Inderal-la Health Dictionary

Inflammation of the larynx... laryngitis

A serious viral haemorrhagic fever of humans harboured by small rodents such as the multimammate mouse of West and Central Africa.... lassa fever

See PREGNANCY AND LABOUR.... labour

The secretion of milk by mammals... lactation

A genus of gram-positive, acid-resistant bacteria in the Lactobacillaceae family. We know of lactobacillus because of its use in making yogurt and the conventional wisdom of taking it in one form or another after antibiotic therapy, but it is an integral part of the colon and mouth flora, and is the critical acidifying agent in vaginal flora. There is a growing body of rather ignored data showing the value of regular consumption of a lactobacillus-containing food in immunosuppression, slow virus, and candidiasis conditions.... lactobacillus

The o?cial name for sugar of milk.... lactose

At or on the side, usually from a stem.... lateral

Having the action of loosening the bowel... laxative

A type of laser that is used to remove thin sheets of tissue from the surface of the cornea (see EYE), thus changing the curvature of the eye’s corneal surface. The procedure is used to excise diseased tissue or to correct myopia (see REFRACTION), when it is known as photorefractive keratectomy or lasik.... excimer laser

Labetalol is an alpha- and beta-adrenoceptor blocker (see ADRENERGIC RECEPTORS) used to treat HYPERTENSION. Beta blockers block the beta-adrenoceptors in the heart, peripheral blood vessels and bronchi. Many drugs belonging to this group are now available, and all are equally e?ective – but with di?erences that may make them suitable for a particular patient. Labetalol has the added property of dilating arterioles (small arteries), thus lowering resistance in the small peripheral blood vessels and helping to reduce blood pressure.... labetalol

A convoluted system of structures forming the inner EAR and involved in hearing and balance.... labyrinth

In?ammation of the LABYRINTH of the EAR. Usually caused by bacterial or viral infection, the former often the result of inadequately treated otitis media (see EAR, DISEASES OF – Diseases of the middle ear), or MEASLES. Symptoms are VERTIGO, nausea, vomiting, nystagmus (see EYE, DISORDERS OF), TINNITUS and loss of hearing. Bacterial infection needs treatment with ANTIBIOTICS; viral infection is usually self-limiting. ANTIHISTAMINE DRUGS will help reduce the vertigo. Rarely, surgery may be required to drain the infection in bacteria-based labyrinthitis.... labyrinthitis

A wound to the skin or surface of an organ which results in a cut with irregular edges (cf. an incision produced with a knife, which has smooth, regular edges).... laceration

A colourless, syrupy, sour liquid, which is produced by the action of a bacterium upon lactose, the sugar found in milk. The growth of this organism and consequent formation of lactic acid cause the souring of milk, and the same change takes place to a limited extent when food is long retained in the stomach.

Lactic acid (CH3.CHOH.COOH) is produced in the body during muscular activity, the lactic acid being derived from the breakdown of GLYCOGEN. Muscle fatigue is associated with an accumulation of lactic acid in the muscle. Recovery follows when enough oxygen gets to the muscle, part of the lactic acid being oxidised and most of it then being built up once more into glycogen.... lactic acid

An osmotic laxative (see OSMOSIS; LAXATIVES), lactulose is a semisynthetic disaccharide – a type of carbohydrate – which is not absorbed from the GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT. It reduces the acidity of FAECES.... lactulose

is due to lack in the INTESTINE of the ENZYME known as LACTASE which is responsible for the digestion of lactose, the sugar in milk. The result is that drinking milk or eating milk-containing products is followed by nausea, a sensation of bloating, or distension, in the gut, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. (Similar disturbances after taking milk may also occur in those who do not lack lactase but have an allergy to milk protein). Treatment is by means of a low-lactose diet avoiding fresh or powdered milk and milk puddings. Many can tolerate fermented milk products, as well as the small amounts of milk used in baking and added to margarine and sausages. However, infamts may have to be fed exclusively on a lactose-free formula as even breast milk may produce symptoms.... lactose intolerance

An operation in which the arches of one or more vertebrae in the SPINAL COLUMN are removed so as to expose a portion of the SPINAL CORD for removal of a tumour, relief of pressure due to a fracture (see under BONE, DISORDERS OF), or disc protrusion.... laminectomy

An antiepileptic drug for the treatment of patients with EPILEPSY, whose condition is characterised by partial seizures.... lamotrigine

Derived from wool fat, it is an ingredient of many ointments and creams but may cause allergic contact DERMATITIS.... lanolin

One of the PROTON-PUMP INHIBITORS, it blocks the ‘proton pump’ ENZYME system of the STOMACH’s acid-producing PARIETAL cells. It is used in short-term treatment of PEPTIC ULCER and in combination with antibacterial drugs to eliminate infection with the bacteria HELICOBACTER PYLORI.... lansoprazole

Also called peritoneoscopy, this is a technique using an instrument called an ENDOSCOPE for viewing the contents of the ABDOMEN. The instrument is inserted via an incision just below the UMBILICUS and air is then pumped into the peritoneal (abdominal) cavity. Visual inspection may help in the diagnosis of cancer, APPENDICITIS, SALPINGITIS, and abnormalities of the LIVER, GALL-BLADDER, OVARIES or GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT. A BIOPSY can be taken of tissue suspected of being abnormal, and operations such as removal of the gall-bladder or appendix may be carried out. (See also MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY (MIS).)... laparoscopy

A general term applied to any operation in which the abdominal cavity is opened (see ABDOMEN). A laparotomy may be exploratory to establish a diagnosis, or carried out as a preliminary to major surgery. Viewing of the peritoneal cavity (see PERITONEUM) through an ENDOSCOPE is called a LAPAROSCOPY or peritoneoscopy.... laparotomy

A self-limiting, intensely itching skin eruption caused by nematode (roundworm) larvae, usually of the dog and cat hookworm (see ANCYLOSTOMIASIS). The migrating larvae leave red, raised, irregular tracks in the skin, often on the foot and less frequently elsewhere. The disease is usually acquired by people who take their holidays on tropical beaches. It can be cured by a three-day course of oral ALBENDAZOLE.... larva migrans

Operation for removal of the LARYNX.... laryngectomy

The organ of voice which also forms one of the higher parts of the AIR PASSAGES. It is placed high up in the front of the neck and there forms a considerable prominence on the surface (Adam’s apple). The vocal cords vibrating in di?erent notes, according to their tenseness and the like, produce the sounds of VOICE AND SPEECH.... larynx

Laser stands for Light Ampli?cation by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The light produced by a laser is of a single wavelength and all the waves are in phase with each other, allowing a very high level of energy to be projected as a parallel beam or focused on to a small spot.

Various gases, liquids and solids will emit light when they are suitably stimulated. A gassed laser is pumped by the ionising e?ect of a high-voltage current. This is the same process as that used in a ?uorescent tube. Each type of laser has a di?erent e?ect on biological tissues and this is related to the wavelength of the light produced. The wavelength determines the degree of energy absorption by di?erent tissues, and because of this, di?erent lasers are needed for di?erent tasks. The argon laser produces light in the visible green wavelength which is selectively absorbed by HAEMOGLOBIN. It heats and coagulates (see COAGULATION) tissues so can be used to seal bleeding blood vessels and to selectively destroy pigmented lesions. The carbon-dioxide laser is the standard laser for cutting tissue: the infra-red beam it produces is strongly absorbed by water and so vaporises cells. Thus, by moving a ?nely focused beam across the tissue, it is possible to make an incision.

