09/23/2026
Properties and Actions of Herbs: Part 2
Antiseptic: Used topically to cleanse the skin and help reduce the presence of microbes that may cause infection.
Examples: calendula, sage, plantain, and yarrow.
Antispasmodic: Helps relax muscles and reduce muscle spasms.
Examples: chamomile, cramp bark, kava, and valerian.
Antitussive: Helps soothe or reduce coughing.
Examples: elecampane, coltsfoot, poppy, and thyme.
Antitumor: Refers to substances studied for their potential to inhibit or slow tumor growth. Herbal remedies should not replace cancer treatment.
Examples: astragalus, burdock, echinacea, garlic, and red clover.
Antiviral: May support immune function and help the body respond to certain viral infections.
Examples: elder, lemon balm, garlic, echinacea, and osha.
Aphrodisiac: Traditionally used to support reproductive health or stimulate sexual desire.
Examples: astragalus, ginseng, damiana, and burdock.
Astringent: Causes tissues to contract and may help reduce minor swelling, discharge, or bleeding.
Examples: mullein, red raspberry, sage, and yarrow.
Bitter: Traditionally used to stimulate digestion, often by encouraging the production and flow of digestive juices and bile.
Examples: burdock, dandelion, motherwort, and yarrow.
Bronchodilator: Helps relax the muscles surrounding the airways, which may make breathing easier.
Examples: chamomile, elecampane, peppermint, and thyme.
Calmative: Traditionally used to calm and relax the nervous system.
Examples: chamomile, hops, lavender, and valerian.
Carminative: Helps relieve intestinal gas, bloating, and stomach discomfort.
Examples: fennel, ginger, and peppermint.
Cholagogue: Traditionally used to promote the release and flow of bile from the gallbladder. Some herbs in this category may also have mild laxative effects.
Examples: burdock, dandelion, and goldenseal.
Choleretic: Stimulates bile production in the liver. These herbs are sometimes grouped with bitter and cholagogue herbs.
Demulcent: Helps soothe irritated mucous membranes by forming a protective coating.
Examples: marshmallow, comfrey, slippery elm, burdock, and fenugreek.
Diaphoretic: Promotes sweating, traditionally to support the body during a fever.
Examples: elder, peppermint, and yarrow.
Diuretic: Increases urine production and may help promote the elimination of excess fluid.
Examples: burdock, dandelion, elder, nettle, and parsley.
Emmenagogue: Traditionally used to stimulate or regulate menstrual flow.
Examples: blue cohosh, pennyroyal, and yarrow.
Herbs can have powerful effects and may interact with medications or be unsafe during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or certain medical conditions. The terms above describe traditional or potential actions and are not substitutes for professional medical advice.
Mysteries of plants and flowers
