Although it has no antiviral 
activity, andrographis can speed up recovery  
from the common cold. Research  In mostly Indian and Chinese  
research, the herb has been shown to stimulate 
the immune system, particularly helping to protect 
against poisoning (such as from snake bite). The glucosides are strongly antioxidant, and 
extracts of the whole herb have demonstrated an 
effect similar to, or better than, silymarin (from 
Silybum marianum , p. 137) in supporting the 
function of the liver. Thai research published in 
1991 indicated that 6 g per day of andrographis 
was as effective as acetaminophen in relieving fever 
and sore throat. The herb also has reported 
effectiveness against fertility. Cautions  Do not take during pregnancy. High 
doses may cause nausea and vomiting. US_158-179_Abies_balsa_Boswe_serratta.indd   167 26/02/16   12:47 pm
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other medicinal Plantsanemarrhena asphodeloides
anemarrhena asphodeloides
(Liliaceae)
Zhi Mu
Description  Perennial herb with a thick 
rhizome, thin leaves up to 28 in (70 cm) long, and 
clusters of small white or light purple flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to northern 
China, zhi mu grows wild on exposed slopes and hills. It is cultivated in the northern and north-eastern provinces. Part Used Rhizome. Constituents  Contains steroidal saponins, 
lignans, phenolic compounds, and xanthones. History & Folklore  Zhi mu is first mentioned 
in the 1st-century ce herbal, the Divine Husbandman’s Classic (Shen’nong Bencaojing). Medicinal Actions & Uses  Zhi mu has a 
bitter taste and a “cold” temperament and is  
used in Chinese herbal medicine for “excess heat”—fever, night sweats, and coughs. It has  
been shown to have significant antibacterial  
activity and is commonly used to treat sores  
and mouth ulcers.frequently for premenstrual syndrome and period pain, especially when these are accompanied by nervous exhaustion. In France, it has traditionally been used for treating coughs and as a sedative  for sleep difficulties. Pulsatilla is also used to treat  eye problems such as cataracts. The fresh plant  is not used because it is strongly irritant. Pulsatilla  is one of the most commonly used of all homeopathic remedies. Related Species  The meadow anemone  
(A. pratensis) is used interchangeably with pasque flower; wood anemone (A. nemorosa) is now  rarely used in herbal medicine. QCautions  T ake only under professional 
supervision. Do not take during pregnancy. Do not take the fresh plant, which is toxic. angelica archangelica (Apiaceae)
Angelica
Description  Aromatic biennial herb growing  
to 61⁄2 ft (2 m). Has ridged upright hollow stems, 
large bright green leaves, and greenish-white flowers in umbels. Habitat & Cultivation  Angelica grows in 
temperate regions in western Europe, Siberia, and the Himalayas. It prefers damp sites and is often found near running water. Leaves and stems are harvested in early summer, seeds as they ripen in late summer, and roots in late autumn after one year’s growth. Parts Used  Root, leaves, stems, seeds.Dill was used as a  
remedy by the ancient 
Greeks to encourage  
a good night’s sleep.anemone pulsatilla syn. pulsatilla 
vulgaris (Ranunculaceae)
Pulsatilla
Description  Hairy perennial growing to  
6 in (15 cm). Has feathery leaves, and large,  
purple-blue, bell-shaped flowers, with bright  yellow anthers. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to Europe,  
this herb thrives in dry grassland in central  and northern parts of the continent, preferring chalky soil. The aerial parts are harvested when  it flowers in spring. Parts Used  Dried aerial parts. Constituents  Pulsatilla contains the lactone 
protoanemonin (which on drying forms anemonin), triterpenoid saponins, tannins, and volatile oil. History & Folklore  In Greek mythology, the 
goddess Flora was jealous of her husband’s attentions to the nymph Anemone and so transformed her into a flower, at the mercy of the North Wind. Anemone literally means “daughter of the wind” in Greek. The alternate name “pasque flower” derives from the French name  for Easter, when the plant is often in flower. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Pulsatilla  
is less commonly used now in herbal medicine than in the past, though it is still considered a valuable remedy for cramping pain, menstrual problems, and emotional distress. It is considered a specific treatment for spasmodic pain of the reproductive system, both male and female, and is given quite Seeds
anethum graveolens syn. peucedanum graveolens (Apiaceae)
Dill
Description  Aromatic annual that grows to a 
height of 30 in (75 cm). Has an erect hollow stem, 
feathery leaves, and numerous yellow flowers in umbels. Fruit is very lightweight and pungent. Habitat & Cultivation  Dill is native to 
southern Europe and central and southern  
Asia, growing wild in open areas. It is also widely cultivated, notably in England, Germany, and North America. The leaves are picked as a culinary herb. The seeds are harvested in  
late summer. Parts Used  Seeds, essential oil, leaves. Constituents  Dill seeds contain up to 5% volatile 
oil (about half of which is alpha-phellandrene), flavonoids, coumarins, xanthones, and triterpenes. History & Folklore  An ancient Egyptian 
remedy in the Ebers papyrus (c. 1500 bce) recommends dill as one of the ingredients in a pain-killing mixture. The ancient Greeks are believed to have covered their eyes with fronds  of the herb to induce sleep. Dill was commonly used as a charm against witchcraft in the Middle Ages, when it was burned to clear thunderclouds. Its name comes from the Norse dylla—meaning “to soothe.”
Medicinal Actions & Uses  Dill has always 
been considered a remedy for the stomach, relieving gas and calming digestion. Dill’s essential oil relieves intestinal spasms and cramps and helps to settle colic, hence it is often used in gripe water mixtures. Chewing the seeds improves bad breath. Dill makes a useful addition to cough, cold, and flu remedies, and is a mild diuretic. Like caraway (Carum carvi, p. 184), it can be used with antispasmodics, such as cramp bark (Viburnum opulus, p. 150), to relieve period pain. Dill increases milk production, and when taken regularly by nursing mothers, helps to prevent  colic in their babies. Caution  T ake the essential 
oil internally only under professional supervision. US_158-179_Abies_balsa_Boswe_serratta.indd   168 17/03/16   4:01 pm169 other medicinal Plantsanthriscus cerefolium
Constituents  Angelica root contains a volatile 
oil (consisting mainly of beta-phellandrene), 
lactones, and coumarins. An extract of the root  
has been shown to be anti-inflammatory. History & Folklore  The British Flora Medica  
(1877) reports that “the Laplanders considered 
this plant as one of the most important 
productions of the soil … They are subject to  
a severe kind of colic, against which the root  
of angelica is one of their chief remedies.” The 
stems are candied for culinary use. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Angelica is a 
warming and tonic remedy, having a role to play  
in a wide range of illnesses. All parts of the plant 
will help relieve indigestion, gas, and colic. Angelica 
can also be useful in cases of poor circulation, as it 
improves blood flow to the peripheral parts of the 
body. It is considered a specific treatment for 
Buerger’s disease, a condition that narrows the 
arteries of the hands and feet. By improving blood 
flow and stimulating the coughing up of phlegm, 
angelica’s warm, tonic properties bring relief from 
bronchitis and debilitating conditions affecting the 
chest. For respiratory conditions, the roots are 
most commonly used, but the stems and seeds 
may be employed as well. Caution  Do not take as a medicine during  
pregnancy. Do not confuse with Chinese Angelica. Self-help Use  Stomach spasm , p. 305.
