Elecampane Herbarium
Latin Name: Inula helenium
Common Names: xuan fu hua (Chinese), inula
Family: Asteraceae (formerly Compositae)
Descriptive Characteristics: Chevallier (2016) says this grows to 10 feet in height has golden yellow flowers that resemble daisies, and the leaves are large and pointed (p. 107). Heinerman (1996) says this perennial grows to 3-6 feet, the branches are stout, the leaves are pointed, and ovate, and the flowers are present mid-late summer. These flowers are 4 inches wide and resemble sunflowers. He describes the root as being large, heavy, and yellow but inside, the root is white. He says it smells like violets (p. 218).
Part of the plant used: rhizome and root. Tierra (1998) says the flowers (p. 320).
Texture:
Color:
Aroma:
Flavor: salty, acrid
Constituents: Inulin, essential oil (several sesquiterpenes lactones(antiseptic properties) including alantolactone, isoalantolactone, and dihydroalantolactone), helenin/elecampane camphor, calcium, potassium, sodium, and resin (Petersen, 2018, p. 101). Hoffman (2003) says sesquiterpene lactones (alantolactone(helenalin), isoalantolactone), polysaccharides (inulin), Sterols, resin (p. 560). Chevalier (2016) says inulin, volatile oil (alantol, sesquiterpenes (alantolactone)), triterpene saponins, and phytosterols (p. 107).
Therapeutic Actions: Alterative, anthelmintic (vermicide), antiasthmatic, antiascorbutic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aperitive, astringent, carminative, cholagogue, diaphoretic, diuretic (mild), emetic, emmenagogue, expectorant, nutritive, rubefacient, stimulant, stomachic, tonic, and vulnerary (Petersen, 2018, p. 101). Hoffman (2003) says expectorant, antitussive, diaphoretic, hepatic, warming, and antimicrobial (p. 560). Clark (2011) says antiseptic, diaphoretic, respiratory tonic, and expectorant (p. 37). Tierra (1998) says expectorant, antiemetic, and warming (effects lung, spleen, stomach, liver, large intestine) (p. 320). Chevallier (2016) says expectorant, soothes cough, increases sweating, mildly bitter, eliminates worms, and antibacterial (p. 107). Ulbricht (2010) says antifungal, antiparasitic, antimicrobial, and expectorant (p. 307).
Indications: Chronic respiratory issues with digestive complaints, anthelmintic for roundworm, threadworm, hookworm, and whipworm. Bronchial complaints, asthma, bronchitis, cough, cystitis, diabetes, delayed menstruation, gastritis, inflammation, inflamed gums, loss of appetite, neuralgia, sciatica, skin diseases, sluggish liver, water retention, worms, and wounds (Petersen, 2018, p. 101, 102). Hoffman (2003) says irritating bronchial coughs, catarrh, emphysema, asthma, tuberculosis, pneumoconiosis, and chronic cough (p. 560). Clark (2011) says irritating coughs, bronchitis, whooping cough and is gentle enough for kids (p. 37). Tierra (1998) says bronchitis, coughing, shortness of breath, congestions, pleurisy, and ascites (p. 320). Chevallier (2016) says tuberculosis, MRSA, respiratory tonic, chest infections, almost all chest conditions, debilitation, chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, improves digestion and absorption of nutrients, stimulates appetite, relieves dyspepsia, treats worms, tonsillitis and helps counter infection when combined with other herbs (p. 107). Ulbricht (2010) says food flavoring, coughs, colds, and bronchial ailments (p. 307).
Formulary:
Griffin, J. (1997).
Bronchitis (P. 131): 2 ounces each: elecampane, comfrey, horehound leaves, and ginger. Add pleurisy root. Grind into powder. Use 1t to make a tea in 1 pint water.
Lung tonic (p.148): 2T pleurisy root, 1T mullein root, 2T elecampane root, 1T cramp bark or blackhaw, 1T licorice or ginger, 2T osha root (only if cough is productive), 2T yucca, dried/split (only if there is wheezing)Simmer in 2c water, covered, 15 min. Strain, ½ c daily for lungs, ½ c 3/day for congestion.
Decongestant Tonic (p. 24)
Petersen (2018, p. 100, 118)
Asthma, bronchitis, coughs, lung complaints: use a decoction, fluid extract or tincture.
External inflammation, wounds: bathe area with decoction, diluted extract or tincture.
Inflamed gums: gargle decoction.
Neuralgia and sciatica: use decoction externally.
