Information about our Herbs

part 2: M-Z

Disclaimer:
The Root and The Leaf has provided this information for your personal use. The statements included on this page are only suggestions and have not been evaluated by the FDA.

1. Marjoram
   Origanum vulgare
   Stimulant, diaphoretic, antiseptic, expectorant, emmenagogue, rubefacient.
   A widely-used cooking herb. Used in the treatment of cold and flu, to reduce fever and help with coughs. Antiseptic to mouth and throat. Good for tension headaches.
2. Marshmallow
   Althaea officinalis
   Demulcent, diuretic, expectorant, emollient.
   An excellent tonic to all mucous membranes. Can help in all inflammations of the digestive tract Useful for bronchitis and irritating coughs. Soothing to the kidneys and urethra when you have kidney stones. Use externally for varicose veins, abscesses and boils.
3. Meadowsweet
   Filipendula ulmaria
   Anti-rheumatic, anti-inflammatory, stomachic, antacid, anti-emetic, astringent.
   A useful herb for sour stomach, nausea, and stomach flu Can help with acidity and acid reflux. A useful aid for heartburn Gently treats diarrhea in children.
4. Milk Thistle
   Silybum marianum
   Cholagogue, galactogogue, demulcent.
   Helpful in the production of milk in nursing mothers. Also useful in promoting production and flow of bile from the gall bladder. Use in all problems associated with the gall bladder.
5. Motherwort
   Leonurus cardiaca
   Sedative, emmenagogue, anti-spasmodic, cardiac tonic.
   Useful for all heart conditions that are associated with tension and anxiety. Especially helpful with over-rapid heart beat. Useful to ease false labor pains Can help with delayed or suppressed menstruation.
   Do not use in the first 8 months of pregnancy.
6. Mugwort
   Artemisia vulgaris
   Bitter tonic, stimulant, nerve tonic, emmenagogue.
   A good digestive stimulant. Can aid in depression and ease tension. Used to be used to make beer (hence the name). Has been used to help promote a normal menstrual flow.
   Not for use during pregnancy.
7. Mullein
   Verbascum thapsus
   Expectorant, demulcent, mild diuretic, mild sedative, vulnerary.
   Think LUNGS. A very beneficial respiratory remedy, ideal for toning mucous membranes. Reduces inflammation and facilitates expectoration in the lungs. Can be used as a tea or in a smoking mixture to aid the lungs and respiratory system
8. Brown Mustard Seed
   Brassica juncea
   Rubefacient, irritant, stimulant, diuretic, emetic.
   A well known cooking spice, often used in making pickles, or ground and mixed with wine, vinegar and other ingredients for mustard. When applied externally or used in a bath, it stimulates circulation, and eases muscular and skeletal pain. Can also be taken as a tea. Both infusion and poultice help with colds and flu.
9. Yellow Mustard
   Sinapis alba
   Rubefacient, irritant, stimulant, diuretic, emetic.
   Yellow mustard has similar properties to brown mustard. Mostly used in baths or as a mustard plaster for the chest during colds and flu. Also used by singers to clear the voice. Mix powder with honey and form into balls. Take 1 or 2 on an empty stomach.
10. Myrrh
    Commiphora myrrha
    Anti-microbial, astringent, carminative, anti-catarrhal, expectorant, vulnerary.
    Stimulates white blood cell production. Works well for mouth ulcers, gingivitis, pyorrhea, laryngitis (as a gargle), and sinusitis. A good antiseptic for wounds and abrasions. Combine with other herbs for cold and flu.
11. Nettles
    Urtica dioica
    Astringent, diuretic, tonic.
    Contains vitamin C and iron. A highly nutritive herb, strengthening and supportive to all the systems of the body. A good everyday tonic. Used to treat eczema, nosebleeds and other hemorrhages. Often used as a hair tonic (stimulates hair growth).
12. Nutmeg
    Myristica fragrans
    Aromatic, carminative, hallucinogenic, stimulant.
    A nice spice if used in small quantities. In small amounts, nutmeg can improve appetite and digestion. Dangerous in large quantities. Can produce stomach pain, double vision, delirium and other symptoms of poisoning.
    Do not use more than half a nutmeg seed at a time.
13. Oatstraw
    Avena sativa
    Antispasmodic, nervine, tonic, stimulant.
    Rich in calcium and vitamin B Very nutritive to the nervous system, especially when stressed. Good for rejuvenating the body after illness. A good remedy for skin conditions, used internally or externally. A good tonic; can be taken on a daily basis.
