The term applied to a drug that stimulates the ?ow of BILE.
Constituents: vulgarin, flavonoids, coumarin derivatives, oil.
Action. Menstrual regulator, nervine, diuretic, choleretic, stomachic, diaphoretic, orexigenic, bitter, anti- diabetic. Has an affinity for the womb, stomach and nerves. Re-mineraliser.
Uses: menstrual obstruction, pain or delay. Menopause. To temporarily allay the tremor of Parkinsons; reduce excitability of epileptics before an attack, convulsions in children; early stages of colds, influenza and other fevers. To stimulate the appetite in anorexia nervosa. Pin worms, sleep-walking, abdominal cramp. Malaria. (China)
Combination: with Helonias, Pennyroyal and Southernwood for menstrual irregularity BHP (1983). Preparations. Average dose, half-2 grams, or equivalent, thrice daily.
Tea: half an ounce to 1 pint boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup thrice daily.
Liquid Extract BHP (1983). 1:1 in 25 per cent alcohol. Dose: half to 2ml in water.
Powder, capsules: 250mg. 3 capsules at meals, morning and evening. (Arkocaps) Contra-indications: pregnancy, lactation, large doses. ... mugwort
Habitat: The western Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon.
English: Milfoil, Yarrow, Thousand Leaf.Unani: Biranjaasif. National Formulary of Unani Medicine also equates Leonurus cardica Linn. (Labiatae) with Biranjaasif.Folk: Gandana, Rojmari.Action: Anti-inflammatory, anti- spasmodic (used in cold, flatulent colic, heartburn), emmenagogue, cicatrizant, antidysenteric, anti- haemorrhagic, antipyretic, diaphoretic, diuretic, urinary antiseptic.
Key application: In dyspeptic ailments, such as mild, spastic discomforts of the gastrointestinal tract. As astringent, antispasmodic, choleretic, antibacterial. (German Commission E.) As diaphoretic. (The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.) Internally for feverish conditions, common cold and digestive complaints; topically for slow-healing wounds and skin inflammations. (The British Herbal Compendium.)The plant contains flavonoids, alkaloids (achilleine), polyacetylenes, triterpenes, coumarins, tannins, salicylic acid, a volatile oil containing linalool, camphor, sabinene, chamazu- lene and other azulenes.Sesquiterpene lactones are bitter and tonic. Achilleine helps arrest internal and external bleeding. Flavonoids contribute to the antispasmodic action.The flavonoid apigenin is anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet and spasmolytic. Alkaloids and bases are anti- inflammatory. Alkaloid betoncine is haemostatic. Salicylic acid is anti- inflammatory. Chamazulene is anti- inflammatory and antiallergenic. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)An extract of the plant was found to be rich in luteolin or luteolin 7- glucoside and can be used for the treatment of hyperpigmentation of skin.... achillea millefoliumHabitat: Throughout India, from Himachal Pradesh to Assam and Mizoram, and all over southern India.
English: Creat.Ayurvedic: Kaalmegha, Bhuunimba, Bhuuminimbaka, Vishwambharaa, Yavtikta, Kalpanaatha, Kiraata-tikta (var.).Unani: Kiryaat.Siddha/Tamil: Nilavembu.Action: Hepatoprotective, cholin- ergic, antispasmodic, stomachic, anthelmintic, alterative, blood purifier, febrifuge. It acts well on the liver, promoting secretion of bile. Used in jaundice and torpid liver, flatulence and diarrhoea of children, colic, strangulation of intestines and splenomegaly; also for cold and upper respiratory tract infections.
Key application: As bitter tonic, febrifuge and hepatoprotective. (Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)Kaalmegha, officinal in IP, consists of dried leaves and tender shoots, which yield not less than 1% andro- grapholide on dry-weight basis.Several active constituents have been identified from the leaf and rhizome, including andrographolide, deoxyan- drographolide and other diterpenes.Andrographolide exhibited strong choleretic action when administered i.p. to rats. It induces increase in bile flow together with change in physical properties of bile secretion. It was found to be more potent than sily- marin.Andrographolide was found to be almost devoid of antihepatitis-B virus surface antigen-like activity (when compared with picroliv.)The leaf and stem extracts of Kaal- megha/andrographolide given s.c. or orally did not change blood sugar level of normal or diabetic rats.Alcoholic extract of the plant exhibited antidiarrhoeal activity against E. coli enterotoxins in animal models.Clinical evidence of effectiveness of andrographis in humans is limited to the common cold. Preliminary evidence suggests that it might increase antibody activity and phagocytosis by macrophages, and might have mast cell-stabilizing and antiallergy activity. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)The herb is contraindicated inbleed- ing disorders, hypotension, as well as male and female sterility (exhibited infertility in laboratory animals).Dosage: Whole plant—5-10 ml juice; 50-100 ml decotion; 1-3 g powder. (CCRAS.)... andrographis panicultataAction: choleretic, hepatic, circulatory stimulant.
Uses: Circulatory disorders, varicose veins, menstrual problems, to protect against hardening of the liver in alcohol consumers. Rheumatism, gout. Heavy legs.
Preparations: Tea: 1 teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Dose: half a cup thrice daily. Powder, capsules: 250mg. 3 capsules thrice daily before meals. (Arkocaps) ... chrysanthemum (golden)
Habitat: Kashmir at altitudes of 1500-2100 m.
English: Wormwood, Maderwood.Unani: Afsanteen, Vilaayati Afsan- teen.Siddha/Tamil: Machipatri.Folk: Mastiyaaraa (Punjab), Titween (Kashmir).Action: Choleretic (bile and gastric juice stimulant), anthelmintic, stomachic, carminative, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, emme- nagogue, mild antidepressant; used in chronic fevers.
Key application: In loss of appetite, dyspepsia, biliary dyskinesia. (German Commission E.) In anorexia, for example, after illness, and dyspeptic complaints. (ESCOP.) It is contraindicated in gastric and duodenal ulcers. Excessive doses may cause vomiting, severe diarrhoea, retention of urine or dazed feeling and central nervous system disturbances. (ESCOP.)The herb contains a volatile oil of variable composition, with alpha- and beta-thujone as the major component, up to about 35%; sesquiterpene lactones (artabasin, absinthin, anab- sinthin); azulenes; flavonoids; phenolic acids; lignans.Thujone is a toxic constituent which shows hallucinogenic and addictive activity found in Indian hemp. It stimulates the brain; safe in small doses, toxic in excess. The azulenes are anti- inflammatory. The sesquiterpene lac- tones exhibit an antitumour effect and are insecticidal and anthelmintic.Essential oil from leaves—antibacterial, antifungal. The oil is toxic at 10 ml.... artemisia absinthiumHabitat: The hilly regions of India, also in Mount Abu in Rajasthan, in western Ghats, and from Konkan southward to Kerala.
English: Indian Wormwood, Fleabane, Dungwort, Mugwort, Wild Wormwood.Ayurvedic: Damanaka, Pushpachaa- mara, Gandhotkata. (Related sp.: A. siversiana Ehrh. ex Willd.)Unani: Afsanteen-e-Hindi. (National Formularly of Unani Medicine clubbed it with Baranjaasif.)Siddha/Tamil: Maasipattiri.Folk: Daunaa, Damanaa.Action: Leaf—emmenagogue, menstrual regulator, nervine, stomachic (in anorexia and dyspepsia), an- thelmintic, choleretic, diaphoretic.
An infusion of flower tops is administered in nervous and spasmodic affections. The herb is also used as an antilithic. Oil from leaves— antibacterial, antifungal in 1:1000 dilution.Key application: As emmenagogue. (The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)The plant yields about 0.34% of an essential oil. Plants at lower altitude had more percentage of cineol, thu- jone, thujyl and citral, whereas from higher altitude terpenes are in higher percentage. The highest amount of cineol was reported to be 30%.The plant is also used as an inferior substitute for cinchona in fevers.... artemisia vulgarisHabitat: Assam, North Bengal, Khasi and Jaintia Hills, sub Himalayan tracts of Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh and Western Ghats.