Skin problems: make a paste with the powder or wash area with decoction.
Worms: combine elecampane and wormwood and prepare an infusion.
Decoction of the root: 2oz root, 2pts water. Soak root for 2 hours then bring to a boil. Simmer covered for 30 minutes. Strain. Return liquid to pot then simmer again until it’s 1 pint. Cool bottle, then store in refrigerator for 72 hours. Use 2-4t in water 3/day.
Cough Syrup I: 1 oz Horehound, 1 oz licorice, 1 oz elecampane, ½ oz hyssop, ½ oz marshmallow, honey to taste, 1 drop to 1 pint fluid of peppermint essential oil. Prepare a decoction with all herbs except horehound. Strain and pour over horehound. Steep 10-15 minutes. Strain and measure. For each c of fluid, add 1 c honey. Simmer until thickened. Cool and add peppermint. Bottle and store. Use 2-4t as required every 1-2 hours.
Chevallier (2016)
Coughs and bronchitis (p. 310).
Heinerman (1996)
Aches and pains (p. 219): rheumatism, sciatica, lumbago, facial neuralgia
Asthma, bronchitis, chest colds, tuberculosis, pneumonia (p. 220)
Dosage:
Petersen (2018, p. 99)
Decoction: 2-4t – Simmer 1.5-4g of herb in 1c water for 10 minutes. 3-4 / day.
Fluid Extract: 1.5-4ml, 3-4/day
Powder: 1t, 3-4 /day
Tincture: 3-5ml, 3-4/day
Hoffman (2003, p. 560)
1:5 40% Tincture: 1-2 ml 3/day
Infusion: 1 t shredded root to 1 cup cold water. Let stand 8-10 min. Heat and drink 3/day.
Tierra (1998, p. 320)
3-9g
Gardner (2013)
Tea: 1g 3/day
Ulbricht (2010, p. 307)
Rhizome/root in capsule or decoction: 1.5-4g 3/day
300 mg alantolactone daily for 10 days, with 10 days off before continuing another 10 days (50-200 mg for children)
Tincture (root): 15-25 drops daily (7-12 for children)
Safety: Do not use during pregnancy or lactation. Large doses may cause diarrhea, vomiting, paralysis. The US allows the sale of this for flavoring for alcohol only. Can cause contact dermatitis and interfere with treatments for hypoglycemia and hypertension (Petersen, 2018, p. 102). May irritate allergies in people with allergies to this family (Hoffman, 2003, p. 560). Clark (2003) says contact dermatitis is a possibility. Large doses can cause diarrhea, spasms, vomiting, and paralysis so do not exceed the recommended dosage (p. 38). Tierra (1998) says not for tuberculosis or inflammatory cough (p. 320). Clark (2015) says not to use while breastfeeding (p. 71). Gardner (2013) says there is potential for allergic reaction, to include contact dermatitis, for those who are allergic to other plants in this family. There is mixed science but the editors feel this herb is safe for pregnancy and lactation, even used in china to prevent miscarriages with the pregnancy is threatened (p. 474).
Lab, Notes And Media:
On 24 May 2019, I started 30g of herb. I used 40% alcohol so my menstruum was 120ml, no dilution. The scent is quite strong and earthy. On 8 may, I strained it and the yield was about 80ml. The picture does not do this shade of brown justice.
Common Names: xuan fu hua (Chinese), inula
Family: Asteraceae (formerly Compositae)
Descriptive Characteristics: Chevallier (2016) says this grows to 10 feet in height has golden yellow flowers that resemble daisies, and the leaves are large and pointed (p. 107). Heinerman (1996) says this perennial grows to 3-6 feet, the branches are stout, the leaves are pointed, and ovate, and the flowers are present mid-late summer. These flowers are 4 inches wide and resemble sunflowers. He describes the root as being large, heavy, and yellow but inside, the root is white. He says it smells like violets (p. 218).
Part of the plant used: rhizome and root. Tierra (1998) says the flowers (p. 320).
Texture:
Color:
Aroma:
Flavor: salty, acrid
Constituents: Inulin, essential oil (several sesquiterpenes lactones(antiseptic properties) including alantolactone, isoalantolactone, and dihydroalantolactone), helenin/elecampane camphor, calcium, potassium, sodium, and resin (Petersen, 2018, p. 101). Hoffman (2003) says sesquiterpene lactones (alantolactone(helenalin), isoalantolactone), polysaccharides (inulin), Sterols, resin (p. 560). Chevalier (2016) says inulin, volatile oil (alantol, sesquiterpenes (alantolactone)), triterpene saponins, and phytosterols (p. 107).