14. Orange Peel
    Citrus sinensis
    Carminative, stimulant, stomachic, tonic.
    Useful for stomach upsets and pain. A pleasant, non-irritating remedy for chronic bronchitis. A mild stimulant to the nervous system. Can be helpful for flatulence and intestinal cramping.
15. Oregano
    Origanum spp.
    Aromatic, anti-microbial, anti-spasmodic, carminative, diaphoretic.
    Aside from its use as a cooking herb, Oregano is also useful for digestive disorders and coughs, especially bronchitis. Can help with urinary tract infection. Use as a gargle for sore throats and mouth problems.
16. Oregon Grape Root
    Mahonia repens
    Diuretic, laxative, tonic, anti-biotic, anti-microbial.
    It is useful in treating bacterial, fungal and viral infections and in fighting intestinal parasites. Promotes the secretion of bile in the liver. Useful in urinary complaints, and may also prove to be valuable in treating various types of cancer. Good to use with colds, flu and any respiratory complaints.
17. Parsley
    Petroselinum crispum
    Diuretic, expectorant, emmenagogue, carminative.
    A very rich source of Vitamin C. A good diuretic, helps rid body of excess water. Stimulating to menstrual process and uterus. Eases intestinal pains and flatulence. Freshens breath when eaten. Supposed aphrodisiac.
    Do not use in large amounts during pregnancy.
18. Passionflower
    Passiflora incarnata
    Sedative, hypnotic, anti-spasmodic, anodyne.
    The herb of choice for treating insomnia. Promotes restful sleep without "narcotic hangover." Effective for nerve pain and shingles. Can be used to help asthma, especially where it is effected by tension.
19. Pau D'Arco
    Tabebuia impetiginosa
    Anti-fungal, anti-parasitic, carminative
    A good remedy for candida, athlete's foot, and other fungal infections. Good for digestion May lower blood sugar levels. Use internally and/or externally for fungal infections
20. Black Pepper
    Piper nigrum
    Warming, stimulating, anti-microbial, insecticide.
    Stimulates the thermal receptors and increases secretion of saliva and gastric mucous. Anti-microbial. Useful externally in the treatment of neuralgia and scabies. Stimulating to the digestive system.
21. Peppermint
    Mentha piperita
    Carminative, anti-spasmodic, aromatic, diaphoretic, anti-emetic, nervine, antiseptic, analgesic.
    One of the best remedies for all stomach and intestinal complaints and helps relieve morning sickness and motion sickness. Good for fevers, especially in colds and flu. Can help migraine headaches, painful periods, tension pain, itching and inflammation.
22. Plantain
    Plantago lanceolata
    Vasoconstrictor, astringent, stomachic.
    A good poultice for abraded skin or insect bites: helps relieve itching. Taken as an infusion, can be helpful for intestinal inflammation, stomach ache, or ulcer. Use as a wash for hemorrhoids and vaginitis. Take as an infusion for chronic lung complaints in children.
23. Poppy Seed
    Papavar somniferum
    A delicious addition to cakes, cookies and muffins, especially with lemon. Note: These seeds, while not opiates themselves, may show up in blood and urinalysis tests as opiates. If you need to take one of these tests, you might want to avoid this herb.
24. Psyllium Seed
    Plantago ovata
    Laxative, bulking agent, mucilaginous.
    Used for sluggish or irritable bowel. Healing to wound and skin infections. Lubricant to bowel Useful in dry stool.
25. Raspberry Leaf
    Rubus ideaus
    Astringent, tonic, refrigerant, parturient.
    A prime tonic for women in all stages of life. Excellent uterine tonic, can be used before, during and after pregnancy to strengthen and tone uterus. Assists in contractions during labor and can help stop hemorrhage after birth. A tonic that can be taken any time.
26. Red Clover
    Trifolium pratense
    Alterative, expectorant, anti-spasmodic.
    Good for liver and gall bladder complaints. Excellent skin herb, for any kind of rash or disorder of the skin (taken internally and externally). Widely used for bronchitis and whooping cough. A popular anti-cancer remedy, suggested for breast, ovarian and lymph cancer.
27. Red Root
    Ceanothus spp.
    Astringent, expectorant, sedative.
    Most particularly a lymphatic tonic, excellent to help lymph drainage during illness. Has been used for chronic bronchitis, nervous asthma, whooping cough, and tuberculosis. Can be used internally and as a gargle for tonsillitis. A good tea to raise spirits during illness.
