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The therapeutic use of herbs and herbal medicines in the world's great traditional medical
systems is guided by the principles and precepts of that system. In Greek Medicine, the
therapeutic use of herbs is guided by the principles of humor, temperament and the Four Basic
Qualities.
In herbal folk medicine, simple empirical experience guides the therapeutic use of herbs: this
herb for this disease or symptom, that herb for that. But the world's great traditional healing
systems, including Greek Medicine, have developed sophisticated systems of herbal taste,
temperature and energetics that guide the proper selection and use of herbs in the context of
holistic healing.
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with Wet versus Dry being of secondary importance. An herb or medicinal substance that is
balanced or neutral in terms of these polarities, especially the primary polarity of temperature, is
said to be temperate.
Herbs and medicinal substances whose qualities and temperament are opposite yet
complementary to the nature of the disorder, to the same degree, are used to neutralize the
disorder and bring the organism back into balance. Excessive heat must be cooled, and fire
quelled; cold must be warmed or heated, and chills dispersed; dryness must be moistened, and
dampness dried up.
The excessive or prolonged use of heating medicines will create a condition of secondary
dryness. The excessive or prolonged use of cooling medicines will create a condition
of secondary wetness.
In herbal treatments, preference must be given to herbs and medicines that
are warming or heating, because all living organisms generate heat, and cold is basically
inimical to life. Cooling medicines should be used cautiously or sparingly, and only if definite
signs of heat, fever, inflammation or hyperfunction are present, and only for as long as they are
present.
Similarly, drying medicines should be used with more caution and prudence than moistening
medicines, because moisture is necessary for life. However, this provision is not as stringent as
the first or primary one; use each appropriately, according to the patient's signs and symptoms.
To help the physician or pharmacist measure more precisely the relative strength and potency
of herbs and medicinal substances in formulating and administering herbs and herbal
medicines, Galen devised a system known as the Galenic Degrees. Galen assigned four
degrees, or levels of potency, to each of the Four Basic Qualities, with the first degree being the
mildest, and the fourth the most potent. The Galenic Degree of the herb or medicine used must
match the degree of severity of the disorder while being opposite yet complementary in quality.
To give you an experiential feel for how these Galenic Degrees work, here are the qualities
and degrees of temperament assigned to some common herbs used in Greek Medicine:
Angelica root - Hot 3, Dry 3
Borage - Hot 1, Wet 1
Dandelion root - Cold 2, Dry 2
Garlic - Hot 4, Dry 4
Wild Lettuce - Cold 2, Wet 2
Rose - Cold 1, Dry 1
Sweet Violet - Cold 1, Wet 2
Yarrow - Cold 1, Dry 1
Source: Culpeper's Medicine, by Graeme Tobyn, pp. 220 - 224
Certain broad associations between the Four Basic Qualities and particular tastes and
therapeutic properties of herbs and medicines can also be drawn. These are as follows:
Hot herbs and medicines stimulate and warm the metabolism and disperse chills. Many are
pungent and spicy in taste. Many are stimulants, expectorants, adaptogens and energy tonics.
Cold herbs and medicines sedate or slow down the metabolism and cool down fevers, heat
and inflammation. Many are antiinflammatories, antipyretics, refrigerants and sedatives. Many
are also bitter in taste.
Wet herbs and medicines moisten, soothe and nourish. Many are demulcents, emollients and
nutritive tonics. Many also have a bland or mildly sweet taste and an abundant supply of natural
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mucilage.
Dry herbs and medicines help the body eliminate excess fluids, phlegm and dampness. Many
are expectorants, diuretics or astringents.
There are other qualities used to describe or characterize herbs and medicinal substances in
Greek Medicine besides these basic four. Most of these qualities are also arranged in pairs of
complementary opposites, and most have certain affinities to the basic four. Some of the most
important of these qualities are: light / heavy; smooth / rough; sharp / dull; subtle / gross.
These basic qualities of herbs and medicines become the basis for their medicinal actions and
effects. Medicinal substances have both qualities and actions inherent in them.
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Theophrastus and the Eight Tastes
Aristotle's successor as the head of the Peripatetic school of philosophy was Theophrastus, a
Greek botanist and natural philosopher. In his studies on herbal medicine and medical botany,
Theophrastus identified eight tastes - two for each of the four humors / temperaments - and
delineated therapeutic properties for each taste. The eight tastes are: Sweet, Unctuous, Salty,
Sour, Pungent, Acrid, Bitter and Astringent. These eight tastes are arranged in order from the
most nourishing and anabolic to the most cleansing and catabolic.
The therapeutic properties, according to their manifest virtues, of the eight tastes are as
follows, along with typical herbal examples:
Sweet: Mildly sweet is bittersweet or bland. Nourishing and anabolic. Provides quick
caloric energy for cellular metabolism and the Vital Function. Moistening and softening,
demulcent and emollient. Moderate, temperate and balancing; softens harsh or disagreeable
tastes and medicinal effects of other herbs. In excess, can provoke blood sugar imbalances,
diabetes; can also impede metabolic heat and digestive fire, being too cooling, heavy and
moistening.
Examples: Honey, Carob, Licorice, Fennel, Cinnamon;
Ginseng (bittersweet), Arrowroot (bland).
Unctuous: Synonyms are rich, fatty, juicy. Very anabolic and nourishing. Heavy, dull,
slow. Can soothe or subside aggravations of melancholy and the Nervous humor. Moistening,
softening, lubricating. In excess, can clog vessels and arteries, and the liver and digestive
organs, causing high cholesterol, etc...
Examples: Flax seed oil, Castor oil, Ghee (clarified butter), most meats and animal fats.
Salty: Nourishing and anabolic. Heating and drying, but dryness attracts and holds fluids in
the body through osmotic pressure. Can dissolve or resolve lumps, hardenings. In excess, can
aggravate water retention, edema, choleric and inflammatory conditions, high blood pressure.
Examples: Kelp, Dulse, Bladderwrack, Rock Salt.
Sour: Synonyms are tart, tangy, acidic. Sharp, caustic, penetrating. Heating and
moistening. Stimulates flow of salivary, gastric, digestive and bilious secretions by
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sympathy. In excess, can aggravate heat and choler, sour the stomach, and aggravate muscular
and arthritic pains.
Examples: Hawthorn berries, Lemon, Pomegranate, Bitter Orange, Hibiscus.
Pungent: Synonyms are hot, piquant, spicy. Mildly pungent is fragrant, aromatic. Disperses
obstructions, opens vessels and pores, stimulates circulation, metabolism. Heating and drying;
concocts and resolves phlegm. Stimulates digestion and the gastric fire. In excess, can
aggravate heat, choler and inflammation; disperse and dissipate the Vital Force; cause excessive
dryness.
Examples: Cloves, Ginger, Garlic, Black Pepper, Cayenne.
