytic, and astringent properties. It is used primarily as a gargle or mouthwash, or for inflammation of the mouth, tongue or throat. When combined with Meadowsweet and Chamomile Sage acts to relieve flatulent dyspepsia.
Its astringent properties make it an active ingredient in herbal antipersperant preparations. It is also for the same astringent action by nursing mothers to lessen the flow of an overabundance of milk.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a wonderfully healthful, and has used for centuries as a medicament. It contains vitamin A, C, phosphorus, potassium, iron, magnesium, zinc and calcium. The oil contains apha and beta appenines, camphene, limonene, cineol, and many other substances.
Rosemary extracts are antioxidants or preservatices, and the oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties. It also contains tannins, bitter principle and resin.
It is used medicinally to stimulate peripheral circulation, as a diaphoretic to promote persperation, and as a relaxant and antispasmodic to restore the nervous system. It is stimulating and restorative to the liver and heart.
Rosemary is considered specifically useful in cases of depression and debility linked to nervous tension. It is used to treat migraines and vasoconstrictory headaches, especially when they affect the circulation. When poor liver function is combined with poor circulation, R. is considered specific. It is also used to ease mualgia, sciatica and neuralgia. It is helpful in a massage oil to ease aching muscles and tension backaches.
It is presently included in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Thyme
Thyme has a wide range of medicinal applications. It has a tonic, expectorant, stomachic, carminative, antispasmodic, sedative, and diaphoretic effect. The tea can be gargled for a sore throat or laryngitis.
Modern research has proven that thymol, the main ingredient of the volatile oil of Thyme, has twenty five times more powerful antiseptic action than the standard phenol. However, unlike phenol, Thyme does not erode or irritate mucosa or skin exposed to it. It can therefore be taken internally and is used in modern herbal medical practice as an antiseptic, especially useful against intestinal infections and infestations, lung and kidney infections and fungal infections of the mouth. It is also very effective as an antibacterial wash for external wounds.
Thyme is presently included in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Oregano
Origanum vulgare is the Oregano used medicinally. It is used extensively today by modern herbal practitioners, although it is not currently included in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. It is considered to have antiseptic, antimicrobial, antifungal, carminative, astringent, and nervine qualities very closely related to those of Thyme, with whom it shares the constituent thymol. Oregano is used to disinfect the upper respiratory tract, to reduce inflammation and infection, to soothe and disinfect the gastrointestinal system, and to ease coughing through reflex action from the gut. A tincture made of the fresh plant is considered particularly potent by 'Herbal Ed Smith', who uses Oregano frequently in his clinical practice.
Lavender
The ancient Egyptians and Romans used Lavender when embalming corpses.
Pre-Christian Greeks and Romans used Lavender as a scent for baths and soaps. It is probably from that use that the generic name emerged - lavandula, from the Latin lavare, meaning to wash.
Lavender has a tradition of medicinal use from the time of Dioscorides, in the first century, A.D. It was used for its tonic, stimulant, antispasmodic, carminative, sedative, stomachic, and diuretic properties..
Queen Elizabeth I was particularly fond of Lavender conserves and always had Lavender jelly with cold lamb.
Lavender was familiar to Shakespeare, but probably was not a common plant in his time. It was first cultivated in England around 1568. It was one of the herbs taken by the Pilgrims to the new world, but they commented that it did not thrive in the new climate.
The oil of Lavender has been widely used in pharmaceutical preparations, cosmetic creams, soaps, perfumes, and colognes.
A folk formula for making a room-sized insect repellent is to absorb a few drops of lavender oil on a cotton ball, then suspend it from the ceiling.
Calendula
Bright orange pigments in Calendula flowers are used by the pharmaceutical industry to color medicinal preparations.
Calendula is used extensively in herbal medicine for local skin problems. Its anti-inflammatory, astringent, vulnerary and anti-fungal actions make it valuable for use where there is inflammation on the skin due to infection or wounding. It may be used for external bleeding, bruising or strains, and is especially beneficial to slow-healing wounds and skin ulcers.
It is an ideal first aid treatment for minor burns, scalds, aching, overtired feet, sunburn, and the misery of poison ivy.
Taken internally, Calendula has a marked anti-fungal activity and may be used to combat such infections.