Therapeutic Actions: Alterative, anthelmintic (vermicide), antiasthmatic, antiascorbutic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aperitive, astringent, carminative, cholagogue, diaphoretic, diuretic (mild), emetic, emmenagogue, expectorant, nutritive, rubefacient, stimulant, stomachic, tonic, and vulnerary (Petersen, 2018, p. 101). Hoffman (2003) says expectorant, antitussive, diaphoretic, hepatic, warming, and antimicrobial (p. 560). Clark (2011) says antiseptic, diaphoretic, respiratory tonic, and expectorant (p. 37). Tierra (1998) says expectorant, antiemetic, and warming (effects lung, spleen, stomach, liver, large intestine) (p. 320). Chevallier (2016) says expectorant, soothes cough, increases sweating, mildly bitter, eliminates worms, and antibacterial (p. 107). Ulbricht (2010) says antifungal, antiparasitic, antimicrobial, and expectorant (p. 307).
Indications: Chronic respiratory issues with digestive complaints, anthelmintic for roundworm, threadworm, hookworm, and whipworm. Bronchial complaints, asthma, bronchitis, cough, cystitis, diabetes, delayed menstruation, gastritis, inflammation, inflamed gums, loss of appetite, neuralgia, sciatica, skin diseases, sluggish liver, water retention, worms, and wounds (Petersen, 2018, p. 101, 102). Hoffman (2003) says irritating bronchial coughs, catarrh, emphysema, asthma, tuberculosis, pneumoconiosis, and chronic cough (p. 560). Clark (2011) says irritating coughs, bronchitis, whooping cough and is gentle enough for kids (p. 37). Tierra (1998) says bronchitis, coughing, shortness of breath, congestions, pleurisy, and ascites (p. 320). Chevallier (2016) says tuberculosis, MRSA, respiratory tonic, chest infections, almost all chest conditions, debilitation, chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, improves digestion and absorption of nutrients, stimulates appetite, relieves dyspepsia, treats worms, tonsillitis and helps counter infection when combined with other herbs (p. 107). Ulbricht (2010) says food flavoring, coughs, colds, and bronchial ailments (p. 307).
Formulary:
Griffin, J. (1997).
Bronchitis (P. 131): 2 ounces each: elecampane, comfrey, horehound leaves, and ginger. Add pleurisy root. Grind into powder. Use 1t to make a tea in 1 pint water.
Lung tonic (p.148): 2T pleurisy root, 1T mullein root, 2T elecampane root, 1T cramp bark or blackhaw, 1T licorice or ginger, 2T osha root (only if cough is productive), 2T yucca, dried/split (only if there is wheezing)Simmer in 2c water, covered, 15 min. Strain, ½ c daily for lungs, ½ c 3/day for congestion.
Decongestant Tonic (p. 24)
Petersen (2018, p. 100, 118)
Asthma, bronchitis, coughs, lung complaints: use a decoction, fluid extract or tincture.
External inflammation, wounds: bathe area with decoction, diluted extract or tincture.
Inflamed gums: gargle decoction.
Neuralgia and sciatica: use decoction externally.
Skin problems: make a paste with the powder or wash area with decoction.
Worms: combine elecampane and wormwood and prepare an infusion.
Decoction of the root: 2oz root, 2pts water. Soak root for 2 hours then bring to a boil. Simmer covered for 30 minutes. Strain. Return liquid to pot then simmer again until it’s 1 pint. Cool bottle, then store in refrigerator for 72 hours. Use 2-4t in water 3/day.
Cough Syrup I: 1 oz Horehound, 1 oz licorice, 1 oz elecampane, ½ oz hyssop, ½ oz marshmallow, honey to taste, 1 drop to 1 pint fluid of peppermint essential oil. Prepare a decoction with all herbs except horehound. Strain and pour over horehound. Steep 10-15 minutes. Strain and measure. For each c of fluid, add 1 c honey. Simmer until thickened. Cool and add peppermint. Bottle and store. Use 2-4t as required every 1-2 hours.
Chevallier (2016)
Coughs and bronchitis (p. 310).
Heinerman (1996)
Aches and pains (p. 219): rheumatism, sciatica, lumbago, facial neuralgia
Asthma, bronchitis, chest colds, tuberculosis, pneumonia (p. 220)
Dosage:
Petersen (2018, p. 99)
Decoction: 2-4t – Simmer 1.5-4g of herb in 1c water for 10 minutes. 3-4 / day.