Acrid: Synonyms are rough, sharp, harsh. Similar heating and drying influence as pungent,
but more drying than heating.
Examples: Bamboo shoots, Baking Soda, Gymnema sylvestre.
Bitter: Cooling and drying, cleansing and detoxifying. Subsides excesses and aggravations
of the Choleric humor. Draws out, stimulates the flow of bile, digestive secretions by
antipathy. Sedative, calming; subsides aggravated passions, libido. In excess, provokes
giddiness, nausea, leads to wasting and emaciation, aggravates melancholy and the Nervous
humor. Extremely bitter medicines should be mixed with, moderated by pungent, sweet and
aromatic herbs and spices.
Examples: Gentian root, Coptis root, Aloe Vera leaf, Goldenseal, bitters.
Astringent: Cooling, drying and binding. Tones and firms organs and tissues, consolidates
the humors and vital principles. Stops bleeding, closes wounds; checks excessive or abnormal
sweating, diarrhea, urination, ejaculation, leucorrhea, other fluidic fluxes and secretions. Dries
up excess moisture and dampness like a sponge. Draws up prolapsed organs. In excess, can
provoke gastrointestinal colic and griping, constipation, aggravate melancholy and the Nervous
humor, cause emaciation, withering and dryness.
Examples: Bayberry bark, Pomegranate peel, Tea, Triphala, Agrimony.
The first two tastes, Sweet and Unctuous, are predominantly warming, moistening
and Sanguine in their influence.
The second two tastes, Salty and Sour, have profound effects and influences on fluid
metabolism. And so, they concern primarily the Phlegmatic humor, although they also have
other effects.
The third two tastes, Pungent and Acrid, are heating, drying and dispersing, and very
stimulating to the metabolism. And so, their nature is predominantly Choleric.
The last two tastes, Bitter and Astringent, are cooling, drying and Melancholic in their
nature and influence.
Taste is an important factor and consideration in understanding the therapeutic properties of
herbs in all the world's traditional medical systems. But it's interesting to note how the number
and organization of the tastes varies from system to system, and how it is keyed into the basic
pathophysiological concepts of the traditional medical system to which it belongs.
Chinese Medicine has Five Elements, and therefore five basic
tastes: Sour (Wood), Bitter (Fire), Sweet (Earth), Pungent (Metal) and Salty (Water).
Ayurvedic Medicine has six tastes, two for each of the three doshas. The six tastes of
Ayurveda, from most anabolic to most catabolic, are as follows: Sweet, Sour, Salty, Pungent,
Bitter and Astringent.
Herbal Actions
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In herbal medicine, there are four basic levels of understanding the medicinal properties of an
herb:
The most fundamental and primary level is understanding the herb's basic nature and
temperament. This is what is often called taste, temperature and energetics.
The next level is that of herbal actions, or how herbs move, act and behave in the body after
ingestion. This is the science of pharmacodynamics.
The third level is that of herbal effects, which is often expressed in the usual terms of
diaphoretic, expectorant, stimulant, etc...
The fourth and final level is that of applications, or which conditions and disorders an herb
treats or is used for. Knowledge concerning an herb's applications is usually passed down from
centuries of clinical experience.
In the first century of our common era, the Greco-Roman physician and
herbalist Dioscorides came out with an herbal that was totally different than any
pharmacological manual that had preceded it. He named his magnum opus De Materia Medica,
which means, "On Medicinal Substances".
What made Dioscorides' herbal so groundbreaking and revolutionary was that it wasn't just an
alphabetically arranged encyclopedia of herbs. In it, herbs and other medicinal substances were
categorized and arranged according to their basic or predominant therapeutic actions and effects
into therapeutic groupings. This, he argued, would facilitate the learning, understanding and
assimilation of pharmacological knowledge.
This revolutionary idea spread far and wide, and now it forms the basis for many herbals and
pharmaceutical manuals. The modern Physician's Desk Reference follows such an
organizational format, and so does Chinese Medicine with its herbals and pharmacopeias.
So, let's look at some of the common therapeutic actions used to classify herbs in Greek
Medicine, along with some herbal examples for each:
Dispersing herbs and medicines have a floating, centrifugal energy that works from the
interior outwards to release various toxins and pathogens through the skin and the surface of the
body. Many of these herbs are pungent, acrid or aromatic. The medicinal effects of these herbs
and medicines include: diaphoretic / sudorific, anodyne, discutient, resolvent. Herbal examples
include Peppermint, Elder flowers, Camomile, Canela (Spanish Cinnamon), Bay
Laurel, and Burdock seeds.
Purging herbs and medicines vigorously eliminate accumulations of morbid humors or toxic
matter from the body. Purging medicines are divided into two major groups: those which purge
upwards, or emetics which provoke vomiting; and those which purge downwards, usually
through the bowels, but also through the urinary tract. Emetics that purge
upwards include Ipecac and Malabar nut. Downwards purgatives include Epsom Salts,
American Mandrake (CAUTION!), Jalap, Rhubarb root and Cascara Sagrada.
Purgatives, especially the stronger ones, are very vigorous and extreme in their action, and
should be used sparingly and cautiously, and only in cases of acute excess accumulation of
morbid matter. If the excess or obstruction occurs above the navel, emetics are usually
indicated; if below the navel, downwards purgatives are used. Being so vigorous in their action,
purging medicines drain a lot of metabolic heat from the body; and so, their temperament is
usually Cold.
Softening herbs are also called emollients. Most are moistening and lubricating, neutral to
mildly warming in temperament, mildly sweet or bland in taste, and rich in mucilage
content. They embody the soft and smooth qualities, and are totally free of any roughness,
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harshness or astringency. Because of their nourishing mucilage content, many of these herbs are
nutritive tonics. Examples are Oats, Barley, Marshmallow root, Flax seed, Fenugreek seed,
Slippery Elm, Jujubes and Licorice root.
Hardening herbs and medicines are cooling, drying and astringent, and are the opposite of
softening medicines. They dry up excess moisture like a sponge, and thicken and congeal
humors that are too thin, dispersed or attenuated. They also firm, tone up and consolidate not
only organs and tissues that have become too loose and lax, but also vital principles
and pneuma that have become too unfocused and dispersed as well. Warming hardening herbs
include Bistort, Chaste Tree berry, Sage and Lady's Mantle. Temperate hardening herbs
include Tormentil root and Cinquefoil. Cooling hardening herbs that congeal attenuated
humors include Comfrey, Horsetail, Rose and Shepherd's Purse.
Binding herbs and medicines are also cooling, drying and astringent, but their astringent
action is stronger. Besides firming and toning up organs and tissues, binding astringents also
stop or dry up excessive or abnormal secretions and excretions of the body, like bleeding, sweat,
urine, diarrhea, leucorrhea and semen. Herbal examples include Agrimony, Bayberry bark,
Sage, Pomegranate peel, and the Three Myrobalans - Beleric, Emblic and Chebulic.