The two main uses of laser in surgery are the endoscopic (see ENDOSCOPE) photocoagulation of bleeding vessels, and the incision of tissue. Lasers have important applications in OPHTHALMOLOGY in the treatment of such disorders as detachment of the retina and the diabetic complications of proliferative retinopathy and of the cornea (see EYE, DISORDERS OF). The destruction of abnormal cells – a sign of pre-malignancy – in the CERVIX UTERI is done using lasers. The beams may also be used to remove scar tissue from the FALLOPIAN TUBES resulting from infection, thus unblocking the tubes and improving the chances of CONCEPTION. Lasers also have several important applications in DERMATOLOGY. They are used in the treatment of pigmented lesions such as LENTIGO, in the obliteration of port-wine stains, in the removal of small, benign tumours such as verrucas, and ?nally in the removal of tattoos.

Low-intensity laser beams promote tissue healing and reduce in?ammation, pain and swelling. Their e?ect is achieved by stimulating blood and lymph ?ow and by cutting the production of PROSTAGLANDINS, which provoke in?ammation and pain. The beams are used to treat ligament sprains, muscle tears and in?amed joints and tendons.

The three great advantages of lasers are their potency, their speed of action, and the ability to focus on an extremely small area. For these reasons they are widely used, and have allowed great advances to be made in microsurgery, and particularly in FIBREOPTIC ENDOSCOPY.... laser

Acronym for laser in-situ keratomileusis, which is a variety of surgery of the EYE used to correct severe myopia (short-sightedness – see REFRACTION; EYE, DISORDERS OF). A thin ?ap of the cornea is lifted, the area underneath reshaped using an EXCIMER LASER, and the ?ap is then returned to its place, the altered contour of the cornea improving the patient’s sight.... lasik

See LETHARGY.... lassitude

A popular name for NITROUS OXIDE GAS.... laughing gas

See Alhucema.... lavender

Any one of the three discrete varieties of body tissue that develop in the early stages of growth of the EMBRYO. Development of the layers can be followed throughout the embryo’s stages of growth and specialisation into the body’s full range of tissues and organs (see ECTODERM; ENDODERM; MESODERM).... germ layer

Groups of specialised cells distributed throughout the PANCREAS, that produce three hormones: INSULIN, GLUCAGON, and SOMATOSTATIN.... islets of langerhans

Lips. The labia majora and labia minora are the outer and inner lip-like folds of skin surrounding the entrance to the VAGINA.... labia

Labium is the Latin word for a lip or lip-shaped organ.... labium

A branch of the ophthalmic nerve supplying the lacrimal gland and conjunctiva of the EYE.... lacrimal nerve

Crying, or the secretion of an excess quantity of tears.... lacrimation

An ENZYME produced by glands in the small INTESTINE which changes lactose (milk sugar) into glucose and galactose during the process of digestion.... lactase

A lymphatic vessel that transmits CHYLE from the INTESTINE. (See also LYMPH.)... lacteal

Retarding or causing cessation of the secretion of milk... lactifuge

A small pit or depression.... lacuna

(Greek) One who is well-spoken Lali, Lallia, Lalya, Lalea, Lalie, Lalee, Laly, Laley... lalia

A small disc of glycerin jelly, 3 mm (1/8 inch) in diameter, containing an active drug for application to the eye. It is applied by insertion behind the lower lid.... lamella

A leaf that is lance-shaped.... lanceolate

(English) One who takes the narrow path

Laine, Lainey, Laney, Lanie, Layne, Laina, Layna, Lainie, Laen, Laene, Laena, Laeni, Laenie, Lanee, Laynee, Laenee... lane

Soft ?ne hair covering the FETUS. It disappears by the ninth month of gestation and is therefore only seen on premature babies.... lanugo

An instrument consisting, essentially, of a rigid or ?exible cylinder, an eyepiece and a light source, which is inserted through a small incision into the abdominal cavity (which has already been distended with carbon dioxode gas). The laparoscope allows the contents of the abdominal cavity to be examined without performing a LAPAROTOMY. Some operations may be performed using the laparoscope to guide the manipulation of instruments inserted through another small incision – for example, STERILISATION; CHOLECYSTECTOMY. (See also ENDOSCOPE; MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY (MIS).)... laparoscope

(American) One who is full of life Larche... larch

(English) Resembling the blue flower

Larkspurr, Larkspurre... larkspur

The pre-adult stage in insects and nematodes occurring between the egg and the sexually mature adult.... larva

Also known as croup – see under LARYNX, DISORDERS OF.... laryngo-tracheo-bronchitis

See OTOLARYNGOLOGY.... laryngology

Examination of the LARYNX may be performed indirectly with use of a laryngeal mirror, or directly by use of a laryngoscope – a type of endoscope. The direct examination is usually performed under general anaesthetic.... laryngoscope

Obstruction of the larynx is potentially dangerous in adults but can sometimes be life-threatening in infants and children. Stridor – noisy, di?cult breathing – is a symptom of obstruction. There are several causes, including congenital abnormalities of the larynx. Others are in?ammatory conditions such as acute laryngitis (see below), acute EPIGLOTTITIS and laryngo-tracheo-bronchitis (croup – see below); neurological abnormalities; trauma; and inhalation of foreign bodies.

Laryngitis In?ammation of the mucous membrane of the larynx and vocal chords may be acute or chronic. The cause is usually an infection, most commonly viral, although it may be the result of secondary bacterial infection, voice abuse or irritation by gases or chemicals. ACUTE LARYNGITIS may accompany any form of upper-respiratory-tract infection. The main symptom is hoarseness and often pain in the throat. The voice becomes husky or it may be lost. Cough, breathing diffculties and sometimes stridor may occur. Acute airway obstruction is unusual following laryngitis but may occasionally occur in infants (see laryngotracheo-bronchitis, below).

Treatment Vapour inhalations may be soothing and reduce swelling. Usually all that is needed is rest and analgesics such as paracetamol. Rarely, airway intervention – either ENDOTRACHEAL INTUBATION or TRACHEOSTOMY – may be necessary if severe airway obstruction develops (see APPENDIX 1: BASIC FIRST AID). A?ected patients should rest their voice and avoid smoking.

Chronic laryngitis can result from repeated attacks of acute laryngitis; excessive use of the voice – loud and prolonged, singing or shouting; tumours, which may be benign or malignant; or secondary to diseases such as TUBERCULOSIS and SYPHILIS.

Benign tumours or small nodules, such as singer’s nodules, may be surgically removed by direct laryngoscopy under general anaesthetic; while cancer of the larynx may be treated either by RADIOTHERAPY or by SURGERY, depending on the extent of the disease. Hoarseness may be the only symptom of vocal-chord disturbance or of laryngeal cancer: any case which has lasted for six weeks should be referred for a specialist opinion.

Laryngectomy clubs are being established

A laryngoscopic view of the interior of the larynx.

throughout the country to support patients following laryngectomy. Speech therapists provide speech rehabilitation.... larynx, disorders of

An analogue of prostaglandin (see PROSTAGLANDINS), used to treat open-angled GLAUCOMA and raised intra-ocular pressure in the EYE. Delivered as an eye drop, the drug is used in patients who cannot tolerate, or who fail to respond to, other treatments.... latanoprost

The time between initiation of infection and the first shedding of the agent.... latent period

A large, ?at, triangular muscle in the back.... latissimus dorsi

The name applied to the washing-out of the stomach, for example to deal with potentially harmful drug ingestion. (See GASTRIC LAVAGE.)... lavage

Patches of coffeecoloured skin that may occur anywhere on the body.

Café au lait spots are usually oval in shape and may measure several centimetres across.

Generally, a few spots are not significant; larger numbers may be a sign of neurofibromatosis.... café au lait spots

Another name for giardiasis.... lambliasis

A reverse transcriptase inhibitor drug used in the treatment of HIV infection.

Often, when the treatment is started, 3 drugs are used: 2 reverse transcriptase inhibitors and a third drug from another class, such as a protease inhibitor.

Lamivudine may also be used to treat longstanding hepatitis B infections.