English: Canereed, Wild Ginger.Ayurvedic: Kebuka, Kembuka.Siddha/Tamil: Krrauvam, Malai Vasambu, Ven Kottam.Folk: Kebu.Action: Astringent, purgative, depurative, anti-inflammatory (used in gout, rheumatism; bronchitis, asthma, catarrhal fevers, dysuria), anthelmintic, antivermin, maggoticide, antifungal.
The rhizomes contain saponins— dioscin, gracillin and beta-sitosterol- beta-D-glucoside. The alkaloids show papaverine-like smooth-muscle-relaxant activity, cardiotonic activity like that of digitalis and antispasmodic,CNS-depressant, diuretic and hydro- choleretic activities. Saponins show significant anti-inflammatory and an- tiarthritic activity.The seeds also contain saponins and exhibit potent and sustained hypoten- sive and bradycardiac activities in dogs with low toxicity and without any haemolytic activity; also weak spasmolytic activity on isolated guinea-pig ileum.All parts of the plant yield steroidal sapogenin, diogenin (quantity varies from 0.32 to 4%).(Not to be confused with Kushtha of Indian medicine, Saussurea lappa.)... costus speciosusHabitat: Cultivated all over India, particularly in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra.
English: Turmeric.Ayurvedic: Haridraa, Priyaka, Haridruma, Kshanda, Gauri, Kaanchani, Krimighna, Varavarni- ni, Yoshitapriyaa, Hattavilaasini, Naktaahvaa, Sharvari.Unani: Zard Chob.Action: Anti-inflammatory, cholagogue, hepatoprotective, blood-purifier, antioxidant, detoxi- fier and regenerator of liver tissue, antiasthmatic, anti-tumour, anticu- taneous, antiprotozoal, stomachic, carminative. Reduces high plasma cholesterol. Antiplatelet activity offers protection to heart and vessels. Also protects against DNA damage in lymphocytes.
Key application: In dyspeptic conditions. (German Commission E, ESCOP, WHO.) As antiinflammatory, stomachic. (Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)The rhizomes gave curcuminoids, the mixture known as curcumin, consisting of atleast four phenolic diaryl- heptanoids, including curcumin and monodesmethoxycurcumin; volatile oil (3-5%), containing about 60% of turmerones which are sesquiterpene ketones, and bitter principles, sugars, starch, resin.Curcumin related phenolics possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective and hepatoprotective activities. The antioxidant activity of curcumin is comparable to standard antioxidants—vitamin C and E, BHA and BHT.The volatile oil, also curcumin, exhibited anti-inflammatory activity in a variety of experimental models (the effects were comparable to those of cortisone and phenylbutazone). Used orally, curcumin prevents the release of inflammatory mediators. It depletes nerve endings of substance P, the neu- rotransmitter of pain receptors.Curcumin's cholesterol-lowering actions include interfering with intestinal cholesterol uptake, increasing the conversion of cholesterol into bile acids and increasing the excretion of bile acids via its choleretic effects.Curcuminoids prevent the increases in liver enzymes, SGOT and SGPT; this validates the use of turmeric as a he- patoprotective drug in liver disorders. Curlone, obtained from the dried rhizome, is used against hepatitis.Turmeric and curcumin increase the mucin content of the stomach and exert gastroprotective effects against stress, alcohol, drug-induced ulcer formation. (Curcumin at doses of 100 mg/kg weight exhibited ulcerogenic activity in rats.)The ethanolic extract of the rhizome exhibited blood sugar lowering activity in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.Piperine (a constituent of black and long pepper) enhances absorption and bioavailability of curcumin.Dosage: Cured rhizome—1-3 g powder. (API Vol. I.)... curcuma longaHabitat: Monastery gardens of Europe. Now cultivated in India.
English: Globe Artichoke.Unani: Harshaf.Action: Herb—antitoxic, liver restorative, hypocholesterolaemic. Water soluble extract is used for liver and renal diseases for its cholagogic and choleretic action (flow of bile increases up to 60 per cent). Artichokes assist digestion of fats, are known as diabetic's potato in Europe.
Key application: In dyspeptic problems. (German Commission E.) The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia reported hepatic action.All parts of the plant contains ses- quiterpene lactone cynaropecrin and inulin. The leaves contain cynarin. Hepatic activity of the leaves is due to polyphenols such as cynarin, caf- feoylquinic acid derivatives and flavon- oids. Cynarin and caffeic acid exhibited hepatoprotective activity in CCl4-treated rats. (A minimum of 1% polyphenols and 0.2% flavonoids in the dried leaves is required for the activity.)The plant is included in indigenous compound formulations recommended for viral and drug-induced hepatitis. All parts of the plant stimulate digestive secretions, especially bile, and are used for the treatment of gallbladder problems. Plant is used as a diuretic in dropsy. The plant is also used against atherosclerosis and for lowering cholesterol levels.The extract gave mixed results in preventing alcohol-induced hangover. (CMAJ, 169, 2003, 1269-73; Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)... cynara scolymusHabitat: West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Western Ghats.
English: Utrasum Bead tree.Ayurvedic: Rudraaksha, Panch- mukhi.Siddha/Tamil: Rudraaksham.Action: Fruit—used for epileptic fits and headache. Powdered fruits (0.5 g) mixed with warm water are given two/three times daily in asthma. Stem bark— hypoglycaemic.
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India indicated the use of the seed in hypertension, insomnia, psychoneurosis and mental diseases.The fruits contain palmitic, iso- palmitic, linoleic and myristic acids. Leaves gave alkaloids—rudrakine, (+)- elacocarpine and (+)-iso-elacocarpine; phenolics—quercetin, gallic acid and ellagic acid. EtOH (50%) extract of stem bark—hypoglycaemic. Aqueous extract of fruits—sedative, hy- potensive, spasmolytic, anticonvul- sant, choleretic, bronchodilatory and cardiostimulant.The fruit of E. oblongus Mast. non- Gaertn., synonym E. glandulosus Wall. ex Merrill (Western Ghats) is used in mental disorders and tetanus.Dosage: Seed—1-2 g. (API Vol. IV.)Siddha/Tamil: Ruthracham, Pagumbar.Folk: Rudirak, Bhutali.Action: Bark—stomachic, antibil- ious. Used in haematemesis. Nut— antiepileptic, antirheumatic.
The leaves gave quercetin, kaempfer- ol, gallic acid and ethylgallate.... elaeocarpus ganitrusHabitat: The Temperate Himalayas.
English: Goosegrass, Clivers, Cleavers, Catch Weed.Action: Choleretic, stomachic, diuretic, refrigerant, lymphatic, alterative, antiscorbutic, detoxifier; non-steroidal anti-inflammatory used for enlarged lymph nodes, especially cervical neck nodes, cystic and nodular changes in the glands, modular goitre. Used as a cleansing drink for malignant conditions and skin disorders, including psoriasis.
Key application: As diuretic. (The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)The plant contains iridoid monoter- penes (asperuloside), benzyl isoquino- line alkaloids (including protopine), beta-carbolin alkaloids (including harmine), quinazoline alkaloids and fla- vonoids (such as luteolin). Methanolic extract of the plant contains chloro- genic acid, scopoletin and rutin. The plant is reported to contain several sterols. The root contains anthraqui- nones.Asperuloside can be chemically converted to prostanoid intermediates.... galium aparineHabitat: Native to the West Indies; now cultivated in Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Punjab, Assam and Tamil Nadu.
English: Roselle, Jamaican Sorrel, Natal Sorrel, Red Sorrel.Ayurvedic: Ambashtthaki.Siddha/Tamil: Sivappu Kashmakki, Pulichai-keerai, Gogu, Seemai Kaseru.Folk: Laal-ambaadi, Patavaa, Patsan.Action: Digestive, choleretic, antibilious, laxative, diuretic, hypotensive, antiscorbutic. Used as a cardiac and nervine tonic for disorders of circulation, also for calcified arteries.