angelica dahurica (Apiaceae)
Bai Zhi
Description  Aromatic perennial growing  
to 8 ft (2.5 m). Has a hollow stem, large 
3-branched leaves, and umbels bearing many 
white flower heads. Habitat & Cultivation  Grows wild in thickets 
in China, Japan, Korea, and Russia. Cultivated mainly 
in central and eastern regions of China. Part Used  Root. Constituents  Bai zhi  contains a volatile oil  
and the coumarins imperatorin, marmesin,  
and phellopterin. History & Folklore  Bai zhi  is first mentioned 
in Chinese herbal medicine in the Divine 
Husbandman’s Classic (Shen’nong Bencaojing ) of  
the 1st century ce. The famous military physician 
Zhang Congzheng (1150–1228) classified bai zhi   
as a sweat-inducing herb able to counter harmful 
external influences on the skin, such as cold, heat, 
dampness, and dryness. Medicinal Actions & Uses  The pungent, 
bitter  bai zhi is used for headaches and aching eyes, 
nasal congestion, and toothache. Like its cousins 
angelica ( A. archangelica, see preceding entry ) and 
dong quai ( A. sinensis , p. 63), it is warming and 
tonic, and it is still given for problems attributed  to “damp and cold” conditions, such as sores,  
boils, and ulcers affecting the skin. Bai zhi  also 
appears to be valuable in treating the facial pain  
of trigeminal neuralgia. Caution  Do not take during pregnancy. annona squamosa (Annonaceae)
Custard Apple
Description  Tree growing to 33 ft (10 m). Has 
oblong- to lance-shaped leaves, greenish flowers, 
and segmented green fruit. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to tropical 
America and the Caribbean, this herb is cultivated 
throughout the tropics. Parts Used  Leaves, bark, fruit, seeds. Constituents Custard apple contains fruit 
sugars and mucilage. Medicinal Actions & Uses  In the West 
Indies, the young shoots are used with peppermint 
(Mentha x piperita , p. 114) to relieve colds and 
chills. In Cuban medicine, the leaves are taken to 
reduce uric acid levels. The leaves, bark, and unripe 
fruit are all strongly astringent and are used to 
treat diarrhea and dysentery. The crushed seeds 
are mixed with an inert powder and employed as 
an insecticide. Research  Custard apple has been shown to  
have antiprotozoal and anthelmintic (worm-
repelling) activity.was traditionally employed for supposedly 
hysterical conditions relating to the uterus. Cautions  The whole plant can cause blistering  
if applied fresh to the skin. Do not take during 
pregnancy or if breastfeeding. anthriscus cerefolium (Apiaceae)
Chervil
Description  Annual herb growing to 2 ft  
(60 cm). Has finely grooved stems, opposite leaves, 
and many small white flowers arranged in 
compound umbels. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to Europe,  
Asia Minor, Iran, and the Caucasus, chervil grows 
freely in open areas. It is cultivated throughout  
the world. The herb is gathered when in flower  
in summer. Parts Used  Aerial parts. Constituents  Chervil contains a volatile oil, 
coumarins, and flavonoids. Chervil is an aromatic herb  
that plays a role in healing  
as well as in cooking. anthemis cotula (Lamiaceae)
Mayweed,
Stinking Mayweed
Description  Annual or perennial resembling 
German chamomile ( Chamomilla recutita , p. 77). Has slightly hairy stems and large solitary daisy-type 
flowers. As the name stinking mayweed suggests,  
this plant has an unpleasant smell and taste. Habitat & Cultivation  This herb commonly 
grows wild in Europe, the Americas, Australia, 
New Zealand, and Siberia. The flowers and leaves 
are gathered in summer. Parts Used  Flowers, leaves. Constituents  Mayweed contains sesquiterpene 
lactones (including anthecotulide). History & Folklore  In his Irish Herbal  of 
1735, the herbalist K’Eogh states that mayweed  
is “good for women with the falling down of the 
womb, if they but wash their feet with a 
decoction of it.”
Medicinal Actions & Uses  Although it looks 
similar to German chamomile, mayweed is far less 
effective as a medicine. It has been used as an 
antispasmodic and to induce menstruation, and 
US_158-179_Abies_balsa_Boswe_serratta.indd   169 26/02/16   12:47 pm
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other medicinal Plantsaphanes arvensis
History & Folklore  A basket of chervil seeds 
was one of the items found in Tutankhamun’s tomb. The herb is traditionally used as a “spring tonic” in central Europe. Chervil is aromatic and is used extensively in cooking. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Chervil is a good 
remedy for settling the digestion. It is also used to “purify the blood” and to help lower blood pressure, as well as being considered a diuretic. Juice from the fresh plant is applied to various skin conditions, including wounds, eczema, and abscesses. aphanes arvensis (Rosaceae)
Parsley Piert
Description  Prostrate, hairy annual growing to 
4 in (10 cm). Has small wedge-shaped leaves and tiny green flowers in tufts. Habitat & Cultivation  Parsley piert is native 
to Europe, North Africa, and North America. It grows to an altitude of 1,600 ft (500 m), thriving  in dry sites, including the top of walls. The herb is harvested when in flower in summer. Parts Used  Aerial parts. Constituents  Parsley piert contains tannins. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Astringent, 
diuretic, and demulcent, parsley piert is used to treat kidney and bladder problems, especially kidney stones. It is also frequently used in the treatment  of bladder stones (gravel), which cause pain and irritation and obstruct urine flow. Best taken in an infusion, the herb is also a useful remedy for cystitis and recurrent urinary infections.encourages sweating, is stimulant, and detoxifying. It is taken for rheumatism, asthma, and coughs. Applied externally as a poultice, the herb is used  to treat a number of different skin conditions, including eczema. Related Species  Wild sarsaparilla (A. nudicaulis) 
is a North American relative used medicinally  in much the same way as American spikenard. The leaves and stalks of two East Asian Aralia,  A. chinensis and A. cordata, are eaten as vegetables. Cautions  Do not take during pregnancy. arbutus unedo (Ericaceae)
Strawberry Tree
Description  Evergreen shrub growing to 20 ft 
(6 m). Has an upright stem with reddish bark, leathery serrated leaves, white or pink bell-shaped flowers, and round warty red fruit resembling strawberries. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to 
Mediterranean coasts, strawberry tree also grows  
in western Ireland, Australia, and Africa. The leaves are gathered in late summer and the fruit in autumn. Parts Used  Leaves, fruit. Constituents  Strawberry tree contains up  
to 2.7% arbutin, methylarbutin, and other hydroquinones, a bitter principle, and tannins. Arbutin is powerfully antiseptic in the urinary system. History & Folklore  The fruit of strawberry 
tree is used in preserves, but it is not palatable fresh. The Latin unedo comes from un ede, meaning “[only] one I eat.”Medicinal Actions & Uses  Strawberry tree 
is valued as an astringent and antiseptic herb. Its antiseptic action within the urinary tract makes it  a useful remedy for treating cystitis and urethritis. Strawberry tree’s astringent effect has been put to use in the treatment of diarrhea and dysentery. Cautions Do not take during pregnancy or if 
suffering from kidney disease. arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Ericaceae)
Uva-ursi, 
Bearberry
Description  Low-lying evergreen shrub growing 
to 20 in (50 cm). Has long trailing stems, dark green leaves that are glossy on the upper side, bell-shaped pink flowers, and small glossy red berries. Habitat & Cultivation  Uva-ursi is native to 
Europe, and naturalized throughout the northern hemisphere up to the Arctic. It grows in damp conditions in undergrowth, heathland, and grassland. The leaves are gathered in autumn. Parts Used Leaves, berries. Constituents The leaves of uva-ursi contain 
hydroquinones (mainly arbutin, up to 17%), tannins (up to 15%), phenolic glycosides, and flavonoids. Arbutin and other hydroquinones have an antiseptic effect in the urinary tract. History & Folklore  The name uva-ursi means 
“bear’s grape” in Latin. Bears are fond of the fruit. The plant is first documented in The Physicians of Myddfai, a 13th-century Welsh herbal text. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Uva-ursi is one of 
the best natural urinary antiseptics. It has been used extensively in herbal medicine to disinfect and astringe the urinary tract in cases of acute and chronic cystitis and urethritis. However, it is not a suitable remedy if there is a simultaneous infection of the kidneys. Research  Experiments have shown that uva-ursi 
extracts have an antibacterial effect. This action is thought to be stronger in alkaline urine—thus the efficacy of uva-ursi is likely to increase if it is taken in combination with a vegetable-based diet. Cautions  Do not take during pregnancy or with 
kidney disease. Unsuitable for children under 12. It is generally advisable to take uva-ursi for no more than 7–10 days at a time. Strawberry tree’s leaves 
and fruit are astringent and antiseptic. aralia racemosa (Araliaceae)
American Spikenard
Description  Aromatic perennial bush growing 
to 61⁄2 ft (2 m). Has thick fleshy roots, large 
leathery leaves, small greenish-white flowers, and 
red or purple berries. Habitat & Cultivation  American spikenard  
is native to North America. The root is unearthed in summer or autumn. Part Used  Root. Constituents  American spikenard contains a 
volatile oil, tannins, and diterpene acids. History & Folklore  The Cherokee made a  
tea for backache from American spikenard, and  the cure was later adopted by New World settlers. The Shawnee used it for flatulence, coughs, asthma, and breast pain; the Menominee as a cure for blood poisoning. The plant was included in the  US National Formulary from 1916 to 1965. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Many of 
American spikenard’s current uses come directly from Native American precedents. The herb arenaria rubra (Carophyllaceae)
Sandwort, 
Sand Spurrey