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea are the most common side effects.... lamivudine

Amygdalin. From apricot or peach kernels. Dramatic claims of cures of malignancy reported in 1950. In spite of extensive anecdotal efficacy, performance has not lived up to early promise. Powdered kernels are usually taken with additional vitamins and pancreatic enzymes. Purpose of the enzymes is to break down the muco-protein capsule which enables the cyanide in the remedy to penetrate the wall of the cancer cell and destroy its contents. Dr Ernest Krebs claimed the body’s own immune response broke down the cyanide content to produce a substance with an ability to destroy cancer cells. Apple pips are also said to be a good source of this property. ... laetrile

A small, pointed, double-edged knife used to open and drain lesions, such as boils and abscesses.... lancet

The system that produces and drains tears. The lacrimal apparatus of the eye includes the main and accessory lacrimal glands and the nasolacrimal drainage duct. The main gland lies just within the upper and outer

margin of the eye orbit and drains on to the conjunctiva. It secretes tears during crying and when the eye is irritated. The accessory gland lies within the conjunctiva, and maintains the normal tear film, secreting it directly onto the conjunctiva. Tears drain through the lacrimal puncta, tiny openings towards the inner ends of the upper and lower eyelids. The puncta are connected by narrow tubes to the lacrimal sac, which lies within the lacrimal bone on the side of the nose. Leading from the sac is the nasolacrimal duct, which opens inside the nose.... lacrimal apparatus

Examination of the larynx using a mirror held against the back of the palate (indirect laryngoscopy), or a rigid or flexible viewing tube called a laryngoscope (direct laryngoscopy).... laryngoscopy

Inflammation of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi, caused by a viral or a bacterial infection.

The disorder is usually mild, but can be life-threatening.

It is a common cause of croup in young children.... laryngotracheobronchitis

A solution of opium, formerly used as a sedative and painkiller and in the treatment of diarrhoea.... laudanum

An ambiguous name for the visual defect that commonly results from squint (see amblyopia).... lazy eye

An illuminated type of microscope that is used to examine the internal structures of the front

part of the eye and of the retina at the back. (See also eye, examination of.)... slit-lamp

(Bruhl) Stapf.

Family: Ranunculaceae.

Habitat: The sub-alpine and alpine Himalayas of Sikkim between altitudes of 3,330 m and 4,200 m.

Ayurvedic: Vatsanaabha (related sp.).

Folk: Kaalo Bikhmo.

Action: Poisonous. (Found mixed with the roots of A.ferox and A. spicatum of commerce.)... aconitum laciniatum

(L.) Juss. ex Schult.

Family: Amaranthaceae.

Habitat: The warmer parts of India, ascending to 1,000 m.

Ayurvedic: Paashaanabheda. Gorakshaganjaa, Aadaanpaaki, Shatkabhedi.

Siddha/Tamil: Sirupeelai.

Folk: Paashaanabheda (southern India), Gorakhagaanjaa.

Action: Anticalculus (used in lithiasis), diuretic, demulcent, anthelmintic, antidiarrhoeal, anticholerin, bechic; leaf used in hepatitis, root in strangury. A decoction of the plant is used in catarrh of bladder. The flowers and roots are used for headache.

Key application: As diuretic and lithontriptic. (The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

The plant contains palmitic acid, beta-sitosterol and alpha-amyrin.

Aerva scandens Wall., synonym A. sanguinolenta Blume, is also known as Paashaanabheda in the south.

Species used as Paashaanabheda: Bergenia ligulata (north), Aerva lanata (south), Coleus amboinicus (east) and Bryophyllum pinnatum (west).

Dosage: 50-100 ml decoction. (CCRAS.)... aerva lanata

Thw.

Synonym: A. salviifolium (Linn. f.) Wang.

Family: Alangiaceae.

Habitat: The drier parts of India, in plains and foothills of southern India.

Ayurvedic: Ankola, Ankota, Taamraphala, Guptasneha, Dirgha- keelaka.

Siddha/Tamil: Azinjil.

Action: Rootbark—astringent, spasmolytic, hypotensive, also diaphoretic and antipyretic. Leaves— hypoglycaemic. Fruits—acidic, astringent, laxative and refrigerant. Used in haemorrhages, strangury and consumption. The bark is used as a substitute for Cephaelis ipecacuanha. It is a rich source of alkaloids structurally related to ipecac alkaloids (emetin).

The bark contains the alkaloid alan- gine which shows a selective action of the parasympathetic mechanism, the action being more marked on gastrointestinal tract. The root extract shows hypotensive action. Flowers contain deoxytubulosine, a potent antiplatelet aggregation component, which has a strong binding with DNA.

The plant extract possesses antineo- plastic properties.

Dosage: Rootbark—1-2 g powder. (CCRAS.)... alangium lamarckii

Wall. ex Bedd.

Family: Combretaceae.

Habitat: Central and southern India.

English: Axle-wood, Button tree, Ghatti tree.

Ayurvedic: Dhava, Dhurand- hara, Shakataahya. Indravrksha (A. acuminata Wall. ex Bedd. is a related sp. of Dhava).

Unani: Dhaawaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Vellaynaga.

Folk: Ghatti (Gum).

Action: Astringent, cooling, used in diarrhoea, dysentery, ulcers, piles, urinary disorders and dysuria. Gum—used as a tonic after delivery.

The leaves, bark and heartwood yield quinic and shikmik acids; leaves contain gallotannin (90-95% of the tannins). The young leaves and shoots contain 50% tannins (dry basis). The bark contains 12-18% tannins. Heart- wood contains gallic acid, ellagic acid, its derivatives, quercetin and myricetin.

The gum is mainly the calcium salt of a complex, high molecular weight polysaccharic acid (ghattic acid). The gum is a substitute for Gum arabic.... anogeissus latifolia

Antibiotics with a beta-lactam ring in their molecular structure, including the penicillins and the cephalosporins. Act on penicillin binding proteins in the mucopeptides of the bacterial cell wall. Can be destroyed bybacterial beta-lactamases.... beta lactams

The most common type of cirrhosis, caused by chronic alcoholism and a lousy diet (or malabsorption).... cirrhosis, laennecs

See CRADLE CAP.... crusta lactea

A cutaneous eruption resulting from exposure of the skin the infective filariform larva of non-human hookworms, Ancylostoma braziliense, A. caninum and some Strongyloides spp (especially S. procyormis of the raccoon and S. myopotami of the nutria).... cutaneous larva migrans

The broad or fish tapeworm of humans and other fish-eating mammals. Als o called Dibothriocephalus latum. Infection acquired by eating fish containing the infective plerocercoid (sparganum) larva. May be associated in humans with a megaloblastic (macrocytic) anaemia due to competition for Vitamin B12.... diphyllobothrium latum

Linn.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: Native to northern Europe; now found in western Himalayas, Kashmir and Simla.

English: Common or Great Burdock.

Folk: Phaggarmuul (Kashmir).

Action: Hypoglycaemic (plant extract caused reduction of blood sugar with an increase in carbohydrate tolerance). Roots—inhibitory of tumour growth, cardiac stimulant, diuretic, spasmolytic. Leaves and seeds—anticutaneous (used in psoriasis, seborrhoic eczema).

Key application: As dermatolog- ical agent. (The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

Important constituents of Burdock roots are fatty acids, organic acids, phenolic acids, lignans, sesquiterpenes, tannin, inulin and mucilage.

Extracts of the fruit are reported to have hypoglycaemic activity in rats. Arctigenin (lignan) is a weak inhibitor of experimental tumour growth. The antimicrobial properties are due to polyacetylenes (of the root). The root exhibits antibiotic activity against Staphylococcus, and is used for fungal and bacterial infections. A flavonoid, arctiin, shows smooth muscle relaxant properties.... arctium lappa

Gilib.