It soothes damaged or ulcerated gastric mucosa, gum disease, hemorrhoids and conjunctivitis. It also acts to stimulate and heal the liver and gallbladder, to normalize the menstrual cycle and to ease painful periods.
Calendula is presently included in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Garlic
Garlic is one of the most pronounced healing herbs in the garden.
1.) ANTI-PATHOGENIC: It acts on bacteria, viruses, alimentary parasites and invasive organisms to dispel them and protect the body. The volatile oil is responsible for this action, acting through the lungs and also sparing beneficial flora in the alimentary tract. It is used for respiratory ailments, stomach problems, intestinal worms, colds and 'flu, and other infections. It may be used externally as an antiseptic and wound healing remedy. The expressed oil may be applied directly to cuts and abrasions.
2.) DIAPHORETIC: It assists the body in removing waste through sweating.
3.) HYPOTENSIVE: It reduces blood pressure as well as cholesterol levels when taken over a period of time.
4.) CHOLAGOGUE: Supports the liver by stimulating bile flow.
5.) ANTI-SPASMODIC: For use with bronchitis, colds, 'flu, nervous dyspepsia, high blood pressure, cardio-vascular problems.
6.) PANCREATIC TONIC: Balances blood-sugar levels.
PREPARATION: Fresh chopped Garlic may be eaten in salads - 1 clove for prevention of infection, 4-6 for 3-5 days for colds and 'flu.
Basil
Basil has not been used medicinally in the west for some time. However, very recently exhaustive research has been done on its value in drug detoxification. It is presently being used clinically to assist in detoxification from extended Marijuana use.
Tarragon
At one time, Tarragon was included in the United States Pharmacopoeia. Rutin, one of its active ingredients, is a bioflavonoid compound also found in buckwheat. Other bioflavonoids are found in orange, grapefruit, and onions. Rutin was considered a specific remedy for allergies, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, and hypertension. It was used as an anthelmintic, aperient, carminative, diuretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, hypnotic, refrigerant, sedative, stimulant, stomachic, tonic, and vermifuge. Tarragon was prescribed for amenorrhea, dogbites, stings, somach swellings, toothache, and tumors. Modern research shows that Tarragon's rutin content reduces capillary permeability. It is being tested for action against cancer, radiation damage, and strokes.
Catnip
Catnip's numerous volatile oils, bitter principle, and tannins make it a classic herb for use with colds and 'flu.
Its powerful 'refrigerant' action brings quick relief from high fever. It is soothing to the stomach, easing flatulence and dyspepsia. Catnip is a safe remedy for colic and diarrhoea in children. It is a gentle sedative, relaxing and soothing the nerves. Catnip is also effective in bringing on delayed menstruation, and is used to increase scanty flow. Catnip is presently listed in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Chamomile
Matricaria is the Chamomile most frequently used for medicinal purposes. It is an excellent, gentle sedative, safe even for use with children. Its relaxing properties and volatile oils ease flatulence and dyspeptic pain, indigestion and gastric inflammation. It will speed wound healing internally and externally. It can be used as a mouthwash for gum disease, and as an eyewash for bathing inflamed or sore eyes. It reduces swelling due to inflammation and can be used as a poultice on cuts, bruises and abrasions. South American and Mexican women have used it to bring on delayed menstruation and to ease the pain of 'cramps'.
People who have known sensitivities to ragweed, chrysanthemums, or other members of the Compositae family should note that it is the pollen-bearing flower tops which are used medicinally and as tea. Some people may have allergic sensitivity to the use of Chamomile.
Chamomile is presently included in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm's active ingredients include volatile oils, tannins, and a bitter principle. These combine to make it an excellent carminative herb for calming spasms of the digestive tract, anxiety states, nervous dyspepsia and flatulence, and tension. It is particularly effective in situations where symptoms lead to or are caused by depression, for it lifts the spirits and eases tension. Lemon Balm also has a tonic effect on the heart and circulatory system, lowering blood pressure through dilating the peripheral blood vessels. This diaphoretic action gives it a place in the management of feverish conditions and influenza, as well. Lemon Balm is gentle and safe enough for use with children. A warm cup at night is an effective relaxant for all ages.
Lemon Balm is presently included in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Peppermint
Presently Peppermint is used specifically to ease flatulence and digestive colic. It is also prescribed to relieve nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy. In combination with Elder, Boneset and Yarrow it is a standard herb used in easing the symptoms of the common cold. The muscle-relaxing effects of its volatile oils also make it helpful in relaxing menstrual pain.
ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY
Foster, Steven. Herbal Bounty! Salt Lake City: Peregrin Smith Books, 1984. I have a soft spot for this book, for it was the first herbal I ever bought. It is the product of years of personal experience on the part of the author in growing herbs at the Sabbath Day Shaker Community and is a reliable guide to growing herbs either for personal use or in larger quantities for commercial purposes.
Grieve, Mrs. M.A. A Modern Herbal. 2 vols. New York: Dover Publications,1971. This is definitely the best source book on the traditions, history, origins, and past medical uses of herbs. It makes fascinating reading.
Griggs, Barbara Green Pharmacy. London: Robert Hale Limited, 1981. We are very lucky that Barbara Griggs took six years of her time to research and write this book. It is already a classic, and a foundation for anyone who wishes to explore the history of the use of medicinal plants in western history. Although her book begins with Neanderthal man, the bulk of this work describes in brilliant, interesting, readable prose the details of medical herbalism from Dioscorides to present time. The interests, personalities, quirks and genius of the major characters in western herbalism come alive on these pages, and the hard-ball politics they played with the accepted, 'regular' medical world gives food for thought This book reads like a novel, and is a must for any serious herbalist or individual interested in alternative health technologies.
Hoffmann, David. The Holistic Herbal. Findhorn, Scotland: The Findhorn Press, 1980. This is the best book on the market for anyone interested in learning about the medicinal uses of herbs. Written by a practicing medical herbalist and teacher, it is a complete introductory text in the use of herbs for health. It is also beautifully designed, clearly written and up-to-date in research on health problems and herbal remedies. (It may be out of print – find a used one! Otherwise, anything by this author will do.)
Lust, John. The Herb Book. New York: Bantam Books, 1974. Written by the son of the founder of naturopathy, this book is a must for the American herbalist. It covers 514 plants,giving history and traditional lore, properties and uses, preparation and dosage, as well as many classic formulations for specific ailments. This is the book to have with you if you are stranded in the wilderness with no other medical resources!
Mills, Simon. The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism. New York: Thorsons Publishing Group, 1985.
The author was previously President and Director of Research of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists in Great Britain. It is a concise but comprehensive guide to practical herbal therapy, including alphabetical entries on both medicinal herbs and symptoms, with an emphasis on the holistic perspective to healing.
Duke, James A. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press, Inc., 1985.
Duke, James A. Handbook of Northeastern Indian Medicinal Plants. Lincoln, Massachusetts: Quarterman Publications, Inc., 1986.
Duke, James A. Living Liqueurs. Lincoln, Massachusetts: Quarterman Publishing Company, 1987.
During the first century A.D. Dioscorides was military physician under Nero. He collected and studied medicinal plants in many countries, including the Near East, France, Spain, Germany and Italy.
De Materia Medica, his findings in five volumes, was published in 78 A. D. In it Dioscorides mentions some 600 plants including Anise, Chamomile, Dill, Ginger, Marjoram, Pepper and Thyme
For 1500 years De Materia Medica was the standard reference work on the medical application of plants.
Pliny (23-79 AD) wrote a natural history of 37 volumes which was incomplete at his death. He believed that there was a specific herbal remedy for every disease if only the plants were found and investigated.
In 812 A.D. the Emperor Charlemagne ordered the monasteries and towns of the Holy Roman Empire to preserve and cultivate medicinal flowers, plants and trees. Thus monasteries became repositories for knowledge of herbs, their culture and uses.
In Great Britain there were a number of distinct herbal traditions. The Druids passed along their magical and herbal traditions by word of mouth. Herbs were part of the sacred world to them, and healing was a magic art. Anglo-Saxons, on the other hand, studied the native plants more empirically and produced a number of written herbals distinct from the influence of Greece and Rome. One of the most famous, The Leech Book of Bald was compiled by a friend of King Aethelred and was the first such resource written in the vernacular.
The Physicians of Myddfai, doctors of the Princes of Wales, practiced effective herbal medicine until the Welsh were overthrown by the British. There is evidence that as early as 430 B.C. the art of medicine was protected and encouraged by the state in Wales. The Druids and Welsh physicians probably became acquainted with Greek medicine subsequently, through the Phoenicians who traded with Britain. In later days the name of Hippocrates is mentioned, and his works were much esteemed by the Physicians of Myddfai.
