Encyclopedia of Herbal Plants

By Justice Edwind Mensah Plange, Evelyn Mayfair and Sebastian Archer

Untie the ancient wisdom of healing plants with "The Encyclopedia of Herbal Plants,"  a comprehensive exploration of over 200 medicinal herbs from around the world. This authoritative guide illuminates the traditional uses, modern research, and holistic applications of nature's pharmacy, empowering you to harness the gentle yet profound power of herbal remedies.

• Extensively researched profiles on 200+ herbs, from Andrographis to Yucca, cover historical uses, medicinal actions, active constituents, and recent scientific studies.
• Illuminating reference charts reveal each herb's properties, body system affinities, and therapeutic applications.
• Foundational herbalism knowledge, including herbal preparations, dosages, contraindications, herb-drug interactions, and phytochemistry.
• In-depth coverage of iconic healing herbs like Echinacea, Ginseng, Turmeric, Arnica, Astragalus, Lavender, and Rhodiola.
• Insights into using herbs for everyday wellness and addressing specific health conditions safely and effectively.
• A bridge between ancient herbal traditions and modern complementary care, backed by historical perspectives and scientific findings.

 

Brimming with practical wisdom, "The Encyclopedia of Herbal Plants" is an indispensable companion for students, practitioners, and herb enthusiasts seeking to harness the transformative power of plant medicines.

Words: 24

Characters: 180

• Language: English
• Publisher: Horizon Press
• Release date: May 2, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224821822

Book preview

Disclaimer

The information in this book is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment, and before undertaking a new health regimen.

The statements in this book have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The herbs and remedies discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary.

Neither the author nor the publisher assumes any responsibility for how this material is used. The author and publisher disclaim any liability arising directly or indirectly from the use of this book.

As with any natural product, allergies or adverse reactions are possible. If you experience any nausea, headaches, rashes, or other symptoms discontinue use immediately and consult your healthcare provider. Please consult your doctor before using herbs or making any dietary changes, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a pre-existing medical condition.

