How To Use Herbs
Herbalism has a unique language that has been shaped and refined by those who have studied it for hundreds of years.

Below is the vocabulary list that is now used worldwide to understand, differentiate, and utilize herbs.
Welcome to the world of herbalism; each herb has multiple actions that affect the human body in unique ways.
Please refer to this page whenever you want to discover more about how herbs work.
*Everything is listed in alphabetical order *

Adaptogen

Helps the body adapt to stress. Improves adaptability and balances the body. Maintains a stable stress response.

Alterative

Blood cleansing; Removes cellular waste. Supports detoxification by aiding elimination pathways such as through the liver, urinary system, skin, lymph colon

Analgesic / Anodyne

Pain-relieving, reduces irritation. / Relieves pain when applied topically.

Antibacterial

Cleansing, kills bacteria.

Anti-inflamatory

Reduces inflammation within the body.

Antioxidant

Kills free radicals in the body (which are cancer-causing) & provides cell repair.

Astringent

High in tannins, draws soft tissue together and has a drying effect. Tightens and tones mucosal tissues in the body. *wound healing

Bitter

Enhances whole upper digestive function. Activates appetite and digestion. Improves assimilation and absorption of nutrients.
*Fun Fact: we have an entire section on our tongue just for bitters.

Carminative

Reduces and eases bloating, gas, and pain in the abdominal area; expels/releases gas.
*volatile oils make this effect.

Demulcent

Relieves inflammation on intestines and other mucosal membranes. Soothes and moistens; coats and protects mucous membranes.

Detoxifier

Diminishes toxins and removes them through bodily excretions.

Diphoretic

Promotes, induces, or increases sweating. Helps eliminate toxins through the skin.

Emmenagogue

Stimulates uterine contraction and blood flow to the uterus. Regulates or induces the menstrual cycle.

Hepatic / Hepatoprotective

Cleanses, tones, strengthens, assists the liver. / Protects the liver.

Hormone Regulator

Can regulate, normalize, or balance hormone output from glands.

Hypotensive

Lowers blood pressure.

Immunomodulator / Immunostimulator

Supports and adjusts the immune system accordingly. / Activates and stimulates immune functions.

Laxative

Promotes bowel movement & evacuation. Relieves constipation, softens the stool.

Nervine

Affects the nervous system in a few ways. Can either be stimulating or relaxing/sedating. Nourishing and strengthening to nerves.

Prebiotic

Dietary fiber that provides essential nutrients to gut biome.

Probiotic

Live bacteria found in fermented foods.

Restorative

Restores balance and strength to the body. Refer to “Tonic”

Sedative

Soothing and calming effect on the nervous system. Can reduce anxiety & nervousness.

Stimulant

Increases & stimulates the activity of nervous, digestive, hormonal systems etc.

Tonic

Tones, energizes, nourishes, supports the body. Strengthening & restorative to a specific organ, tissue group, or body system.

More Detailed Information Here…