The herbs listed below are recommended for their healing properties. Please use these herbs under a
physicians consent if you are not familiar with herbal healing. Do NOT use any of these herbs
if you are or you think you may be pregnant. Children should use herbal remedies only with the consent of
your physician. Under no circumstances do herbal remedies replace a physicians care.
Agar-Agar: High in Minerals
Alfalfa
Family: Leguminosae Genus: Medicago Species: Sativa
Also Known As: Buffalo Grass, Chilean Clover
Rx: leaves (not sprouts) in infusions, tablets and capsules
Alfalfa leaves have wonderful healing powers that can prevent heart disease, lower cholesterol and help
prevent strokes.
Warnings: Alfalfa seeds should never be ingested as they contain high levels of amino acid canavanine.
Some chemicals in alfalfa can also destroy red blood cells and people with anemia should use caution
when ingesting it.
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Allspice
Family: Myrtaceae Genus: Pimenta Species: Officinalis, Dioca
Also Known As: Clove Pepper, Pimento, Pimenta, Jamaican Pepper
Rx: cooking, oil for toothache, infusion for digestive aid
Allspice is used as a digestive aid, anesthetic, and pain reliever and has been used to treat flatulence and
diabetes.
Warnings:Allspice oil should never be swallowed as it can cause nausea, vomiting, and even convulsions.
The oil can also be irritating when applied externally to people with sensitive skin or those with eczema.
Aloe
Family: Liliaceae Genus: Aloe Species: Vera (and over 500 others)
Also Known As: Socotrine, Cape, Curaiao, Barbados, Zanzibar Aloe
Rx: cut mature (lower) leaves for burns, scalds, sunburns, or cosmetic benefits
Aloe is one of the most widely used herbs for burns, scalds, scrapes, sunburn, and an incredible infection
fighter. It can also be used to smooth and beautify skin.
Warnings:Aloe latex is a very powerful laxative and may cause severe cramps and diarrhea. It should never
be ingested by pregnant women as it may cause miscarriage.
Anise
Family: Umbelliferae Genus: Pimpinella Species: Anisum
Also Known As: Aniseed, Sweet Cumin
Rx: infusion of seeds, tinctures
It has been used as a cough remedy, digestive aid, and contains chemicals similar to estrogen, which may
help with menopausal discomforts, and has been known to treat some cases of prostate cancer.
Warnings:If your doctor has advised you not to use birth control pills then you should seek the advise of a
physician before using this herb because it contains estrogen.
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Angelica- Headaches, Gout
Agrimony- Blood cleanser,Jaundice
Ash bark- Bitter tonic,Astringent
Astragalas-Immune builder from China
Balm, Lemon
Family: Labiatae Genus: Melissa Species: Officinalis
Also Known As: Bee Balm, Balm, Sweet Balm, Melissa, Cure-all
Rx: leaves in bath, compress for wounds, infusion, tincture
You can use it to treat wounds, herpes, viral infections, and has been used as a digestive aid, and a
tranquilizer. It can also be used to treat menstrual cramps or to promote menstruation.
Warnings:Anyone with a thyroid condition should avoid using this herb because it contains a
thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyrotropin.
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Basil
Family: Labiatae Genus: Ocimum Species: Basilicum, Sanctum
Also Known As: Sweet Basil, St. Josephwort
Rx: tincture or infusion for acne and general infection fighting
It as been used to treat intestinal parasites, acne, and stimulates the immune system.
Warnings:Tests have shown that basil may contain a chemical that has caused liver tumors in mice,
although the cancer risks remain unclear and not even the most conservative herb critics advise caution
when using it.
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Bay
Family: Lauraceae Genus: Laurus Species: Nobilis
Also Known As: Sweet Bay, Green Bay, Laurel, Grecian or Roman Laurel
Rx: fresh leaves for wounds, infusion, tincture
Bay is not only used as a bug repellent, but has been known to soothe sore joints, treat infections, and
when added to a bath may help with relaxation.
Warnings:External uses of bay should be avoided if you have sensitive skin as it may cause a rash.