Glutinative medicines have a sticky, glutinous property that acts like glue to help regenerate
tissue and aid in the healing of wounds and traumatic injuries. Many are classified
as vulneraries or cicatrizants, and are used both topically in plasters, poultices, liniments and
wound dressings as well as internally as first aid for injuries and trauma. Herbal examples
include Comfrey root, Dragon's Blood, Myrrh and Plantain.
Loosening medicines relax and release nervous and muscular tensions, much like unwinding
a taut violin string. They are temperate to warming or heating in temperament. Their loosening
action has a lot in common with dispersing medicines, except that they work not on the surface,
but on the deeper organs and tissues of the body. Like the dispersing medicines, most loosening
medicines also have strong aromatic principles. Loosening medicines that release nervous and
muscular tensions are called nervines, sedatives or antispasmodics. Loosening medicines that
ease the flow of vital energy in the lungs and chest and stop spasmodic coughs
are pectorals and antitussives. Loosening medicines that release colic, distension, and smooth
muscle tension in the gut are called carminatives and stomachics. Examples of this fine and
useful class of herbs are many: Angelica root, Calamus root, Elecampane, Costus root,
Valerian root, European Mistletoe (CAUTION!), Lavender, Coltsfoot, Motherwort, St.
John's Wort, Lobelia, Fennel seed, Nigella seed, Dill seed and many of the cooking herbs in
your spice rack.
Attenuating medicines cut through and thin out excessively thick or congealed
humors. Most of them have a warming or heating temperament and a pungent or acrid
taste. Attenuating medicines are also called scraping medicines, because many scrape away
accumulations of metabolic excess residues in the body, like high blood sugar and high
cholesterol. Other attenuating medicines simply thin and liquefy excessively thick and
congealed humors like phlegm or blood to aid in their circulation, metabolism or
expulsion. Herbal examples are Turmeric, Fenugreek, Saffron, Hibiscus, Bdellium
(Guggulu) and Gymnemma sylvestre.
Concocting herbs and medicines are those that promote the ripening, metabolism, flow and
secretion of various humors and vital fluids of the body, improving their physiological function
within the organism, as well as facilitating the expulsion of their morbid superfluities.
Herbs that concoct or regenerate the blood are usually pungent and aromatic. Because they
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also reinvigorate the thymos and other vital principles carried by the blood, they are often
called thymogenics. Examples are Angelica root, Lovage root, Elder berries,
Turmeric and Saffron.
Herbs that concoct phlegm are called expectorants, and are basically of two
kinds: heating pungent herbs that resolve and eliminate cold phlegm, like Fenugreek seed,
Horseradish, Wild Ginger or Elecampane; and cooling herbs and medicines that dissolve
tough, thick, hot, dry phlegm like Hibiscus, Plantain, Chickweed, Eucalyptus and Comfrey
leaves.
Herbs that concoct, circulate or remove obstructions to the flow of lymph and serous fluids
are called lymphatics; many are also mild diuretics that improve body fluid metabolism and aid
the body in excreting superfluities thereof. Herbal examples are Burdock root, Cleaver's herb,
Fumitory, Echinacea and Couchgrass.
Herbs that concoct and improve the flow and secretion of bile, or the Choleric humor, by the
liver and gall bladder are called choleretics and cholagogues. Most are cooling and bitter, and
are also called bitters or bitter tonics. Examples are Wormwood, Artichoke leaves, Chicory
root, Barberry root bark and Gentian root.
Since black bile, or the Melancholic humor, is a recognized clinical entity in Greek Medicine,
there are also special herbs that concoct and dispel morbid excesses of black bile from the
body. These include Aloe Vera, Senna pods, Cassia Fistula, Lavandula Stoechas, Fumitory,
Blessed Thistle, Cyperus rhizome, Chebulic Myrobalan and Tormentil root.
Digestive herbs and medicines use this concocting action to concoct and digest accumulations
of stagnant, undigested food in the digestive tract. They clear the stomach and move the
bowels. Being pungent, acrid or sour, many digestive herbs are rich in digestive
enzymes. Examples are Hawthorn berry, Radish seeds, Bitter Orange, Alfalfa herb or
seeds, and Malted Barley.
Herbs that resist poison are strongly heating, and vigorously stimulate the metabolism to
neutralize and eliminate poisons and toxins. Traditionally, these herbs include Angelica root,
Calamus root, Juniper berries and Rue.
Many say that herbal medicine first grew and evolved as an effort to find effective antidotes
to the bites of venomous snakes and insects, as well as other poisons. Often, these antidotes
were combined into complex electuary or medicinal paste formulations called Mithridates.
Stimulant herbs are those that are strongly heating, which vigorously stimulate the digestive
and metabolic fires of the body. Their applications are threefold:
1) To concoct and eliminate morbid superfluities of cold, wet phlegm due to their heating
and drying action;
2) To stimulate the stomach and digestion, and to neutralize and eliminate cold, heavy,
thick toxic residues of rich foods and meats;
3) To warm the interior and disperse chills in colds and respiratory infections.
Herbal examples are Cinnamon, Allspice, Nutmeg, Juniper berries, Galangal,
Horseradish, Ginger, Cloves, Black Pepper, Long Pepper, and Wild Ginger (Asarum,
Asarabacca).
In contrast to these herbal stimulants, many commonly available stimulants, like Coffee, Tea
and Cola drinks, although herbally derived, are rich in caffeine. They stimulate not the whole
metabolism, but just the nervous system, and their abuse can lead to empty, ungrounded energy
and nervous burnout.
Drawing medicines draw out pus and toxins, releasing them through the surface of the
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body. Many of these substances are used topically in plasters, poultices and cataplasms. They
usually draw out these pathogens due to their warming, heating action or their
astringency. Examples are Clay, Castor Oil, Comfrey root, Fenugreek and Yellow Dock.
Drawing medicines that are extremely heating and draw out hot, purulent toxins through the
skin by sympathy are called vesicants or counterirritants. Examples include Cantharis
(Spanish Fly), Croton seeds and Mustard seeds. Through topical application, they form
blisters and abscesses, or pustules, whose toxic matter is then drained through lancing. THESE
ARE VERY POTENT MEDICINES, AND SHOULD BE USED ONLY BY PHYSICIANS.
You may have noticed that there is a considerable degree of overlap in these herbal action
categories. Indeed, a single herb may exhibit multiple actions, as a broad, diverse spectrum of
medicinal actions and effects is typical of the herbal kingdom. Like people, herbs, as creatures
of Nature, each have their own unique and complex constitutional makeups of qualities, actions
and effects.
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also a mild laxative or aperient, urinary tonic, antidiabetic, nutritive tonic and blood builder.