Parsley
The natural richness of Parsley makes it one of the most concentrated foodstuffs in the garden. Medicinally, Parsley is considered nutritive, diuretic, anti-rheumatic, and a digestive tonic. It is a powerfully healthful and nutritious herb - full of vitamin C, vitamin A, provitamin A, Iron, Calcium, Potassium, and Manganese,Riboflavin, Niacin, Thiamin, and Phosphorus as well as 22% protein. The volatile oil apiol which gives it its characteristic smell.
The high amount of Iron and Vitamin C in Parsley make it a real support for anyone suffering from Iron deficiency or anaemia, for Vitamin C aids in the absorption of Iron. Parsley seed has been used as a diuretic for ages, as well as a remedy for urinary stones. It is particularly safe for use as a diuretic because of its high Potassium content. This mineral is often lost in dangerous amounts when more than usual quantities of urine are passed, and parsley balances the situation nicely.
Parsley seed is used as an anti-rheumatic and as a diuretic. It stimulates the kidneys, acting as a cleansing agent, which is the basis for its use in gouty conditions and rheumatism.
As a digestive tonic, Parsley is complex. It is a potent carminative, relaxing the gut and bowel muscles and relieving flatulence and colic. Paradoxically, modern research also shows that it stimulates the stomach and digestive secretions, producing a sensation of hunger, so it is used to pique the appetite in invalids and those suffering from anorexia.
Parsley is presently included in The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Sage
Sage is listed in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia as having carminative, antiseptic, spasmolytic, and astringent properties. It is used primarily as a gargle or mouthwash, or for inflammation of the mouth, tongue or throat. When combined with Meadowsweet and Chamomile Sage acts to relieve flatulent dyspepsia.
Its astringent properties make it an active ingredient in herbal antipersperant preparations. It is also for the same astringent action by nursing mothers to lessen the flow of an overabundance of milk.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a wonderfully healthful, and has used for centuries as a medicament. It contains vitamin A, C, phosphorus, potassium, iron, magnesium, zinc and calcium. The oil contains apha and beta appenines, camphene, limonene, cineol, and many other substances.
Rosemary extracts are antioxidants or preservatices, and the oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties. It also contains tannins, bitter principle and resin.
It is used medicinally to stimulate peripheral circulation, as a diaphoretic to promote persperation, and as a relaxant and antispasmodic to restore the nervous system. It is stimulating and restorative to the liver and heart.
Rosemary is considered specifically useful in cases of depression and debility linked to nervous tension. It is used to treat migraines and vasoconstrictory headaches, especially when they affect the circulation. When poor liver function is combined with poor circulation, R. is considered specific. It is also used to ease mualgia, sciatica and neuralgia. It is helpful in a massage oil to ease aching muscles and tension backaches.
It is presently included in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Thyme
Thyme has a wide range of medicinal applications. It has a tonic, expectorant, stomachic, carminative, antispasmodic, sedative, and diaphoretic effect. The tea can be gargled for a sore throat or laryngitis.
Modern research has proven that thymol, the main ingredient of the volatile oil of Thyme, has twenty five times more powerful antiseptic action than the standard phenol. However, unlike phenol, Thyme does not erode or irritate mucosa or skin exposed to it. It can therefore be taken internally and is used in modern herbal medical practice as an antiseptic, especially useful against intestinal infections and infestations, lung and kidney infections and fungal infections of the mouth. It is also very effective as an antibacterial wash for external wounds.
Thyme is presently included in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Oregano
Origanum vulgare is the Oregano used medicinally. It is used extensively today by modern herbal practitioners, although it is not currently included in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. It is considered to have antiseptic, antimicrobial, antifungal, carminative, astringent, and nervine qualities very closely related to those of Thyme, with whom it shares the constituent thymol. Oregano is used to disinfect the upper respiratory tract, to reduce inflammation and infection, to soothe and disinfect the gastrointestinal system, and to ease coughing through reflex action from the gut. A tincture made of the fresh plant is considered particularly potent by 'Herbal Ed Smith', who uses Oregano frequently in his clinical practice.
Lavender
The ancient Egyptians and Romans used Lavender when embalming corpses.
Pre-Christian Greeks and Romans used Lavender as a scent for baths and soaps. It is probably from that use that the generic name emerged - lavandula, from the Latin lavare, meaning to wash.