Key application: Flowers—used for loss of appetite, for colds, catarrhs of the upper respiratory tract and stomach, for disorders of circulation. (Included among unapproved herbs by German Commission E.)The seeds contain sterols, including 3.2% ergosterol; leaves contain sitosterol-beta-D-galactoside. Flowers contain myricetin, kaempferol and quercetin, but did not contain free mutagenic flavonol aglycons.The aqueous extract of flower buds has been reported to decrease blood pressure, cause relaxation of rat uterus. Succulent sepals and leaves—hypoten- sive, antimicrobial and anthelmintic.Oil and unsapanofiable matter—antibacterial, antifungal.Dosage: Root—5-10 g. (API Vol. III.)... hibiscus sabdariffaHabitat: Native to Britain and Europe; found in Kashmir.
English: Bogbean, Buckbean, Goat's bean, Marsh Trefoil.Folk: Buckbean.Action: Bitter tonic, deobstruent. Laxative in large doses. Used for diseases of liver and gallbladder, and rheumatism. (Contraindicated in diarrhoea, dysentery and colitis.)
Key application: Leaf—in loss of appetite, peptic discomforts. (German Commission E.) As a bitter tonic. (The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.) The drug stimulates saliva and gastric juice secretion. (German Commission E.)The herb contains iridoid glyco- sides, foliamenthin, dihydrofoliamen- thin, menthiafolin and loganin; pyri- dine alkaloids including gentianine; coumarins (scopoletin); phenolic acids (caffeic, with protocatechuic, ferulic, sinapic, vanillic including others; fla- vonoids including rutin, hyperoside.Choleretic action of the herb is attributed to the synergistic action of caffeic and ferulic acids and iridoid glycosides.Scoparone and scopoletin (cou- marins isolated from the aerial parts) exhibit antihepatotoxic, choleretic and cholagogue properties.The rhizomes contain dihydrofolia- menthin, loganin, menthiafolin and a triterpenoid saponin menyantho- side. Aqueous extract of the rhizome showed greater preserved renal function and higher glomerular filtration rate, possibly due to Platelet Activating Factor (PAF)-antagonistic effect of the extract.... menyanthes trifoliataHabitat: Cultivated in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Maharashtra and Gujarat.
English: Radish.Ayurvedic: Muulaka, Laghu- muulaka, Muulakapotikaa, Visra, Shaaleya, Marusambhava. Pods— Sungraa, Singri, Mungraa.Unani: Muuli, Turb Fajal.Siddha/Tamil: Mullangi.Action: Radish—preparations are used in liver, gallbladder and urinary complaints. Green leaves— diuretic and carminative. Seeds— diuretic, purgative, expectorant.
A decoction of dry radish is given orally in piles. Extract of the dry root is given for hiccough, influenza, dysentery, colic and urinary troubles.Key application: In peptic disorders, especially those related to dyskinesia of the bile ducts; and in catarrhs of the upper respiratory tract. (German Commission E.)The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends the juice of the whole plant in sinusitis; juice of the root in diseases of the throat and sinusitis; and the seed in amenorrhoea, cough and dyspnoea.The fleshy root and seeds contain trans-4-methyl-thiobutenyl isothio- cyanate glucoside (the pungent principle), cyanidin-5-glucoside-3-sophoro- side, pelargonidin diglycoside, cyani- din diglycoside, 5-methyl-L-cysteine- sulphoxide (methiin), steroidal sa- pogenins and sulphorophene.The enzymes present in the radish are phosphatase, catalase, sucrase, amylase, alcohol dehydrogenase and pyruvic carboxylase.Radish contains caffeic acid and fer- ulic acid which exhibit hepatoprotec- tive and choleretic properties. It contains choline which prevents deposition of fat in liver. Amino acids, or- nithine, citrulline, arginine, glutamic acid and asparatic acid remove toxins from the body and urea acumulation.Radish is a good source of ascorbic acid (15-40 mg/100 g), trace elements include aluminium, barium, lithium, manganese, silicon, titanium, also iodine (upto 18 mcg/100 g) and ascor- bigen.Roots, leaves, flowers and pods are active against Gram-positive bacteria.The seeds are reported to contain a broad spectrum antibiotic, machro- lysin, specific against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Raphanin, extracted from the seeds, is active against Grampositive and Gram-negative bacteria.A purified basic protein, homologous to nonspecific lipid transfer proteins, from seeds showed antifungal activity.Raphanus caudatus Linn., synonym R. sativus var. caudatus, is known as Rat-Tail Radish.A native to Java, it is cultivated in northern and western India. The root is not used; pods, purple or violet in colour, are consumed for properties attributed to Raphanus sp. These are known as Mungraa or Sungraa.Dosage: Whole plant-20-40 ml juice; root—15-30 ml juice. (API, Vol. II.) Seed—1-3 g powder. (API, Vol. III.)... raphanus sativusHabitat: Temperate Himalayas, Khasi Hills, Mishmi Hills, Gujarat and in hills of South India.
English: Common Dandelion.Ayurvedic: Dugdh-pheni, Luutaari, Payaswani.Unani: Kaanful, Kaasani Dashti, Kaasani Sahraayi, Hind-baa-al- Barri. (Not to be confused with Ci- chorium intybus, known as Kaasani.)Folk: Dudhli, Dudhal.Action: Root—diuretic, cholagogue, pancreatic and bile duct stimulant, stimulant to portal circulation, choleretic, urinary antiseptic, detoxicant, promotes elimination of plasma cholesterol. Used chiefly in kidney and liver disorders, for rheumatism and as a general tonic. A decoction is given for infective hepatitis.
Key application: In dyspepsia, loss of appetite, and for diuresis. (German Commission E, ESCOP.) ESCOP indicates its use for restoration of hepatic and biliary function.Most of the diuretics cause loss of potassium, but dandelion leaves contain high levels of potassium.The leaves and root contain sesqui- terpene lactones (bitter substances); triterpenes and sterols—beta-sitosterol, beta-sitosterol-glucosides, taraxasterol, psi-taratexol and taraxol; flavonoids, including among others, apigenin-7- O-glucosides and luteolin-7-O-gluco- sides; mucilages; inulin (2-40%, high values in autumn). The amaroids are cholagogic and secretolytic. (PDR.) An appetite-stimulating bitter has been identified as eudesmanolides (previously called taraxacin).The vitamin A content is higher than in carrots.The polysaccharides and aqueous extracts exhibited antitumour activity in animals. The anti-inflammatory activity has also been confirmed in animal studies.The high K+ content of roots and leaves is considered responsible for the diuretic activity.Dosage: Root—1-3 g powder. (CCRAS.)... taraxacum officinaleHabitat: North-West and Western India, and in the outer Himalayas.
English: Rohida tree.Ayurvedic: Rohitaka, Rohi, Daadimpushpaka, Daadimchhada, Plihaghna. (Amoora rohituka is also known as Rohitaka.)Action: Bark—relaxant, cardiotonic, choleretic. (Heartwood toxic due to lapachol.) Used for the treatment of leucorrhoea, diseases of the liver and spleen, leucoderma, syphilis and other skin diseases.
The bark contains tecomin (veratryl beta-D-glucoside), alkanes, alkanols and beta-sitosterols. The bark also yielded chromone glycosides—undu- latosides A and B, and iridoid glu- cosides—tecomelloside and tecoside.A quinonoid—lapachol, veratric acid and dehydrotectol are also reported from the bark.Water soluble portion of the alcoholic as well as chloroform extracts of the bark shows smooth muscle relaxant, mild cardiotonic and chloretic activities.Dosage: Flower, bark—50-100 ml decoction. (CCRAS.)... tecomella undulataActive constituent: cynarin.
Action: cholagogue, flow of bile increase up to 60 per cent, hypo diuretic, liver restorative. Assists digestion of fats. Choleretic, hypolipaemic. Tonic. Anti-hyperlipidaemic.
Uses: Liver and gall bladder disorders. Liver damage, jaundice, nausea. Artichokes are the diabetic’s potato. Hyperlipaemia – to reduce level of fats in the blood. Hypercholesterolaemia. To stimulate metabolism. Fluid retention. Detoxification. Aid to cell metabolism.
Preparations: Tea. 1-2 teaspoons leaves or root to each cup boiling water. Infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup freely.