Synonym: A. rusticana Gaertn et al.

Family: Cruciferae; Brassicaceae.

Habitat: Native to Europe; grown in gardens in northern India and in hill stations of southern India.

English: Horseradish.

Action: Circulatory stimulant, diaphoretic, diuretic, antibiotic. Used for both urinary and respiratory tract infections. Root—liver, spleen and pancreatic stimulant; an alternative to Cayenne pepper; urinary antiseptic; diuretic; used in the treatment of gout, increases excretion of uric acid; also for proteinura and vaginal discharges. An infusion is used for hepatitis.

Key application: In catarrhs of the respiratory tract and as a supportive therapy for infections of the urinary tract; externally for catarrhs of the respiratory tract and hyperaemic treatment of minor muscle aches. (German Commission E.) It is contraindicated in stomach and intestinal ulcers and kidney disorders; not to be administered to children under 4 years.

The root contains glucosinolates, mainly sinigrin, which releases allyl isothiocyanate on contact with the enzyme myrosin during crushing. The oil exhibits broad-spectrum antibiotic activity due to allyl isothiocyanates and allied compounds; used internally as stimulant, sudorific and diuretic. Antibiotic activity is stronger against Gram-positive bacteria than against Gram-negative bacteria. The oil also exhibits cytotoxic activity.

The root produces an inhibitory effect on the growth of Gram-negative bacteria of the typhoid-paratyphoid- entertitis group.

Kaempferol, a component of Horseradish, inhibits thyroid peroxidase, which is involved in the biosynthe sis of thyroid hormone. (Sharon M. Herr.)... armoracia lapathifolia

Buch.-Ham.

Synonym: A. lakoocha Roxb.

Family: Moraceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, Khasi Hills and western Ghats.

English: Monkey Jack.

Ayurvedic: Lakuch, Kshudra Panas, Granthiphala, Pitanaasha.

Siddha/Tamil: Ilangu, Irapala, Ottipilu (Tamil).

Folk: Badhar.

Action: Bark—when applied externally, draws out purulent matter; heals boils, cracked skin and pimples. Seeds—purgative, haemagglutinating. Stems— vermifuge.

The stembark contains oxyresvera- trol, used for tapeworm.

A lectin, artocarpin, isolated from seeds, precipitates several galactoman- nans. It agglutinates rat lymphocytes and mouse ascites cells.

Dosage: Fruit—5-10 ml juice. (CCRAS.)... artocarpus lacucha

A method of gastric decontamination used in the treatment of poisoning. It is not used routinely. Lavage involves the passage of a lubricated tube via the mouth and OESOPHAGUS into the stomach. Patients are positioned on their side with the head lower than the feet. A small quantity of ?uid (300 ml) is passed into the stomach and the contents then drained out (by gravity) by lowering the end of the tube. This is repeated until the solution is clear of particulate matter. The procedure should be done only by an experienced health professional.... gastric lavage

(French) One who loves and is loved

Lamour, Lamoure, L’Amoure, Lamore, Lamoura... l’amour

(Hebrew) A distinguished woman; fair-skinned Laden... laadan

(Indian) A graceful dancer Laasyah, Lasya, Lasyah... laasya

(Hebrew) Feminine form of Labon; white; fair-skinned Labanah, Labanna, Labania, Labanea, Labaniya, Labannah, Labaniah, Labaneah, Labaniyah... labana

(American) One who moves slowly Labie, Labi, Laby, Labey, Labee, Labea... labe

Roxb. var. nepalensis A. DC.

Family: Begoniaceae.

Habitat: Tropical and sub-tropical regions, especially in America. Found in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Manipur, ascending to an altitude to 2,100 m.

English: Beefsteak Geraniums, Elephant's Ear.

Folk: Hooirjo (West Bengal), Teisu (Nagaland).

Action: A decoction of the root is given for liver diseases and fever. The extract from succulent stalks is used for venereal diseases in folk medicine. Fresh shoots are chewed for tooth troubles. Aqueous extracts of the leaves and flowers of Begonia sp. are active against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Hooirjo and Teisu are also equated with B. palmata D. Don var. gamblei Hara, found in northeastern regions of India.... begonia laciniata

Lapsang Souchong tea is a type of black tea originating from China. Out of all the types of black tea, this one is special thanks to its history, rich taste and health benefits. Find out more about the Lapsang Souchong tea in this article. About the Lapsang Souchong tea Lapsang Souchong tea is a type of black tea originating from China, from the Wuyi region of the Fujian province. It is the first type of black tea in history, having been discovered around the beginning of the 19^th century. Later, people started to move the tea bushes even outside of China, for example to India or Sri Lanka. The flavor of this tea is smoky, rich and fruity. It goes well with salty and spicy dishes, as well as with cheese. Lapsang Souchong tea - a smoked tea It is said that the lapsang souchong tea was discovered by accident. During the Dao Guang era of the Qing Dynasty, an army unit passed through Xingcu village and decided to set camp at a tea factory filled with unprocessed tea leaves. The workers could only return at the company after the soldiers left. Discovering that they didn’t have enough time to let the leaves dry, the workers decided to speed up the process. What they did was to place the tea leaves into bamboo baskets and dry them over fires made from local pines. This is how the lapsang souchong tea was discovered. Because of this, it is also called “smoked tea”. Seeing as they are smoke-dried over fires made from pine wood, the lapsang souchong tea has a strong, smoky flavor. How to make lapsang souchong tea To make lapsang souchong tea, you need one teaspoon of leaves for a 6 ounce cup. Leave it to steep for 3-4 minutes before you remove the leaves. You can later use the leaves to resteep, but the flavor might differ after each steeping. The lapsang souchong tea is usually drunk without milk or sugar. People either love its taste, or completely hate it, so there’s no need to change it. Benefits of lapsang souchong tea The lapsang souchong tea, just like all other types of black teas, has many health benefits that should encourage you to drink more of it. First of all, drinking lapsang souchong tea can reduce your chances of getting cancer. It also helps reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, as it lowers the cholesterol in your blood and helps the blood flow better in your veins. The lapsang souchong tea helps strengthen your immunity, protecting you from viruses that lead to colds, the flu or other diseases. It also helps you fight against various types of inflammations. During diets, it is recommended to drink black tea; this includes the lapsang souchong tea, as well. It helps burn fats faster and, therefore, helps you lose weight. Side effects of lapsang souchong tea The side effects of the lapsang souchong tea are those found at other types of black tea, as well. They are related to the caffeine found in the tea’s composition, and drinking too much tea. If you know caffeine isn’t good for you, be careful when drinking lapsang souchong tea. It may cause you to experience the following symptoms: insomnia, anxiety, headache, dizziness, irritability, blurred vision and skin rashes. You also have to be careful if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. In the case of pregnancy, the caffeine in the lapsang souchong tea (and caffeine in general) can cause miscarriages and birth defects. If you’re breastfeeding, lapsang souchong tea can affect the baby, who might get insomnia, heart palpitations and tremors. Also, if you’re suffering from ulcer, don’t drink too much lapsang souchong tea. The caffeine in its composition may increase the production of stomach acid and, therefore, aggravate the ulcer symptoms. It is recommended that you not drink more than six cups of tea per day. Otherwise, it might end up becoming harmful rather than helpful. The side effects that you might get are headaches, dizziness, insomnia, irregular heartbeats, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. If you encounter any of these symptoms, reduce the amount of tea you drink. This applies to all types of tea, including the lapsang souchong tea. If you want a special kind of black tea, try the lapsang souchong tea. The smoky, fruity flavor will definitely charm you. And don’t forget, it’s also good for your health!... benefits of lapsang souchong tea

(Irish) A mighty battlemaiden; crowned with laurel Laoise, Laoiseach, Laobhaoise... labhaoise

(Arabic) Having great wisdom; one who is intelligent

Labibah, Labeeba, Labeebah, Labyba, Labybah, Labieba, Labiebah, Labeiba, Labeibah, Labeaba, Labeabah... labiba

Chemical instability.... lability

(Spanish) The beautiful one Labonitah, Laboneeta, Labonyta, Labonieta, Laboneita, Laboneata... labonita

Spreng.