Although literally hundreds of herbs have some beneficial effect on the liver, the term Hepatic
is reserved only for the "superstars" with extraordinary healing and regenerative effects on the
liver. Besides the ones already mentioned, other Hepatics include Agrimony, Dandelion root
and herb, Gentian, Barberry root, Goldenseal root and herb, Groundsel root, Coptis,
Bupleurum, Oregon Grape root and Blessed Thistle.
Spleen - Splenicals: Herbs that benefit the spleen and its functioning are called
Splenicals. Since the liver and the spleen work so closely together in a balancing,
complementary relationship as part of the Natural Faculty, there's a considerable degree of
overlap between Hepatic and Splenical herbs. Hepatics that also aid the spleen in purifying the
lymph and improving the metabolism of serous fluids can also be Splenicals; many of these
herbs are also good for treating chronic skin conditions like eczema. Herbs that expel and purify
the organism of morbid accumulations of black bile also benefit the spleen, which is the storage
receptacle for black bile, and remove obstructions from it. Splenical herbs include Burdock
root and seed, Echinacea, Fumitory, Wormwood and Dandelion root and herb.
Kidneys and Bladder: Herbs to treat the urinary tract are broadly subdivided into herbs and
medicines that have a tonic or adaptogenic effect on these organs on the one hand, and herbs that
have a diuretic effect that facilitates the flow of water on the other. Some urinary tract herbs
have a combination of both aspects.
Many of the urinary tract herbs in the tonic / adaptogenic category are also virilifics, and
have a beneficial effect on male sexual function. These herbs and medicines include Celery
root, Parsley root, Sea Buckthorn berries, Corn Silk, Solomon's Seal, Juniper berries, Sloe
berries, Rowan berries, Fenugreek seeds, Chicory root, Myrtle leaves,
Mumio and Buchu. Most of these herbs improve the overall vitality of the urinary tract and its
resistance to infection.
The diuretic group within the category of urinary herbs includes Couchgrass, Agrimony,
Birch leaves, Uva Ursi, Horsetail, Hydrangea root, Cleaver's herb, Burdock
root and Rowan berries. The strength of the diuretic effect of these herbs varies from mild to
strong. Some herbs in this category have applications for removing urinary stones,
like Hydrangea root, Collinsonia root and Queen of the Meadow herb.
Seeing as urination is the body's main vehicle for eliminating toxins from the blood, many
herbs, especially those that purify the blood in some way, work through the urine, and stimulate
diuresis to a greater or lesser extent. But the above urinary herbs specialize in treating urinary
tract disorders.
Uterus - Womb: Traditionally, the womb was considered to be a very mobile organ. If it
was agitated during pregnancy, the foetus would get restless, and the pregnancy could suffer a
miscarriage. The uterus can also suffer from prolapse, or conversely, be hiked upwards too far in
the pelvic cavity.
The uterus, like the brain, is attracted to sweet smelling herbs and medicines, and repelled by
foul smelling ones. If the uterus was prolapsed, for example, the traditional practice was to
apply sweet smelling herbs and spices to the head and foul smelling ones like Asafoetida to the
labia and mouth of the vagina to draw / pull it upwards; to lower the uterus, these applications
would be reversed.
Uterine Tonics strengthen the uterus, improving its tone and resiliency. Motherwort is used
after delivery to tone, firm and shrink the uterus back to its original size. Mugwort dispels cold
and chills from the uterus, which is responsible for poor fertility, as well as many menstrual
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cramps, pains and complaints. Both of the above herbs are contraindicated in pregnancy, as are
many other herbs that invigorate the blood circulation, thin the blood and dissolve clots, or purge
downwards.
Lady's Mantle is a great uterine herb that tones and firms the uterus, and can even be used in
cases of threatened miscarriage to save the pregnancy. Red Raspberry leaves improve uterine
tone and resiliency during the last trimester of pregnancy to ease the delivery of the baby.
Joints - Arthriticals: Herbs that benefit the joints and improve their flexibility and
functioning are called Arthriticals. Some reduce swelling and inflammation; some improve
circulation, healing and tissue regeneration; and others dispel cold, damp rheumatic humors from
the muscles, bones, tendons and joints. Examples are Wintergreen, Willow bark,
Meadowsweet, Myrrh, Frankincense, Mumio, Comfrey root and Couchgrass. Many of these
Arthritical herbs can also be used topically.
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temperament, although a few are neutral, temperate or slightly warming.
Febrifuges are of many kinds, and used to subdue different types of fevers. This group
includes herbs that contain salicylates, like Willow bark, Meadowsweet, Balm of Gilead,
Poplar buds and Wintergreen, which, in addition relieving ardent and ephemeral fevers, are
also antiinlammatories. Other good febrifuges are Olive leaves, Centaury and Borage.
Antiperiodics are herbs that dispel intermittent or periodic fevers like the tertian or quatrain
fevers caused by morbid accumulations of yellow and black bile. Not surprisingly, many of
these herbs are also bitter tonics and cholagogues. Examples are Wormwood, Yarrow,
Goldenseal herb, Boneset and Blue Vervain.
Some fevers are subdued directly, but many fevers are broken with a sweat. And so,
many diaphoretics are also febrifuges, especially the ones that are more neutral to cooling in
temperament. But if there is a fever with chills, stimulating, warming diaphoretics are
indicated. Many febrifugal herbs have some diaphoretic effect, and to emphasize this aspect, the
herbs are given as hot teas.
Antiinflammatories cover a broad spectrum of herbs, and like herbs with beneficial effects
on the liver, there are also many fine herbs with some beneficial effect on subduing
inflammation. As with febrifuges, most of these herbs are cold or cooling in temperament,
although some are temperate or warming.
So vast and multifaceted are the range and diversity of antiinlammatory effects obtained by
herbs that pharmaceutical antiinflammatory drugs seem crude and primitive by
comparison. Modern medicine is truly worse off in this respect for its anti-herbal bias. There
are herbs for stronger or weaker, acute or chronic states of inflammation, as well as those that
work systemically versus those that relieve inflammation in specific organs, tissues or body
parts.
Some antiinflammatory herbs may not be strongly or directly antiinflammatory, but
nevertheless help to improve the organism's resistance to inflammation. These herbs are
called inflammomodulatory, and many herbs have this capability, to a greater or lesser extent.
Antiinflammatory herbs are mostly cooling and drying in temperament, with the coldness
subduing the heat, redness and pain of inflammation, and the dryness dispersing the swelling and
congestion. Many antiinflammatory herbs are quite bitter in taste, although quite a few others
have a marked astringency to them. Both the bitter and astringent tastes are cooling and drying
in temperament.