Fluid Extract: 1.5-4ml, 3-4/day
Powder: 1t, 3-4 /day
Tincture: 3-5ml, 3-4/day
Hoffman (2003, p. 560)
1:5 40% Tincture: 1-2 ml 3/day
Infusion: 1 t shredded root to 1 cup cold water. Let stand 8-10 min. Heat and drink 3/day.
Tierra (1998, p. 320)
3-9g
Gardner (2013)
Tea: 1g 3/day
Ulbricht (2010, p. 307)
Rhizome/root in capsule or decoction: 1.5-4g 3/day
300 mg alantolactone daily for 10 days, with 10 days off before continuing another 10 days (50-200 mg for children)
Tincture (root): 15-25 drops daily (7-12 for children)
Safety: Do not use during pregnancy or lactation. Large doses may cause diarrhea, vomiting, paralysis. The US allows the sale of this for flavoring for alcohol only. Can cause contact dermatitis and interfere with treatments for hypoglycemia and hypertension (Petersen, 2018, p. 102). May irritate allergies in people with allergies to this family (Hoffman, 2003, p. 560). Clark (2003) says contact dermatitis is a possibility. Large doses can cause diarrhea, spasms, vomiting, and paralysis so do not exceed the recommended dosage (p. 38). Tierra (1998) says not for tuberculosis or inflammatory cough (p. 320). Clark (2015) says not to use while breastfeeding (p. 71). Gardner (2013) says there is potential for allergic reaction, to include contact dermatitis, for those who are allergic to other plants in this family. There is mixed science but the editors feel this herb is safe for pregnancy and lactation, even used in china to prevent miscarriages with the pregnancy is threatened (p. 474).
Lab, Notes And Media:
On 24 May 2019, I started 30g of herb. I used 40% alcohol so my menstruum was 120ml, no dilution. The scent is quite strong and earthy. On 8 may, I strained it and the yield was about 80ml. The picture does not do this shade of brown justice.
Research:
References
Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine: 550 Herbs and Remedies for common Ailments. New York, NY: DK, a Division of Penguin Random House, LLC. p. 107.
Clark, D. (2011). Herbal Healing for Children: A Parent's Guide to Treatments for Common Childhood Illnesses. Healthy Living Publications. p. 37-8,184.
Clark, D. (2015). Aromatherapy and Herbal Remedies for Pregnancy, Birth, and Breastfeeding. Book Publishing Company.
Gardner, Z. & McGuffin, M. (2013). American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, Fl: CRC Press. p. 474-5.
Griffin, J. (1997). Mother Nature’s Herbal: A Complete Guide for Experiencing the Beauty, Knowledge, & Synergy of Everything that Grows. Woodbury, MN: Llewellyn Publications. p. 24, 130-1, 148, 241.
Heinerman, J. (1996). Healing Herbs and Spices, Heinerman’s Encyclopedia of. Reward Books. p. 218-20.
Hoffman, David. (2003). Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press. P. 560
Peterson, D. (2018). Herb 503: Advanced Herbal Materica Medica II. American College of Healthcare Sciences. P. 98-102.
Tierra, M. (1998). The Way of Chinese Herbs. Pocket Books. p. 320.
Ulbricht, C. E. (2010). Natural Standard Herb & Supplement Guide: An Evidence-based Guide. Mosby, Inc. Elsevier, Inc. p. 307-8.
References
Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine: 550 Herbs and Remedies for common Ailments. New York, NY: DK, a Division of Penguin Random House, LLC. p. 107.
Clark, D. (2011). Herbal Healing for Children: A Parent's Guide to Treatments for Common Childhood Illnesses. Healthy Living Publications. p. 37-8,184.
Clark, D. (2015). Aromatherapy and Herbal Remedies for Pregnancy, Birth, and Breastfeeding. Book Publishing Company.
Gardner, Z. & McGuffin, M. (2013). American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, Fl: CRC Press. p. 474-5.
Griffin, J. (1997). Mother Nature’s Herbal: A Complete Guide for Experiencing the Beauty, Knowledge, & Synergy of Everything that Grows. Woodbury, MN: Llewellyn Publications. p. 24, 130-1, 148, 241.
Heinerman, J. (1996). Healing Herbs and Spices, Heinerman’s Encyclopedia of. Reward Books. p. 218-20.