Synonym: B. latifolia Roxb.

Family: Anacardiaceae.

Habitat: Drier parts of India.

English: Almondette tree, Cheron- jee, Buchanan's Mango.

Ayurvedic: Priyaala, Piyaala, Kharskandha, Bahulvalkala, Taa- paseshtha, Sannakadru Dhanush- pat, Chaar.

Unani/Tamil ? Saaraapparuppu.

Siddha: Mudaima, Morala (Tamil).

Action: Kernel—laxative, febrifuge. An ointment made out of the kernels is used to cure itch of the skin and to remove blemishes from the face. Oil from kernels— substitute for almond oil. Applied to glandular swellings of the neck. The oil is a promising source of palmitic and oleic acids.

Kernel lipids (65.6%), comprised mainly of neutral lipids (90.4%), consist mostly of triacylglycerol (82.2%), free fatty acids (7.8%) and small amount of diacylglycerols, monoacylglycerols and sterols.

The kernels are used in Indian medicine as a brain tonic. The leaves are valued as a cardiotonic.

The leaves contain 2.64% tannins (0.35% gallo-tannins). The presence of triterpenoids, saponins, flavonoids and reducing sugars are also reported. Powdered or crushed leaves are applied to wounds.

The bark contains 13.40% tannins. The presence of alkaloids, saponins and reducing sugars is also reported.

Gum (stem exudate) is antidiar- rhoeal. Used internally in rheumatism.

Dosage: Stem bark—5-10 g (API Vol. IV.)... buchanania lanzan

Calamus tea is a good remedy against a large array of ailments such as laryngitis, but not only. It has a good taste when drank and it can fight the desire for tobacco. Calamus Tea description Calamus is a perennial semi-aquatic plant that grows in wetlands. It is found in Europe, Russia, East and South Asia, and the United States and Canada. Its leaves and rhizomes have a strong scent, due to which Calamus is appreciated in the perfume industry. Calamus tea is the resulting beverage from brewing the abovementioned plant. Calamus Tea brewing To prepare Calamus tea:

• pour a cup of boiling water on 2 teaspoonfuls of the calamus root
• leave it to steep for about 10 to 15 minutes

Calamus tea is recommended to be drunk an hour before eating. Calamus Tea benefits Calamus tea has been successfully used to:

• treat chest congestion
• treat digestive problems (flatulence and bloating)
• relieve stomach spasms
• enhance the appetite
• treat laryngitis
• fight the desire for tobacco
• fight fever

Calamus Tea side effects Calamus tea is not recommended to pregnant or nursing women. Calamus tea is a medicinal beverage efficient in dealing with stomach spasms, digestive problems and chest congestion.... calamus tea is good for laryngitis

Linn.

Synonym: C. lachryma Linn.

Family: Gramineae; Poaceae.

Habitat: Warm and damp areas up to about 2,000 m, both wild and cultivated as an annual grass.

English: Job's Tears.

Ayurvedic: Gavedhukaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Kaatu Kunthumani.

Folk: Garaheduaa, Gargari.

Action: Fruits—a decoction is used for catarrhal affections of the air passage and inflammation of the urinary tract. Seed— diuretic. Root—used in menstrual disorders. Leaves—used as a drink for inducing fertility in women.

The seeds contain trans-ferulyl stig- mastanol and trans-ferulyl campes- tanol, which form part of an ovulation- inducing drug. Seed extract—immu- no-enhancer, used for the prevention of cancer and infections. Seeds exhibit anti-tumour and anticomplimenta- ry activities. Seeds contain coixeno- lides, a mixed ester of palmitoleic and vaccenic acids, which is an anticancer agent.

The bigger var. of the grass is equated with Coix gigantea Koenig ex Roxb., also known as Gavedhukaa and Gar- gari.... coix lacryma-jobi

(French) Woman from Normandy; as delicate as lace

Lace, Lacee, Lacene, Laci, Laciann, Lacie, Lacina, Lacy, Lacyann, Laicee, Laicey, Laisey, Laycie, Layci, Laycee, Lacea, Laycea, Laicea... lacey

(American) A sweet woman Lachell, Lachel, Lachele, Lachela, Lachella... lachelle

(Greek) In mythology, one of the three Fates

Lachesiss, Lachesisse, Lachesys, Lacheses... lachesis

(Gaelic) From the land of the lochs Lochlan, Lachlana, Lochlana, Lachina, Lachyna, Locke, Loche, Lacklan, Locklan... lachlan

(also Lacrimitis) Inflamed lacrimal or tear ducts.... lachrymitis

Cascara Sagrada Tea has been known since ancient times as a great stimulant and laxative agent. In fact, the ones to discover its medical benefits were the American. The first proofs of this fact date from the 17th century, when American practitioners used Cascara Sagrada bark to treat many bacterial ailments of the digestive system. Cascara is a small shrub that grows mainly in the North America, in states like Idaho, California or Montana. Cascara never grows taller than 50 centimeters and has pale yellow greenish leaves and deep green leaves. Also known as rhamnus purshiana, Cascara has purple fruits or black berries that hide usually three hard seeds. Cascara Sagrada is harvested in the fall and can only be used dried (one year apart from the harvesting time) in order to release its curative benefits. Many people in Northern America specialize in Cascara Sagrada harvesting and herb processing (the plant needs to be properly dried and according to a list of specifications). Cascara Sagrada Tea Properties Cascara Sagrada Tea is known for its strong, stimulant and laxative properties. The main substances of this tea are very efficient in cases of nervous system failures and intestinal tract ailments. Cascara Sagrada Tea has a very bitter and therefore unpleasant taste. That’s why most people prefer to take it as capsules or extracts. Cascara Sagrada Tea Benefits Aside from its use as a constipation treatment, Cascara Sagrada Tea can also cure a variety of diseases involving the digestive tract, such as intestinal parasites or bacterial infections. However, make sure that you take this tea responsibly and don’t forget that this is a medical treatment wich only should be taking while you’re sick. Don’t try to replace your morning coffee with Cascara Sagrada Tea or you’ll face a series of complications! How to make Cascara Sagrada Tea Infusion When preparing Cascara Sagrada Tea, you have to make sure that you only use ingredients from a trusted provider. Nowadays, there are many illegal substances on the market sold as tea. Also, the herb you bought may be exactly what the label says it is, but not properly dried, in which case you’ll suffer from unwanted complications as well. Once you have the right ingredients, use a teaspoon of dried herbs for every cup of tea you want to make, add boiling water and wait 20 minutes for the wonderful benefits to be released. Strain the decoction and drink it hot or cold. You may also add honey or even sugar if the taste feels a bit unpleasant. Cascara Sagrada Tea Side Effects When taken in small amounts, Cascara Sagrada Tea is a safe treatment. However, high dosages may lead to various problems, such as urine discoloration, blood in stools, pain and vomiting. Make sure the dosage you’re using is the appropriate one or ask your doctor before making any moves: it’s better to be safe than sorry! Cascara Sagrada Contraindications Cascara Sagrada Tea is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, patients suffering from appendicitis or ulcerative colitis. Also, if you are on blood thinners or anticoagulants, avoid taking a treatment based on Cascara Sagrada Tea. To gather more information, talk to an herbalist or to your doctor! If he gives you the green light and you happen to be in a teashop, add Cascara Sagrada Tea to your shopping cart and enjoy its wonderful benefits responsibly!... cascara sagrada tea - a powerful laxative

Linn.