The antiinflammatory herbs include not only the salicylate containing herbs mentioned
earlier, but many others as well. Like the salicylate herbs, many antiinflammatory herbs that are
more generalized and systemic in their action are also febrifuges. Antiinflammatory herbs that
are more specific in their action are best classified according to the organ or body part they treat:
Head: Feverfew, Gotu Kola, Skullcap, Eyebright
Eyes: Eyebright, Goldenseal, Rose petals
Throat & Respiratory: Comfrey leaf, Bistort, Burdock seed, Plantain, Horehound
Stomach: Goldenseal, Gentian, Agrimony, Centaury, Comfrey
Liver: Goldenseal, Coptis, Barberry, Gentian, Centaury
Bowels: Triphala, Rhubarb root, Goldenseal
Urinary Tract: Goldenseal, Agrimony, Uva Ursi
Joints: Meadowsweet, Blessed Thistle, Gentian, Wintergreen, Wormwood
Stimulants are the complementary opposites to the febrifuges and antiinflammatories in that
they have a strongly heating temperament. Stimulants warm the interior and stoke the digestive
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and metabolic fires of the body to disperse chills, as well as dispel cold, moist Phlegmatic
humors and vapors, or the damp, turbid toxic residues of a cold, weak pepsis and
digestion. These herbs have already been discussed, and examples given, in the section
on Herbal Actions.
Expectorants are closely allied to stimulants in that they dissolve and expel phlegm; to do
this, most, but not all, have a warming or heating temperament. Actually, expectorants can be
broadly subdivided into warming or heating expectorants that expel cold
phlegm, and cooling, moistening expectorants that dissolve and liquefy hot, dry
phlegm, facilitating its expectoration. And again, some expectorants can contain aspects of
both.
There's a third class of expectorants that aid expectoration and relieve phlegm congestion in
the lungs and chest by facilitating the flow of vital energy and fluids in that part of the
body. These herbs would be your pectorals, discussed in the previous section.
Examples of warming expectorants are Asarum, Fenugreek, Elecampane, Pine buds,
Lobelia and Yerba Santa.
Examples of cooling expectorants are Licorice root, Hibiscus, Comfrey leaf,
Coltsfoot and Plantain.
Next, we turn our attention to the bowels, which is what purgatives are all
about. A laxative is a mild purgative, which facilitates bowel movements, whereas a true
purgative is stronger. Sometimes, the difference between the two therapeutic actions is merely a
matter of dosage; smaller doses tend to be milder and more like laxatives, whereas larger doses
tend to be stronger and more purgative.
In cleansing and moving the bowels, our aim is to relieve and correct constipation, or the
excessive retention of wastes in the colon and intestines, which has been called the Mother of All
Diseases. In laxative and purgative therapy, there are three golden rules that must be followed:
1) Try to relieve constipation with dietary measures first.
2) Address and correct the root cause of the constipation.
3) Always use the gentlest herb, formula or medicine that will do the job to avoid
dependency.
We will begin our discussion of herbs and medicines to purge and move the bowels with the
gentler agents first, and then progress to the more vigorous and drastic ones.
Aperients have a mild loosening or relaxing effect on the bowels, and gently nudge them to
have smooth and natural bowel movements. Some aperients gently stimulate the flow of bile,
which is the body's own natural laxative. Examples are Carob, Chicory root, Tamarind,
Dandelion root, Myrrh, Yellow Dock and Groundsel.
Bulk Laxatives are those that gently provoke the defecation reflex through their content of
soluble fiber, which expands to provide bulk in the intestines in the presence of water. Examples
are Psyllium husks, Karaya gum and Acacia gum.
Lubricant Laxatives are those that gently lubricate the bowels to move through their
softening demulcent or emollient effects. They are very useful in constipation due to a dryness
or withering of the bowels, with hard, dry stools; many of them are also stool softeners. Others
are actually lubricating oils or oil rich seeds. Examples are Flax seeds, Castor Oil, Mineral
Oil, Licorice root, Peach kernels and Slippery Elm bark.
Stimulant Laxatives provoke a vigorous defecation reflex by stimulating or mildly irritating
the bowels. Because of their vigorous purging action, most stimulant laxatives are cold in
temperament, and drain considerable metabolic energy from the body and the digestive
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tract. Many abuse harsh stimulant laxatives, developing a dependency on them when they
should have used dietary measures or the milder laxatives or aperients instead. Common
stimulant laxatives include Rhubarb root, Cascara Sagrada, Aloe Vera resin, Jalap,
Bindweed (Convolvulus), Senna pods and Epsom Salts.
The exact effect that these stimulant laxatives have also depends on their formulation,
preparation, administration and dosage. In smaller doses, and combined with other herbs, the
first three stimulant laxatives on the list can also function as cholagogues that promote the flow
of bile, for example. The medium of administration is also important; tinctures, or alcoholic
extracts, lessen the downwards purging nature of stimulant laxatives.
Correctives are herbs or medicines that soften, moderate or correct the harsh action of
stimulant laxatives and other strong purgatives, relieving the intestinal discomfort, spasm, colic
and griping that they can cause. Correctives are usually softening demulcents or emollients,
loosening carminatives or stimulating digestive tonics. Common correctives include Licorice
root, Fennel, Ginger and Cloves.
Cathartics are drastic purging agents that cause rapid and vigorous evacuations from the
stomach and bowels, and also from the urinary tract as well. Some cause purging both upwards,
as in vomiting, as well as downwards through the bowels and urinary tract. Cathartics
include American Mandrake root, Squills, Spurges, Black Hellebore and Colocynth. The
first three are also called Hydrogogue Cathartics because they provoke a vigorous elimination
of fluids through the bowels and urinary tract.
In his Aphorisms, Hippocrates says that purgatives don't agree well with those in good
health. I suppose that an old American proverb applies here: If it isn't broken, don't fix
it. Caution: Purgatives and cathartics are best used under medical supervision, and are to
be taken only when necessary and indicated, and only in acute crisis situations.
Therapeutic promise has also been shown from using strong purgatives and cathartics in
microdoses, way less than the dose required for vigorous catharsis, to effect beneficial cleansing
actions on the organism. In fact, much of homeopathic medicine is based on this therapeutic
principle - that harsh, potent or toxic substances in microdoses can be great healers.
In Romania, holistic healers have had promising therapeutic results from treating cancer with
microdoses of the herb Black Hellebore. Traditionally, Hippocrates used Black Hellebore to
purge the body of morbid excesses of black bile. Greek Medicine has traditionally associated
cancer with chronic morbid accumulations of black bile.
Emetics are herbs that purge upwards from the stomach, causing vomiting. Emesis is one of
the Six Hygienic Purification Therapies of Greek Medicine, and can be very beneficial for
chronic phlegm congestion in the stomach, lungs and respiratory tract. Emetic herbs have
already been listed in the Herbal Actions section.
Vermifuges are herbs that purge the intestines of worms and parasites. They are best used
under medical supervision, including an initial diagnosis through stool sample, as well as
monitoring and follow-up testing. Vermifuges vary from gentle to potent or harsh in the inherent
strength of their action. They are also used in combination with the right adjuvants and
correctives, not only to soften and moderate their own action if they are harsh or drastic, but also
to loosen and lubricate the bowels to facilitate the expulsion of the worms and
parasites. Vermifuges include Betel Nut, Wormwood, Neem leaves, Quassia wood, Ash bark,
Epazote and Pomegranate peel.