Bee Pollen- Allergies, quick energy, slows down aging process
Bilberry- Eyes, known to correct nearsightedness, glaucoma
Black Cohosh- Natural estrogen, hot flashes, bronchitis, nerves
Black Walnut- Cleanses parasites & worms ,Skin rashes,Lupus
Blessed Thistle- Oxygen to brain, senility, increases mother's milk
Blood Root- To cause expectorant action, lowering high pulse
Blue Cohosh- Muscle spasms
Boneset- (Snake Root) Congestion, removes phlegm^
Brigham Tea- Ephedra nevadenses
Broom- Bladder & kidney disorders, safer than Bachu for liver
Buplarium- Strong China herb for stagnation in liver *
Burdock- Reduces swelling, deposits in joints, blood purifier, gout, eczema
Butcher's Broom- Circulation, phlebitis, leg cramps, varicose veins
Batchu- Decreases inflammation of the colon, prostrate, and gums^
Capsicum- Circulation to extremities, strokes, blood pressure, colds
Caraway
Family: Umbelliferae Genus: Caurm Species: Carvi
Also Known As: Carum
Rx: seeds in food, oil, infusion of seeds, tincture
Two chemicals in caraway seeds have been known to soothe the digestive tract and to help expel gas. It
may also be used for relief of menstrual cramps due to the fact that caraway might relax the uterus.
Warnings:None
Cascara Sagrada- Constipation, increased peristalic action, gall bladder^
Catnip
Family: Labiatae Genus: Nepeta Species: Cataria
Also Known As: Catnep, Catswort, Catmint, Field Balm
Rx: infusion of flowers and leaves (for you not your cat!)
When used in teas, it is considered a cold and cough remedy because it relieves chest congestion and
loosens phlegm. Catnip has long been used as a sedative, tranquilizer, digestive aid, menstruation
promoter, and treatment for menstrual cramps, flatulence, and infant colic.
Warnings:Some people may experience upset stomach but Catnip is considered nontoxic.
Cat's Claw- Cleans the intestinal tract, acids, cancer, tumors Celery- Reduces blood pressure, improves
appetite
Chamomile
Family: Compositae Genus: Matricaria, Anthemis Species: Chamomilla, Nobilis respectively
Also Known As: Camomile, Anthemis, Matricaria, Ground Apple
Rx: infusion or tincture of flowers, herbal bath
This herb is a highly used cure-all, and every household should seriously consider having it around. It has
been used externally to treat wounds and inflammations, and internally for indigestion and ulcers.
Chamomile is also used to relieve menstrual cramps, arthritis, and is an effective sedative.
Warnings:People who have previously suffered anaphylactic reactions from ragweed should think twice
about using this herb as well as its close relative yarrow. Large amounts have caused some nausea and
vomiting.
Chaparral- Protects from radiation, fights free radicals
Chickweed- Appetite depressant, burns fat, disolves plaque from veins
Chicory
Family: Compositae Genus: Cicorium Species: Intybus
Also Known As: Endive, Chickory
Rx: excellent salad addition, infusion, tincture
It is also known as endive, or chickory. Chicory is most commonly used to reduce the bitter taste of
caffeine in coffee. It aids in cleansing the urinary tract, digestion, a mild laxative and is also taken for
rheumatic conditions and gout.
Warnings:None
Cinnamon
Family: Lauraceae Genus: Cinnamomum Species: Zeylanicum, Cassia, Saigonicum
Also Known As: Ceylon Cinnamon, Saigon Cinnamon, Cassia
Rx: infusion of powdered herb, sprinkle cuts or scrapes for treatment
Cinnamon is used for infection prevention, pain relief, a digestive aid, and may help calm the uterus.
Warnings:Do not ingest cinnamon oil!!! It can cause nausea, vomiting, and possible kidney damage.
When put on the skin, the oil may cause redness and burning.
Clove
Family: Myrtaceae Genus: Eugenia, Syzygium Species: Caryophyllata, Aromaticum respectively
Also Known As: Caryophyllus, Clavos
Rx: oil for toothache, infusion
It has been used for toothaches, oral hygiene, a digestive aid, and an infection fighter. It is also used to
treat hernia, ringworm, and athlete's foot.
Warnings:Children under the age of 2 should never be given clove for medicinal purposes. The oil may
cause stomach upset when swallowed, and used externally may cause rash.
