Herbal Medicine: What Some of Those Terms Actually Mean

If you are interested in herbal medicine and in using herbs to treat various ailments, you have no doubt stumbled across several terms that refer to the different properties associated with particular herbs. (I have used many of these terms myself in my articles on herbs.) These terms are important to know in order to better understand how any given herb will work and for which condition it should be used. All of the terms, however, can become rather confusing -- especially for the novice. Following are some of the more common terms, which will help those who are developing an interest in using herbs for their health.

Adaptogen: Adaptogenic herbs work by strengthening the body's immune system, as well as, the nervous and/or glandular system. These herbs also help the body to better deal with stress. An example of an adaptogenic herb is ginseng. [You might also be interested in reading my article on Ginseng as a Treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.]

Alterative: An herb with alterative properties will gradually change the condition for which it is being used and which will over time restore a person's health. Echinacea is an herb with alterative properties.

Antispasmodic: Antispasmodic herbs help to relieve or even prevent cramps and involuntary muscle spasms. Sage is an example of an herb with antispasmodic properties.

Calmative: A calmative does calm the nerves, but it is not as strong as a sedative. Chamomile is an herb that is commonly used for its calmative abilities.

Carminative: Herbs with carminative properties help people suffering from gas by stopping the formation of gas and by getting rid of any gas already present. You might choose to use dandelion as a carminative.

Muscilaginous: Parts of the herbs that are used which are considered mucilaginous feel slimy and are very much like mucus. These herbs are used to soothe parts of the body that are inflamed. Aloe vera is such an herb.

Soporific: Having trouble falling asleep? Try using an herb with soporific properties. Passionflower is one such herb. [For more about passionflower and other similar herbs, see: Treat Insomnia with Herbs.]

Tonic: A tonic is usually employed as an alterative or a stimulant and generally boosts and strengthens the systems. Tonics help to improve overall health over a period of time. Bitter tonics, for example, will increase the appetite and improve digestion. Other tonics made, for example with alfalfa that is rich in minerals and vitamins, act to cleanse the system and supply it with much needed nutrients. On the other hand, tonics made with peppermint will stimulate the system. Whether a tonic is to be used to cleanse the system, act as a stimulant, or provide the system with much needed nutrients depends upon the herbs used, the strength of the tonic, and the length of time that it is used. There are numerous herbs that can be used individually or in herbal blends as tonics.

These are just a few of the most common terms used in herbal medicine. You should understand, though, that an herb may possess other properties in conjunction with the ones mentioned here. For example, parsley is a carminative and can be used as a tonic; however, it is also a diuretic and should probably not be used for medicinal purposes by those suffering from kidney disease. You should always learn as much as possible about any herb that you are thinking of using for medicinal purposes. If you have any questions or concerns, consult a certified herbalist and/or your primary healthcare professional.

References:

Buchman, Ph.D., Dian Dincin. Herbal Medicine. NY, NY: Wings Books, 1996.

Kowalchik, Claire, and William H. Hylton, eds. Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press, Inc., 1998.