Contents

Disclaimer..............................................................4

Contents...............................................................5

Acknowledgements.......................................................13

Medicinal Herbal Reference Guide............................................14

Harnessing the Healing Potential of Plants

Introduction

Ethical and Sustainable Harvesting Practices

Drying and Preserving Herbs

Encapsulating Powdered Herbs

Herbal Infusions: Cold and Hot Methods

Decoctions

Oil Infusions and Salve-Making

Tinctures and Extracts

Double Extractions

Distillation

Medicinal Syrups

Poultices and Field Poultices

Conclusion

Introduction

Agrimony,

Alfalfa,

Aloe vera,

Andrographis,

Arnica,

Ash,

Ashwagandha,

Astragalus,

Baikal Skullcap,

Bayberry,

Bearberry,

Bilberry,

Bitter Melon,

Bitter Orange,

Black cohosh,

Black Haw,

Black Hawthorn,

Black Walnut,

Bladderwrack,

Blessed Thistle,

Blue Cohosh,

Blue Flag,

Blue Vervain,

Boldo,

Borage,

Boswellia,

Buchu,

Bugleweed,

Burdock,

Butcher's Broom,

Calamus,

Calendula,

California Poppy,

Camphor,

Cape Aloe,

Caraway,

Cascara Sagrada,

Catnip,

Cat's claw,

Cayenne,

Celandine,

Celery Seed,

Centaury,

Chamomile,

Chanca Piedra,

Chaparral,

Chasteberry,

Chickweed,

Cinnamon,

Cleavers,

Clove,

Codonopsis,

Coltsfoot,

Comfrey,

Corydalis,

Couch Grass,

Cramp Bark,

Cranberry,

Damiana,

Dandelion Root,

Devil's Claw,

Dill,

Dogwood,

Dong Quai,

Echinacea,

Elder Flower,

Elecampane,

Eleuthero,

Ephedra,

Eucalyptus,

European Mistletoe,

Eyebright,

False Unicorn Root,

Fennel,

Fenugreek,

Feverfew,

Flaxseed,

Fo-ti,

Fringe Tree Bark,

Garlic,

Gentian,

Geranium,

Ginger,

Ginkgo,

Ginseng,

Goat's Rue,

Goldenrod,

Goldenseal,

Gotu kola,

Grapefruit Seed Extract,

Grindelia,

Guarana,

Guggul,

Gymnema,

Hawthorn,

Hibiscus,

Holy basil,

Hops,

Horehound,

Horsetail,

Hydrangea,

Hyssop,

Juniper Berry,

Kava kava,

Khella,

Kudzu,

Lady's Mantle,

Lavender,

Lemon balm,

Lemongrass,

Lesser Periwinkle,

Licorice,

Life Root,

Linden,

Liverwort,

Lobelia,

Ma Huang,

Marigold,

Marshmallow,

Meadowsweet,

Milk Thistle,

Motherwort,

Mugwort,

Muira puama,

Mullein,

Mustard,

Myrrh,

Neem,

Nettle,

Olive Leaf,

Onion,

Oregano,

Oregon Grape,

Orris Root,

Osha,

Papaya,

Parsley,

Passion flower,

Patchouli,

Pau d'arco,

Peppermint,

Pipsissewa,

Plantain,

Pleurisy Root,

Poke Root,

Prickly Ash,

Psyllium,

Pu-erh Tea,

Queen Anne's Lace,

Red clover,

Reishi mushroom,

Rhodiola,

Rose Hips,

Rosemary,

Saffron,

Sage,

Sarsaparilla,

Saw Palmetto,

Schisandra,

Self-Heal,

Shatavari,

Shepherd's Purse,

Shiitake mushroom,

Shilajit,

Slippery elm,

Speedwell,

Spikenard,

St. John's Wort,

Star Anise,

Stinging Nettle,

Stone Root,

Sweet Flag,

Sweet Violet,

Teatree oil,

Thyme,

Tribulus,

Turkey Rhubarb,

Turmeric,

Umckaloabo,

Uva ursi,

Valerian,

Vervain,

Vetiver,

Wheatgrass,

White Willow,

Wild Cherry Bark,

Wild Lettuce,

Wild Yam,

Witch Hazel,

Wood Betony,

Yarrow,

Yellow Dock,

Yerba Mansa,

Yucca,

Appendix

Acknowledgements

––––––––

We would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following individuals and organizations for their invaluable contributions to this work:

First and foremost, we thank our families for their unwavering support, patience, and encouragement throughout the long journey of researching and writing this encyclopedia.

We are deeply grateful to Dr. Sarah Henderson and Dr. Michael Rothstein of Trillium University for sharing their extensive knowledge of botanical sciences and traditional herbal medicine practices. Their expertise and guidance were instrumental in ensuring the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information presented.

Our heartfelt thanks go to the team at Greenleaf Herbarium for granting us access to their extraordinary collection of plant specimens and historical archives. Their passion for preserving botanical knowledge inspired us immensely.

We are indebted to the members of the Holistic Healers Society, who generously shared their personal experiences and insights into the use of herbal remedies across diverse cultures and traditions.

Finally, we extend our appreciation to the staff at Berkeley’s Publishing House for their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication in bringing this work to life.

To all those who have contributed their time, wisdom, and resources, we are forever grateful. This book would not have been possible without your invaluable support.

Medicinal Herbal Reference Guide

This reference guide gives you the reader the opportunity to easily locate and identify a herbal plant that relates to your illness. It is advisable to read the warning under each herbal plant of choice to be sure of allergies.

Agrimony (2) - wounds, skin irritation, inflammation, sore throat, anti-inflammatory for arthritis and joint pain, mild laxative for constipation, treating diarrhea, and upset stomach.

Alfalfa (4) - lower cholesterol, menopause symptoms, fluid retention and swelling, urine flow, and digestive issues.

