Understanding herbal medicine

Herbs can be broken down into a range of categories which are determined by their action or function. Most herbs will fall into one or more of these categories.

Stimulants: Herbal remedies that contain plants with stimulant properties means they add stimulus to the system and will increase blood circulation. These herbal remedies act as natural energy boosters that increase the activity of an organ or system in the body. Unlike other stimulants such as caffeine, herbal medicines with stimulant properties will not cause the jitters or increased nerve cell activity. Instead, such herbal medicines work to increase vitality, nourish the body, remove energy blocks and relax the nerves.

Herbal medicines classified as stimulants
Ginseng is probably one of the most popular herbal stimulants with energising and restorative effects on the body. Other stimulants include mint, cayenne pepper, red clover, lemon balm and many more.

Diuretics: Herbal medicines classified as diuretic, increase the body’s production of urine. They also work to cleanse the system, especially the kidneys by eliminating harmful substances from the body. Plants that contain diuretic properties can be made into herbal remedies that help clean the system of toxins and harmful waste.

Herbal medicine with diuretic properties
Parsley can be added to boiling water and then consumed when cool to help flush the kidneys. Other diuretics include dandelion, chamomile, nettle, sage and borage.

Expectorants: Expectorant herbs help in the removal of excessive mucus and the clearing up of congestion. These herbal remedies are beneficial for treating respiratory illnesses such as colds, coughs and chest complaints.

Expectorant properties in herbal medicines
Boiling comfrey root with water helps aid the congestion that comes with colds. Slippery elm, boneset, sassafras, ginger are also expectorants.

Astringents: Herbal medicines often contain astringent substances which are anti-biotic in nature. They also work as a natural cleanser to flush out the system. The colour of the herbs is often an indicator of their signature characteristics and functions. Herbs that are red in colour indicate astringency and are good blood purifiers.

Astringent herbs
Astringents help tighten tissues and strengthen blood tissue. Witch hazel can be applied to cuts to help stop bleeding. Other astringents include eyebright, willow bark, garlic and hyssop.

Nervines: As the name suggests, herbal medicines with this property work to relieve and restore the nerves to their natural state. They also alleviate strain and tension caused by nervous irritation.

Herbs classified as nervines
Valerian is a relaxant, but extended usage may produce poisoning. Hops, skullcap, pennyroyal and lavender are also nervines and promote calmness.

Tonics: Herbal medicines that are classified as tonics benefit the whole body and contribute to an overall feeling of wellbeing. Herbal medicines used in tonics give vigour and strength to the body, in particular to organs affected by the workings of the digestive system.

Herbal medicines used in tonics
Dandelion can be consumed as a tea and provides plenty of vitamins and nutrients to the body. Corn silk, chicory, shepherd’s purse and mullein can also be made into tonics.