28. Pink Rose Buds
    Rosa spp.
    Aperient, astringent, stomachic.
    Rosebuds and petals make a lovely facial cleanser, as well as a very effective eyewash for red, irritated or itchy eyes. A tea made from rose buds is also a good treatment for diarrhea. Use as a mouthwash for toothache or mouth sores.
29. Rooibos
    Aspalanthus linearis
    Anti-mutagenic, anti-carcinogenic, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory.
    Scientific studies show findings of potent antioxidants in Rooibos. Rooibos has similar nutrients and minerals to those found in green and black tea, but unlike them it is completely caffeine-free. A tasty, healthy, all-round GOOD TEA!
30. Rose Hips
    Rosa canina
    Nutrient, mild laxative, mild diuretic, mild astringent.
    One of the best available sources of Vitamin C. Helps body's defenses against infections, especially colds and flu. An excellent spring tonic, helpful in recovering from illnesses. Can help in constipation and gall-bladder problems
31. Rosemary
    Rosmarinus officinalis
    Carminative, aromatic, anti-spasmodic, anti-depressive, antiseptic, rubefacient, paraciticide
    A circulatory and nerve tonic. Calming and toning to the digestive system. Use for headaches and depression and indigestion. Externally for muscle pain, sciatica and neuralgia. Stimulating to hair follicles-the essential oil can be used to prevent premature baldness.
32. Rue
    Ruta graveolens
    Anti-spasmodic, prevents coughing, anti-microbial, bitter, stimulant, rubefacient, dispels worms, emmenagogue, abortifacient.
    Regulates menstrual cycles, delayed menses. Oil is abortifacient. Mainly used for anti-spasmodic effects. Increases peripheral circulation, lowers blood pressure.
    Not for use during pregnancy.
33. Sage
    Salvia officinalis
    Carminative, spasmolytic, antiseptic, astringent, anti-hydrotic.
    A good remedy for tonsillitis and other inflammations of the mouth and throat. Use for gingivitis and mouth ulcers. Use internally and as a gargle or mouthwash. Reduces milk production in nursing mothers.
34. Sarsaparilla
    Smilax spp.
    Alterative, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, diaphoretic.
    Particularly good aid for systemic problems, especially with the skin and with rheumatoid arthritis. Can be used internally and externally for skin conditions such as psoriasis. Contains chemicals that aid testosterone activity in the body
35. Sassafrass
    Sassafras albidum
    Alterative, carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic.
    Primarily used in skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Can be helpful in the treatment of gout. Use as a mouthwash to disinfect mouth. Use as a hair rinse for lice and other body parasites.
36. Saw Palmetto berries
    Serenoa repens
    Diuretic, urinary antiseptic, endocrine agent.
    Used to tone and strengthen the male reproductive system. Specific to help with enlarged prostate gland. Can be a safe boost to the male sex hormones. Helpful in infections of the urinary tract.
37. Schizandra berries
    Schisandra chinensis
    Adaptogen, mild sedative, anti-depressant, liver regenerative, anti-inflammatory, tumor- inhibitive.
    Can bring about an increase in physical performance, similar to ginseng. Contains constituents that have been proven to be liver protective and regenerative. A good antidepressant. Considered by the Chinese to be a youth tonic.
38. Sea Salt
    Sodium chloride
    A natural, non-iodized salt containing other minerals from the sea as well as sodium.
    Use in all your recipes calling for salt, but use a little less than what is called for. A good exfoliant when used as a body scrub. Sodium regulates the volume of body fluids and, balanced with potassium, maintains pressure between fluids outside cells and those inside.
39. Senna Pods
    Cassia angustifolia
    Cathartic.
    A powerful herb used in the treatment of constipation. Best when mixed with carminative herbs. Be aware that constipation is a result of something off-kilter in your digestive system, and treating the symptom, while it brings temporary relief, will not solve the main problem.
40. Sesame seeds
    Sesamum indicum
    A sweet, nutty-flavored seed often used as a topping for both sweet and savory dishes. Sesame seeds contain: Protein, Niacin, Phosphorus, Sulfur
41. Sheep Sorrel
    Rumex acetosa
    Diuretic, antibacterial, astringent, laxative, anti-tumor.
    Used for acute and chronic inflammation of the nasal passages and respiratory tract. Anti-bacterial, useful for any kind of bacterial infection, esp. of the kidneys. Considered a "blood purifier," has been used to treat tumors.