Description  Herbaceous, low-growing, sticky, 
and hairy annual. Has small thin leaves and pale pink flowers growing to 
1⁄4 in (6 mm) across. US_158-179_Abies_balsa_Boswe_serratta.indd   170 26/02/16   12:47 pm171 other medicinal PlantsArmor AciA rustic A n A
Habitat & Cultivation  Found in the wild 
throughout Europe, Asia, and Australia, sandwort 
thrives in sandy and gravelly places, especially close 
to the sea. Parts Used  Aerial parts. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Sandwort is a 
diuretic herb that is thought to relax the muscle 
walls of the urinary tubules and bladder. Sandwort 
is most commonly taken in the form of an infusion 
to treat kidney stones, acute and chronic cystitis, 
and other conditions of the bladder. Related Species  Seabeach sandwort  
(A. peploides ), a closely related northern plant,  
is eaten by the Inuit of Alaska as a fresh, pickled,  
or oil-preserved vegetable. In Iceland, this plant  
is fermented and eaten in the same way as 
sauerkraut. Rupturewort ( Herniaria glabra , p. 219), 
which is a European plant, has medicinal properties 
that are similar to those of sandwort. Argemone mexicana  
(Papaveraceae)
Mexican Poppy, 
Chicalote
Description  Prickly annual growing to 3 ft  
(1 m). Has spiny white-veined leaves and large 
yellow flowers with delicate petals. Habitat & Cultivation  Mexican poppy grows 
in tropical regions from the southernmost U.S. to 
South America. It favors dry soil and is often found 
in tobacco fields. Parts Used  Aerial parts, latex, seeds. Constituents  Mexican poppy contains 
isoquinoline alkaloids similar to those in the opium 
poppy ( Papaver somniferum , p. 244). History & Folklore  Like most poppies, this 
plant exudes a milky latex, which was traditionally 
used in Ecuador to treat cataracts. Medicinal Actions & Uses Commonly used 
through much of Latin America, the whole plant 
acts as a mild painkiller and sedative, and is taken  to relieve muscle ache, toothache, and neuralgic 
pain. The fresh latex contains protein-dissolving 
properties and is traditionally applied to warts  
and cold sores. The flowers and seeds are mildly 
expectorant and can be used to treat irritable 
coughs and asthma. Related Species  In Hawaii, the latex of A. glauca  
is also used to treat warts. QCautions  Excessive use can cause glaucoma. Use only under professional supervision. Arisaema spp. (Araceae)
Tian Nan Xing
Description  Perennial herb growing to 3 ft  
(1 m). Has star-shaped leaves and purple-white  
or green pitcher-like bracts. Habitat & Cultivation  Tian nan xing  grows 
wild in eastern Asia, especially in China, where it  
is widely cultivated. The rhizome is unearthed in 
autumn or winter. Part Used  Dried rhizome. Constituents  Tian nan xing  contains 
triterpenoid saponins and benzoic acid. Medicinal Actions & Uses  In Chinese herbal 
medicine, tian nan xing  is thought to encourage the 
coughing up of phlegm. The dried rhizome is used 
principally for chest problems. When prescribed 
internally it is always combined with fresh ginger 
root ( Zingiber officinale , p. 155). The fresh rhizome 
is only ever used externally, for ulcers and other 
skin conditions. Related Species  Jack-in-the-pulpit or Indian 
turnip ( A. triphyllum ), a North American species,  
is a treatment for chest conditions. RQ Cautions  T ake only under professional 
supervision. The fresh rhizome is very toxic;  
use only the dried rhizome internally.of the fresh juice to induce labor. Theophrastus  
(c. 372–286 bce) records that the plant was used  
to treat disorders of the uterus, reptile bites, and 
sores on the head. Medicinal Actions & Uses  No longer in use 
today and banned in Europe and North America, 
birthwort was formerly used to treat wounds, 
sores, and snake bite. It has been taken after 
childbirth to prevent infection and is also a potent 
menstruation-inducing herb and a (very dangerous) 
abortifacient. A decoction was taken to encourage 
healing of ulcers. Birthwort has also been used for 
asthma and bronchitis. Research  Birthwort illustrates the fact that though 
a plant is natural, this has no bearing on its safety. Aristolochic acid (present within birthwort) is a 
kidney toxin that induces kidney failure and cancer 
within the kidneys and urinary tract. However, the 
slow rate of development of symptoms has meant 
that in the past no connection was made between 
these kidney symptoms and the herb. These toxic 
effects apply to birthwort and all Aristolochia  species 
that contain aristolochic acid. Kidney failure and 
death from aristolochic acid is relatively rare in the 
West but is “reaching potentially epidemic 
proportions in the East,” according to research 
published in T aiwan in 2013. Many species of 
Aristolochia  continue to be used in Oriental herbal 
medicine in countries such as China, Japan, and 
T aiwan. All species of Aristolochia  are banned in  
most Western countries. RCaution  Under no circumstance use 
birthwort or any Aristolochia  species as medicines. Mexican poppy flowers have expectorant properties  
and are useful for treating coughs.Aristolochia clematitis
(Aristolochiaceae)
Birthwort
Description  Unpleasant-smelling perennial with 
heart-shaped leaves and tubular yellow flowers 
with flattened lips. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to central  
and southern Europe, birthwort is also found in 
southwestern Asia. The root is unearthed in  
spring or autumn. Parts Used  Root, aerial parts. Constituents  Birthwort contains aristolochic 
acids, a volatile oil, and tannins. While stimulating 
white blood cell activity, aristolochic acid is 
carcinogenic and toxic to the kidneys ( see Research ). History & Folklore  Aristolochia  means 
“excellent birth,” and refers to the traditional use Armoracia rusticana syn. colchlearia armoracia  
(Brassicaceae)
Horseradish
Description  Perennial with a deep tap root, 
leaves up to 20 in (50 cm) long, and clusters of 
4-petaled white flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to Europe and 
western Asia, this herb is widely cultivated for its 
root, unearthed in autumn. Parts Used Root, leaves. Constituents  Horseradish root contains 
glucosilinates (mainly sinigrin), flavonoids, 
asparagine, resin, and vitamin C. On being crushed, 
sinigrin produces allyl isothiocyanate, an antibiotic 
substance. The flavonoids have been shown to  
be antioxidant. History & Folklore  Pliny (23–79 ce) probably 
had horseradish in mind when describing a plant 
that warded off scorpions, but for most of its long 
history, horseradish has been used mainly as a 
diuretic herb. It is a popular condiment, particularly 
in Britain and central Europe. US_158-179_Abies_balsa_Boswe_serratta.indd   171 26/02/16   12:47 pm
172
other medicinal PlantsArnicA  mont A n A
Medicinal Actions & Uses  Now undervalued 
as a medicinal herb, horseradish has many healing 
properties. It strongly stimulates digestion, increasing gastric secretions and appetite. It is  a good diuretic and promotes perspiration,  
making it useful in fevers, colds, and flu. It is also expectorant and mildly antibiotic, and can be of  use in both respiratory and urinary tract infections. A sandwich of freshly grated root is a home remedy for hay fever. Externally, a poultice of the root can soothe chilblains. Cautions  Over-consumption of horseradish 
may irritate the gastrointestinal tract. The  
plant should be avoided by those with low  
thyroid function. A horseradish poultice may cause blistering.Artemisia abrotanum (Asteraceae)
Southernwood
Description  Strongly aromatic, shrubby 
perennial, growing to 3 ft (1 m). Has woody stems, feathery silver-green leaves, and yellow flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to southern 
Europe, this herb is rare in the wild but is cultivated for the perfume industry and, to a lesser extent,  for herbal medicine. The aerial parts are harvested in late summer.Cautions  Do not take during pregnancy. Not suitable for children under 12 unless prescribed professionally. Artemisia capillaris (Asteraceae)
Yin Chen Hao
Description  Medium-sized perennial herb with 
an erect stem, thin feathery leaves, and clusters of small composite flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to Southeast 
Asia, yin chen hao is cultivated in China and other  Far Eastern countries. The young plants are gathered in spring. Parts Used  Aerial parts. Constituents  Yin chen hao contains a volatile  
oil and coumarins. The volatile oil is antifungal. History & Folklore  Yin chen hao has been 
used in Chinese herbal medicine for more than 2,000 years. Its medicinal properties were first listed in Divine Husbandman’s Classic (Shen’nong Bencaojing), written in the 1st century ce. Medicinal Actions & Uses Yin chen hao  
is an effective remedy for liver problems, being specifically helpful for treating hepatitis with jaundice. Traditional Chinese medicine (see pp. 40–43) holds that it is bitter and cooling, clearing “damp heat” from the liver and gall ducts and relieving fevers. Yin chen hao is also anti-inflammatory and diuretic. It was formerly applied in the form of a plaster to  treat headaches. Research  Investigation undertaken in China 
indicates that like many Artemisia species, yin chen hao has a tonic and strengthening effect on the liver, gallbladder, and digestive system. Cautions  Do not take during pregnancy. Unsuitable for children under 12 unless  prescribed professionally.Parts Used  Aerial parts. Constituents  Southernwood contains a volatile 
oil, abrotanin, and tannins. History & Folklore  Much prized during the 
Middle Ages and the Renaissance, southernwood  is now used infrequently in herbal medicine. The closely related wormwood (A. absinthium,  p. 66) is considered superior. Like wormwood, southernwood contains a strong volatile oil that repels insects, and the leaves are placed among clothes to repel moths. Mrs. Grieve (A Modern Herbal, 1931) reports that in England “even in  the early part of the last century a bunch of southernwood and rue [Ruta graveolens, p. 265] was placed next to the prisoner in the dock as  a preventive from the contagion of jail fever.”