Colt's Foot- Cough and lung tonic
Comfrey- Speeds healing of wounds, skin aid
Corn Silk- Kidney, bladder, bedwetting, painful urination, prostrateCoriander
Family: Umbelliferae Genus: Corinadrum Species: Sativum
Also Known As: Cilantro, Chinese Parsley
Rx: infusion of seeds, sprinkle on cuts and scrapes
Used for indigestion, flatulence, and diarrhea, and externally for muscles and joint pains.
Warnings: If Coriander causes minor discomforts, such as stomach upsets or diarrhea, use less or stop
using it.
Cowslip- Face skin police amd infusion
Cranberry
Family: Ericaceae Genus: Vaccinium, Oxycoccus Species: Macerocarpon, Quadripetalus respectively
Also Known As: N/A
Rx: Juice, juice, juice!
Used for urinary tract infections (UTI), incontinence, high Vitamin C content
Warnings: None
Cummin Seed- Stimulant, anti-spasmotic
Damiana- Hormone balance, Parkinson's disease, pregnancy, frigility
Dandelion
Family: Compositae Genus: Taraxacum Species: Officinale
Also Known As: Wild Endive, Lion's Tooth, Piss-in-bed
Rx: #1 recommended salad addition, leaf infusion, root decoction, tincture, add to bath for prevention of
yeast infection
Used for Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), Weight Loss, High Blood Pressure, Congestive Heart Failure,
Cancer Prevention, Yeast Infection, Digestive Aid
Eat fresh leaves in a salad (they are quite tasty). Chinese doctors have prescribed Dandelion for
thousands of years to treat colds, bronchitis, pneumonia, ulcers, hepatitis, obesity, dental problems,
itching and internal injuries. Quite simply a 'super' herb.
Warnings: May cause skin rash in sensitive cases. If Dandelion causes stomach upset or diarrhea, use
less or stop using it.
Devil's Claw- Lupus, rheumatiod arthritis, spondyloarthropathies
Deer Tongue- Demulcent, sometimes used in snake bites
Dill
Family: Umbelliferae Genus: Anethum Species: Graveolens
Also Known As: N/A
Rx: chew seed for fresh breath, infusion or tincture, add to bath to for prevention of urinary tract infections
In addition to its preservative action, Dill is an infection fighter and soothing digestive aid. Used for stomach
problems, flatulence, urinary tract infection (UTI)
Warnings: May cause skin rash in sensitive individuals.
Dong Quai- Hot flashes, hormone balance, nerves, brain nutrition
Dragon's Blood- Inert, used by many in rituals
Dulce- Sea Weed, helps with cravings
Eagle Claw- Osawattamie used for bravery
Echinacea
Family: Compositae Genus: Echinacea Species: Angustifolia, Purpurea
Also Known As: Coneflower, Purple Coneflower
Rx: tincture or decoction of the ROOTS
The best kept secret of the west. This is our A#1 recommended herb due to its high immune system
boost. Echinacea kills a wide variety of disease causing viruses and bacteria, it fights infection and
strengthens tissues. It may prevent infection by seriously boosting ones immune system. It is known to
help the body in fighting off colds and flu. It is a treatment for yeast infections and actually can reduce the
future onset of. It helps preserve white blood cells, is a confirmed wound healer as it prevents germs from
penetrating tissues, and may have anti-arthritic properties. It is simply the most productive herb off all time.
Warnings:often causes one's tongue to tingle, this is not harmful.
Ephedra- Decongestant, bronchial spasms ^ *
Eucalyptus
Family: Myrtaceae Genus: Eucalyptus Species: Globulus
Also Known As: Gum Tree, Blue Gum, Australian Fever Tree
Rx: boil leaves as an inhalant, oil on cuts and scrapes, infusion from leaves NOT OIL, add leaves to bath
Eucalyptol is the chemical that gives Eucalyptus its healing properties. It loosens phlegm, kills influenza,
and may help bacterial bronchitis. An effective treatment for minor cuts and scrapes and it even repels
cockroaches!
Warnings:Do NOT ingest Eucalyptus oil, it is highly poisonous. Fatalities have been reported from
ingestion of as little as a teaspoon. KEEP AWAY FROM CHILDREN!
