In this Thyme for Herbs article I am going to go over some terminology that will be needed in gaining knowledge in dealing with herbs. Before I go over some of these terms and preparation, let me give some explanation of how herbs work in your body.
Herbs have many functions in the body. One of their functions is to cleanse the body. The human body has the ability and power within itself to safeguard against invaders and to repair damaged tissues. When we are exposed to invaders that will cause many diseases and illnesses, our body takes charge of the situation by using the built-in immune system. If we are injured or cut, our bodies start immediately to repair the damages. Our bodies will bleed to create a scab that will protect the body from foreign invaders. In time the scab is gone and the body is healed.
Twenty four hours a day the body is working to eliminate and gather waste products. The body is always working at cleansing, healing and rejuvenating the body. Herbs help with these processes instead of interfering with the body’s natural systems. Drugs can cause the system to be sluggish, cause allergies, and kill friendly bacteria or present other side effects that cause more damage to other systems of the body. The body then has to deal with these problems as well as the original disease. Herbs have no side effects as pharmaceuticals.
Herbs can help to regulate the systems in our bodies. Herbs help to strengthen and normalize the glands. It is surprising to find that the same herb can help many problems in the body. Herbs regulate and tone the glands to return them to their normal function.
Herbs are also nutritional. Herbs are high in minerals, vitamins and other nutrients that nourish and build the body. They help to feed the body. Oftentimes a sick and weak body will accept nutrition from an herb when foods are rejected or unassimilated.
Herbs stimulate the levels of energy within our bodies. If the body has increased energy levels, it helps to heal itself. There are herbs that stimulate the body’s immune system and promote good bacteria.
Here is a list of types of herbs.
Alternative- Herbs used to change existing nutritive and excretory processes to regulate body function.
Analgesic-Herbs, when taken orally, used to relieve pain.
Anodyne-Herbs, when applied externally, used to relieve pain.
Antibiotic-Herbs used to kill or stop growth of harmful micro-organisms.
Antihydropic-Herbs used to remove excess body fluid.
Anti-inflammatory-Herbs used to relieve inflammation.
Antipyretic-Herbs used to reduce fevers.
Antiseptic-Herbs used to prevent, combat and neutralize toxic bacteria.
Antispasmodic-Herbs used to calm spasms, cramps, or coughing.
Antisyphilic-Herbs used to allay venereal disease.
Aphrodisiac-Herbs used to correct problems of impotency and strengthen sexual power.
Aromatic-Herbs that have fragrant, spicy, taste, and stimulate the gastro-intestinal mucous membrane.
Astringent-Herbs used to contract tissues and halt discharges.
Calmative-Herbs used to calm the nervous system.
Cardiac-Herbs used to strengthen the heart.
Carminative-Herbs used to expel gas from digestive system.
Cathartic-Herbs used to stimulate purging from bowel.
Cell Poliferant-Herbs used to promote rapid new cell growth and healing.
Cholagogue-Herbs used to increase flow of bile into the duodenum.
Demulcent-Herbs that are soothing and provide a protective coating to irritated or inflamed internal areas.
Depurant-Blood purifiers that stimulate eliminative processes.
Diaphoretic-Herbs used to promote perspiration.
Digesting-Herbs that contain enzymes, amino acids, etc. to aid digestion of food.
Diuretic-Herbs used to increase urine flow.
Emmenagogue-Herbs used to encourage suppressed menstrual flow.
Emetic-Herbs used to induce vomiting.
Emollient-Herbs used to soften and protect external surfaces.
Expectorant-Herbs used to expel toxic mucus from respiratory system.
Febrifuge-Herbs used in reducing fevers.
Hemostatic-Herbs used to stop bleeding.
Hepatic-Herbs used to strengthen, tone liver, and increase flow of bile.
Hormonal-Herbs containing hormonal properties.
Laxative-Herbs used as mild laxative to bowels. They stimulate bile and secretions rather than acting as irritants to bowel.
Mucilaginous-Herbs that have an adhesive, coating, expansive property and contain soothing qualities for healing.
Nervine-Herbs used to heal and soothe the nerves.
Nutritive-Herbs that promote growth and nourishment.
Purgative-Herbs used to cause purging from the bowels. Usually used in combination with other herbs to control action.
Relaxant or Sedative-Herbs that soothe or quiet and have the property of lessening excitement, irritation, or pain.
Stimulant-Herbs that increase energy and activities of the body, or its parts or organs.
Stomachic-Herbs used to strengthen and tone stomach and increase appetite.
Sudorific-Herbs that invigorate or increase perspiration.
Tonic-Herbs that invigorate, stimulate, tone, and energize the body.
Vermicide-Herbs used to destroy parasites or worms.
Vermifuge-Herbs used to expel worms.
Vulnerary-Herbs that promote healing of wounds.
Politically Correct Disclaimer
This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or sickness. Information is intended for personal use only. Please consult competent professional advice in treating yourself or others.
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