According to Greek Medicine, those whose bodies are heavily encumbered by great
accumulations of morbid humors and other forms of toxic matter are usually those who have the
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greatest problems with worms and other forms of parasite infestation. Not only do these
accumulations of morbid humors and toxic matter inhibit the natural immunity of the organism,
but they also provide the food for the parasites to feed on. If there are intestinal parasites, a
systemic deep cleansing of the entire organism is usually indicated.
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Other stomachic and carminative herbs improve the flow of bile, acting also
as cholagogues without actually being aperitifs or bitter tonics. Examples are Rosemary,
Blessed Thistle and Costus root. Since the liver and gall bladder occupy such a central place in
the digestive system, in many ways, the smooth functioning of the entire GI tract is dependent on
the smooth flow of bile.
Most cholagogue herbs are also hepatics, aperitifs and bitter tonics. These have been
discussed previously, and are the main herbs for regulating, concocting and improving the flow
of yellow bile, or the Choleric humor.
Most carminatives treat the gas, colic, distension and bloating caused by morbid aggravations
of black bile. Herbs that concoct and expel morbid aggravations and superfluities of black bile
have already been discussed in the Herbal Actions section; most of the milder ones are
loosening stomachics and carminatives as well.
When it comes to the Sanguine humor, regulating the blood and keeping it in optimum
condition is of primary importance, since blood is the essence of good health. There are four
basic therapeutic effects an herb can have when it comes to regulating, concocting and balancing
the blood:
Hemostatics are herbs that stop bleeding. Many, although not all, hemostatics are binding,
and have a considerable astringency to them. Others eliminate aggravations of heat and choler
from the blood to calm the blood down and stop bleeding. Other hemostatics have other
mechanisms of action. Examples are Comfrey root, Pseudoginseng, Yarrow, Agrimony,
Madder root and Burnet root.
Hemostatic herbs like Yarrow can be charred black and powdered and applied locally to stop
bleeding, as in nosebleeds, for example. But then again, you can do the same thing with Ginger,
or just about any herb, for a hemostatic effect.
Hemolytics are herbs that have the effect of thinning the blood and dissolving
clots. Examples are Saffron, Turmeric, Melilot and Pseudoginseng.
Thymogenics are an important class of herbs that vitalize the blood, invigorate its circulation,
and regenerate its thymos, or immune force. They are the antidote for old, tired blood, and keep
the blood young, fresh and alive. By regenerating the blood and its thymos, thymogenics
improve the immune activity of the blood. Examples are Angelica root or seed, Saffron,
Safflower, Tree Peony and Lovage root.
Alteratives are herbs that cleanse the blood of toxins. Most alteratives cleanse the blood of
hot, purulent toxins, or cool the blood, neutralizing excessive heat and choler; and so, most
alteratives tend to be cooling and bitter. Since the liver and kidneys are the main organs that
cleanse the blood, many alteratives, besides being bitter tonics, are also tonics for the liver and
kidneys. Many alteratives also improve the immune function of the blood, especially
phagocytosis and white blood cell activity.
Alteratives are another broad class of herbs, as literally hundreds of herbs show some kind of
blood cleansing activity. Alteratives are also commonly categorized according to their
applications, which include skin conditions, abscesses and purulent conditions, liver or spleen
congestions or obstructions, chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, arthritis and
rheumatism. Common alteratives include Gentian root, Barberry root, Centaury, Violet
leaves, Fumitory, Burdock root, Peony root, Celandine, Aloe Vera and Madder root.
Another important class of herbs that regulate and balance the blood
are emmenagogues, which improve the flow of the menses. Emmenagogues are female
tonics. In deficient or repressed menses, thymogenic emmenagogues are usually used; if clots
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are present, use emenagogues with a hemolytic action. If the menses are deranged, and periods
are painful due to toxic blood, then emmenagogues with an alterative blood cleansing action are
indicated. If menstrual periods are too profuse, use emmenagogues with
a hemostatic action. Examples of each category are as follows:
Thymogenic Emmenagogues: Dong Quai, Angelica root, Lovage root, Purple Sage root,
Tree Peony, Blessed Thistle
Hemolytic Emmenagogues: Saffron, Safflower, Melilot, Rue
Alterative Emmenagogues: Aloe Vera, Madder root, Peony root, Gentian root,
Rhubarb root
Hemostatic Emmenagogues: Yarrow, Mugwort, Rose petals, Lady's Mantle.
As you have seen, there is a high degree of overlap between the various categories of herbs
that regulate the blood, and many herbs contain aspects of multiple
categories. Tienchi or Pseudoginseng root, for example, is an herb that encompasses the
seemingly contradictory aspects of hemolytic, in that it can dissolve blood clots,
with hemostatic, in that it can also stop abnormal bleeding. Pseudoginseng seems to do this by
balancing and optimizing blood viscosity and clotting properties.
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according to their inherent nature and temperament, also have beneficial effects in various types
of blood dyscrasias, or in certain conditions involving deficient, tired or deranged blood:
Barberry berries are cooling in temperament, as well as moistening, and are helpful in
consumptive dyscrasias of the blood characterized by deficiency heat.
Elderberries are also good for certain blood fevers, but also have a thymogenic, invigorating
effect on the blood. Other thymogenic blood tonics include Dong Quai, especially the root tails,
and European Angelica. Nettles and Pseudoginseng root also thicken the blood if it is too
thin, and are useful against bleeding disorders.
You may have noticed that there's a high degree of overlap between the blood tonics and
the female tonics. Blood tonification and keeping the blood in optimum condition is especially
important for women, who lose blood every month in their menstrual cycles.
On the next level deeper, we have the Phlegmatic humor and serous fluids. The serous
fluids of the organism, like plasma and lymph, can be seen as the nutritive substrate or
wellspring for blood. Serous tonics are indicated in cases of dehydration, wasting and
emaciation. Most are moistening and emollient in nature, and neutral or temperate to slightly
cooling in temperament. Examples are White Pond Lily, Solomon's Seal, Chicory root,
Comfrey root, Scrophularia root and Slippery Elm.
On the deepest level, at the very heart of nutritive tonification, are herbs and medicines that
supplement or restore the Radical Moisture, or essence. Many of these substances are of
animal origin. Besides greatly enhancing the overall robustness and vitality of the organism,
tonics of the Radical Moisture are useful in treating sexual dysfunction, infertility and growth
and developmental disorders. Examples are Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Human Placenta,
Rehmannia root, Fo Ti, Solomon's Seal and Turtle Essence.
Stimulant Tonics, or energy tonics, are best defined by the functions they perform in
restoring proper vitality and functioning to the organism. Common therapeutic effects associated
with them include adaptogen, digestive tonic, stimulant and virilific.