Family: Amaryllidaceae.

Habitat: Wild as well as cultivated as an ornamental.

English: Wide-leaved Crinum.

Ayurvedic: Sudarshana, Sukhadar- shana, Chakraangi, Somvalli, Madhuparnikaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Vishamoongil.

Action: Bulb—rubefacient, an- tirheumatic. Also used for piles and tubercular fistula.

The alkaloids, crinafoline and crina- folidine, have been isolated from the plant. These along with crinafoline methochloride exhibited significant tumour-inhibiting activity in vivo. The plant extract in also used in allergic condition. This activity is attributed to the presence of glucan A and phos- phatidyllycorine.

A related species, C. zeylanicum, is known as Milk-and-Wine Lily.

Dosage: Leaf, root—5-10 g paste. (CCRAS.)... crinum latifolium

(American) A sly woman Lakole, Lucole, Lukole... lacole

(Spanish) Form of Lucretia, meaning “a bringer of light; a successful woman” Lacrete, Lacrita, Lacrite, Lacryta, Lacryte... lacreta

See EYE – Lacrimal apparatus.... lacrimal

The smallest bones of the face, one forming part of the bony structure of each orbit containing an EYE.... lacrimal bones

Linn.f.

Synonym: D.frondosa Roxb.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

Habitat: The sub-Himalayan tract, ascending up to 750 m, and throughout India.

Siddha/Tamil: Erigai, Navelangu.

Folk: Gorakh, Takoli, Bithuaa.

Action: A decoction of bark— used in dyspepsia. Oil—applied to rheumatic affections, and cutaneous diseases. Leaf—in leprosy and allied obstinate skin diseases.

Baptigenin from leaves and flowers possesses properties to treat arthritic affections and inflammations. An isoflavone glycoside of biochanin (lanceolarin) has been obtained from the root bark. Ether, EtOH and aqueous extract of leaves exhibited an- tiarthritic activity in rats.

The heartwood of Dalbergia sp. contains quinones. Bark and pods contain tannins.

Root bark gave isoflavone glycosides and lanceolarin.

Dosage: Whole plant—50-100 ml decoction. (CCRAS.)... dalbergia lanceolaria

Roxb.

Synonym: D. emerginata Roxb.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

Habitat: Bengal, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Western Peninsula.

English: East Indian Rosewood, Bombay Blackwood.

Ayurvedic: Shimshapaa (related sp.)

Unani: Sheesham.

Siddha/Tamil: Itti, Eravadi, Karun- doroiral.

Folk: Sisu.

Action: Stimulant, appetiser, anthelmintic, spasmogenic. Used in dyspepsia, diarrhoea; also in obesity, cutaneous affections and leprosy.

The bark contains hentriacontane, latifolin, beta-sitosterol and tannins. EtOH (50%) extract of the bark exhibits spasmogenic, and anthelmintic activity against Ascaridia galli.... dalbergia latifolia

Ehrh.

Habitat: Native to Europe. Now cultivated mainly in Kashmir (Yarikhah), also occurs wild.

English: Grecian Foxglove.

Ayurvedic: Hritpatri, Tilapushpi (non-classical). (Yellow var.)

Action: See D. purpurea.

Earlier, the herb was used to treat ulcers, boils, abscesses, headaches and paralysis. William Withering, an 18th century English country doctor, explored the plant's hidden properties. His work led to the production of digoxin, a life-saving medicine.

Safety of the herb cannot be established due to variable amounts of cardiac glycosides. The powder is toxic at 520 mg.... digitalis lanata

Linn. var. typicus Prain.

Synonym: Lablab purpureus Linn.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated throughout India.

English: Indian Butter Bean, Lablab Bean, Horsebean.

Ayurvedic: Nishpaav, Sem.

Unani: Lab Laab, Semphali.

Siddha/Tamil: Avarin.

Action: Seeds—febrifuge, stomachic, antispasmodic, antifungal.

Key application: As expectorant. (The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

Lablab pods contain protein 4.5, carbohydrates 10.0, calcium 0.05%; vitamin C (7.33 to 10.26 mg/100g in cooked samples; 0.77-1.12 mg/100 g in uncooked samples) increases on cooking. Enzyme liberation of essential amino acids from protein is slower than from casein and wheat.

Callus tissue of Dolichos lablab Linn. (Horsebean) showed presence of beta- sitosterol, stigmasterol, lanosterol and cholesterol. The isolated flavonoids show antifungal activity (the maximum amount of flavonoids was found in the flowers). The plant contains the alkaloid, trigonelline, which exhibits hypoglycaemic activity. The maximum alkaloid was found in the seeds (0.14 mg/g dry weight). In tissue cultures raised from seedlings, the maximum amount was present in the tissue at the age of 6 weeks (0.068 mg/g dry weight).... dolichos lablab

(Slavic) In mythology, goddess of love, harmony, and fertility Ladah, Ladda, Laddah... lada

(American) As beautiful as the sunrise

Ladawn, LaDaun, Ladaun, LeDawn, Ledawn, LeDaun, Ledaun... ladawn

(Slavic) Feminine form of Vladislav; a glorious ruler Ladislavah, Ladislavia, Ladislavea, Ladyslava, Ladyslavia, Ladyslavea... ladislava

Roxb. var. aspera (Willd.) C.B. Clarke.

Synonym: E. aspera Willd. E. obtusifolia Hochst. ex DC.

Family: Ehretiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, also grown along roadsides.

Ayurvedic: Charmi-vrksha.

Siddha/Tamil: Addula.

Folk: Chamror (Punjab). Kuptaa, Datarangi (Maharashtra.)

Action: Root—used in venereal diseases. A decoction of bark is used internally and as gargle in throat infections.

The plant contains tannins, saponins and allantoin, and monomethyl ethers of cyclitols. Leaves yielded a pyrrolizidine alkaloid, creatinine. arsenic effectively. It can be used in purification of silver-containing waste water, also for the treatment of low- level liquid radioactive wastes and mercurial waste water. The plant has a strong capacity for removing phenol. Biomass of non-living dried water Hyacinth roots showed high absorption of copper from aqueous solutions.

The plant exhibits antifungal activity against Candida albicans.... ehretia laevis

Buch.-Ham.

Synonym: F. infectoria auct. non- Willd.

F. viren Aiton.

Family: Moraceae.

Habitat: Plains and lower hills of India.

English: White Fig.

Ayurvedic: Plaksha, Karpari, Pitana, Parkati.

Siddha/Tamil: Kurugu, Itthi, Kallalnaram.

Action: Bark—decoction is used for washing ulcers, as a gargle in salivation; also used for menstrual disorders and leucorrhoea. Leaf— estrogenic. Plant— used in erysipelas, ulcer, epistaxis.

Fresh ripe fruit or powder of dried fruits is used to treat diabetes.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia indicates the use of the fruit and stem bark in syncope, delirium and illusive and unstable state of mind. The stem bark of the plant yield acetates of long-chain alcohols, methyl- ricinolate, beta-sitosterol, lanosterol, caffeic acid, bergenin and sugars. The triterpenoids, lupeol and alpha- and beta-amyrin, are also present in the leaves. Flavonoids including sorbifolin and scutellarein derivatives, have been isolated from the leaves.

Dosage: Stem bark—50 g powder for decoction (API Vol. II); dried fruit—5-10 g. (API Vol. IV.) Leaf, root—10-20 g paste. (CCRAS.)... ficus lacor

.

Family: Rubiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the greater part of India, mostly in dry forests.

English: Boxwood Gardenia.

Ayurvedic: Parpataki.

Siddha/Tamil: Kumbay, Perungam- bil.

Folk: Paaparaa, Ban-pindaalu.

Action: Bark—used in skin diseases.