Hoffman, David. (2003). Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press. P. 560
Peterson, D. (2018). Herb 503: Advanced Herbal Materica Medica II. American College of Healthcare Sciences. P. 98-102.
Tierra, M. (1998). The Way of Chinese Herbs. Pocket Books. p. 320.
Ulbricht, C. E. (2010). Natural Standard Herb & Supplement Guide: An Evidence-based Guide. Mosby, Inc. Elsevier, Inc. p. 307-8.
Appendix I: Constituents
Alantol (Volatile oil):
Alantolactone (Sesquiterpene lactone, Essential oil) has hypotensive, hyperglycemic (in large doses), and hypoglycemic properties. It is also highly antibacterial and fungicidal and used as an anthelmintic in Europe and the UK. Hoffman shares that it can cause contact dermatitis but is an expectorant, cholagogue, and urinary tract antiseptic; stimulates intestinal secretion and kills liver fluke which is a breed of parasitic worms (Petersen, 2018, p. 101; Hoffman, 2003, p. 70).
Dihydroalantolactone (Sesquiterpene Lactone, Essential Oil):
Helenin/Elecampane camphor is highly antiseptic and bactericidal. More soluble in alcohol than water. This is a mixture of alantolactone and isoalantolactone and is antibacterial and antifungal. (Petersen, 2018, p. 101; Hoffman, 2003, p. 70; Ganora, 2009, p. 68).
Inulins are composed mainly of fructose. They are found in many foods, including the processed food created by the industry. They ferment in the colon for that healthy microbiome. They are antitumor, anitmicrobial, hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, antiosteoprotic, improve mineral absorption and balance. Some of these have a lack of enough studies to fully state they are FACT but these are traditional uses (Hoffman, 2003, p. 45).
Isoalantolactone (Sesquiterpene lactone, Essential oil) has high bactericide and fungicide properties (Petersen, 2018, p. 101).
Phytosterols: mean there is a hydroxyl group attached to the C3 and an extra methyl or ethyl in the side chain. This is what differentiates it from an animal sterol (phyto meaning plant). Ganora says these are soluble in oil. She says these are good for cholesterol, blood lipids, and reduce blood-soluble vitamins in the blood. These are good for enlarged prostates and some are anti-carcinogenic. These also are believed to be responsible for sexual and hormonal toning activities. The major phytosterols which may come up later are beta-sitosterol, campestrerol, and stigmasterol (Hoffman, 2003, p. 83, 143; Ganora, 2009, 44, 46, 64, 69, 91, 92, 134, 145).
Polysaccharides (Mucilage) activate the macrophages which initiates the body’s defenses against pathogens and cancer cells (Hoffman, 2003, p. 544).
Resins are not water-soluble and need either alcohol or oil to extract the constituents. The older the sample, the harder it is to extract.
Sesquiterpene lactones: these can kill sheep and goats - are highly irritating to their nose, eyes, and gastrointestinal tracts. Other lactones break down the toxins through metabolism. These can help with cancer but can also be cytotoxic so they are often avoided (Hoffman, 2003, p. 70, 174, 199, 370).
Sesquiterpenes (in volatile oil): Constituents are often classified based on structure and this particular one makes that hard... There are over 200 structure types. The 3 main structures are acyclic, monocytclic, and bicyclic. Some of these act as pheromones for communication between plants. Some provide a defensive role (Hoffman, 2003, p. 67).
Sterols (Aglycone Glycosides) are often used to imply phytosterols in these books. They need to be careful, though because sterols are found in animals while the same molecule can be called a phytosterol because it is found in a plant. calling it a sterol when it's in a plant can cause confusion (Ganora, 2009, p. 92, 93).
Triterpenoid saponins have 30 carbons with 3-5 sugars attached and are generally anti-inflammatory while some are adaptogenic. They can also be antioxidant and vascular toning (Hoffman, 2003, p. 79; Ganora, 2009, 142).
Volatile oil: Volatile just means they evaporate more quickly than other substances. If it says "volatile", you want to use the plant as fresh as possible and try not to warm it up in any way (Ganora, 2009, p. 52, 57, 61, 134, 139). Chevallier (2016) says volatile oils are what is extracted from the plant to make essential oils and are made of a lot of compounds, sometimes as much as 100 (p. 14).
Alantol (Volatile oil):
Alantolactone (Sesquiterpene lactone, Essential oil) has hypotensive, hyperglycemic (in large doses), and hypoglycemic properties. It is also highly antibacterial and fungicidal and used as an anthelmintic in Europe and the UK. Hoffman shares that it can cause contact dermatitis but is an expectorant, cholagogue, and urinary tract antiseptic; stimulates intestinal secretion and kills liver fluke which is a breed of parasitic worms (Petersen, 2018, p. 101; Hoffman, 2003, p. 70).