Medicinal Actions & Uses  Southernwood is 
a bitter tonic. It strengthens and supports digestive function by increasing secretions in the stomach and intestines. An infusion of southernwood has been given to children as a treatment for worms, but this is not recommended without professional supervision. Like other Artemisias, southernwood stimulates menstruation and is commonly  
taken to encourage the onset of irregular or absent periods.Southernwood leaves were traditionally placed among 
clothing to repel moths. Artemisia cina (Asteraceae)
Levant Wormwood
Description  Shrubby perennial with long thin 
leaves and tiny round tufts of flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  This herb is native  
to the region stretching from the eastern 
Mediterranean to Siberia. The unopened flower heads are gathered from wild and cultivated plants. Parts Used  Flower heads. Constituents  Levant wormwood contains 
santonin (a sesquiterpene lactone), artemisin, and  a volatile oil (with up to 80% cineole). Santonin  is directly toxic to roundworms and, to a lesser extent, threadworms. History & Folklore  Levant wormwood was 
known to the classical Greek world as a remedy  for intestinal worms, and it has been used for this Arnica montana (Asteraceae)
Arnica
Description  Aromatic perennial growing to  
1 ft (30 cm). Has downy egg-shaped leaves and bright yellow daisy-like flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  Arnica grows in 
mountain woods and pastures in central  Europe, the Pyrenees, Siberia, Canada, and the northwestern U.S. Its flowers are harvested  when in full bloom; the rhizomes after the  plant has died back in autumn. Parts Used  Flowers, rhizome. Constituents  Arnica contains sesquiterpene 
lactones, flavonoids, a volatile oil that includes thymol, mucilage, and polysaccharides. History & Folklore Arnica has been used 
extensively in European folk medicine. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832), the German philosopher and poet, drank arnica tea to ease his angina in old age. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Best known as  
an effective ointment and compress for bruises, sprains, and muscle pain, arnica improves the local blood supply and accelerates healing. It is anti-inflammatory and increases the rate of reabsorption of internal bleeding. Generally the plant is now taken internally only at a homeopathic dilution, principally for shock, injury, and pain. If taken as a decoction or tincture, it stimulates the circulation and is valuable in the treatment of angina and a weak or failing heart, but it can be toxic even at  low dosage and thus is rarely used in this way. Related Species  In North America A. fulgens  
is used. RQ Cautions  Do not take internally. Do not 
apply arnica preparations to broken skin. External use may cause dermatitis. Arnica is subject to legal restrictions in some countries. Self-help Uses  Bruises, p. 304; Sprains, p. 312; 
Tired & aching muscles, p. 312. US_158-179_Abies_balsa_Boswe_serratta.indd   172 26/02/16   12:47 pm173 other medicinal PlantsAsclepi As Tuberos A
purpose ever since. Its active constituent, santonin, 
was first isolated in 1830, and is now more 
commonly employed than the plant itself. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Used almost 
exclusively to expel worms, Levant wormwood  
is strongly bitter and aromatic and has a tonic  
and stimulant effect on digestion. The dried flower 
heads are occasionally mixed with honey to 
disguise their bitterness. QCautions  Do not take during pregnancy. Use 
only under professional supervision, especially in 
the case of children under 12. Artemisia dracunculus (Asteraceae)
T arragon
Description  Aromatic perennial growing  
to 3 ft (1 m). Has narrow lance-shaped leaves  
and small greenish flower heads in long  
drooping clusters. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to Russia, 
western Asia, and the Himalayas, tarragon is now 
cultivated as a culinary herb in gardens around the 
world. The aerial parts are picked in summer. Parts Used  Aerial parts, root. Constituents  T arragon contains tannins, 
coumarins, and flavonoids, and up to 0.8% volatile 
oil, consisting of up to 70% methylchervicol, which 
is toxic and potentially carcinogenic.History & Folklore  T arragon is widely used  
as an herb in cooking. In French, it is sometimes 
known as herbe au dragon , because of its reputed 
ability to cure serpent bites. Medicinal Actions & Uses  While tarragon 
stimulates digestion, it is reputed to be a mild 
sedative and has been taken to aid sleep. With its 
mild menstruation-inducing properties, it is taken  
if periods are delayed. The root has traditionally 
been applied to aching teeth. Cautions  Do not take during pregnancy. Do  
not exceed the standard dose, and do not take  
for longer than 4 weeks at a time. Artemisia vulgaris (Asteraceae)
Mugwort
Description  Shrubby perennial growing to 
about 3 ft (1 m). Has dark green deeply indented 
leaves and numerous clusters of small reddish or 
yellow flower heads. Habitat & Cultivation  Mugwort is found in 
temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. It 
flourishes in open areas and along roads, and is 
gathered in late summer just before flowering. Parts Used  Leaves, root. Constituents  Mugwort contains a volatile oil 
(mainly caryophyllene), a sesquiterpene lactone, 
flavonoids, coumarin derivatives, and triterpenes. History & Folklore  Known as Mater 
Herbarum  (mother of herbs), mugwort was used 
from the earliest times in Europe and Asia. Roman 
centurions reputedly placed it in their sandals to 
keep the soles of their feet in good shape. The 
Greek physician Dioscorides (1st century ce) 
recounts that the goddess Artemis (who inspired 
the plant’s genus name) was believed to give  
succor to women in childbirth. The 13th-century 
Welsh herbal The Physicians of Myddfai  recommends: 
“If a woman be unable to give birth to her child  
let the mugwort be bound to her left thigh. Let  
it be instantly removed when she has been 
delivered, lest there should be hemorrhage.”  
