Herb Types and Uses – Part Two

Image provided by Pamla J. Eisenberg
Herbs are one of the best alternative medicines because they are natural energy healers designed by nature itself. During the 20th century, pharmaceutical drugs were introduced and many people stopped relying on herbs, especially people in western countries. Herbs are natural medicine that should not be forgotten because many of them can heal the body without any bad side effects. Many of them contain natural healing chemicals that are still a mystery to scientists today. Because of the rise in health care cost, many people are starting to switch back to herbal and alternative medicine. If you are planning to grow or use herbs, it would be a good idea to know what herbs fit in what categories and the terms use to describe them. Below is a list of some of the common terms and categories that are use in the herbal community.

• Diuretics: Are herbs that increase the excretion of water in the body, usually through urination. They are great for assisting the body to excrete toxins and reduce swellings. Diuretics are also popular for treating PMS bloating. Examples of diuretics are sage, parsley, gravel root and chickweed.
• Emollients: These types of herbs are known for promoting skin health. Examples of emollients are comfrey root, olive, and apricot kernel.
• Expectorants: These herbs are effective for treating sinuses and coughs, because of their antispasmodic properties. One of their main purpose is to help the body expel mucous. Comfrey root, slippery elm and wild cherry bark are examples of expectorants.
• Galactogogues: Are herbs that increase milk production. Examples of galactogogues are fennel and blessed thistle.
• Laxatives: Herbs in this category are great for promoting digestive health. Laxatives are known for reducing gas, increasing bowl movement and enhancing digestion. Parsley, dandelion, slippery elm bark and rhubarb are examples of laxatives.
• Parasiticides: Are herbs that kill parasites. They are popular for killing parasites on the skin and intestines. Examples of parasiticides are garlic, cinnamon oil and thyme.
• Rejuvenatives: Are herbs that rejuvenate the body. They are popular for increasing energy and awareness. Some herbalists like to refer to them as anti-aging herbs. Example of rejuvenatives are ginseng and ginko biloba.
• Rubefacients: Are herbs that increase blood circulation. They are use externally and usually cause redness of the skin. Rubefacients are popular for relieving arthritis, aches and pains. Examples of rubefacients are ginger, cayenne and thyme oil.
• Tonics: These natural remedies are great for balancing the body’s energy. They are slow stimulants that help nourish cells and support the immune system. Examples of tonics are schizandra, angelica, slippery elm and ginseng.
• Vulneraries: Are herbs that help heal wounds and promote cell growth. Examples of vulneraries are fenugreek, aloe vera and lavender.

Related Posts:

• Herb Types and Uses – Part One
• Natural Remedies: Disease Fighting Herb – Part One