42. Shepherd's Purse
    Capsella bursa-pastoris
    Uterine stimulant, diuretic, astringent.
    A good gentle diuretic, esp. with water retention due to kidney problems. Will help stop bleeding in hemorrhages, wounds and nosebleeds. Can stimulate menstruation and at the same time reduce excessive menstruation.
43. Skullcap
    Scutellaria laterifolia
    Nerve tonic, sedative, anti-spasmodic.
    An excellent nervine, will help relax nervousness and tension while at the same time feeding and invigorating the central nervous system. Use for headaches, exhaustion, anxiety, stress, depression, and PMS. Combines well with Valerian as a headache and/or sleep aid.
44. Slippery Elm bark
    Ulmus fulva
    Demulcent, emollient, nutrient, astringent.
    An excellent aid to the digestive system. Sooths and coats sensitive or inflamed mucous membranes. Both soothing and astringent for diarrhea, ulcers, and colitis. Externally, use as a poultice for boils or abscesses.
45. Spearmint
    Mentha spp.
    Carminative, anti-spasmodic, aromatic, diaphoretic, anti-emetic, nervine, antiseptic, analgesic.
    Similar properties to Peppermint, a different flavor A good remedy for stomach complaints, and helps relieve morning sickness and motion sickness. Good for fevers, especially in colds and flu. Can help migraine headaches, painful periods, tension pain, itching and inflammation.
46. Stevia
    Stevia rebaudiana
    Diuretic, sweetener.
    Originally from Paraguay, this herb is 300 times sweeter than sugar. Used in the treatment of Diabetes and Hypertension, Stevia has been shown to elevate glucose clearance while increasing salt excretion, which lowered blood pressure. Often used as a no-calorie sweetener.
47. St. John's Wort
    Hypericum perforatum
    Anti-inflammatory, astringent, vulnerary, sedative.
    About the best burn treatment available. Also helpful in the healing of other wounds. A good herb to use for anxiety, irritability, and nervous tension. It is said to have the same effects of depression drugs, but without side effects. Not suggested for use with deep clinical depression. Do not use if you are on any depression medicine.
48. Star Anise
    Illicum verum
    Carminative, stimulant, stomachic.
    Promotes healthy digestion and appetite. Relieves flatulence. Use with bitter digestive herbs to improve their taste. Mouse repellent: Scatter seeds in areas where mice are-they hate it.
49. Thyme
    Thymus vulgaris
    Carminative, anti-microbial, anti-spasmodic, astringent, antithelmintic.
    Use for sluggish digestion and digestive infection. Excellent for respiratory infection and irritable coughs such as bronchitis and whooping cough. Gargle for sore throats and laryngitis. Use externally for infected wounds.
50. Turkey Rhubarb
    Rheum spp.
    Bitter stomachic, mild purgative, astringent.
    A good herb to use as a cleanse for the large intestine, it works as both a purgative and an astringent, cleansing and toning. In small doses, it can stimulate appetite. Do not use over long periods of time as it may cause constipation.
    Do not use if pregnant or nursing.
51. Turmeric
    Curcuma longa
    Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-hepatotoxic, antioxidant, anti-tumor
    Helps with joint pain, especially arthritis and tendonitis. Helps prevent blood clots. Good for liver function and to prevent gallbladder disease. Helps with breakdown of fats.
52. Usnea
    Usnea spp.
    Anti-fungal, antibacterial, anti-microbial.
    Use Usnea for fungal infections, bacterial infections, yeast infections, cold/flu immune support, lung support, sinus infections, and even strep and tuberculosis. It is best used as a tincture, since it is not easily soluble in water, or cooked and eaten whole. When eaten in this way, Usnea has a slimy, almost spaghetti-like texture.
53. Uva Ursi
    Arctostaphylos Uva Ursi
    Diuretic, astringent, antiseptic, demulcent.
    Specifically antiseptic and astringent to the membranes of the urinary system. Good for treatment of kidney stones and ulcers of the kidney or bladder. Combines well with Yarrow for urinary infections.
    Do not take over long periods while pregnant.
54. Valerian
    Valeriana officinalis
    Sedative, hypnotic, anti-spasmodic, hypotensive, carminative.
    One of the most relaxing herbs available. Excellent for aiding with insomnia, promotes a natural, healing sleep. Helps in the relief of cramps and intestinal pain. Combines well with skullcap for pain, and with Passion Flower and Hops for insomnia.
55. Vervain
    Verbena spp.