Aloe vera (5) - burns, wounds, skin conditions

Andrographis (7) - cold, flu, infections

Arnica (8) - bruises, swelling, pain, arthritis

Ash (9) - gout, rheumatic pain, edema

Ashwagandha (10) - stress, anxiety, inflammation 

Astragalus (11) -, flu, chronic fatigue prevention, immune support

Baikal Skullcap (13) - breast cancer, lung cancer

Bayberry (15) - diarrhea, bleeding gums, infections

Bearberry (16) - urinary tract infections

Bilberry (17) - eye disorders, circulation 

Bitter Melon (18) - diabetes, blood sugar regulation

Bitter Orange (19) - indigestion, constipation, insomnia

Black cohosh (21) - menopause symptoms, menstrual cramps

Black haw (22) - menstrual cramps, miscarriage prevention

Black Hawthorn (23) - heart disease, circulatory issues

Black Walnut (24) - skin conditions, parasitic infections

Bladderwrack (25) - thyroid issues, obesity

Blessed Thistle (26) - digestion, menstrual issues, infections

Blue Cohosh (27) - menstrual issues, childbirth 

Blue Flag (28) - skin conditions, gout, joint pain 

Blue Vervain (29) - stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia

Boldo (31) - liver disease, gallstones

Borage (32) - respiratory issues, PMS symptoms 

Boswellia (33) - arthritis, joint pain, inflammation

Buchu (34) - urinary tract infections, prostate issues 

Bugleweed (35) - hyperthyroidism, cough, wound healing 

Burdock (36) - skin conditions, detoxification, infections, Lyme disease, arthritis