Powder: 250mg capsules. 3 capsules, morning and evening, before meals. (Arkocaps) Bio-strath artichoke formula. Artichokes eaten as a vegetable. ... artichoke
Alternatives. To stimulate flow, Boldo, Horsetail, Dandelion, Blue Flag root, Milk Thistle, Bogbean, Burdock. Teas, capsules, tablets, Liquid extracts, or Tinctures.
A. Vogel recommends: Barberry, Centuary, St John’s Wort, Sarsaparilla.
Combination tea. Equal parts: Peppermint leaves, Milk Thistle, Dandelion root. 1 teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes, 1 cup thrice daily for limited period (1 month).
Bile in the urine. (Bilviria)
Arthur Barker: Liquid Extract Black root 1oz (30ml). Liquid Extract Cornsilk 1oz (30ml). Essential Peppermint 30 drops (2ml). Water to 8oz (240ml). 2 teaspoons in water 3 times daily before meals.
Diet. Dandelion coffee. Artichokes.
See: CHOLAGOGUES. CHOLERETICS. ... bile secretion deficiency
Constituents: Peumus bollidus, boldine. Grows in Central Chile where it is used against liver diseases and gall stones.
Action. Cholagogue, liver tonic, diuretic, urinary antiseptic, laxative (mild), choleretic, anti-obesity, liver-protector, anti-inflammatory, choleretic.
Uses: Inflammation of the gall bladder, gall stone, biliary colic, infective cystitis, hypothyroidism, fluid retention.
Combination. With Barberry and Fringe Tree for gall stones and hepatic disease BHP (1983). Preparations. Thrice daily.
Tea. Quarter of a teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Dose: half a cup. Liquid extract. 1-5 drops in water.
Tincture BHP (1983) 1:10 in 60 per cent alcohol. Dose: 0.5-2ml in water. Powder. (capsules) 250mg (one 00 capsule) or one-sixth teaspoon. ... boldo
It is spread by polluted water as in the case of the composer, Tchaikovsky, who died imprudently drinking unboiled water during a cholera epidemic, despite warnings of his friends. It is transmitted also by milk, shellfish and by the faeces of infected people.
Symptoms. Profuse rice-water diarrhoea, vomiting and shock from severe loss of body fluids. Muscle cramps, cyanosis, stupor.
Alternatives. Powders. Formula: Tormentil root 2; Ginger 8; Poplar bark 2; Ipecacuanha half; Gum Myrrh quarter; Cloves; Cayenne quarter; Slippery Elm 5. (Reformed School of Medicine, W. Beach MD, USA) No dosage recorded. Suggested hourly dose: Liquid Extract: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Powders: 500mg.
Tinctures. Formula No 1. Turkey Rhubarb 3; Hops 2; Peppermint 1. Dose: 1-2 teaspoons in water hourly, as tolerated.
Tinctures. Formula No 2. Turkey Rhubarb 2; Camphor (spirits) 1; Capsicum quarter; Peppermint quarter. Dose: 1-2 teaspoons hourly, as tolerated.
Orange berries. (Maeso lanceolata) Tea drunk by natives before visiting cholera epidemic areas. (Dr Isno Kufo, University of California, Berkeley)
Barberry. Berberine alkaloid. (Indian Journal of Medical Research, 50. 732, 1962)
Camphor. In the Cholera epidemic of 1831, a Russian Consol-General reported 70 cases in two places, all were cured. Elsewhere, of 1270 cases only 108 died. Practitioner use: Spirits of Camphor (10 per cent Camphor in 90 per cent brandy, gin or Vodka). 0.3 to 2ml (5 to 30 drops). Effective in the early stages. Also, rub into soles of feet and use as an inhalant.
Calamint. Old European remedy.
Enema. Bring 2 pints (1 litre) water to boiling point. Allow to cool. Add 20 drops Goldenseal and 20 drops Tincture Myrrh; for soothing and healing injection.
Diet. During an outbreak of cholera: avoid unboiled or unbottled water, uncooked seafood, vegetables and fruit unless fruit can be peeled.
Strict sanitary hygiene. Wash hands frequently.
Recovery period. Replacement of body fluids: glasses of boiled water to which 2-3 teaspoons cider vinegar has been added. Make up potassium loss with 3-4 bananas daily. Calcium, Magnesium and Potassium. Multivitamins.
Alternative rehydration therapy: spring or bottled water with sugar and salt; salt to replace water in the blood, sugar to promote absorption. Glass of water to contain 1 teaspoon salt and 2 teaspoons sugar.
To be treated by a general medical practitioner or hospital specialist.
CHOLERETIC. An agent which reduces cholesterol levels by excreting cholesterol. It also causes bile to flow freely. Differs from a cholagogue in that the latter increases the flow of bile (Artichoke). ... cholera
Constituents: carotenoids, sesquiterpene lactones.
Action: powerful diuretic, bitter tonic, pancreatic regulator, galactagogue, cholagogue, anti-rheumatic, pancreatic and bile duct stimulant, stimulant to the portal circulation, laxative (mild), urinary antiseptic, anti-eczema, detoxicant, choleretic. Contains Vitamins A, B and C. Rich in nutrient minerals. Promotes elimination of plasma cholesterol.
Uses: Liver disorders, inflammation of the gall bladder, to counter tendency to form gallstones; mild jaundice, to clear a yellowish complexion and brighten the eyes; to stimulate flow of bile. Not given in presence of blocked bile duct. Indigestion, lack of appetite, sweating in the anal cleft, muscular rheumatism, hypoglycaemia, anorexia nervosa, cachexia and other wasting diseases. Congestive heart failure: should be prescribed for every case of oedema of heart origin. Warts: express milky sap and wipe wart frequently. Has a reputation for splenic and pancreatic disorders as an ingredient of diabetic and anaemia prescriptions. A decoction of the root has been taken with success for infective hepatitis. An older generation of gardeners chewed the root for bladder disorders. Combine: with Alfalfa and Kelp for nutrient minerals; with Yarrow and Lime flowers (equal parts) for high blood pressure. Promotes loss of weight during dieting.
Preparations: Thrice daily.
Tea (leaf). 3-4 teaspoons to each cup or, 2oz to 1 pint boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup freely. Decoction, root. 1 teaspoon to each cup boiling water gently simmer 15 minutes. Half-1 cup freely. Liquid Extract. Dose: half-2 teaspoons.
Tincture, BHC Vol 1. 1 part to 5 parts 25 per cent ethanol. Dose: 5-10ml (1-2 teaspoons).
Juice of fresh root (by liquidiser or blender) 1-4 teaspoons
Tablets/capsules. Popular combination. Powdered Dandelion BHP (1983) 90mg; powdered Horsetail extract 3:1 10mg; powdered Uva Ursi extract 3:1 75mg. To assist urinary flow and prevent fluid retention. Waterlex tablets. (Gerard House)
Dandelion coffee, roots roasted and ground. Freely.
Diet. Leaves used in salads or cooked as spinach. In all preparations a pinch of Ginger renders it more diffusive.
Note: The elderly need gentle control of blood pressure with a minimum of side-effects, without loss of potassium and magnesium, for which the root (dandelion coffee) is an alternative to synthetic drugs. ... dandelion
Constituents: fumaric acid, isoquinoline alkaloids.
Action: alterative, diuretic (mild), antispasmodic (mild), laxative. Popular as a spring blood tonic. Hepatic stimulant, anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, choleretic, cholagogue.
Uses: Eczema, dry skin diseases. Migraine of liver origin, torpid liver, gall stone colic, constipation. Preparations. Thrice daily.
Tea. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 10 minutes. dose: half-1 cup. Tea used also as an eyewash for conjunctivitis.
Liquid Extract: 30-60 drops in water, before meals.
Tincture 1:5 in 25 per cent alcohol. Dose, 1-4ml.