The stem bark contains hederage- nin, D-mannitol, sitosterol and siaresi- nolic, episiaresinolic, oleanolic and spinosic acid.... gardenia latifolia

(Dennst.) Sleumer.

Synonym: H. wightiana Blume.

Family: Flacourtiaceae.

Habitat: Western Ghats.

English: Soorty Oil tree.

Ayurvedic: Tuvaraka, Katu- Kapittha, Kushtavairi, Garudaphala, Chaalmograa.

Unani: Chaalmograa, Tukhm-e- Biranj Mograa.

Siddha/Tamil: Maravattai, Niradi- muttu.

Action: Seed oil—antileprotic, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic.

The seed oil gave chemical constituents similar to Hydnocarpus kuzii, and contain the flavonolignan, hyd- nowightin, hydnocarpin and neohyd- nocarpin.

Hydnocarpin showed good anti- inflammatory and anti-neoplastic activity in mice, in vivo. Cytotoxicity against the growth of murine and human tissue cultured cells was also observed.

The stem bark and leaves contain triterpenes, acelylbetulinic, betulinic, ursolic and acetylursolic acids.

Dosage: Seed—3-5 g powder; oil— 5-10 drops. (CCRAS.)... hydnocarpus laurifolia

(American) Form of Donna, meaning “ruler of the world” Ladona, Ladonnah, Ladonah, Ledonna, Ledona... ladonna

(American) One who is guarded Ladrendah, Ladrynda, Ladryndah, Ladrinda, Ladrindah... ladrenda

(English) One who kneads bread; the head of the house

Lady, Ladee, Ladi, Ladie, Laidy, Laydy, Laydi, Laydie, Laidi, Laidie, Laydee, Laidee, Ladea, Laydea, Laidea... lady

Love ... ladys mantle

Protection ... ladys slipper

(Hebrew) One who belongs to God Laele, Laelle... lael

(Latin) Feminine form of Laelius; resembling the orchid Laeliah, Laeliya, Laelea, Laeleah, Laeliyah, Laelya, Laelyah... laelia

(American) One who is affectionate... lafonde

(Swedish) Woman from the ocean... lage

Linn.

Family: Lythraceae.

Habitat: Native to China; grown as an ornamental.

English: Common Crape Myrtle.

Siddha/Tamil: Pavalak-kurinji, Sinappu.

Folk: Saavani, Faraash.

Action: Seed—narcotic. Bark— stimulant, febrifuge. Leaves and flowers—purgative. Root— astringent. Used as a gargle.... lagerstroemia indica

(Linn.) DC.

Synonym: K. schweinfurthii Penzig. Cotyledon laciniata Roxb.

Family: Crassulaceae.

Habitat: Maharashtra, Deccan and Bengal.

Ayurvedic: Parnabija (var.), Vatapatri.

Unani: Zakhm-e-Hayaat.

Siddha/Tamil: Malakalli.

Folk: Hemasaagar.

Action: Plant—used in fever, dyspepsia, skin allergy, asthma, bronchitis. Leaves—astringent, antiseptic, astringent. Applied to insect bites. Lotions are used for smallpox. Leaf juice is given in diarrhoea, dysentery, lithiasis.... kalanchoe laciniata

Specialized lymph formations found in the small intestine mucosa. Together with enzymatic activities in the submucosa, they collect digested fats into stable transport bubbles called chylomicrons, and draw them up into the lymph system. There they are gradually leeched into the blood as the lymph passes upwards through the body, the remainder discharged into the venous blood with the lymph...12-24 hours later. Time-Released fat capsules. Fats lower the blood charge and make it sticky, which can interfere with vascular capabilities; the sideways bypassing of the blood in this manner spreads the fats out over long periods. The rest of the digested constituents can happily flow up to the liver through the portal system, unsludged, and the liver itself therefore has little lipid stress to face. If fats are poorly digested in the upper intestinal tract, the floating bubbles are larger, broken down too slowly to be well absorbed into the lymph system, and the portal blood...and liver...get sludged. Ever wonder why a bunch of lousy pizza can give you hemorrhoids the next day? Sludgy portal blood and backed-up venous drainage from the legs is why.... lacteals

DC.

Synonym: L. heyneana DC.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: Many parts of India, as a common weed.

Folk: Undir-chaa-kaan (Maharashtra).

Action: Diuretic, slightly aperient. Used as a diuretic in calculous affections, also for chronic obstruction of liver and bowels.

A smaller var., found in western Ut- tar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Saurashtra and the Deccan Penninsula, is equated with L. remotiflora DC.... lactuca runcinata

Linn.

Synonym: L. scariola Linn. var. sativa C.B. Clarke.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: Native to Southern and West Asia. Cultivated throughout India as a cold weather crop.

English: Garden Lettuce.

Unani: Kaahuu Bustaani, Salaad Pattaa, Salaad Baaghi.

Siddha/Tamil: Salattu.

Action: Plant—used in painful ulcers and burns.

The leaves contain calcium, phosphorus, iron, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, carotine, iodine, fluorine. A. dietary allowance of 10 g of lettuce is adequate to meet the vitamin K requirement of the body.

Aqueous extract of roots gave a gua- iene-type sesquiterpene glycoside, lac- toside C, along with known glycosides, lactoside A and macro-cliniside A.... lactuca sativa

(American) From the beach Lagoona, Lagunah, Lagoonah, Lagouna, Lagounah... laguna

(Hawaiian) As innocent as a lamb Lahelah, Lahella, Lahellah... lahela

(Finnish) Gift from God... lahja

(Arabic) A beauty of the night; born at nightfall

Laela, Laliah, Lailie, Laily, Lailie, Laili, Lailaa, Leila, Leela, Leelah, Leilah, Lela, Lelah, Lelia, Leyla, Loelia... laila

(Latvian) One who is fortunate; in mythology, goddess of luck Layma, Laema... laima

(American) A softhearted woman Lainill, Lainyl, Lainyll, Laenil, Laenill, Laenyl, Laenyll, Laynil, Laynill, Laynyl, Laynyll... lainil

(Scottish) Resembling a mare Lair, Laira, Lairia, Lairea, Layr, Layre, Laer, Laere... laire

(Greek) A legendary courtesan Laise, Lays, Layse, Laisa, Laes, Laese... lais

(Hebrew) Resembling a lioness Laisha, Lashia, Lashea, Laysh, Laishe, Layshe, Laysha, Laesh, Laeshe, Laesha... laish

(French) A soothing woman Lajeane, LaJean, LaJeane, Lajeanne, L’Jean... lajean

(Indian) One who is modest; shy Lajyla, Lajeela, Lajeala... lajila

Linn.

Synonym: L. scariola Linn.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: The Western Himalayas, between 1,800 and 3,300 m. Found wild.

English: Wild Lettuce, Prickly Lettuce.

Ayurvedic: Salaad, Vanya-Kaahuu.

Unani: Kaahuu Saharai, Kaahuu Barri.

Siddha/Tamil: Salattu.

Action: Plant—mild sedative, diuretic, diaphoretic, expectorant, antiseptic. Seed—demulcent. The seeds are used in the form of powder for coughs and as a decoction for insomnia.

Seeds contain protein, amino acids; Mg Al and K as major elements besides Na, Ca, Si, Ti, Mn, Fe and Cu.

Arachidic, caproic, linoleic, ole- ic, palmitic, stearic acids and sitos- terol (from the root); ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, 8-deoxylactucin, lac- ticin, jacquilenin, lactupicrin, ubiqui-... lactuca serriola

Linn.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: Native to Europe. Imported into India.

English: Bitter Lettuce, Wild Lettuce.

Unani: Kaahuu Sahrai (var.), Kaahuu Barri (var.).

Action: Mild sedative, hypnotic, (once used as a substitute for opium), anodyne, expectorant.