Lavender has a tradition of medicinal use from the time of Dioscorides, in the first century, A.D. It was used for its tonic, stimulant, antispasmodic, carminative, sedative, stomachic, and diuretic properties..
Queen Elizabeth I was particularly fond of Lavender conserves and always had Lavender jelly with cold lamb.
Lavender was familiar to Shakespeare, but probably was not a common plant in his time. It was first cultivated in England around 1568. It was one of the herbs taken by the Pilgrims to the new world, but they commented that it did not thrive in the new climate.
The oil of Lavender has been widely used in pharmaceutical preparations, cosmetic creams, soaps, perfumes, and colognes.
A folk formula for making a room-sized insect repellent is to absorb a few drops of lavender oil on a cotton ball, then suspend it from the ceiling.
Calendula
Bright orange pigments in Calendula flowers are used by the pharmaceutical industry to color medicinal preparations.
Calendula is used extensively in herbal medicine for local skin problems. Its anti-inflammatory, astringent, vulnerary and anti-fungal actions make it valuable for use where there is inflammation on the skin due to infection or wounding. It may be used for external bleeding, bruising or strains, and is especially beneficial to slow-healing wounds and skin ulcers.
It is an ideal first aid treatment for minor burns, scalds, aching, overtired feet, sunburn, and the misery of poison ivy.
Taken internally, Calendula has a marked anti-fungal activity and may be used to combat such infections.
It soothes damaged or ulcerated gastric mucosa, gum disease, hemorrhoids and conjunctivitis. It also acts to stimulate and heal the liver and gallbladder, to normalize the menstrual cycle and to ease painful periods.
Calendula is presently included in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Garlic
Garlic is one of the most pronounced healing herbs in the garden.
1.) ANTI-PATHOGENIC: It acts on bacteria, viruses, alimentary parasites and invasive organisms to dispel them and protect the body. The volatile oil is responsible for this action, acting through the lungs and also sparing beneficial flora in the alimentary tract. It is used for respiratory ailments, stomach problems, intestinal worms, colds and 'flu, and other infections. It may be used externally as an antiseptic and wound healing remedy. The expressed oil may be applied directly to cuts and abrasions.
2.) DIAPHORETIC: It assists the body in removing waste through sweating.
3.) HYPOTENSIVE: It reduces blood pressure as well as cholesterol levels when taken over a period of time.
4.) CHOLAGOGUE: Supports the liver by stimulating bile flow.
5.) ANTI-SPASMODIC: For use with bronchitis, colds, 'flu, nervous dyspepsia, high blood pressure, cardio-vascular problems.
6.) PANCREATIC TONIC: Balances blood-sugar levels.
PREPARATION: Fresh chopped Garlic may be eaten in salads - 1 clove for prevention of infection, 4-6 for 3-5 days for colds and 'flu.
Basil
Basil has not been used medicinally in the west for some time. However, very recently exhaustive research has been done on its value in drug detoxification. It is presently being used clinically to assist in detoxification from extended Marijuana use.
Tarragon
At one time, Tarragon was included in the United States Pharmacopoeia. Rutin, one of its active ingredients, is a bioflavonoid compound also found in buckwheat. Other bioflavonoids are found in orange, grapefruit, and onions. Rutin was considered a specific remedy for allergies, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, and hypertension. It was used as an anthelmintic, aperient, carminative, diuretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, hypnotic, refrigerant, sedative, stimulant, stomachic, tonic, and vermifuge. Tarragon was prescribed for amenorrhea, dogbites, stings, somach swellings, toothache, and tumors. Modern research shows that Tarragon's rutin content reduces capillary permeability. It is being tested for action against cancer, radiation damage, and strokes.
Catnip
Catnip's numerous volatile oils, bitter principle, and tannins make it a classic herb for use with colds and 'flu.
Its powerful 'refrigerant' action brings quick relief from high fever. It is soothing to the stomach, easing flatulence and dyspepsia. Catnip is a safe remedy for colic and diarrhoea in children. It is a gentle sedative, relaxing and soothing the nerves. Catnip is also effective in bringing on delayed menstruation, and is used to increase scanty flow. Catnip is presently listed in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Chamomile
Matricaria is the Chamomile most frequently used for medicinal purposes. It is an excellent, gentle sedative, safe even for use with children. Its relaxing properties and volatile oils ease flatulence and dyspeptic pain, indigestion and gastric inflammation. It will speed wound healing internally and externally. It can be used as a mouthwash for gum disease, and as an eyewash for bathing inflamed or sore eyes. It reduces swelling due to inflammation and can be used as a poultice on cuts, bruises and abrasions. South American and Mexican women have used it to bring on delayed menstruation and to ease the pain of 'cramps'.