An 18th-century Spanish herbalist, Diego de  
Torres, recommends the application of a mugwort 
plaster below the navel as an effective method  
of inducing labor. In the Isle of Man (UK), sprigs  
of mugwort are worn at the annual open-air 
parliamentary assembly, held on Tynwald Hill. In 
China, mugwort has been valued for millennia. It is the principal ingredient of moxa  and is used  
in moxibustion, a process in which heat from  
a burning, cigar-shaped roll of chopped leaves  
is applied to acupuncture points. Medicinal Actions & Uses  A digestive  
and tonic herb, mugwort has a wide variety of 
traditional uses. Milder in action than most other 
Artemisia  species, it can be taken over the long term at a low dose to improve appetite, digestive 
function, and absorption of nutrients. In addition,  
it can be taken to encourage the elimination of 
worms. Mugwort also increases bile flow and  
mildly induces the onset of menstruation. The 
European conception of mugwort as a uterine 
stimulant is contradicted by Chinese usage, in 
which it is prescribed to prevent miscarriage  
and to reduce or stop menstrual bleeding. Mugwort is also antiseptic, and has been used  
in the treatment of malaria. Caution  Do not take mugwort during pregnancy. Asclepias tuberosa 
(Asclepiadaceae)
Pleurisy Root
Description  Perennial, upright herb growing  
to 3 ft (1 m). Has narrow lance-shaped leaves  
and spikes of numerous 5-petaled orange or 
yellow flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  This 
herb is native to the southern U.S. The root is unearthed in spring. Part Used  Root. Constituents  Pleurisy root  
contains cardenolides and 
flavonoids. It is estrogenic. History & Folklore  In 
North American herbal 
medicine, pleurisy root  
was considered a cure-all. It was used to treat 
conditions as diverse as 
pleurisy, typhoid, pneumonia, 
congestion, dysentery, colic, 
eczema, and hysteria. The 
Omaha ate the raw root for 
bronchitis and other chest 
conditions. Many tribes 
thought pleurisy root was  
a good remedy for hot 
dry fevers. Medicinal Actions  
& Uses  Though its most 
specific usage is relieving the  
pain and inflammation   
of pleurisy, pleurisy root has  
other applications. It is useful  
for hot, dry, and tight conditions 
in the chest. It promotes the 
coughing up of phlegm, 
reduces inflammation,  
and, in addition,  
Pleurisy root  was used  
by Native Americans  
as a chest remedy.Tarragon sweetens 
the breath and 
helps to stimulate 
digestion. US_158-179_Abies_balsa_Boswe_serratta.indd   173 26/02/16   12:47 pm
174
other medicinal PlantsAsp A l A thus lineA ris
helps reduce fevers by stimulating perspiration. The root is also taken for the treatment of chronic diarrhea and dysentery. Related Species  A. incarnata and A. syriaca  
have both been used in Native American herbal medicine to treat asthma. Cautions  Do not take during pregnancy. Excessive doses may cause vomiting. Aspalathus linearis (Fabaceae)
Rooibos, 
Red Bush
Description  Variable shrub growing to 61⁄2 ft (2 
m) in height, with green, needle-like leaves, yellow, pea-like flowers, and small seed pods. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to southern 
South Africa, rooibos is now widely cultivated as  
a commercial crop, particularly in the Cedarberg mountain area. The seed is hard to germinate  
and must first be scarified. The young leaves are harvested once a year, chopped, and left to “sweat” or ferment before being dried. Parts Used  Y oung leaves. Constituents  Rooibos contains polyphenols, 
including flavonoids, with a low tannin content. History & Folklore  Rooibos was first used as 
an appetizing tea by the Khoisan people, indigenous to the Cedarberg region, but also as a sleep aid and for headaches. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Drunk mostly  
as a pleasant tasting, caffeine-free drink, rooibos, like green tea, has significant antioxidant activity. There is evidence to suggest that the fermented leaves exert a protective effect on the heart and circulation. In view of the herb’s traditional use, it might also prove helpful as a nighttime drink to promote sound sleep.asparagine, and flavonoids. Asparagine is a  
strong diuretic. History & Folklore  To judge from ancient 
Egyptian tomb drawings, asparagus was cultivated  as long ago as 4000 bce. In the 1st century ce,  the Greek physician Dioscorides recommended a decoction of asparagus root to improve urine flow and to treat kidney problems, jaundice, and sciatica.acting as a general reproductive and sexual tonic. Shatavari can prove particularly helpful in easing menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and poor stamina. It appears to improve fertility in both men and women, and may also be taken to treat impotence. A tonic, strengthening herb, shatavari supports immune function and has a place in the treatment of immunosuppressed conditions. Related Species Asparagus (A. officinalis, see 
preceding entry) is a relative. Asperula odorata syn. Galium 
odoratum (Rubiaceae)
Sweet Woodruff
Description  Perennial growing to 18 in (45 cm). Has a square stem, whorls of narrow elliptical 
leaves, and small white flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  Sweet woodruff is 
native to Europe, and is also found in Asia and North Africa. It grows in woodlands and shaded places. The herb is gathered when in flower in late spring. Parts Used  Aerial parts. Constituents  Sweet woodruff contains iridoids, 
coumarins (0.6%), tannins, anthraquinones, and flavonoids. The flavonoids act on the circulation  and are diuretic. History & Folklore  When it dries, sweet 
woodruff takes on the scent of newly cut grass,  and it has often been placed between clothes  to impart its aroma. In his Irish Herbal of 1735, K’Eogh records that “It is good in healing wounds  if bruised and then applied, and also in curing boils and inflammations.” In Germany Maiwein, made  of sweet woodruff steeped in white wine, is drunk to celebrate May Day. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Sweet woodruff  
is considered tonic, with significant diuretic and  anti-inflammatory effects. Its coumarin and flavonoid constituents make it helpful for varicose veins and phlebitis. It has been used as an antispasmodic, and  it is given to children and adults for insomnia. Sweet woodruff aerial parts are dried for medicinal use.Asparagus is used to treat a range of urinary problems. Asparagus officinalis (Liliaceae)
Asparagus
Description  Slender-stemmed perennial 
growing to 61⁄2 ft (2 m). Has long fronds of 
delicate needle-like leaves and bell-shaped  
yellow-green flowers that produce small  
bright red berries. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to temperate 
regions in Europe, North Africa, and Asia, asparagus is cultivated worldwide as a vegetable. The shoots grow into tender green (and, if sheltered from sunlight, white) stems in spring. The root is gathered after the shoots have been cut. Parts Used  Root, shoots. Constituents  Asparagus contains steroidal 
glycosides (asparagosides), bitter glycosides, Medicinal Actions & Uses  Asparagus is a 
strong diuretic that is useful for a variety of urinary problems, including cystitis. It is also useful for rheumatic conditions, helping to “flush” waste products accumulated in the joints out of the  body in the urine. Asparagus is also bitter, mildly laxative, and sedative. Caution  Do not take if you suffer from  
kidney disease. Asparagus racemosus 
(Liliaceae)
Shatavari, 
Indian Asparagus 
Description  Slender perennial fern growing  
to 23 ft (7 m) in height. Shatavari has fronds of 
needle-like leaves, tiny white flowers, and purple-black berries. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to the 
Himalayas and the Indian subcontinent, shatavari grows wild in gravelly soils up to 3,900 ft (1,200 m) above sea level. It is also found in western China. Part Used  Root. Constituents  Shatavari contains steroidal 
saponins, alkaloids, and mucilage. History & Folklore  Shatavari is known as the 
“Queen of herbs” in Ayurvedic medicine. Its name literally means “100 spouses,” signifying the herb’s ability to act as a sexual tonic and promote fertility. Medicinal Actions & Uses  A key Ayurvedic 
remedy, shatavari is first and foremost a women’s herb, aiding fertility and promoting conception, and 
US_158-179_Abies_balsa_Boswe_serratta.indd   174 26/02/16   12:47 pm175 other medicinal PlantsBacopa monnieri
Cautions  In excessive doses, sweet woodruff  
can cause internal bleeding. Do not use if taking 
conventional medication for circulatory problems, 
or during pregnancy. aspidosperma quebracho-blanco
(Apocynaceae)
Quebracho
Description Tree growing to 100 ft (30 m). Has thick corky bark, leathery leaves, and tubular 
white flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  Quebracho is found  
in the southern half of South America. The bark 
and timber are used commercially. Part Used  Bark. Constituents  Quebracho contains indole 
alkaloids (including yohimbine) and tannins. History & Folklore  The name quebracho 
comes from the Spanish quebrar  (to break) and 
hacha  (axe), an allusion to the hardness of this 
tree’s wood. Medicinal Actions & Uses  With its 
antispasmodic effect on the bronchial tubes, 
quebracho is used therapeutically to treat asthma 
and emphysema. It is also a tonic and reduces  
fever. This herb is astringent and has been used 
externally on wounds and burns. Related Species  Many other species of 
Aspidosperma  are grown for tanning and timber in 
South America. Some are also considered fever 
remedies. One, A. excelsum , is used to relieve gas, 
stomach problems, and indigestion. QCautions  T ake only under professional 
supervision. Quebracho is toxic in excessive doses. It is subject to legal restrictions in some countries.mixture prescribed by Wang Ji (1463–1539)  
as a treatment for syphilis. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Bai zhu  has 
traditionally been used as a tonic, building qi  
(see p. 40) and strengthening the spleen. The 
rhizome has a sweet, pungent taste, and is used  
to relieve fluid retention, excessive sweating, and 
digestive problems such as diarrhea and vomiting. Combined with Baical skullcap ( Scutellaria baicalensis , 
p. 134), it is employed to prevent miscarriage. avena sativa (Poaceae)
Oats
Description  Annual grass growing to 3 ft (1 m). Has straight hollow stems, blade-like leaves, and 
small spikes holding seeds (grain). Habitat & Cultivation  Native to northern 
Europe, oats are now grown in temperate regions 
worldwide as a cereal crop. They are harvested in 
late summer. Parts Used  Seeds, straw (dried stems). Constituents  Oats contain saponins, alkaloids, 
sterols, flavonoids, silicic acid, starch, proteins 
(including gluten), vitamins (especially B vitamins), 
and minerals (especially calcium). History & Folklore  Formerly, oat straw was 
used to fill mattresses, proving beneficial to those 
suffering from rheumatism. In The English Physitian  
(1652) Nicholas Culpeper states that “a poultice 
made of meal of oats and some oil of bay helpeth 
the itch and the leprosy.” Earlier, in 1597, John 
Gerard was less enthusiastic: “Oatmeal is good to 
make a fair and well-coloured maid to look like a 
cake of tallow.”