Fenugreek- Cleans the lungs, pain
Fennel
Family: Umbelliferae Genus: Foeniculum Species: Vulgare, Vulgare Dulce
Also Known As: Finocchio, Carosella, Florence Fennel
Rx: chew seeds for a digestive aid, infusion, tincture
Fennel relaxes the smooth muscle lining of the digestive tract and also helps expel gas. Used in Germany
for infant colic. Traditionally used to stimulate the uterus into menstruation. This herb may also help fight
prostate cancer. slows affects of Chemo therapy
Warnings:Since Fennel has a mild estrogenic effect, do not use if you are currently taking birth control pills,
have a history of abnormal blood clotting, or estrogen dependent breast tumors. Do NOT ingest Fennel
Oil, seeds are fine but the oil may cause nausea, vomiting, and possibly seizures.
Feverfew
Family: Compositae Genus: Chrysanthemum, Matricaria, Tanacetum Species: Parthenium
Also Known As: Ferbrifuge Plant, Wild Quinine, Bachelor's Button
Rx: chew leaves for migraine control, premade pills and tablets also work well for headaches, infusion,
tincture
Got a headache, maybe a chronic migraine? Feverfew may well be your answer. Seventy percent of
patients in scientific studies show a significant improvement in their migraine headaches even when
standard medical treatment showed no results. Also traditionally used for gynecological purposes. This
herb may reduce high blood pressure, and is a great digestive aid after meals.
Warnings:may cause sores inside the mouth, do not take if you have a clotting disorder. Remember that
Feverfew does not CURE migraines, it suppresses them.
Flax Seed- High in Omega oils, essential for cell development, fiber
Fo-Ti- Muscles, backache, nerves, ligaments
Garlic
Family: Amaryllidacae Genus: Allium Species: Sativum
Also Known As: Stinking Rose, Heal-all, Poor Man's Treacle
Rx: use cloves in cooking, crush and encapsulate or use pre-made tablets, infusion, tincture
Garlic is the worlds second oldest medicine, and is the traditional 'WONDER DRUG'. Many people don't
realize that onion has almost as much medicinal value as garlic does. Battle wounds in WWI were treated
with garlic juice. Recommended for colds, coughs, flu, fever, bronchitis, ringworm, intestinal worms,
elevated cholesterol, and general internal organ problems. No standard medication can match Garlic on
the cardiovascular scale. Garlic DEFINITELY reduces blood pressure, cholesterol, and reduces internal
clots which can lead to heart attacks and stroke. Garlic reduces blood sugar and therefore helps diabetes
sufferers. It may help eliminate lead and heavy metals in the bloodstream, has helped leprosy patients,
fights cancer, helps AIDS patients...nuff sed, USE IT!
Warnings:Allergy sufferers may develop a rash from touching or eating the herb. If this is the case,
discontinue. If you have a clotting disorder, consult a physician before using Garlic.
Ginger
Family: Zingiberaceae Genus: Zingiber Species: Officinale
Also Known As: Asian, African, American Ginger
Rx: cooking, capsules for motion sickness; tea, infusion, or ginger-ale for digestive aid.
This herb helps with motion and morning sickness. It is a very good digestive aid, may ease menstrual
cramps, helps arthritis, is traditionally used in the orient for colds and flu, and is excellent for reducing
cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, and preventing internal blood clots (a.k.a heart attacks)
Warnings:large doses MIGHT cause a miscarriage although there are no scientific reports backing this up.
Ginkgo
Family: Ginkgoaceae Genus: Ginkgo Species: Biloba
Also Known As: Maidenhair Tree
Rx: leaves brewed as tea, infusion
The Earth's oldest tree, it's a given that this herb helps the elderly the most. Ginkgo increases blood flow to
the brain which can prevent strokes and heart attacks, improve memory, help impotence and chronic
dizziness. It is also known to help with macular degeneration (blindness), circulation, asthma, tinnitus,
and deafness. A fine example of the need to preserve the Earth's natural resources.
Warnings:Do not use if you have a clotting disorder, do not take in very large amounts as diarrhea,
vomiting, and irritability can occur.
Ginseng
Family: Araliaceae Genus: Panax, Eleutherococcus Species: Ginseng and Quinquefolius, Senticosus
Also Known As: Root of Immortality, Man Root, Life Root, Seng Seng
Rx: It is very important to use mature roots (over 6 years old). Use root powder teas, capsules or tablets.
You can also make a decoction from dried pulverized root.
This herb helps the bodies resistance, boosts the immune system, lowers cholesterol, lowers blood
sugars, reduces heart attacks, protects the liver, helps the appetite, and helps cancer patients with
radiation therapy.