Dihydroalantolactone (Sesquiterpene Lactone, Essential Oil):
Helenin/Elecampane camphor is highly antiseptic and bactericidal. More soluble in alcohol than water. This is a mixture of alantolactone and isoalantolactone and is antibacterial and antifungal. (Petersen, 2018, p. 101; Hoffman, 2003, p. 70; Ganora, 2009, p. 68).
Inulins are composed mainly of fructose. They are found in many foods, including the processed food created by the industry. They ferment in the colon for that healthy microbiome. They are antitumor, anitmicrobial, hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, antiosteoprotic, improve mineral absorption and balance. Some of these have a lack of enough studies to fully state they are FACT but these are traditional uses (Hoffman, 2003, p. 45).
Isoalantolactone (Sesquiterpene lactone, Essential oil) has high bactericide and fungicide properties (Petersen, 2018, p. 101).
Phytosterols: mean there is a hydroxyl group attached to the C3 and an extra methyl or ethyl in the side chain. This is what differentiates it from an animal sterol (phyto meaning plant). Ganora says these are soluble in oil. She says these are good for cholesterol, blood lipids, and reduce blood-soluble vitamins in the blood. These are good for enlarged prostates and some are anti-carcinogenic. These also are believed to be responsible for sexual and hormonal toning activities. The major phytosterols which may come up later are beta-sitosterol, campestrerol, and stigmasterol (Hoffman, 2003, p. 83, 143; Ganora, 2009, 44, 46, 64, 69, 91, 92, 134, 145).
Polysaccharides (Mucilage) activate the macrophages which initiates the body’s defenses against pathogens and cancer cells (Hoffman, 2003, p. 544).
Resins are not water-soluble and need either alcohol or oil to extract the constituents. The older the sample, the harder it is to extract.
Sesquiterpene lactones: these can kill sheep and goats - are highly irritating to their nose, eyes, and gastrointestinal tracts. Other lactones break down the toxins through metabolism. These can help with cancer but can also be cytotoxic so they are often avoided (Hoffman, 2003, p. 70, 174, 199, 370).
Sesquiterpenes (in volatile oil): Constituents are often classified based on structure and this particular one makes that hard... There are over 200 structure types. The 3 main structures are acyclic, monocytclic, and bicyclic. Some of these act as pheromones for communication between plants. Some provide a defensive role (Hoffman, 2003, p. 67).
Sterols (Aglycone Glycosides) are often used to imply phytosterols in these books. They need to be careful, though because sterols are found in animals while the same molecule can be called a phytosterol because it is found in a plant. calling it a sterol when it's in a plant can cause confusion (Ganora, 2009, p. 92, 93).
Triterpenoid saponins have 30 carbons with 3-5 sugars attached and are generally anti-inflammatory while some are adaptogenic. They can also be antioxidant and vascular toning (Hoffman, 2003, p. 79; Ganora, 2009, 142).
Volatile oil: Volatile just means they evaporate more quickly than other substances. If it says "volatile", you want to use the plant as fresh as possible and try not to warm it up in any way (Ganora, 2009, p. 52, 57, 61, 134, 139). Chevallier (2016) says volatile oils are what is extracted from the plant to make essential oils and are made of a lot of compounds, sometimes as much as 100 (p. 14).
Appendix II: Therapeutic Actions
Alteratives: Blood cleaners (Griffin, 1997, p. 7). This means if you are having problems with absorbing nutrients these can help. They also eliminate metabolic waste which can make the body feel sluggish and low in energy.
Anthelmintic kills helminths which are parasites such as flukes, roundworms, and tapeworms (drugs.com).
Antiasthmatics: Relieves wheezing (Griffin, 1997, p. 7)
Antiascorbutic means it treats illnesses that are the result of a lack of vitamin C like scurvy.
Anti-bacterial means it kills bacteria, generally associated with infections.
Antiemetic simply means it helps prevent nausea and vomiting, often used for motion sickness.
Antifungal, also called fungicide, means it kills fungi.
Anti-microbial encompasses all microbes, not just viral or bacterial.
Antiparasitic means it kills parasites. Often these focus on intestinal parasites but not always.