Powder, capsules: 160mg. 6-8 capsules daily in two doses before meals. (Arkocaps) FUNGICIDES. See: ANTI-FUNGALS. ... fumitory
Basically, the therapy consists of a vegetarian diet with meals of vegetables, fruits and whole grains, fresh or freshly prepared. Drinking water is replaced by hourly, fresh, raw juices of vegetables and fruits. Refined, altered, denatured or enhanced foodstuffs are forbidden. The diet is sodium, chloride, fat and protein restricted. Supplemental potassium, iodine, thyroid and crude liver extract comprise the medical armamentarium. A repeatable choleretic, enemas of a solution of boiled coffee, is administered to lower serum toxin levels. Coffee is a potent enhancer of the carcinogen detoxifying enzyme system, glutathione S-translerase (Wattenburg). The Gerson cancer therapy reduces accumulated tissue sodium and chloride, promoting diuresis. Gerson Therapy Center: Hospital de Baja California, at La Gloria, Mexico
Diet. Lunch and dinner contain ample cooked food, mainly to act as a ‘blotter’ to the daily intake of 5.25 pints fresh raw fruit juices that are the backbone of the therapy. Ingredients of the juices include 41bs raw organic carrots a day, with no harm to the liver. (JAM, May 1991, p5. Beata Bishop on her recovery from metastasised malignant melanoma)
The Gerson therapy is based on the ‘holistic’ philosophy which states that cancer represents a clinical manifestation of an underlying toxic condition. Such condition should receive primary treatment that is lifestyle orientated. The theme is: detoxification through internal cleansing. The diet and supplements are re-inforced by ‘positive thinking’ and supported by meditation and emotional balance. ... gerson cancer therapy
Constituents: berberine, hydrastine, canadine, resin.
Action: alterative, choleretic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, bacteriostatic against staphyococcus. (Complementary Medical Research Vol 2, No 2, p.139) Bitter, diuretic, haemostatic, laxative, oxytocic, powerful stomach and liver tonic, detoxifier. Increases blood supply to the spleen. Uses. Mucous membranes generally. Ulceration of mouth, throat, intestines. Heartburn, chronic dyspepsia, gastric and duodenal ulcer, diverticulosis, ulcerative colitis, liver damage. To assist function of old age. Drying to mucous surfaces and therefore indicated in all forms of catarrh (respiratory, vaginal etc). Proteinuria. Painful, excessive menstruation and bleeding from the womb for which the addition of Beth root (equal parts) enhances action. Itching of anus and genitals. Ear infections: internal and topical medication. Prostatitis. Bleeding gums. Tinnitus. Has a long history for use in sexually transmitted diseases. Once used to stimulate contractions of the womb to hasten delivery.
Preparations: Standard dose: half-1 gram. Thrice daily.
Decoction. Quarter to half a teaspoon dried rhizome to each cup water simmered gently in a covered vessel 20 minutes. Dose: half a cup.
Liquid Extract, BHC Vol 1. 1:1 in 60 per cent ethanol; 0.3-1ml, (5-15 drops).
Tincture, BHC Vol 1. 1:10, 60 per cent ethanol; 2-4ml, (15-60 drops).
Formula. Popular. All BHP (1983) standard powders:– Marshmallow root 100mg; Goldenseal 10mg; Cranesbill 30mg; Dandelion root 60mg. Traditional for the relief of indigestion, heartburn, flatulence, nausea and gastric irritation.
Powder. Dose: half-1g.
Lotion. Equal parts, Tincture Goldenseal and glycerine. For painting mouth, throat and lesions elsewhere. Goldenseal solution. 250mg powder shaken in 3oz Rosewater or Witch Hazel: filter. 5-10 drops in eyebath half-filled with water; douche 3 or more times daily.
Goldenseal ointment. 1 teaspoon (5ml) tincture in 1oz Vaseline; dissolve in gentle heat.
Mouth Wash. 5-10 drops tincture in glass water.
Vaginal douche or enema. 10 drops tincture to 2 pints boiled water; inject warm.
Notes. Liquid extract may be used instead of tincture, in which case half quantity is used. Not given in pregnancy, lactation or high blood pressure Not given with Eucalyptus to which it is antagonistic.
GSL, schedule 1
“GONE ALL TO PIECES” SYNDROME. Nervous disarray and weakness from severe emotional or physical shock.
Tablet: 45mg each, Skullcap, Lupulin, Hydrocotyle; and the aqueous extractive from: 90mg Gentian, 75mg Jamaica Dogwood. ... goldenseal
Constituents: silymarin and other flavo-lignans.
Action: bitter tonic, cholagogue for promoting flow of bile up to 60 per cent in liver disorders, choleretic, antidepressant. Antioxidant to inhibit action of free radicals. Stimulates synthesis of protein. Liver protector, producing new cells in place of the old. Detoxifier. Antiviral. Gall bladder protective. Uses: to assist digestion of fats, hypertensive, stitch-in-the-side, toxaemia from drug addiction, to correct pale stools, cirrhosis. Of value as supportive treatment for hepatitis B. Lowers blood fats. Varicose ulcer (powdered seed locally). Inflammation of gall bladder and duct. Food allergy. Damage caused by alcoholism and environmental poisons. Fatty liver. To raise bilirubin levels. Pre-menstrual tension. Mushroom poisoning. Candida. To assist liver function in chronic degenerative disease. To increase flow of milk in nursing mothers.
Preparations: Dose: 80 to 200mg, thrice daily. With a history of gall stones: 420mg daily as a protective. Tea: quarter to half a teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Dose: quarter to half a cup thrice daily.
Tincture: 10-30 drops in water. An ingredient of Biostrath.
Liver-gall Formula No 6 Biostrath. An ingredient of.
Extract. Capsules 100mg. Milk Thistle Extract, Lactose, Magnesium stearate, Silica. 1-3 capsules daily. (Reevecrest, Healthcare)
Legalon tablets. Contain 35mg Silymarin: 2-4 tablets after meals for 4-6 weeks; thereafter 1 tablet thrice daily. (R.F. Weiss MD)
German Pharmacopoeia. Rademacher’s Milk Thistle: 20 drops thrice daily in water or cup of Peppermint tea.
German Medical Research. Noted that Milk Thistle protected the liver from carbon tetrachloride poisoning.
Note: As an antioxidant is more powerful than Vitamin E.
Chronic alcoholism. Silymarin increases SOD activity of both red and white blood cells. (Journal of Hepatology, 12 pp290-5, 1991) ... milk thistle
FAMILY: Lamiaceae (Labiatae)
SYNONYMS: L. vera, L. officinalis, garden lavender, common lavender
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: An evergreen woody shrub, up to 1 metre tall, with pale green, narrow, linear leaves and flowers on blunt spikes of a beautiful violet-blue colour. The whole plant is highly aromatic.
DISTRIBUTION: Indigenous to the Mediterranean region, now cultivated all over the world. The oil is produced mainly in France, also Spain, Italy, England, Australia, Tasmania, Yugoslavia, Turkey, Russia, Bulgaria, Greece, etc.
OTHER SPECIES: There are many varieties of lavender; L. angustifolia is divided into two subspecies – L. delphinensis and L. fragrans. French lavender (L. stoechas) is a smaller shrub with dark violet flowers; see also entries on spike lavender, lavandin and the Botanical Classification section. The so-called cotton lavender (Santolina chamaecyparissus) and the sea lavender (Statice caroliniana) belong to different botanical families.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: Lavender has a well-established tradition as a folk remedy, and its scent is still familiar to almost everyone. It was used to ‘comfort the stomach’ but above all as a cosmetic water, an insect repellent, to scent linen, and as a reviving yet soothing oil ‘The essential oil, or a spirit of lavender made from it, proves admirably restorative and tonic against faintness, palpitations of a nervous sort, weak giddiness, spasms and colic ... A few drops of lavender in a hot footbath has a marked influence in relieving fatigue. Outwardly applied, it relieves toothache, neuralgia, sprains and rheumatism. In hysteria, palsy and similar disorders of debility and lack of nerve power, lavender will act as a powerful stimulant.’.
ACTIONS: Analgesic, anticonvulsive, antidepressant, antimicrobial, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitoxic, carminative, cholagogue, choleretic, cicatrisant, cordial, cytophylactic, deodorant, diuretic, emmenagogue, hypotensive, insecticide, nervine, parasiticide, rubefacient, sedative, stimulant, sudorific, tonic, vermifuge, vulnerary.