Warnings:Rare cases of insomnia, allergy symptoms, breast soreness. Do not use if you have high blood
pressure, fever, asthma, emphysema, or cardiac arrhythmia.
American Ginseng- Depression, stress
Korean Ginseng- Mans Ginseng, to build and strengthen the prostate
Panax Ginseng- Energy, stress, impotantcy, stimulant
Siberian Ginseng- Cirrculation
Suma Ginseng- Woman's Ginseng, to build and strengthen female genetalia
Goldenseal- Infection, natural insulin, cleanses urinary system
Gota Kola- Brain food, memory, vitality, depression, senility
Gravel Root- (See Queen of the Meadow)
Green Tea- Combats mental fatigue, may prevent cancer^ *
Hawthorne Berry- Energy, stress, endurance, depression, impotency
Hawthorne Leaf- Energy, stress
Hops- Insomnia, nerves, decreases desire for alcohol, pro-active children
Horehound
Family: Labiatae Genus: Marrubium Species: Vulgare
Also Known As: Marrubium, Hoarhound, White Horehound
Rx: flowers and leaves in infusion or tincture for cough remedy
A popular herbal cough remedy and expectorant for almost 2,000 years, Horehound is good for minor
respiratory problems, coughs, colds, and bronchitis
Warnings:those with heart disease should not use this herb
Ho Shou Wu- (See Fo-Ti)
Horsetail- Stops hair from falling out, split ends, nails, tumors
Hydrangea- Diuretic, with Queen of the Meadow, will dispel kidney stones
Hyssop
Family: Labiatae Genus: Hyssopus Species: Officinalis
Also Known As: N/A
Rx: flowers and leaves as a compress for cold sores and genital herpes, infusion, tincture
Hyssop inhibits the growth of herpes simplex virus. Scientists agree it is a 'reasonably effective' treatment
for cough and irritation of colds and flu. Most quoted herb in the Bible
Warnings:DO NOT USE IF PREGNANT..... PERIOD! Again always positively identify the herbs you use. H.
Officinalis is the correct herb, it's name sharing cousins (G. Officinalis, genus' Agastache and Bacopa)
should not be ingested.
Irish Moss- Aids in formation of stool, skin lotion
Irish Breakfast- Wake up tea
Jasmine- Great China tea, soothing to the nerves
Juniper
Family: Cupressaceae Genus: Juniperus Species: Communis
Also Known As: Geneva, Genvrier
Rx: infusion of berries for arthritis or female regularity
The source of gin, this herb also increases urine production (a diuretic) - making it a treatment for PMS,
high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. Recommended for arthritis.
Warnings:Long term use can cause kidney damage. If you have a kidney infection or kidney problems you
should not use this herb. One-third of hay fever sufferers develop allergy symptoms from exposure to
Juniper.
Kava Kava- Induces mental and physical relaxation, sleep
Kelp
Family: Fucaceae Genus: Fucus, Laminaria, Macrocystis, Nereocystis Species: Versiculosus (Fucus),
various (Others)
Also Known As: Fucus, Seawrack, Cutweed, Bladderwrack, Wakame, Hijiki, Kombu, Arame
A natural source of iodine, now known as a radiation protector, protection from heavy metals, reducer of
heart disease, and an infection fighter.
Rx: take tablets (herb is unpleasant), infusion
Warnings: None
Kudzu- To aid in withdrawals
Herblist Page 2
Herbs And Their Traditional Uses
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Disclaimer: Almond Street Natural Foods cannot be responsible for the content of the information presented
and/or linked to, nor should its presentation be viewed as an endorsement of the information and/or opinions
expressed by the writers and/or site.
The presentation of this material is in no way meant as an attempt to diagnose, treat or prescribe for any malady
or condition. Please note any warnings and/or disclaimers made by the various authors. Lastly, let your good
judgement and common sense be your guide on any quest for knowledge... regardless of the journey.
and/or linked to, nor should its presentation be viewed as an endorsement of the information and/or opinions
expressed by the writers and/or site.
The presentation of this material is in no way meant as an attempt to diagnose, treat or prescribe for any malady
or condition. Please note any warnings and/or disclaimers made by the various authors. Lastly, let your good
judgement and common sense be your guide on any quest for knowledge... regardless of the journey.