    Sedative, diaphoretic, diuretic, bitter tonic, anti-spasmodic, emetic.
    A good herb to take at the onset of a cold, esp. ones that start with upper respiratory or sinus infection. Particularly good for children. In small doses helps with nausea, in over-large doses causes nausea and can cause vomiting. Can be used as a sedative for insomnia Can be taken internally as an infusion for repair of sprains and deep bruises. Combine with lemon grass, lemon balm or peppermint to make more palatable.
56. White Oak Bark
    Quercus alba
    Astringent, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic.
    Use internally and externally for hemorrhoids, menstrual problems, blood in the urine, or varicose veins. As a gargle, it makes a good treatment for laryngitis and tonsillitis. Can be used on the skin to help with irritations.
57. White Pine Bark
    Pinus strobus
    Expectorant.
    A standard remedy for coughs and congestion due to colds. Can be used as a decoction (boiled into a tea) or made into a syrup with honey. Can also be used as a poultice for wounds or sores
58. White Willow Bark
    Salix alba
    Anodyne, antiseptic, astringent, diaphoretic, diuretic, febrifuge, tonic.
    The "herbal aspirin." Willow contains salicin, which is converted to salacylic acid in the body. This acid is the main ingredient of aspirin. Use for anything you would use aspirin for. Also use as a gargle for tonsillitis, as a wash for wounds, and as a deodorant for feet and armpits.
59. Wild Cherry bark
    Prunus serotina
    Anti-tussive, expectorant, astringent, sedative, digestive bitter.
    Powerfully sedative to the cough reflex. A good treatment for irritating coughs like bronchitis, whooping cough and asthma. A good digestive bitter for sluggish digestion. Use a cold infusion as an eyewash for inflammation of the eyes.
60. Wild Yam
    Dioscorea villosa
    Anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, cholagogue.
    Relieves intestinal colic, soothing to diverticulitis. Can ease menstrual pain Very useful in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Has been used as a contraceptive-was once the only source of chemicals used in contraceptive hormone manufacture.
61. Witch Hazel
    Hamamelis virginiana
    Astringent.
    You've seen distilled Witch Hazel in the drug store. This is the actual dried herb. An excellent astringent. Often used cosmetically to tighten pores, it can also be used wherever there is bleeding, internal or external. Especially helpful for bruises, hemorrhoids, and varicose veins. Will control diarrhea and ease dysentery.
62. Wood Betony
    Stachys betonica
    Sedative, nervine, tonic, bitter
    Feeds and strengthens the central nervous system. A gentle sedative. Useful for nervous tension, anxiety and stress. Combines well with Skullcap for relief of tension headaches.
63. Wormwood
    Artemisia absynthum
    Bitter tonic, carminative, antheminic, anti-inflammatory.
    A good bitter-stimulates and invigorates the whole digestive process. Good for indigestion. Good remedy in the treatment of pinworm and roundworm. Tonic to the whole body.
64. Yarrow
    Achillea millefolium
    Diaphoretic, hypotensive, astringent, diuretic, antiseptic.
    A particularly good herb to deal with fevers. Lowers blood pressure. Stimulates digestion and tones blood vessels. A good urinary antiseptic. Used externally to heal wounds.
65. Yellow Dock root
    Rumex crispus
    Alterative, purgative, cholagogue.
    Especially good for chronic skin problems, such as psoriasis. A good remedy for constipation Stimulating to the gall bladder. A good herb for the treatment of jaundice when it is due to congestion of the liver.
66. Yerba Mate
    Ilex paraguariensis
    Depurative, diuretic, stimulant.
    The South American equivalent to coffee. Called "the ideal stimulant" by Charles Darwin. Used for headache, migraine, neuralgia and insomnia. Relieves fatigue and stimulates mental energy. Contains somewhat less caffeine than coffee or tea. A good way to break a coffee addiction.
67. Blue Violet
    Viola odorata
    Nutritive, demulcent, expectorant, laxative, diuretic, anodyne, antiseptic, emollient.
    High in Vitamins C and A Good for breast health, can reduce fibrous cysts, lumps and infections in breasts. Soothing and cooling to the head. A good respiratory tonic. Use as a poultice for skin conditions.
68. Yucca
    Yucca spp.
    Saponin, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, laxative
    Can be used for arthritic pain. Reduce dosage if diarrhea ensues. Can be helpful in some cases of prostate or urethral inflammation. Can be used as a shampoo-boil 1 cup of root in 1½ cups water until suds form.

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