EXTRACTION: 1. Essential oil by steam distillation from the fresh flowering tops. 2. An absolute and concrete are also produced by solvent extraction in smaller quantities.
CHARACTERISTICS: 1. The oil is a colourless to pale yellow liquid with a sweet, floral herbaceous scent and balsamic-woody undertone; it has a more fragrant floral scent compared to spike lavender. It blends well with most oils, especially citrus and florals; also cedarwood, clove, clary sage, pine, geranium, labdanum, oakmoss, vetiver, patchouli, etc. 2. The absolute is a dark green viscous liquid with a very sweet herbaceous, somewhat floral odour.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Over 100 constituents including linalyl acetate (up to 40 per cent), linalol, lavandulol, lavandulyl acetate, terpineol, cineol, limonene, ocimene, caryophyllene, among others. Constituents vary according to source: high altitudes generally produce more esters.
SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE Generally regarded as the most versatile essence therapeutically:
Skin care: Abscesses, acne, allergies, athlete’s foot, boils, bruises, burns, dandruff, dermatitis, earache, eczema, inflammations, insect bites and stings, insect repellent, lice, psoriasis, ringworm, scabies, sores, spots, all skin types, sunburn, wounds.
Circulation muscles and joints: Lumbago, muscular aches and pains, rheumatism, sprains.
Respiratory system: Asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, halitosis, laryngitis, throat infections, whooping cough.
Digestive system: Abdominal cramps, colic, dyspepsia, flatulence, nausea.
Genito-urinary system: Cystitis, dysmenorrhoea, leucorrhoea.
Immune system: ’Flu.
Nervous system: Depression, headache, hypertension, insomnia, migraine, nervous tension and stress-related conditions, PMT, sciatica, shock, vertigo.
OTHER USES: Used in pharmaceutical antiseptic ointments and as a fragrance. Extensively employed in all types of soaps, lotions, detergents, cosmetics, perfumes, etc, especially toilet waters and colognes. Employed as a flavouring agent in most categories of food as well as alcoholic and soft drinks.... lavender, true
FAMILY: Rutaceae
SYNONYMS: C. vulgaris, C. bigaradia, Seville orange, sour orange bigarade (oil).
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: An evergreen tree up to 10 metres high with dark green, glossy, oval leaves, paler beneath, with long but not very sharp spines. It has a smooth greyish trunk and branches, and very fragrant white flowers. The fruits are smaller and darker than the sweet orange. It is well known for its resistance to disease and is often used as root stock for other citrus trees, including the sweet orange.
DISTRIBUTION: Native to the Far East, especially India and China, but has become well adapted to the Mediterranean climate. It also grows abundantly in the USA (California), Israel and South America. Main producers of the oil include Spain, Guinea, the West Indies, Italy, Brazil and the USA.
OTHER SPECIES: There are numerous different species according to location – oils from Spain and Guinea are said to be of superior quality.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: ‘Oranges and lemons strengthen the heart, are good for diminishing the coagubility of the blood, and are beneficial for palpitation, scurvy, jaundice, bleedings, heartburn, relaxed throat, etc. They are powerfully anti-scorbutic, either internally or externally applied.’. The dried bitter orange peel is used as a tonic and carminative in treating dyspepsia.
In Chinese medicine the dried bitter orange and occasionally its peel are used in treating prolapse of the uterus and of the anus, diarrhoea, and blood in the faeces. Ingestion of large amounts of orange peel in children, however, has been reported to cause toxic effects.
ACTIONS: Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, bactericidal, carminative, choleretic, fungicidal, sedative (mild), stomachic, tonic.
EXTRACTION: An essential oil by cold expression (hand or machine pressing) from the outer peel of the almost ripe fruit. (A terpeneless oil is also produced.) The leaves are used for the production of petitgrain oil; the blossom for neroli oil.
CHARACTERISTICS: A dark yellow or brownish-yellow mobile liquid with a fresh, dry, almost floral odour with a rich, sweet undertone.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Over 90 per cent monoterpenes: mainly limonene, myrcene, camphene, pinene, ocimene, cymene, and small amounts of alcohols, aldehydes and ketones.
SAFETY DATA: Phototoxic; otherwise generally non-toxic, non-irritant and non sensitizing. Limonene has been reported to cause contact dermatitis in some individuals.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE See sweet orange.
OTHER USES: Used in certain stomachic, laxative and carminative preparations. Employed as a fragrance component in soaps, detergents, cosmetics, colognes and perfumes. Extensively used as a flavouring material, especially in liqueurs and soft drinks. Also utilized as a starting material for the isolation of naturallimonene.... orange, bitter
FAMILY: Lamiaceae (Labiatae)
SYNONYMS: European oregano, wild maqoram, common maqoram, grove marjoram, joy of the mountain, origanum (oil).
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A hardy, bushy, perennial herb up to 90 cms high with an erect hairy stem, dark green ovate leaves and pinky-purple flowers. A common garden plant with a strong aroma when the leaves are bruised.
DISTRIBUTION: Native to Europe, now cultivated all over the world, including the USA, India and South America; the oil is mainly produced in the USSR, Bulgaria and Italy.
OTHER SPECIES: There is much confusion concerning the exact botanical classification of the marjoram and oregano species. There are over thirty varieties some of which are used to produce essential oils, such as the winter or Greek marjoram O. heracleoticum, the African species O. glandulosum, the Moroccan species O. virens, as well as the Mexican oregano Lippia graveolens or L. palmeri and the Syrian oregano (O. maru). However, most commercial ‘oregano oil’ is derived from the Spanish oregano (Thymus capitatus) and to a lesser degree from the common oregano or wild marjoram – see entries on Spanish oregano and sweet marjoram.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: This is the ‘true’ oregano of the herb garden, which also has a very ancient medical reputation. It has been used as a traditional remedy for digestive upsets, respiratory problems (asthma, bronchitis, coughs, etc), colds and ’flu as well as inflammations of the mouth and throat.
In China it is also used to treat fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, jaundice and itchy skin conditions. The (diluted) oil has been used externally in herbal medicine for headaches, rheumatism, general aches and pains, and applied to stings and bites.
ACTIONS: Analgesic, anthelmintic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitoxic, antiviral, bactericidal, carminative, choleretic, cytophylactic, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, fungicidal, parasiticide, rubefacient, stimulant, tonic.
EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation from the dried flowering herb.
CHARACTERISTICS: A pale yellow liquid (browning with age), with a warm, spicy herbaceous, camphoraceous odour. It blends well with lavandin, oakmoss, pine, spike lavender, citronella, rosemary, camphor and cedarwood.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Carvacrol, thymol, cymene, caryophyllene, pinene, bisabolene, linalol, borneol, geranyl acetate, linalyl acetate, terpinene. NB: Constituents are highly variable according to source, but oils classified as ‘oregano’ or ‘oreganum’ have thymol and/or carvacrol as their major components.
SAFETY DATA: Dermal toxin, skin irritant, mucous membrane irritant. Avoid during pregnancy.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE None. ‘Should not be used on the skin at all.’.
OTHER USES: Used as a fragrance component in soaps, colognes and perfumes, especially men’s fragrances. Employed to some extent as a flavouring agent, mainly in meat products and pizzas.... oregano, common
FAMILY: Rutaceae
SYNONYMS: C. aurantium var. dulcis, C. aurantium var. sinensis, China orange, Portugal orange.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: An evergreen tree, smaller than the bitter variety, less hardy with fewer or no spines. The fruit has a sweet pulp and non-bitter membranes. Another distinguishing feature is the shape of the leaf stalk: the bitter orange is broader and in the shape of a heart.
DISTRIBUTION: Native to China; extensively cultivated especially in America (California and Florida) and round the Mediterranean (France, Spain, Italy). The expressed oil is mainly produced in Israel, Cyprus, Brazil and North America; the distilled oil mainly comes from the Mediterranean and North America.
