Explanation of Herbal Actions
Adaptogen - Assists the body's ability to cope and adapt by increasing the body's resistance and endurance to a wide variety of adverse influences from environmental or biological stress.
Alterative-Helps the body assimilate nutrients and eliminate waste.
Analgesic-Relieves pain.
Anticatarrhal-Reduces excess mucus and inflammation.
Anti-inflammatory-Reduces swelling of inflamed tissue.
Anti-bacterial, anti-viral-Encourages the immune system to d estroy or resist the the growth of detrimental micro-organisms.
Anti-oxidant- Chemical compounds which prevent the oxidation of healthy cells by offering protection against the damaging effects of free radicals (which can damage other molecules and cell DNA). Antioxidants "mop up" these free radicals and eliminate them.
Antiseptic- Prevents or reduces infection.
Antispasmodic- Eases spasms or cramping in the body.
Astringent-Strengthens, contracts, and firms body tissues.
Carminative-Excites peristalsis, promotes the expulsion of gas, and soothes the stomach.
Demulcent- Mucilaginous herbs which soothe, relax, and protect tissue.
Diaphoretic - Increases perspiration, dilates capillaries, improving elimination through the skin.
Diuretic- Increases the flow of urine, and thus the excretion of toxins.
Emollient- Softens, soothes, and protects the skin.
Expectorant-Stimulates the excretion of excess mucus.
Hepatic-Stimulates the liver and its secretory function.
Hypotensive- Reduces elevated blood pressure.
Immune stimulant-Stimulates the immune response.
Laxative- Encourages evacuation of the bowels.
Lymphatic-Increases the activity and efficiency of the lymphatic system.
Rubefacient- Increases localized blood flow topically to ease the pain and swelling of joints.
Sedative - Calms the nervous system by reducing irritation.
Stimulant- Warms the body, increases circulation to clear obstructions and congestion.
Tonic- Aids nutritional assimilation, improving systemic health.
Vasodilator- Expands blood vessels for increased circulation.