Medicinal Actions & Uses  Oats are best 
known as a nutritious cereal, but they benefit health 
in many other ways. Oat bran lowers cholesterol, 
and an oat-based diet may improve stamina ( see 
Research ). Oats, and oat straw in particular, are tonic 
when taken medicinally. Oat straw is prescribed by 
medical herbalists to treat general debility and a 
wide variety of nervous conditions. The grains and 
straw are mildly antidepressant, gently raising energy 
levels and supporting an overstressed nervous 
system. Oats are used to treat depression  
and nervous debility, and insomnia in those  
suffering from nervous exhaustion. Oats  
are one of the principal herbal aids to 
convalescence after a long illness. Externally, 
the grain is emollient and cleansing, and a 
decoction strained into a bath can help soothe 
itchiness and eczema. Research  In research undertaken in 
Australia, athletes who were placed on an oat-
based diet for 3 weeks showed a 4% increase 
in stamina. Oats are thought to help maintain 
muscle function during training and exercise.Self-help Uses Depression & decreased 
vitality , p. 316; Eczema , p. 300; Nervous 
exhaustion & stress , p. 319; Poor sleep & nervous 
exhaustion , p. 309. Bacopa monnieri  
(Scrophulariaceae)
Water Hyssop,  
Brahmi (Hindi)
Description  Creeping succulent perennial 
growing to 20 in (50 cm). Has spatula-shaped 
fleshy leaves and pale blue or white flowers on 
long, slender stalks. Habitat & Cultivation  Water hyssop grows 
in warmer temperate and tropical climates, 
especially in southern Asia. It thrives in marshland, 
developing into dense mats on mudflats and at the 
edges of mangrove swamps. Parts Used  Aerial parts. Constituents  Water hyssop contains 
triterpenoid saponins, including bacosides. Medicinal Actions & Uses  In India, water 
hyssop is used principally for disorders of the 
nervous system, such as neuralgia, epilepsy, and 
mental illness, but it is also employed for a wide 
range of other disorders, including indigestion, 
ulcers, gas and constipation, asthma and bronchitis, 
and infertility. In China, it is taken as a yang tonic for 
impotence, premature ejaculation, infertility, 
and rheumatic conditions. In Indonesia, 
the plant is a remedy for filariasis  
(a tropical disease caused by 
worms). In Cuba, water hyssop 
is used as a purgative, 
and a decoction of the 
whole plant is taken as 
a diuretic and laxative. The expressed juice is 
mixed with oil and 
applied as a rub for 
arthritic pain. Research   
Indian research 
suggests that water 
hyssop improves mental 
function, memory, and 
concentration, as well as 
reduces learning time. Water hyssop,  a swamp 
plant, may have a tonic 
effect on the brain.atractylodes macrocephala
(Asteraceae)
Bai Zhu
Description  Erect perennial herb growing to  
2 ft (60 cm). Has alternate oval- to lance-shaped 
leaves and purple flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  Bai zhu  is rare in the 
wild. It is cultivated in China, Japan, and Korea. The 
rhizome is unearthed in late autumn or winter. Part Used  Rhizome. Constituents  Bai zhu  contains a volatile oil 
(0.35–1.35%), which includes atractylol, and the 
lactones atractylenolide II and III. Atractylol has  
a liver-protective activity. History & Folklore  The first record of the  
use of bai zhu  is in the Tang Materia Medica , written 
in China in 659 ce. Later, it was one of the 4 herbs 
that made up the “decoction of the 4 rulers,” a 
US_158-179_Abies_balsa_Boswe_serratta.indd   175 26/02/16   12:47 pm
176
other medicinal PlantsBallota nigra
as Ménière’s disease) as opposed to those of the 
digestive system. Black horehound is thought to be mildly sedative and antispasmodic, and is occasionally taken for arthritis and gout. Bambusa arundiaceae  
(Poaceae)
Spiny Bamboo
Description  Perennial tree, up to 100 ft (30 m), 
with multiple stems from its base. Has narrow 
pointed leaves and long loose clusters of yellow  to yellowish-green flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  Found throughout 
tropical Asia, especially in India and China, spiny bamboo thrives up to 6,900 ft (2,100 m) above  sea level. Parts Used  Root, leaves, sprouts. Constituents  Spiny bamboo juice contains  
high levels of silica. History & Folklore  Spiny bamboo is arguably 
the most useful plant on earth, being used to make scaffolding, rafts, furniture, paper, and dozens of other items. It also has an important role to play  in herbal medicine. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Various parts of 
spiny bamboo are used in Indian and  Ayurvedic medicine. The root is considered astringent and cooling, and is used to treat joint pain and general debility. The leaves are used to stimulate menstruation, and, being antispasmodic, to help relieve period pain. They are also taken to tone and strengthen stomach function and to expel worms. They are reputed to be aphrodisiac. The young sprouts are eaten to relieve nausea, indigestion, and gas, and a poultice of the sprouts is applied to help drain wounds that have become infected. The juice is rich in silica, and aids in the strengthening of cartilage in conditions such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. Related Species  In Chinese herbal medicine, 
the juice and shavings of the black bamboo  (B. breviflora) are prescribed to counter “excess heat,” coughs, and a congested chest. Its roots are used as a diuretic and to treat fevers. Banisteriopsis caapi 
(Malpighiaceae)
Ayahuasca
Description  Woody vine growing to 100 ft  
(30 m). Has smooth bark, oval leaves, and bunches 
of small red or yellow flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  Ayahuasca is native  
to jungles of the Amazon basin. It is cultivated by indigenous peoples, but the wild herb is preferred for medicinal use.Part Used  Bark. Constituents  Ayahuasca contains beta-carboline 
alkaloids (including harmine, harmaline, and delta-tetrahycroharmine), which stimulate hallucinations. History & Folklore  In the Quechua language, 
widely spoken in Peru and neighboring countries, ayahuasca means “spirit of the dead,” indicating  the awesome powers traditionally attributed  to this plant. Another native Indian name is nixi  honi xuma, meaning “vine from which the vision extract is made.” Ayahuasca bark, which is often used in combination with members of the Datura genus, is the primary hallucinogen among many Amazonian tribes, being prepared as part of complex ritual ceremonies. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Though known  
as a powerful hallucinogen, ayahuasca is also a medicine, being used as a remedy to cure a range of diagnosed conditions. However, ayahuasca is usually taken by the healer rather than by the patient. In the shamanistic societies of the Amazon, ayahuasca allows the healer to communicate with the spirit world where illness arises, interceding on behalf of the ill person and the community to restore health and harmony to all—quite unlike the individualized approach of Western medicine. Beyond its ability to affect mood, the bark is emetic and purgative. At low doses it is used as a mild detoxifier. RQ Caution  Ayahuasca is taken traditionally as 
part of a rich, complex ritual which affects the experience produced. Medicinal use of this plant  is not advised. Wild indigo, a North American plant, was used by the 
Penobscot to treat wounds. Black 
horehound  
was an ancient 
Greek remedy  
for dog bites.Ballota nigra (Lamiaceae)
Black Horehound
Description  Straggling perennial growing to 3 ft 
(1 m). Has oval, toothed leaves and pink-purple 
flowers in whorls at the base of the upper leaves. Habitat & Cultivation  This herb is found 
throughout much of Europe, in North America, and in Asia. It thrives in open areas, in pavement cracks, and by roadsides, mostly near human habitation. It is harvested when in flower in summer. Parts Used  Aerial parts. Constituents  Black horehound contains 
diterpenoids, including marrubiin, flavonoids,  tannins, saponins, and a volatile oil. History & Folklore  The Greek physician 
Dioscorides, writing in the 1st century ce, recommends a plaster of black horehound leaves and salt for dog bites. He also advocates a balm, made from the dried leaves and honey, to purify infected wounds and ulcers. Medicinal Actions & Uses Though long 
considered a remedy for convulsions, low spirits,  and menopausal problems, black horehound is rarely used today. Authorities differ over whether there is any substance to claims for its earlier applications. The herb is currently used by Anglo-American herbalists as an antiemetic—preventing or reducing nausea or vomiting. It is perhaps most useful when nausea arises from disorders of the inner ear (such 
Baptisia tinctoria (Fabaceae)
Wild Indigo
Description  Herbaceous perennial growing to  
3 ft (1 m). Has a smooth stem, clover-like leaves, and purplish-blue flowers in small terminal clusters. US_158-179_Abies_balsa_Boswe_serratta.indd   176 26/02/16   12:47 pm177 other medicinal Plants
Wax gourdPart Used  Root. Constituents  Oregon grape contains 
isoquinoline alkaloids (including berberine, 
berbamine, and hydrastine) and other alkaloids  
of aporphine-type. These alkaloids are strongly 