OTHER SPECIES: There are numerous cultivated varieties of sweet orange, for example Jaffa, Navel and Valencia. There are also many other subspecies such as the Japanese orange (C. aurantium var. natsudaidai). See also bitter orange.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: A very nutritious fruit, containing vitamins A, B and C. In Chinese medicine the dried sweet orange peel is used to treat coughs, colds, anorexia and malignant breast sores. Li Shih-chen says: ‘The fruits of all the different species and varieties of citrus are considered by the Chinese to be cooling. If eaten in excess they are thought to increase the “phlegm”, and this is probably not advantageous to the health. The sweet varieties increase bronchial secretion, and the sour promote expectoration. They all quench thirst, and are stomachic and carminative.’.
ACTIONS: Antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, bactericidal, carminative, choleretic, digestive, fungicidal, hypotensive, sedative (nervous), stimulant (digestive and lymphatic), stomachic, tonic.
EXTRACTION: 1. Essential oil by cold expression (hand or machine) of the fresh ripe or almost ripe outer peel. 2. Essential oil by steam distillation of the fresh ripe or almost ripe outer peel. An oil of inferior quality is also produced by distillation from the essences recovered as a byproduct of orange juice manufacture. Distilled sweet orange oil oxidizes very quickly, and anti-oxidant agents are often added at the place of production. (An oil from the flowers is also produced occasionally called neroli Portugal or neroli petalae; an oil from the leaves is also produced in small quantities.)
SYNONYM: 1. A yellowy-orange or dark orange mobile liquid with a sweet, fresh fruity scent, richer than the distilled oil. It blends well with lavender, neroli, lemon, clary sage, myrrh and spice oils such as nutmeg, cinnamon and clove.
2. A pale yellow or colourless mobile liquid with a sweet, light-fruity scent, but little tenacity.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Over 90 per cent monoterpenes, mainly limonene. The cold expressed oil also contains bergapten, auraptenol and acids.
SAFETY DATA: Generally non-toxic (although ingestion of large amounts of orange peel has been known to be fatal to children); non-irritant and non-sensitizing (although limonene has been found to cause dermatitis in a few individuals). Distilled orange oil is phototoxic: its use on the skin should be avoided if there is danger of exposure to direct sunlight. However, there is no evidence to show that expressed sweet orange oil is phototoxic although it too contains coumarins.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE
Skin care: Dull and oily complexions, mouth ulcers.
Circulation muscles and joints: Obesity, palpitations, water retention.
Respiratory system: Bronchitis, chills.
Digestive system: Constipation, dyspepsia, spasm.
Immune system: Colds, ’flu.
Nervous system: Nervous tension and stressrelated conditions.
OTHER USES: Sweet orange peel tincture is used to flavour pharmaceuticals. Extensively used as a fragrance component in soaps, detergents, cosmetics and perfumes, especially eau-de-colognes. Extensively used in all areas of the food and drinks industry (more so than the bitter orange oil). Used as the starting material for the isolation of naturallimonene.... orange, sweet
FAMILY: Asteraceae (Compositae)
SYNONYMS: Common wormwood, green ginger, armoise, absinthium (oil).
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A perennial herb up to 1.5 metres high with a whitish stem, silvery-green, divided leaves covered in silky fine hairs, and pale yellow flowers.
DISTRIBUTION: Native to Europe, North Africa and western Asia; naturalized in North America. It is extensively cultivated in central and southern Europe, the USSR, North Africa and the USA, where the oil is mainly produced.
OTHER SPECIES: There are many other Artemisia species such as davana and the Roman wormwood. See also entry on mugwort (A. vulgaris) also commonly called ‘armoise’; remedy for epilepsy and as an aromatic stewing herb to banish fleas.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: Used as an aromatic-bitter for anorexia, as a digestive tonic and as a choleretic for liver and gall bladder disorders, usually in the form of a dilute extract. It is also used to promote menstruation, reduce fever and expel worms. It was once used as a remedy for epilepsy and as an aromatic stewing herb to banish fleas.
ACTIONS: Anthelmintic, choleretic, deodorant, emmenagogue, febrifuge, insect repellent, narcotic, stimulant (digestive), tonic, vermifuge.
EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation from the leaves and flowering tops. (An absolute is occasionally produced by solvent extraction.)
CHARACTERISTICS: A dark green or bluish oil with a spicy, warm, bitter-green odour and a sharp, fresh topnote. The ‘de-thujonized’ oil blends well with oakmoss, jasmine, neroli, lavender and hyacinth.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Thujone (up to 71 per cent), azulenes, terpenes.
SAFETY DATA: Toxic. Abortifacient. Habitual use can cause restlessness, nightmares, convulsions, vomiting and, in extreme cases, brain damage. In 1915 the French banned the production of the drink Absinthe with this plant, due to its narcotic and habit-forming properties.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE None. ‘Should not be used in therapy either internally or externally.’.
OTHER USES: Occasionally used in rubefacient pharmaceutical preparations and as a fragrance component in toiletries, cosmetics and perfumes. Widely employed (at minute levels) as a flavouring agent in alcoholic bitters and vermouths; also to a lesser extent in soft drinks and some foods, especially confectionery and desserts.... wormwood
FAMILY: Pinaceae
SYNONYMS: Forest pine, Scots pine, Norway pine, pine needle (oil).
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A tall evergreen tree, up to 40 metres high with a flat crown. It has a reddish-brown, deeply fissured bark, long stiff needles which grow in pairs, and pointed brown cones.
DISTRIBUTION: Native to Eurasia; cultivated in the eastern USA, Europe, Russia, the Baltic States and Scandinavia, especially Finland.
OTHER SPECIES: Like the fir tree, there are numerous species of pine which yield an essential oil from their heartwood as well as from their twigs and needles and are also used to produce turpentine. The oil from the needles of the Scotch pine is one of the most useful and safest therapeutically. Other species which produce pine needle oil include the eastern white pine (P. strobus) from the eastern USA and Canada, the dwarf pine (P. mugo var. pumilio) grown in central and southern Europe, and the black pine (P. nigra) from Austria and Yugoslavia.
Many varieties, such as the longleaf pine (Pinus palustris), are used to produce turpentine. In addition, the oil commonly known as Siberian pine needle oil is actually from the Siberian fir (Abies sibirica). See also dwarf pine and the Botanical Classification section.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: The young macerated shoots are added to the bath for nervous exhaustion, circulatory disorders, slow, healing wounds, arthritis, rheumatism and skin disorders. It was used by the American Indians to prevent scurvy, and to stuff mattresses to repel lice and fleas.
As an inhalation it helps relieve bronchial catarrh, asthma, blocked sinuses, etc. The pine kernels are said to be excellent restoratives for consumptives, and after long illness.
ACTIONS: Antimicrobial, antineuralgic, antirheumatic, antiscorbutic, antiseptic (pulmonary, urinary, hepatic), antiviral, bactericidal, balsamic, cholagogue, choleretic, deodorant, diuretic, expectorant, hypertensive, insecticidal, restorative, rubefacient, stimulant (adrenal cortex, circulatory, nervous), vermifuge.
EXTRACTION: 1. Essential oil by dry distillation of the needles. 2. Gum turpentine is produced by steam distillation from the oleoresin: see entry on turpentine. (An inferior essential oil is also produced by dry distillation from the wood chippings, etc.)
CHARACTERISTICS: 1. Pine needle oil is a colourless or pale yellow mobile liquid with a strong, dry-balsamic, turpentine-like aroma. It blends well with cedarwood, rosemary, tea tree, sage, lavender, juniper, lemon, niaouli, eucalyptus and marjoram. 2. See entry on turpentine.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: 50–90 per cent monoterpene hydrocarbons: pinenes, carene, dipentene, limonene, terpinenes, myrcene, ocimene, camphene, sabinene; also bornyl acetate, cineol, citral, chamazulene, among others.
SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant (except in concentration), possible sensitization. Avoid in allergic skin conditions.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE
Skin care: Cuts, lice, excessive perspiration, scabies, sores.
Circulation muscles and joints: Arthritis, gout, muscular aches and pains, poor circulation, rheumatism.
Respiratory system: Asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, sinusitis, sore throat.
Genito-urinary system: Cystitis, urinary infection.
Immune system: Colds, ’flu.
Nervous system: Fatigue, nervous exhaustion and stress-related conditions, neuralgia.