People who have known sensitivities to ragweed, chrysanthemums, or other members of the Compositae family should note that it is the pollen-bearing flower tops which are used medicinally and as tea. Some people may have allergic sensitivity to the use of Chamomile.
Chamomile is presently included in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm's active ingredients include volatile oils, tannins, and a bitter principle. These combine to make it an excellent carminative herb for calming spasms of the digestive tract, anxiety states, nervous dyspepsia and flatulence, and tension. It is particularly effective in situations where symptoms lead to or are caused by depression, for it lifts the spirits and eases tension. Lemon Balm also has a tonic effect on the heart and circulatory system, lowering blood pressure through dilating the peripheral blood vessels. This diaphoretic action gives it a place in the management of feverish conditions and influenza, as well. Lemon Balm is gentle and safe enough for use with children. A warm cup at night is an effective relaxant for all ages.
Lemon Balm is presently included in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.
Peppermint
Presently Peppermint is used specifically to ease flatulence and digestive colic. It is also prescribed to relieve nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy. In combination with Elder, Boneset and Yarrow it is a standard herb used in easing the symptoms of the common cold. The muscle-relaxing effects of its volatile oils also make it helpful in relaxing menstrual pain.
ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY
Foster, Steven. Herbal Bounty! Salt Lake City: Peregrin Smith Books, 1984. I have a soft spot for this book, for it was the first herbal I ever bought. It is the product of years of personal experience on the part of the author in growing herbs at the Sabbath Day Shaker Community and is a reliable guide to growing herbs either for personal use or in larger quantities for commercial purposes.
Grieve, Mrs. M.A. A Modern Herbal. 2 vols. New York: Dover Publications,1971. This is definitely the best source book on the traditions, history, origins, and past medical uses of herbs. It makes fascinating reading.
Griggs, Barbara Green Pharmacy. London: Robert Hale Limited, 1981. We are very lucky that Barbara Griggs took six years of her time to research and write this book. It is already a classic, and a foundation for anyone who wishes to explore the history of the use of medicinal plants in western history. Although her book begins with Neanderthal man, the bulk of this work describes in brilliant, interesting, readable prose the details of medical herbalism from Dioscorides to present time. The interests, personalities, quirks and genius of the major characters in western herbalism come alive on these pages, and the hard-ball politics they played with the accepted, 'regular' medical world gives food for thought This book reads like a novel, and is a must for any serious herbalist or individual interested in alternative health technologies.
Hoffmann, David. The Holistic Herbal. Findhorn, Scotland: The Findhorn Press, 1980. This is the best book on the market for anyone interested in learning about the medicinal uses of herbs. Written by a practicing medical herbalist and teacher, it is a complete introductory text in the use of herbs for health. It is also beautifully designed, clearly written and up-to-date in research on health problems and herbal remedies. (It may be out of print – find a used one! Otherwise, anything by this author will do.)
Lust, John. The Herb Book. New York: Bantam Books, 1974. Written by the son of the founder of naturopathy, this book is a must for the American herbalist. It covers 514 plants,giving history and traditional lore, properties and uses, preparation and dosage, as well as many classic formulations for specific ailments. This is the book to have with you if you are stranded in the wilderness with no other medical resources!
Mills, Simon. The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism. New York: Thorsons Publishing Group, 1985.
The author was previously President and Director of Research of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists in Great Britain. It is a concise but comprehensive guide to practical herbal therapy, including alphabetical entries on both medicinal herbs and symptoms, with an emphasis on the holistic perspective to healing.
Duke, James A. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press, Inc., 1985.
Duke, James A. Handbook of Northeastern Indian Medicinal Plants. Lincoln, Massachusetts: Quarterman Publications, Inc., 1986.
Duke, James A. Living Liqueurs. Lincoln, Massachusetts: Quarterman Publishing Company, 1987.
Click on the links below for the Fragrant Herbs handout and Power Point presentation.