Antiseptics are used to prevent bacteria growth internally and externally. (Griffin, 1997, p. 7)
Antispasmodics help with muscle cramps and spasms (Griffin, 1997, p. 7). Coughing is also a result of this spasm activity so a lot of these herbs are used to relieve cough. Hoffman likes to remind people that just because the cough is relieved doesn't mean the cause of the cough is gone. We should strive to fix the cause, not just the symptom. Often, the cough should be allowed to happen because the body clearly doesn't want something in there.
Antitussive just means it fights coughs which is a specific spam (anti-spasmodic).
Aperitive means laxative
Astringent: These are great for swollen tonsils and hemorrhoids but they also dry up the mucous discharge. These treat the symptom, not the cause of the symptom. (Griffin, 1997, p. 8)
Bitter: Somehow this is not already defined though I've talked about it. The title for the section of bitters is "Digestive System Tonics". One of the things these herbs that have a bitter taste do is stimulate the digestive system. Bitters actually have a whole-body effect as a classification. The taste buds trigger a response in the body (other than that shudder). Bitter herbs stimulate the appetite, the release of digestive juices, aid the liver in detoxing the body and increasing the flow of bile, help regulate pancreas hormones, and help the gut wall repair damage. They also help the heart and circulation. Some are even anti-depressants. Coffee is a bitter. You're welcome. For people like me who don't like bitter, the list above should be a thought-provoker in why we should "acquire the taste". (Hoffman, 2003, p. 243, 410, 498-501).
Carminatives: relieve gas/intestinal stagnation, increase circulation (Griffin, 1997, p. 8)
Cholagogues promote the flow of bile and stimulate appetite (Griffin, 1997, p. 8).
Diaphoretics: Served as a warm tea, they promote sweating, Served cold, they act as diuretics. These focus on the respiratory system, including sinuses. There are 2 types: Stimulating drain the lymphatic system to target those swollen glands. Relaxing reduces fevers and skin toxins. They help with acute symptoms. (Griffin, 1997, p. 8)
Diuretics increase urination by helping elimination through the kidneys and bladder. They help eliminate toxins from the blood and reduce edema and swelling from the waist down (Griffin, 1997, p. 9).
Emetic means it causes nausea and vomiting.
Emmenagogues: Promotes menstrual flow and healthy menstrual function. There are 3 types: warming helps with dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, anxiety, cramps and pain. Cooling help calm excited, emotional, and irritable conditions. Tonic builds blood and promotes sexual function (Griffin, 1997, p. 9).
Expectorants are the ones that make you cough up and spit out mucous. This includes mucous from the sinuses, lungs and stomach. (Griffin, 1997, p. 9) The cough itself is relieved by antispasmodics but this is why you want to think before taking cough medicine. The body wants to get rid of that mucous for a reason.
Hepatics are good for the kidneys.
Nutritive is also self-explanatory. These herbs supply vitamins and minerals the body needs for optimal health. Many prefer to take the vitamin they buy in the store but what else is in there? This would be the better option if it's available to you.
Rubefacients: Increase surface blood flow and red blood cell production. These help with arthritis, rheumatism, aches, and pains (Griffin, 1997, p. 11)
Stimulant is an "action that quickens and enlivens the physiological activity of the body". These can target particular parts of the body or systems such as the circulatory, reproductive, cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, urinary, musculoskeletal, nervous and skin. Even bitters can be stimulants. (Hoffman, 2003, p. 345, 519-21).
Stomachic is another way of saying it helps stimulate the digestive system.
Tonics (tonifying) are called "nutritive" and clean the blood in a way that helps the body harmonize (Griffin, 1997, p. 11). They help the lymphatic system work better as well. I think they are considered nutritive because when you have a bunch of crud trolling your system, it's difficult to absorb the nutrients your body requires. If you clean up your system a bit, the body can better absorb those things it requires.
Vermicides kill intestinal worms.
Vulneraries promote cell growth/repair (griffin, 1997, p. 11).
Warming is a property in Chinese medicine and is used when the ailment is considered cold. A good way to think of this is when a person has the chills related to a cold, this property would be used.
Alteratives: Blood cleaners (Griffin, 1997, p. 7). This means if you are having problems with absorbing nutrients these can help. They also eliminate metabolic waste which can make the body feel sluggish and low in energy.
Anthelmintic kills helminths which are parasites such as flukes, roundworms, and tapeworms (drugs.com).
Antiasthmatics: Relieves wheezing (Griffin, 1997, p. 7)
Antiascorbutic means it treats illnesses that are the result of a lack of vitamin C like scurvy.