OTHER USES: Used as a fragrance component in soaps, detergents, cosmetics, toiletries (especially bath products) and, to a limited extent, perfumes. Employed as a flavour ingredient in major food products, alcoholic and soft drinks.... pine, scotch
FAMILY: Rosaceae
SYNONYMS: Rose maroc, French rose, Provence rose, hundred-leaved rose, Moroccan otto of rose (oil), French otto of rose (oil), rose de mai (absolute or concrete).
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The rose which is generally used for oil production is strictly a hybrid between R. centifolia, a pink rose, and R. gallica, a dark red rose. This variety, known as rose de mai, grows to a height of 2.5 metres and produces an abundance of flowers with large pink or rosy-purple petals. There are two subspecies – one is more spiny than the other.
DISTRIBUTION: The birthplace of the cultivated rose is believed to be ancient Persia; now cultivated mainly in Morocco, Tunisia, Italy, France, Yugoslavia and China. The concrete, absolute and oil are mainly produced in Morocco; the absolute in France, Italy and China.
OTHER SPECIES: There are over 10,000 types of cultivated rose! There are several subspecies of R. centifolia, depending on the country of origin. Other therapeutic species are the red rose or apothecary rose (R. gallica) of traditional Western medicine, the oriental or tea rose (R. indica), the Chinese or Japanese rose (R. rugosa) and the Turkish or Bulgarian rose (R. damascena) which is also extensively cultivated for its oil. Recently rosehip seed oil from R. rubiginosa has been found to be a very effective skin treatment; it promotes tissue regeneration and is good for scars, burns and wrinkles. The wild rose (Eubatus rubus) is now also being used to produce a rare absolute with a rich, spicy-earthy fragrance. See also entry on damask rose and the Botanical Classification section.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: The healing virtues of the rose have been known since antiquity and although roses are rarely used in herbal practice nowadays, up to the Middle Ages they played an essential part in the materia medica, and still
fulfil an important role in Eastern medicine. They were used for a wide range of disorders, including digestive and menstrual problems, headaches and nervous tension, liver congestion, poor circulation, fever (plague), eye infections and skin complaints. ‘The symbolism connected with the rose is perhaps one of the richest and most complex associated with any plant ... traditionally associated with Venus, the Goddess of love and beauty, and in our materialistic age the Goddess is certainly alive and well in the cosmetics industry for rose oil (mainly synthetic) is found as a component in 46% of men’s perfumes and 98% of women’s fragrances.’.
The French or Moroccan rose possesses narcotic properties and has the reputation for being aphrodisiac (more so than the Bulgarian type), possibly due to the high percentage of phenyl ethanol in the former. For further distinctions between the different properties of rose types, see damask rose.
ACTIONS: Antidepressant, antiphlogistic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, anti-tubercular agent, antiviral, aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericidal, choleretic, cicitrisant, depurative, emmenagogue, haemostatic, hepatic, laxative, regulator of appetite, sedative (nervous), stomachic, tonic (heart, liver, stomach, uterus).
EXTRACTION: 1. Essential oil or otto by water or steam distillation from the fresh petals. (Rose water is produced as a byproduct of this process.) 2. Concrete and absolute by solvent extraction from the fresh petals. (A rose leaf absolute is also produced in small quantities in France.)
CHARACTERISTICS: 1. The oil is a pale yellow liquid with a deep, sweet, rosy-floral, tenacious odour. 2. The absolute is a reddish orange viscous liquid with a deep, rich, sweet, rosy-spicy, honeylike fragrance. It blends well with jasmine, cassie, mimosa, neroli, geranium, bergamot, lavender, clary sage, sandalwood, guaiacwood, patchouli, benzoin, chamomile, Peru balsam, clove and palmarosa.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: It has over 300 constituents, some in minute traces. Mainly citronellol (18–22 per cent), phenyl ethanol (63 per cent), geraniol and nerol (10–15 per cent), stearopten (8 per cent), farnesol (0.2–2 per cent), among others.
SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE
Skin care: Broken capillaries, conjunctivitis (rose water), dry skin, eczema, herpes, mature and sensitive complexions, wrinkles.
Circulation muscles and joints: Palpitations, poor circulation.
Respiratory system: Asthma, coughs, hay fever.
Digestive system: Cholecystitis, liver congestion, nausea.
Genito-urinary system: Irregular menstruation, leucorrhoea, menorrhagia, uterine disorders.
Nervous system: Depression, impotence, insomnia, frigidity, headache, nervous tension and stress-related complaints – ‘But the rose procures us one thing above all: a feeling of well being, even of happiness, and the individual under its influence will develop an amiable tolerance.’.
OTHER USES: Rose water is used as a household cosmetic and culinary article (especially in Persian cookery). The concrete, absolute and oil are employed extensively in soaps, cosmetics, toiletries and perfumes of all types – floral, oriental, chypres, etc. Some flavouring uses, especially fruit products and tobacco.... rose, cabbage
FAMILY: Lamiaceae (Labiatae)
SYNONYMS: R. coronarium, compass plant, incensier.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A shrubby evergreen bush up to 2 metres high with silvery green, needle-shaped leaves and pale blue flowers. The whole plant is strongly aromatic.
DISTRIBUTION: Native to the Mediterranean region, now cultivated worldwide in California, Russia, Middle East, England, France, Spain, Portugal, Yugoslavia, Morocco, China, etc. The main oil-producing countries are France, Spain and Tunisia.
OTHER SPECIES: R. officinalis is the type used for oil production but it is generally not specified, although there are many different cultivars, for example pine-scented rosemary (R. officinalis var. angustifolius). See also Botanical Classification.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: One of the earliest plants to be used for food, medicine and magic, being regarded as sacred in many civilizations. Sprigs of rosemary were burnt at shrines in ancient Greece, fumigations were used in the Middle Ages to drive away evil spirits, and to protect against plague and infectious illness.
It has been used for a wide range of complaints including respiratory and circulatory disorders, liver congestion, digestive and nervous complaints, muscular and rheumatic pain, skin and hair problems. It is current in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia as a specific for ‘depressive states with general debility and indications of cardiovascular weakness’..
ACTIONS: Analgesic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, carminative, cephalic, cholagogue, choleretic, cicatrisant, cordial, cytophylactic, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, fungicidal, hepatic, hypertensive, nervine, parasiticide, restorative, rubefacient, stimulant (circulatory, adrenal cortex, hepatobiliary), stomachic, sudorific, tonic (nervous, general), vulnerary.
EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation of the fresh flowering tops or (in Spain) the whole plant (poorer quality).
CHARACTERISTICS: A colourless or pale yellow mobile liquid with a strong, fresh, minty herbaceous scent and a woody-balsamic undertone. Poor quality oils have a strong camphoraceous note. It blends well with olibanum, lavender, lavandin, citronella, oregano, thyme, pine, basil, peppermint, labdanum, elemi, cedarwood, petitgrain, cinnamon and other spice oils.
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Mainly pinenes, camphene, limonene, cineol, borneol with camphor, linalol, terpineol, octanone, bornyl acetate, among others.
SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant (in dilution only), non-sensitizing. Avoid during pregnancy. Not to be used by epileptics.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE
Skin care: Acne, dandruff, dermatitis, eczema, greasy hair, insect repellent, promotes hair growth, regulates seborrhoea, scabies, stimulates scalp, lice, varicose veins.
Circulation muscles and joints: Arteriosclerosis, fluid retention, gout, muscular pain, palpitations, poor circulation, rheumatism.
Respiratory system: Asthma, bronchitis, whooping cough.
Digestive system: Colitis, dyspepsia, flatulence, hepatic disorders, hypercholesterolaemia, jaundice.
Genito-urinary system: Dysmenorrhoea, leucorrhoea.
Immune system: Colds, ’flu, infections.
Nervous system: Debility, headaches, hypotension, neuralgia, mental fatigue, nervous exhaustion and stress-related disorders.
OTHER USES: Extensively used in soaps, detergents, cosmetics, household sprays and perfumes, especially colognes. Also used as a masking agent. Extensively employed in most major food categories, especially meat products, as well as alcoholic and soft drinks. Serves as a source of natural anti-oxidants.... rosemary
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