Adaptogens are herbs that improve the organism's resiliency and resistance to stress. They
usually do this either by strengthening the adrenal glands, and/or by strengthening
the thymos and the inherent immune resistance of the organism. Actually, these functions are
quite closely related, as adrenal function supports immunity. Common adaptogens
include Ginseng, Licorice root, Royal Jelly, Bee Pollen, Resihi, Astragalus,
Elecampane and Sea Buckthorn berries.
Digestive Tonics are closely related to stomachics, in that they improve the stomach and
digestive function. The major difference is that the digestive tonics are deeper and more
sustained in their action, and fortify the inherent strength of the stomach and digestion with
regular use. Digestive tonics include Ginseng, Codonopsis, Cardamom, Calamus root,
Elecampane, Fenugreek seed and herb, Ginger and Dandelion root.
Virilifics are herbs that improve male sexual function and potency. There's a high degree of
overlap between virilifics and adaptogens because strong adrenals support healthy male sexual
function; many of them are also essence tonics, because fertility is closely related to
potency. Virilifics include Ginseng, Bee Pollen, Damiana, Royal Jelly and Human Placenta.
Nervines are tonics and restoratives for the nerves. Many of them have a calming or mildly
sedative quality that restores balance to the nervous system by supporting and strengthening the
parasympathetic nervous system and vegetative functions of the organism, which are most
depleted by the stresses of modern living. Many of them are also adrenal tonics and adaptogens,
since strong adrenals support the health and resiliency of the nervous system. Nervines treat
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stress-related disorders like nervousness, nervous tension and insomnia. Examples are Valerian,
Gotu Kola, Damiana, Indian Spikenard, and Lady's Slipper.
A healthy nervous system is very important for optimum health. Neurovegetative
dystonia is a condition in which aggravation of the sympathetic nervous system oppresses the
parasympathetic and vegetative functions, which become weakened, leading to impaired
digestion and assimilation of nutrients, sleep and eating disorders, and an impaired ability of the
organism to recuperate and regenerate itself. These neurovegetative disorders are most
commonly seen in those of a nervous or Melancholic temperament, although they can afflict
anyone.
There's another special class of nervines that clear the mind and open up the orifices of the
nerves and senses, which are the channels for the Psychic Force. Most of these substances are
strongly aromatic in nature, and some are of animal origin, being their scent glands. They are
useful in treating epilepsy, tremors, spasms, cramps and convulsions. These substances
include Camphor, Borneol, European Mistletoe, Lobelia, Musk and Castoreum. You could
call these herbs anticonvulsants and antispasmodics.
Herbs that are tonics to specific organs would include hepatics, cordials, pectorals,
splenicals, and other categories of herbs discussed in the Herbs for Various Organs and Body
Parts section.
Astringent Tonics are binding herbs that strengthen, firm and tone the body and its organs
and tissues. This is increasing the inherent tone and dynamic tension of the body, much like
increasing the tension on Apollo's bow if it has become too lax. Besides toning up the organs
and tissues, astringent tonics also increase the Retentive Virtue where it has become weak or
deficient, resulting in the excessive loss or discharge of various substances from the
body. Astringent tonics are best understood and classified according to the organ or body part
they treat:
Throat: subside inflammation, swelling and catarrh, help to expel phlegm. Examples
are Sage, Bayberry bark, Cinquefoil.
Lungs: act similarly to astringent tonics for the throat, consolidate the Vital Force in the
chest and lungs. Examples are Agrimony, Sage, Astragalus and Ginkgo nut.
Stomach: tones, firms and stimulates stomach and digestive function in chronic atonic
stomach disorders. Examples are Sage, Agrimony, Bistort and Comfrey root.
Liver: astringes and tones the liver if it has become too sluggish and congested. Examples
are Agrimony, Milk Thistle seed, Centaury and Chebulic Myrobalan.
Kidneys / Urinary: Tones and firms up the kidneys and urinary tract, subsiding catarrh,
irritation and inflammation in the urinary passages; reduces urination if it has become too
frequent or profuse, improves bladder control. Examples are Pipsissewa, Agrimony, Uva Ursi.
Bowels: improves bowel tone in chronic loose stools and atonic diarrhea; improves bowel
control and stool firmness; promotes healing of catarrh and inflammation in chronic enteritis,
colitis and dysentery. Examples are Triphala, Chebulic Myrobalan, Comfrey root,
Geranium root, Tormentil root.
Male Sexual: improves tone and function of male sexual organs, prevents premature
ejaculation and spermatorrhea. Examples are Sloe berries, Sea Buckthorn berries, Lotus
seeds.
Female Sexual: tones uterus, reduces excessive menstrual bleeding, dries up leucorrhea or
white discharge. Examples are Rose petals, Lady's Mantle, Mugwort, Yarrow.
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Skin: prevents excessive fluid loss through sweating, also called anhydrotic. Examples
are Astragalus and Sage
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Copper Rust, or the blue-green patina that forms on tarnished copper, was used as a topical
antiseptic and disinfectant in wound dressings by the ancient Egyptians.
Epsom Salts are known chemically as Magnesium Sulfate. Epsom Salts are strongly cooling
and moistening in temperament; they are a strong laxative and purgative that provokes a
vigorous defecation reflex by drawing water out through the intestinal mucosa to flush out the
stool. Those with a weak or delicate digestion, or chronic digestive sluggishness and atony,
should not use or abuse Epsom Salts. Externally, a warm bath of Epsom Salts will draw out
toxins from the body, or the bathed part.
Glauber's Salts are also known as Mirabilite; chemically, they are Sodium Sulfate. They are
very similar to Epsom Salts, but slightly milder.
Gypsum is another sulfate salt - Calcium Sulfate. It is used in medicinal decoctions to bring
down high, ardent fevers. Externally, Gypsum is burnt or calcined to dehydrate it and applied
topically to heal burns, eczema and abscesses. Gypsum, or Calcarea Sulfuricum, is also used in
microdoses homeopathically to promote the suppuration of abscesses and purulent infections,
and to cleanse the blood of purulent toxins.
Magnetite is also called Lodestone; it is magnetized iron ore. It is a sedative useful in
insomnia, palpitations, vertigo, epilepsy and mania. It strengthens the kidneys and replenishes
the Radical Moisture, making it useful in treating asthma, anemia, neuraesthenia, deafness and
blurring vision.
Sal Ammoniac is Ammonium Salts, or Smelling Salts. It can be inhaled to revive
consciousness in fainting and syncope, or to dispel certain types of headaches in combination
with certain other aromatic substances like Camphor. It is also used in aromatic chest rubs for
bronchitis and lung congestion. In small doses, in combination with antacids like Baking Soda,
it can relieve a stomachache.
Saltpetre, or Potassium Nitrate, is an ingredient of gunpowder. Medicinally, it is taken
internally in small doses to deaden one's libido and sexual desire.