Anti-bacterial means it kills bacteria, generally associated with infections.
Antiemetic simply means it helps prevent nausea and vomiting, often used for motion sickness.
Antifungal, also called fungicide, means it kills fungi.
Anti-microbial encompasses all microbes, not just viral or bacterial.
Antiparasitic means it kills parasites. Often these focus on intestinal parasites but not always.
Antiseptics are used to prevent bacteria growth internally and externally. (Griffin, 1997, p. 7)
Antispasmodics help with muscle cramps and spasms (Griffin, 1997, p. 7). Coughing is also a result of this spasm activity so a lot of these herbs are used to relieve cough. Hoffman likes to remind people that just because the cough is relieved doesn't mean the cause of the cough is gone. We should strive to fix the cause, not just the symptom. Often, the cough should be allowed to happen because the body clearly doesn't want something in there.
Antitussive just means it fights coughs which is a specific spam (anti-spasmodic).
Aperitive means laxative
Astringent: These are great for swollen tonsils and hemorrhoids but they also dry up the mucous discharge. These treat the symptom, not the cause of the symptom. (Griffin, 1997, p. 8)
Bitter: Somehow this is not already defined though I've talked about it. The title for the section of bitters is "Digestive System Tonics". One of the things these herbs that have a bitter taste do is stimulate the digestive system. Bitters actually have a whole-body effect as a classification. The taste buds trigger a response in the body (other than that shudder). Bitter herbs stimulate the appetite, the release of digestive juices, aid the liver in detoxing the body and increasing the flow of bile, help regulate pancreas hormones, and help the gut wall repair damage. They also help the heart and circulation. Some are even anti-depressants. Coffee is a bitter. You're welcome. For people like me who don't like bitter, the list above should be a thought-provoker in why we should "acquire the taste". (Hoffman, 2003, p. 243, 410, 498-501).
Carminatives: relieve gas/intestinal stagnation, increase circulation (Griffin, 1997, p. 8)
Cholagogues promote the flow of bile and stimulate appetite (Griffin, 1997, p. 8).
Diaphoretics: Served as a warm tea, they promote sweating, Served cold, they act as diuretics. These focus on the respiratory system, including sinuses. There are 2 types: Stimulating drain the lymphatic system to target those swollen glands. Relaxing reduces fevers and skin toxins. They help with acute symptoms. (Griffin, 1997, p. 8)
Diuretics increase urination by helping elimination through the kidneys and bladder. They help eliminate toxins from the blood and reduce edema and swelling from the waist down (Griffin, 1997, p. 9).
Emetic means it causes nausea and vomiting.
Emmenagogues: Promotes menstrual flow and healthy menstrual function. There are 3 types: warming helps with dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, anxiety, cramps and pain. Cooling help calm excited, emotional, and irritable conditions. Tonic builds blood and promotes sexual function (Griffin, 1997, p. 9).
Expectorants are the ones that make you cough up and spit out mucous. This includes mucous from the sinuses, lungs and stomach. (Griffin, 1997, p. 9) The cough itself is relieved by antispasmodics but this is why you want to think before taking cough medicine. The body wants to get rid of that mucous for a reason.
Hepatics are good for the kidneys.
Nutritive is also self-explanatory. These herbs supply vitamins and minerals the body needs for optimal health. Many prefer to take the vitamin they buy in the store but what else is in there? This would be the better option if it's available to you.
Rubefacients: Increase surface blood flow and red blood cell production. These help with arthritis, rheumatism, aches, and pains (Griffin, 1997, p. 11)
Stimulant is an "action that quickens and enlivens the physiological activity of the body". These can target particular parts of the body or systems such as the circulatory, reproductive, cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, urinary, musculoskeletal, nervous and skin. Even bitters can be stimulants. (Hoffman, 2003, p. 345, 519-21).
Stomachic is another way of saying it helps stimulate the digestive system.
Tonics (tonifying) are called "nutritive" and clean the blood in a way that helps the body harmonize (Griffin, 1997, p. 11). They help the lymphatic system work better as well. I think they are considered nutritive because when you have a bunch of crud trolling your system, it's difficult to absorb the nutrients your body requires. If you clean up your system a bit, the body can better absorb those things it requires.
Vermicides kill intestinal worms.
Vulneraries promote cell growth/repair (griffin, 1997, p. 11).
Warming is a property in Chinese medicine and is used when the ailment is considered cold. A good way to think of this is when a person has the chills related to a cold, this property would be used.
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