Butcher's Broom (37) - circulation problems, hemorrhoids 

Calamus (38)- memory loss, arthritis, neuropathy

Calendula (39) - skin conditions, wounds, burns

California Poppy (40) - anxiety, insomnia, pain

Camphor (41) - pain, inflammation, respiratory congestion

Cape Aloe (42) - constipation, immune support, skin conditions

Caraway (43) - digestive upset, colic, bloating 

Cascara Sagrada (44) - constipation, digestive issues

Catnip (45) - anxiety, insomnia, cold and flu symptoms

Cat's claw (46) - immune support, infections, inflammation

Cayenne (47) - pain, circulation, digestion 

Celandine (48) - digestive issues, liver support 

Celery Seed (49) - joint pain, gout, digestive issues

Centaury (50) - fever, digestion problems 

Chamomile (51) - insomnia, anxiety, gastrointestinal issues 

Chanca piedra (52) - kidney stones, urinary issues

Chaparral (53) - infections, inflammation, cancer

Chasteberry (54) - menstrual issues, menopause symptoms 

Chickweed (55) - skin conditions, respiratory problems

Cinnamon (56) - blood sugar control, antioxidant, cholesterol

Cleavers (57) - urinary issues, swollen glands, lymphatic swelling

Clove (58) - toothache, nausea, vomiting 

Codonopsis (59) - fatigue, poor appetite, digestion issues

Coltsfoot (60) - cough, bronchitis, asthma

Comfrey (61) - wounds, bruises, inflammation

Corydalis (62) - pain relief, sleep aid

Couch Grass (63) - urinary tract infections, kidney stones

Cramp Bark (64) - menstrual cramps, muscle spasms 

Cranberry (65) - urinary tract infections

Damiana (67) - anxiety, nervous exhaustion, libido issues 

Dandelion Root (68) - liver problems, digestion issues

Devil's Claw (69) - arthritis pain, lower back pain

Dill (70) - digestion, bronchitis, coughs 

Dogwood (71) - bleeding issues, diarrhea, fever

Dong Quai (72) - menopause symptoms, menstrual issues 

Echinacea (73) - immune support, colds, infections

Elder Flower (74) - colds, flu, sinusitis, hay fever 

Elecampane (75) - cough, bronchitis, asthma

Eleuthero (76) - fatigue, stress

Ephedra (77) - respiratory issues, energy production 

Eucalyptus (78) - congestion, respiratory issues, wounds 

European Mistletoe (79) - high blood pressure 

Eyebright (80) - eye inflammation, respiratory issues

False Unicorn Root (81) - menstrual issues, fertility

Fennel (82) - digestive support, bloating, gas

Fenugreek (83) - digestion, inflammation, cholesterol

Feverfew (84) - migraines, headaches, arthritis

Flaxseed (85) - digestion, cholesterol, menopause symptoms

Fo-ti (87) - longevity, hair loss prevention

Fringe Tree Bark (89) - liver disease, gallbladder 

Garlic (91) - high cholesterol, heart health, infections

Gentian (92) - poor appetite, digestion, mouth ulcers

Geranium (93) - sore throat, bronchitis, colds

Ginger (94) - nausea, circulation, inflammation issues

Ginkgo (95) - circulation, memory, concentration issues

Ginseng (96) - fatigue, memory enhancement, immunity booster

Goat's Rue (98) - diabetes, blood glucose levels

Goldenrod (99) - kidney stones, urinary tract infection

Goldenseal (100) - eye issues, respiratory issues, digestion issues

Gotu kola (101) - memory, circulation, wound healing

Grapefruit Seed Extract (102) - infections, parasites 

Grindelia (103.) - asthma, bronchitis, upper respiratory issues

Guarana (104) - energy, mental focus, weight loss 

Guggul (105) - arthritis, lipid levels, weight loss

Gymnema (106) - diabetes, metabolic syndrome

Hawthorn (107) - heart issues, blood pressure, anxiety

Hibiscus (109) - high blood pressure, high cholesterol

Holy basil (111) - stress reduction, immune support

Hops (112) - sleep disorders, restlessness, tension, pain 

Horehound (113) - respiratory congestion, cough

Horsetail (114) - kidney stones, urinary tract infections, edema

Hydrangea (115.) - prostate issues, kidney stones, bladder issues

Hyssop (116) - coughs, sore throat, bronchitis, fatigue

Juniper Berry (117) - urinary tract infections, fluid retention 

Kava Kava (118) - anxiety, tension, restlessness 

Khella (119)- bronchitis, asthma, kidney stones 

Kudzu (120) - alcoholism, menopausal symptoms

Lady's Mantle (121) - menstrual cramps, menopause

Lavender (122) - anxiety, insomnia, pain, skin irritation

Lemon balm (123) - anxiety, sleep issues, digestion, cold sores

Lemongrass (124) - anxiety, insomnia, digestion

Lesser Periwinkle (125) - memory enhancement, vertigo, headaches

Licorice (127) - sore throat, cough, infections, stomach issues

Life Root (129) - menstrual problems, uterine issues

Linden (130) - anxiety, insomnia, cough

Liverwort (131) - liver issues

Lobelia (132) - asthma, bronchitis, cough, smoking cessation

Ma Huang (133) - asthma, hay fever, nasal congestion

Marigold (134) - skin irritation, wounds, infections

Marshmallow (135) - cough, digestive issues, sore throat 

Meadowsweet (136) - headache, stomach acidity, joint pain

Milk Thistle (137) - liver disease, kidney issues

Motherwort (138) - anxiety, female reproductive issues

Mugwort (139) - menstrual issues, stomach problems

Muira puama (140) - cognitive function, sexual function, fatigue

Mullein (141) - cough, asthma, bronchitis

Mustard (142) - arthritis, pain relief

Myrrh (143) - oral conditions, inflammation

Neem (144) - skin issues, dental issues, fever

Nettle (145) - seasonal allergies, inflammation, urinary issues

Olive Leaf (146) - infections, high blood pressure, cholesterol

Onion (147) - lowering blood pressure, antibiotic properties

Oregano (148) - cough, sinus issues, digestive upset

Oregon Grape (150) - skin diseases, weak digestion

Orris Root (151) - skin conditions, bronchitis, cough

Osha (152) - upper respiratory tract infections, bronchitis 