antibacterial and are thought to reduce the severity 
of psoriasis.Benincasa hispida syn. B. cerifa
(Cucurbitaceae)
Wax Gourd, 
Petha
Description  Hairy annual climber. Has 3-lobed 
leaves, tendrils, and large yellow flowers. Produces 
rounded fruit (gourds) about 16 in (40 cm) long. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to tropical  
Asia and Africa, this herb is cultivated in India  
and China as a vegetable. The fruit is harvested  
in late summer. Parts Used  Fruit rind, fruit, seeds. Constituents  Wax gourd contains saponins  
and guaridine. History & Folklore   
Wax gourd has been used 
as a food and medicine 
for thousands of years. It  
was first documented in 
the Tang Materia Medica , 
written in 659 ce.Ber Beris vulgaris
Habitat & Cultivation  Native to eastern parts 
of North America, wild indigo grows from North 
Carolina to southern Canada in dry, hilly woods. Parts Used  Root, leaves. Constituents  Wild indigo contains isoflavones, 
flavonoids, alkaloids, coumarins, and polysaccharides. The isoflavones are estrogenic, while the 
polysaccharides are immunostimulant. History & Folklore  Wild indigo was 
commonly used as a poultice by Native Americans 
and New World settlers to treat snake bite. The 
Mahicans used a decoction of the root to bathe 
cuts and wounds. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Wild indigo is  
a strong antiseptic and immunostimulant, though at 
more than moderate doses it can produce nausea 
and vomiting. It is considered particularly effective 
for upper respiratory infections such as tonsillitis 
and pharyngitis, and is also valuable in treating 
infections of the chest, gastrointestinal tract, and 
skin. Its antimicrobial and immunostimulant 
properties combat lymphatic problems—when 
used with detoxifying herbs such as burdock 
(Arctium lappa , p. 65), it helps to reduce enlarged 
lymph nodes. Wild indigo is frequently prescribed 
along with echinacea ( Echinacea spp., p. 92) for 
chronic viral conditions or chronic fatigue 
syndrome. A decoction of the root soothes sore 
or infected nipples and infected skin conditions. When used as a gargle or mouthwash, the 
decoction treats canker sores, gum 
infections, and sore throats. QCaution  Best taken on  
professional advice.Medicinal Actions & Uses  In Chinese  
herbal medicine, a decoction of wax gourd seeds  
is used to “drain dampness” and “clear heat.” It is 
given for chest conditions and vaginal discharge. In combination with Chinese rhubarb ( Rheum 
palmatum , p. 126), it is prescribed for intestinal 
abscesses. In Ayurvedic medicine, the seeds are 
used to treat coughs, fever, and excessive thirst,  
and to expel tapeworms. In an ancient Indian 
recipe, the fruit juice is mixed with lime juice  
(Citrus aurantiifolia ) to prevent or stop bleeding. Research  The fruit appears to have a cancer-
fighting effect.History & Folklore  Californian Native peoples 
took a decoction or tincture of the bitter-tasting 
root for loss of appetite and debility. In the 19th 
and early 20th centuries, Oregon grape was an 
important herb in the Physiomedicalist movement, 
based on a combination of orthodox and Native 
American practices. In this context, it was 
prescribed as a detoxifier and tonic. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Oregon grape  
is chiefly used for gastritis and general digestive 
weakness, to stimulate gallbladder function, and to 
reduce congestion problems (mainly of the gut). It 
also treats eczema, psoriasis, acne, boils, and 
herpes, and skin conditions linked to poor 
gallbladder function. Research  Clinical use of extracts of Oregon 
grape has been investigated in Germany, and there 
is now evidence that the root can be effective in 
relieving psoriasis. Extracts can be taken internally 
and applied locally on the skin. The alkaloid 
berberine is thought to prevent cell proliferation. Related Species  Barberry ( B. vulgaris, see 
following entry ) is similar to Oregon grape in its 
overall action, but it is generally stronger in the 
effect it produces. Caution  Do not take during pregnancy. Berberis vulgaris (Berberidaceae)
Barberry
Description  Thorny deciduous shrub growing 
to 10 ft (3 m), with leathery leaves, yellow flowers, 
and red berries in autumn. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to Europe, 
barberry is naturalized in North America. It is 
cultivated as a garden plant and medicinal herb. The bark is gathered in spring or autumn, and the 
berries in autumn. Parts Used  Stem bark, root bark, berries. Constituents  Barberry contains isoquinoline 
alkaloids, including berberine and berbamine. Berberine is strongly antibacterial and amoebicidal, 
and stimulates bile secretion. Berbamine is strongly 
antibacterial. Many of the alkaloids are thought to 
be cancer-inhibiting. History & Folklore  In ancient Egypt,  
Berberis  berries were macerated with fennel  
seed ( Foeniculum vulgare , p. 212) to make a  
drink for fevers. The berries are extremely  
sour but have been used in the past to make 
preserves—the French confiture d’épine vinette   
is one example. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Barberry acts  
on the gallbladder to improve bile flow and 
ameliorate conditions such as gallbladder pain, 
gallstones, and jaundice. Its strongly antiseptic 
property helps amoebic dysentery, cholera, and 
other similar gastrointestinal infections. The bark is Oregon grape has 
evergreen leaves, clusters 
of small yellow flowers, 
and purple berries. Berberis aquifolium , syn. Mahonia 
aquifolium (Berberidaceae)
Oregon Grape
Description  Evergreen shrub growing to 61⁄2 ft 
(2 m). Has shiny leaves, clusters of small yellowish-
green flowers, and purple berries in autumn. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to western 
North America, Oregon grape grows in the Rocky 
Mountains up to 6,600 ft (2,000 m), and in woods 
from Colorado to the Pacific coast. It is abundant  
in Oregon and northern California. US_158-179_Abies_balsa_Boswe_serratta.indd   177 26/02/16   12:47 pm
178
other medicinal PlantsBeta vulgaris
astringent, antidiarrheal, and healing to  
the intestinal wall—in short, barberry  
has a strong, highly beneficial effect on 
the digestive system as a whole. Like Oregon grape (B.  aquifolium,  
preceding entry) and goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis, p. 105), 
barberry helps chronic skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. The decoction makes  
a gentle and effective wash for the eyes, although it must be diluted sufficiently before use. Research  Berberine has 
been shown to have antibiotic activity against cholera, giardia, shigella, salmonella, and E. coli. QCautions  T ake only 
under professional supervision. Do not  take during pregnancy.gallbladder, influencing fat metabolism and 
helping to lower blood fat levels. Several 
clinical trials have shown that red beet juice 
(due to its high nitrate content) relaxes 
the arteries and lowers blood pressure in people with high blood pressure. A 
glass a day of juice will help to support 
lower blood pressure. Red beet juice is also 
thought to support immune function and is 
prescribed by herbalists as part of a cancer-
treatment regime—though large quantities must be taken (up to 1 quart a day) to  
be effective.History & Folklore  Silver birch has been  
used as a medicinal herb in northern Europe and Asia since the earliest times. Its name is thought  to derive from the Sanskrit word bhurga, meaning “tree whose bark is used for writing on.” In the highlands of Scotland, silver birch sap—tapped in the spring—was drunk as a treatment for bladder and kidney complaints. Medicinal Actions & Uses  An infusion  
made with silver birch leaves hastens the removal of waste products in the urine, and is beneficial  for kidney stones and bladder stones (gravel), rheumatic conditions, and gout. The leaves are  also used, in combination with diuretic herbs, to reduce fluid retention and swelling. Silver birch  sap is a mild diuretic. The oil distilled from the leaves is antiseptic and is commonly used in preparations to treat eczema and psoriasis. A decoction of silver birch bark can be used as  a lotion for chronic skin problems. The bark can also be macerated in oil and applied to joints for the relief of rheumatism. Related Species  The Himalayan silver  
birch (B. utilis), a close relative, is used to  treat convulsions, dysentery, hemorrhages,  and skin diseases. Bidens tripartita (Asteraceae)
Bur Marigold
Description  Annual growing to a height  
of 2 ft (60 cm). Has toothed lance-shaped  leaves, yellow button-like flower heads, and  burrlike fruit. Habitat & Cultivation  Bur marigold  
grows throughout Europe and in other  temperate regions, including Australia and  New Zealand. It is found in damp places and  near fresh water. Parts Used  Aerial parts. Constituents  Bur marigold contains  
flavonoids, xanthophylls, volatile oil, acetylenes, sterols, and tannins. History & Folklore  The herbalist Nicholas 
Culpeper, writing in 1652, extolled bur marigold:  “It helps the cachexia or evil disposition of the body, the dropsy and yellow jaundice, it opens obstructions of the liver, and mollifies the hardness of the spleen being applied outwardly.”