Sulfur is classically known as Brimstone. It is of a fiery, Choleric nature, being pungent in
taste and heating and drying in temperament. Topically, Sulfur is most commonly used as a
disinfectant and antiparasitic in scabies, itchy scalp, fungal infections and other skin
diseases. Taken internally, it is used to relieve chronic atonic diarrhea caused by coldness; but
for internal use, Sulfur should first be chelated with organic proteins.
Talc is also called Soapstone, due to its soft, smooth, lubricating quality; chemically, it is
Magnesium Silicate. Topically, Talcum powder is famous for its drying, cooling and soothing
action in treating itchy, inflamed , chaffed or irritated skin. Internally, Talc can lubricate and
soothe the urinary passages in urinary infections, oliguria and in the passing of urinary stones; it
also soothes the bowels in acute enteritis and watery diarrhea.
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very Greek herb, the Laurel leaf, which the Greeks call Daphne:
In combination with Spanish Cinnamon, or Canela, Daphne's anodyne and diaphoretic
properties come to the fore. In a hot tea with a little fresh Ginger root, you have the perfect
remedy for a cold with chills and rheumatic aches and pains; throw in some Juniper berries to
increase the power and effect, and to add a mild diuretic action to expel the cold, moist
rheumatic humors from the body.
In combination with Peppermint and taken as a powder, Daphne both stimulates and
harmonizes the stomach and digestion. Substitute Hyssop for Peppermint to concoct and
eliminate turbid Phlegmatic residues in the stomach. Combine Daphne with Cumin and Fennel
seeds in the form of a tea to eliminate gas, distension and bloating; if a more tonic and stimulant
effect is desired, substitute Caraway or Ajwain seeds for the Cumin.
In closing, let's analyze a traditional Greco-Roman and Unani herbal formula,
called Jawarish Jalinus, or Galen's Electuary. Below are the ingredients and their dosages:
Mastic (Pistachia lentiscus) 25 gms.
Indian Spikenard (Nardostachys jatamansi) 10 gms.
Cardamom (Eletteria cardamomum) 10 gms.
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) 10 gms.
Canela (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) 10 gms.
Galangal (Alpinia galanga) 10 gms.
Cloves (Eugenia caryophyllata) 10 gms.
Cyperus rhizome (Cyperus rotundus) 10 gms.
Ginger (Zingiberis officinalis) 10 gms.
Long Pepper (Piper longum) 10 gms.
Black Pepper (Piper nigrum) 10 gms.
Costus root (Saussurea lappa) 10 gms.
Balsam Wood (Commiphora opobalsamum) 10 gms.
Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) 10 gms.
Myrtle leaves (Myrtus communis) 10 gms.
Gentian root (Gentiana lutea) 10 gms.
Saffron (Crocus sativus) 10 gms.
Honey (Mel) enough to make a paste
The actions of this formula are: hepatic, hepatotonic and hepatoprotector; general tonic,
carminative and digestive.
The applications of this formula are: weakness of the principal organs (heart, brain and
liver), weakness of the stomach, weakness of the liver and hepatitis, flatulence in the stomach,
heart palpitations.
Source: National Formulary of Unani Medicine, Part One Published by Government of
India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Department of AYUSH, New Delhi, @2006, pg.
100
Analysis: Since Mastic is present in the greatest dosage and concentration, you could say
that it is the principal herb of this formula. Mastic is a great stomachic and digestive tonic, and
strengthens the stomach and intestines with regular use.
Most of the other herbs in this formula support and expand on the action of Mastic in
strengthening and improving the stomach and digestion. Chief among these stomach and
digestive tonics are Cardamom, Ginger, Cyperus and Costus root.
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Cloves, Galangal, Canela, Cinnamon, Long Pepper and Black Pepper are strongly heating
stimulants that stimulate digestion and metabolism while dispelling cold, damp Phlegmatic
humors and turbidity.
Jawarish Jalinus is also a hepatic and hepatoprotector, as enhancing liver function is also
important in regulating and improving digestion and metabolism. The chief herb that acts on the
liver is Gentian root, which is supported mainly by Indian Spikenard and Valerian root, with
an assist from Costus root and Cyperus. Myrtle leaves also support the liver, stomach and
digestion, while being an astringent tonic to the kidneys and bladder.
Saffron is the chief tonic herb for the heart and circulation in this formula, and is supported
by Balsam Wood. If Balsam Wood, or Opobalsamum, a favorite herb of Galen, is unavailable,
you can substitute its close botanical relative, Myrrh. Valerian is also a heart tonic.
Jawarish Jalinus is also a tonic for the brain, nervous system and Psychic Faculty. The chief
herbs that perform this function are Valerian root and Indian Spikenard.
The Herb Book by John Lust. @2001 by Benedict Lust Publications, published by Beneficial
Books, New York, NY
Back to Eden by Jethro Kloss. @1995 by Promise Kloss Moffet and Doris Kloss
Gardner. Published by Back to Eden Publishing Co., Loma Linda, CA USA
The Way of Herbs by Michael Tierra, L. Ac., OMD. @1998 by Michael Tierra. Published
by Pocket Books, New York, NY
Al Qanun Fi'l Tibb / The Canon of Medicine by Avicenna. Book II - Materia Medica. Book
V - Herbal Formulary. @1998 by Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
The Traditional Healer's Handbook: A Classic Guide to the Medicine of Avicenna by Hakim
G. M. Chishti, N.D. @1991 by Hakim G. M. Chishti. Published by Healing Arts Press,
Rochester, Vermont USA
Several of the above works were consulted as references in the preparation of this article.
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Internet Resources
The internet is a great information superhighway in which many fine websites and online e-
books dispense information on herbs and herbal medicine. For reference purposes, I would like
to recommend the following sites:
Culpeper's Complete Herbal, online edition. Includes auxiliary works, instructions and
formularies, and Galen's Key to Physick.
www.bibliomania.com
Henriette's Herbal Homepage is a great internet nexus and clearing house for all kinds of
herbal information, including articles, blogs, classic texts, and herbal pharmacopeias,
including King's American Dispensatory, Felter's Eclectic Materia Medica, and Ellingwood's
American Materia Medica.
www.henriettesherbal.com
Michael Tierra's East West School of Planetary Herbology Michael Tierra, author of The
Way of Herbs, was my first teacher of herbal medicine, and probably the greatest influence on
my basic philosophy and approach to this ancient and universal healing art. His website address
is:
www.planetherbs.com
The Mohsin Institute, located in Leicester, UK, is the leading center in Europe for the
teaching and practice of Tibb, or Unani Medicine. Under the direction of Hakim M. Salim Khan,
the Mohsin Institute offers distance learning courses in Unani phytotherapy, or herbal medicine,
as well as in traditional Unani psychotherapy. Their website address is:
www.themohsininstitute.org
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