Papaya (153) - digestion improvement, wound healing 

Parsley (154) - kidney stones, urinary issues, edema

Passion flower (155) - anxiety, insomnia, pain 

Patchouli (156) - depression, nausea, diarrhea 

Pau d'arco (157) - infections, inflammation, cancer 

Peppermint (158) - digestive issues, headaches, nausea 

Pipsissewa (159) - urinary issues, kidney issues

Plantain (160) - skin issues, wounds, gastrointestinal issues

Pleurisy Root (161) - pneumonia, influenza, respiratory issues 

Poke Root (162) - infection, inflammation

Prickly Ash (163) - circulation, arthritis, rheumatism

Psyllium (165) - constipation, diarrhea, IBS

Pu-erh Tea (166) - lowerss cholesterol, aids digestion

Queen Anne's Lace (167) - contraceptive, menstrual issues

Red clover (168) - menopause symptoms, skin irritation, cough

Reishi mushroom (169) - immune support, inflammation 

Rhodiola (170) - depression, anxiety, fatigue, cognition 

Rose Hips (171) - infections, inflammation, immune support 

Rosemary (172) - circulation, cognition, joint disorders 

Saffron (173) - depression, PMS symptoms

Sage (174) - memory issues, oral health, digestion problems 

Sarsaparilla (175) - skin conditions, joint pain, gout symptoms

Saw Palmetto (176) - urinary issues, prostate issues

Schisandra (177) - liver disease, kidney disease

Self Heal (178) - wound healing, oral health

Shatavari (179) - menopause symptoms, fertility, lactation issues

Shepherd's Purse (180) - menstrual bleeding, wounds

Shiitake mushroom (181) - immune support, cholesterol levels

Shilajit (182) - vitality, thyroid function 

Slippery elm (183) - digestive issues, cough, wounds

Speedwell (185) - respiratory issues, specific to children

Spikenard (186) - skin diseases, arthritis, insomnia

St. John's Wort (187) - depression, anxiety, wounds

Star Anise (188) - digestion, colic, cough 

Stinging Nettle (189) - allergies, inflammation, urinary issues

Stone Root (190) - varicose veins, hemorrhoids

Sweet Flag (191) - gastritis, Crohn's disease

Sweet Violet (192) - respiratory issues, cancer prevention

Teatree oil (193) - infections, acne, cuts, dandruff

Thyme (194) - cough, infections, digestion, oral health

Tribulus (195) - libido, sexual function, infertility

Turkey Rhubarb (196) - constipation, digestive issues

Turmeric (197) - inflammation, arthritis, digestion, infections

Umckaloabo (198) - bronchitis, sinusitis, tonsillitis

Uva ursi (199) - urinary issues, inflammation, infections

Valerian (200) - insomnia, anxiety, hypertension

Vervain (201) - depression, anxiety, insomnia 

Vetiver (203) - nervous system support, stress, sleep issues

Wheatgrass (204) - nutrient deficiencies 

White Willow (205) - back pain, osteoarthritis, headaches

Wild Cherry Bark (206) - cough, asthma, diarrhea

Wild Lettuce (207) - pain, insomnia, anxiety

Wild Yam (208) - menopause symptoms, menstrual cramps, pain

Witch Hazel (209) - skin irritation, bruising, swelling

Wood Betony (210) - anxiety, neuralgia, digestive issues

Yarrow (212) - digestive issues, wounds, menstrual issues

Yellow Dock (213) - skin conditions, anemia 

Yerba Mansa (214) - respiratory infections, digestive issues

Yucca (215) - arthritis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol

Harnessing the Healing Potential of Plants

Introduction

For millennia, humanity has relied on the profound healing properties of plants to treat a myriad of ailments. From ancient civilizations to modern-day herbalists, the practice of harvesting and preparing herbal remedies has been an integral part of traditional medicine systems worldwide. This article delves into the intricate art of extracting the medicinal virtues of plants, offering a comprehensive guide to various extraction techniques and preparation methods.

Ethical and Sustainable Harvesting Practices

Before delving into the extraction methods, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of ethical and sustainable harvesting practices. Responsible sourcing and cultivation of medicinal plants not only ensures the preservation of these valuable resources but also promotes environmental stewardship and biodiversity conservation.

When harvesting from the wild, it is essential to identify the plant accurately, obtain necessary permits or permissions, and follow responsible harvesting protocols. This includes gathering only a portion of the plant population, avoiding over-harvesting, and minimizing disturbance to the surrounding ecosystem. Additionally, cultivating medicinal plants in home gardens or through sustainable farming practices can provide a reliable and ethical source of herbs.

Drying and Preserving Herbs

Proper drying and storage techniques are crucial for preserving the potency and longevity of harvested herbs. Air-drying, dehydrators, or low-temperature ovens can be employed to remove moisture from the plant material gently. Once dried, herbs should be stored in airtight containers, away from light, heat, and moisture, to prevent degradation and maintain their therapeutic properties.

Encapsulating Powdered Herbs

Powdered herbs can be conveniently encapsulated for easy consumption and accurate dosing. This process involves grinding the dried herbs into a fine powder and filling them into vegetable capsules using a capsule-filling machine or manual method. Encapsulation not only provides a convenient and mess-free way to consume herbs but also protects the active compounds from oxidation and degradation.

Herbal Infusions: Cold and Hot Methods

Infusions are among the most common and accessible methods of extracting plant compounds. Cold infusions, also known as herbal waters or tisanes, involve steeping herbs in cold or room-temperature water for an extended period,