Medicinal Actions & Uses  Little used in 
medicine today, bur marigold is astringent and diuretic, and employed to treat bladder and kidney problems. It has a longstanding reputation for staunching blood flow, and can be used for uterine hemorrhage and conditions causing blood in the urine. Bur marigold’s astringency is beneficial in counteracting peptic ulceration, diarrhea, and ulcerative colitis.Silver birch is widespread in temperate regions throughout 
the northern hemisphere. Its leaf oil is used to improve eczema and psoriasis.Barberry berries were 
traditionally used in a 
decoction to treat 
peptic ulcers. Beta vulgaris (Chenopodiaceae)
Red Beet, White Beet
Description  Perennial with swollen edible red 
or white root, upright shoots, large deep green 
leaves tinged with red, and spikes of green-petaled flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  Sea beet (the wild 
subspecies) is native to coastal regions of Europe, North Africa, and Asia from Turkey to the East Indies. Red beet is widely cultivated as a vegetable, white beet as a vegetable and source of sugar. Part Used  Root. Constituents White beet contains betaine, 
which promotes liver regeneration and fat metabolism. Red beet contains betanin (also  found in red wine), which is partly responsible  for its immune-enhancing effect, and inorganic nitrate, which increases nitric oxide levels within the body and thus lowers blood pressure. History & Folklore  The Materia Medica, 
written by Dioscorides in the 1st century ce, recommends the following prescription for  clearing the head and relieving earache—mix beet juice with honey and sniff it up the nose. Medicinal Actions & Uses  White beet  
acts to support the liver, bile ducts, and Betula pendula syn. B. verrucosa
(Betulaceae)
Silver Birch
Description  Handsome slender deciduous 
tree growing to a height of 100 ft (30 m). Has 
pale grey papery bark, toothed leaves, and catkins in spring. Habitat & Cultivation  Silver birch is 
common in Europe, in temperate regions of Asia, and in North America. It flourishes in woods and thickets, and is also planted as a garden ornamental. The leaves are gathered in late spring. Parts Used  Leaves, bark, sap.
Encyclopedia_Of_Herbal_Medicine.txt
Summarize the following text section accurately and concisely. Maintain specific details and numerical information, and use anti-repetition mechanisms:

        Although it has no antiviral 
activity, andrographis can speed up recovery  
from the common cold. Research  In mostly Indian and Chinese  
research, the herb has been shown to stimulate 
the immune system, particularly helping to protect 
against poisoning (such as from snake bite). The glucosides are strongly antioxidant, and 
extracts of the whole herb have demonstrated an 
effect similar to, or better than, silymarin (from 
Silybum marianum, p. 137) in supporting the 
function of the liver. Thai research published in 
1991 indicated that 6 g per day of andrographis 
was as effective as acetaminophen in relieving fever 
and sore throat. The herb also has reported 
effectiveness against fertility. Cautions  Do not take during pregnancy. High 
doses may cause nausea and vomiting. US_158-179_Abies_balsa_Boswe_serratta. indd   167 26/02/16   12:47 pm
168
other medicinal Plantsanemarrhena asphodeloides
anemarrhena asphodeloides
(Liliaceae)
Zhi Mu
Description  Perennial herb with a thick 
rhizome, thin leaves up to 28 in (70 cm) long, and 
clusters of small white or light purple flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to northern 
China, zhi mu grows wild on exposed slopes and hills. It is cultivated in the northern and north-eastern provinces. Part Used Rhizome. Constituents  Contains steroidal saponins, 
lignans, phenolic compounds, and xanthones. History & Folklore  Zhi mu is first mentioned 
in the 1st-century ce herbal, the Divine Husbandman’s Classic (Shen’nong Bencaojing). Medicinal Actions & Uses  Zhi mu has a 
bitter taste and a “cold” temperament and is  
used in Chinese herbal medicine for “excess heat”—fever, night sweats, and coughs. It has  
been shown to have significant antibacterial  
activity and is commonly used to treat sores  
and mouth ulcers. frequently for premenstrual syndrome and period pain, especially when these are accompanied by nervous exhaustion. In France, it has traditionally been used for treating coughs and as a sedative  for sleep difficulties. Pulsatilla is also used to treat  eye problems such as cataracts. The fresh plant  is not used because it is strongly irritant. Pulsatilla  is one of the most commonly used of all homeopathic remedies. Related Species  The meadow anemone  
(A. pratensis) is used interchangeably with pasque flower; wood anemone (A. nemorosa) is now  rarely used in herbal medicine. QCautions  T ake only under professional 
supervision. Do not take during pregnancy. Do not take the fresh plant, which is toxic. angelica archangelica (Apiaceae)
Angelica
Description  Aromatic biennial herb growing  
to 61⁄2 ft (2 m). Has ridged upright hollow stems, 
large bright green leaves, and greenish-white flowers in umbels. Habitat & Cultivation  Angelica grows in 
temperate regions in western Europe, Siberia, and the Himalayas. It prefers damp sites and is often found near running water. Leaves and stems are harvested in early summer, seeds as they ripen in late summer, and roots in late autumn after one year’s growth. Parts Used  Root, leaves, stems, seeds. Dill was used as a  
remedy by the ancient 
Greeks to encourage  
a good night’s sleep. anemone pulsatilla syn. pulsatilla 
vulgaris (Ranunculaceae)
Pulsatilla
Description  Hairy perennial growing to  
6 in (15 cm). Has feathery leaves, and large,  
purple-blue, bell-shaped flowers, with bright  yellow anthers. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to Europe,  
this herb thrives in dry grassland in central  and northern parts of the continent, preferring chalky soil. The aerial parts are harvested when  it flowers in spring. Parts Used  Dried aerial parts. Constituents  Pulsatilla contains the lactone 
protoanemonin (which on drying forms anemonin), triterpenoid saponins, tannins, and volatile oil. History & Folklore  In Greek mythology, the 
goddess Flora was jealous of her husband’s attentions to the nymph Anemone and so transformed her into a flower, at the mercy of the North Wind. Anemone literally means “daughter of the wind” in Greek. The alternate name “pasque flower” derives from the French name  for Easter, when the plant is often in flower. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Pulsatilla  
is less commonly used now in herbal medicine than in the past, though it is still considered a valuable remedy for cramping pain, menstrual problems, and emotional distress. It is considered a specific treatment for spasmodic pain of the reproductive system, both male and female, and is given quite Seeds
anethum graveolens syn. peucedanum graveolens (Apiaceae)
Dill
Description  Aromatic annual that grows to a 
height of 30 in (75 cm). Has an erect hollow stem, 
feathery leaves, and numerous yellow flowers in umbels. Fruit is very lightweight and pungent. Habitat & Cultivation  Dill is native to 
southern Europe and central and southern  
Asia, growing wild in open areas. It is also widely cultivated, notably in England, Germany, and North America. The leaves are picked as a culinary herb. The seeds are harvested in  
late summer. Parts Used  Seeds, essential oil, leaves. Constituents  Dill seeds contain up to 5% volatile 
oil (about half of which is alpha-phellandrene), flavonoids, coumarins, xanthones, and triterpenes. History & Folklore  An ancient Egyptian 
remedy in the Ebers papyrus (c. 1500 bce) recommends dill as one of the ingredients in a pain-killing mixture. The ancient Greeks are believed to have covered their eyes with fronds  of the herb to induce sleep. Dill was commonly used as a charm against witchcraft in the Middle Ages, when it was burned to clear thunderclouds. Its name comes from the Norse dylla—meaning “to soothe. ”
Medicinal Actions & Uses  Dill has always 
been considered a remedy for the stomach, relieving gas and calming digestion. Dill’s essential oil relieves intestinal spasms and cramps and helps to settle colic, hence it is often used in gripe water mixtures. Chewing the seeds improves bad breath. Dill makes a useful addition to cough, cold, and flu remedies, and is a mild diuretic. Like caraway (Carum carvi, p. 184), it can be used with antispasmodics, such as cramp bark (Viburnum opulus, p. 150), to relieve period pain. Dill increases milk production, and when taken regularly by nursing mothers, helps to prevent  colic in their babies. Caution  T ake the essential 
oil internally only under professional supervision.
Although it has no antiviral activity.
What is the antiviral activity of andrographis?
Not specified in the text.
What is the recommended daily dose of andrographis for treating a cold?
A digestive and tonic herb, it can be used to relieve indigestion, improve appetite, and treat digestive problems.
What are the medicinal actions and uses of tian nan xing?
Do not take during pregnancy.
What is the caution for the use of tian nan xing?
Do not take during pregnancy.
What is the caution for the use of silver birch?