Herbal Actions Flashcards

1
Q

Adaptogen

A

An herb that aids the body through a nonspecific boost in resistance to external stressors, supports the body’s ability to adapt to change, and may stimulate or modulate immunity

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2
Q

Alterative

A

Herbs that work on a general level to tonify the systems of the body involved in nutrient assimilation and waste removal

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3
Q

Analgesic

A

An herb that eases pain; also known as an anodyne

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4
Q

Anticatarrhal

A

Herbs that thin and promote the flow of mucus/phlegm associated with such conditions as allergies, colds, or the flu.

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5
Q

Antibacterial

A

An herb that destroys or inhibits the growth of bacteria

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6
Q

Antiemetic

A

An herb that counteracts or soothes nausea or vomiting

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7
Q

Antihydrotic

A

An herb that slows the production of excess sweat

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8
Q

Antimicrobial

A

An herb that aids the body in destroying or resisting pathogens

A general term encompassing antibacterial, antifungals, and antivirals

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9
Q

Antioxidant

A

An herb that inhibits oxidation and subsequent free radical damage of important chemicals, enzymes, membranes, cells, and tissues in the body

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10
Q

Antiparasitic

A

An herb that destroys or inhibits the growth of parasites

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11
Q

Antiperiodic

A

An herb that eases cyclic and intermittent diseases such as malaria

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12
Q

Antispasmodic

A

An herb that relaxes muscle spasm and tension

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13
Q

Antitussive

A

An herb that reduces the urge to cough

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14
Q

Aperient

A

An herb that is mildly laxative

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15
Q

Aphrodisiac

A

An herb that increases sexual desire

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16
Q

Aromatic

A

An herb rich in volatile oils, often with a fragrant aroma

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17
Q

Astringent

A

An herb that causes tissues to contract, typically due to its high tannin content

18
Q

Bitter

A

An herb that has a bitter taste and stimulates the release of digestive secretions through a taste bud reflex

19
Q

Calmative

A

An herb that reduces nervous system hyperactivity and has a gentle calming effect on the mind, body, and emotions

20
Q

Carminative

A

An herb that aids the body in expelling intestinal flatulance, eases bowel griping, and soothes stomach discomfort

Carminative plants are typically high in aromatic oils and are useful in a variety of digestive disorders

21
Q

Cholagogue

A

An herb that increases the flow of bile

22
Q

Choleretic

A

An herb that stimulates production of bile

23
Q

Demulcent

A

A mucilaginous herb that soothes irritated or inflamed tissues and mucous membranes

24
Q

Diaphoretic

A

An herb that promotes perspiration and is often used to help “break” a fever

25
Q

Digestive

A

An herb that strengthens or supports healthy digestive function

26
Q

Diuretic

A

An herb that increases the flow of urine. increased urine flow is useful in conditions such as water retention, kidney stagnation, and urinary tract infections

27
Q

Emmenagogue

A

An herb that stimulates menstruation

28
Q

Emollient

A

An herb applied externally to soften and soothe skin

29
Q

Expectorant

A

An herb that helps expel excess or stuck mucus from the respiratory system

30
Q

Febrifuge

A

An herb that eases fever

31
Q

Galactogogue

A

An herb that increases the flow of breast milk

32
Q

Hepatic

A

An herb that affects the liver

33
Q

Hypotensive

A

An herb that helps lower blood pressure

34
Q

Immune Stimulant

A

An herb that stimulates the immune system

35
Q

Nervine

A

An herb that affects the nervous system; may be stimulating, sedating, or relaxing

36
Q

Restorative

A

An herb that restores balance and strength to the body and its systems

37
Q

Rubefacient

A

An herb that stimulates blood flow to the skin, causing local redness

38
Q

Sialogogue

A

An herb that increases the secretion of saliva

39
Q

Styptic

A

An herb that helps to stop bleeding

40
Q

Tonic

A

An herb that strengthens the body through a general tonifying effect or through specific affinities for certain organs

41
Q

Vulnerary

A

An herb that helps promote the wound healing process