Key application: As sedative. (The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

Used in insomnia, nervous excitability, anxiety, restlessness, hyperactivity in children, nymphomania, smoker's cough, irritable cough and bronchitis.

Aerial parts contain sesquiterpene glycosides.

The leaves and dried juice contain lacticin, lactucopicrin (sesquiterpene lactones); flavonoids (mainly based on quercetin); coumarins (cichoriin and aesculin); N-methyl-beta-phenethy- lamine; triterpenes include taraxas- terol and beta-amyrin. The sesquiterpene lactones have a sedative effect.

The Wild Lettuce also contains hyos- cyamine, while the dried sap is devoid of it. Morphine content has been found in low concentrations, too low to have pharmacological effect. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)

The oil of seeds is used for arteriosclerosis.

Synonym: L. vulgaris Ser. L. leucanth Rusby. Cucurbita siceraria Mol.

Family: Cucurbitaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India.

English: Bitter Bottle-Gourd.

Ayurvedic: Katu-tumbi, Tumbini, Ikshavaaku. Tiktaalaavu, Pindapha- laa.

Unani: Kaddu-e-talkh (bitter var.).

Siddha/Tamil: Suraikai.

Action: Pulp—purgative, emetic. Leaf—used in jaundice.

Cucurbita lagenaria Linn. is equated with Lauki or Sweet Bottle-Guard, used all over India as a vegetable.

Cucurbita siceraria Mol. is equated with Titalauki or the Bitter Bottle- Gourd. Bitter fruits yield 0.013% of a solid foam containing cucurbitacin B,D,G and H, mainly cucurbitacin B. These bitter principles are present in the fruit as aglycones. Leaves contain cucurbitacin B, and roots cucurbitacins B, D and traces of E. The fruit juice contains beta-glycosidase (elaterase).

Plants which yield non-bitter fruits contain no bitter principles or elat- erase; their roots are not bitter.... lactuca virosa

Alchemilla vulgaris. N.O. Rosaceae.

Synonym: Lion's Foot.

Habitat: Hedgerows and waysides.

Features ? Whole plant covered with silky hairs. Leaves rounded, about two inches across, nine blunt, serrate lobes, on long stalks. Greenish flowers, without petals, bloom in small clusters from forked stem. Astringent, saliva-drying taste.

Part used ? Herb.

Action: Astringent, nervine, antispasmodic.

In excessive menstruation and flooding, as well as spasmodic nervous complaints. Decoction of 1 ounce to 1 1/2 pints water simmered to 1 pint is used as an injection in the menstrual disorders. The 1 ounce to 1 pint infusion may be taken internally in teacupful doses as required.... ladies' mantle

(Indian) A truthful woman Lajyta, Lajeeta, Lajeata... lajita

(Polynesian) In mythology, the patron goddess of dancers Lakah... laka

(American) From the still waters Laken, Laiken, Layken, Layk, Layke, Laik, Laike, Laeken, Laek, Laeke... lake

(American / African) A lively and healthy woman / the favorite Lakeesha, Lakecia, Lakesha, Lakeshia, Laketia, Lakeysha, Lakicia, Lakiesha, Lakisha, Lakitia, Laquisha, Lekeesha, Lekeisha, Lekisha, Laquiesha, Lakeasha, Lekeasha... lakeisha

(Hawaiian) A girly woman Lakelah, Lakella, Lakellah... lakela

(Arabic) One who is treasured Lakiah, Lakeea, Lakeah, Lakeya, Lakea, Lakiyah, Lakiya, Lakeyah... lakia

(Indian) As beautiful as a white rose Lakshah, Lakshia, Lakshiya, Lakshea, Lakshya... laksha

(Hindi) A good omen; in Hinduism, the goddess of wealth, light, and beauty

Lakshmie, Lakshmy, Laxmi, Laxmie, Laxmy, Lakshmey, Laxmey, Lakshmee, Laxmee, Lakshmea, Laxmea... lakshmi

(Indian) Born on a Thursday... lakya

(Slavic) Resembling a tulip Lalah, Lalla, Lallah, Laleh... lala

(Greek) One who often prattles Lallie, Lally, Lalli, Lalley, Lallea, Lalleah... lalage

Cypripedium pubescens. N.O. Orchidaceae.

Synonym: American Valerian, Mocassin flower, Nerveroot, Noah's Ark.

Habitat: United States of America.

Features ? Flower supposed to resemble a lady's shoe in form. Rhizome about quarter- inch diameter, many cupshaped scars on top surface; wavy, thickly-matted roots underneath. Fracture short and white.

Part used ? Rhizome.

Action: Antispasmodic, tonic, nervine.

Combined with other tonics in the relief of neuralgia, and to allay pain

generally. Of use in hysteria and other nervous disorders. Dose, 1 drachm of the powdered rhizome. Like other medicines of a similar nature, it is of little use unless the cause of the nervous excitement is traced and removed.

The remarks of Rafinesque, then Professor of Medical Botany in the University of Transylvania, are interesting in view of the "orthodox" attitude towards remedies of the herbalists ? "I am enabled to introduce, for the first time, this beautiful genus into our materia medica ; all the species are equally remedial. They have long been known to the Indians, who called them moccasin flower, and were used by the empyrics of New England, particularly Samuel Thomson. Their properties, however, have been tested and confirmed by Dr. Hales, of Troy; Dr. Tully, of Albany, etc.

. . . They produce beneficial effects in all nervous diseases and hysterical affections by allaying pain, quieting the nerves and promoting sleep. They are preferable to opium in many cases, having no baneful or narcotic effect."

Professor Rafinesque, however, goes even further than would Thomson and his successors when he announces that "all the species are equally remedial."... ladies' slipper

Lady’s Mantle Tea is a popular tea known especially for its astringent properties. Lady’s Mantle, also known as alchemilla vulgaris, is a perennial herb that grows in North America, Europe and Asia. It has pleated leaves that look like the cloak ladies used to wear during the medieval era. The constituents of lady’s mantle herb are tannins and various flavonoids such as quercetin. How to Make Lady’s Mantle Tea To make Lady’s Mantle Tea you have to infuse 3-4 grams of dried lady’s mantle stems, leaves and flowers, in about 5 ounces of boiling water. Reduce the heat and let the mix stand for 10 minutes. After that, strain and pour the tea into your cup. Lady’s Mantle Tea Benefits

• Relieves menstrual cramps and discomfort during menopause.
• When applied on skin, it can heal wounds, cuts, burns or other skin conditions.
• Helps relieving nausea.
• Effective in treating diarrhea and gastroenteritis.
• May heal bleeding gums.

Lady’s Mantle Side Effects

• Do not drink Lady’s Mantle Tea if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Stop drinking Lady’s Mantle tea if you experience weakness or fatigue.
• It may interact with the effects of some medications, so always consult your doctor before drinking any herbal tea, including Lady’s Mantle Tea.

Lady’s Mantle Tea is a wonderful tea with many benefits for your body and general well-being. Just try not to drink too much of this tea in order to not experience any of its side effects.... lady`s mantle tea

Retz.

Synonym: L. speciosa (L.) Pers. L. reginae Roxb.

Family: Lythraceae.

Habitat: Tropical Himalaya, and Assam, Western and Eastern Ghats, up to 1,000 m.

English: Pride of India, Queen's Flowers, Queen Crape Myrtle.

Siddha/Tamil: Kadalai, Pumaruttu.

Folk: Jaarul. Kramuk and Arjun are confusing synonyms.

Action: Seed—narcotic. Root— astringent, stimulant, febrifuge. Fruit—used for aphthae of the mouth. Leaves—purgative, diuretic, deobstruent. Bark—an infusion is given in diarrhoea and abdominal pain.

A decoction of the leaves, also of dried fruits, is used like tea for diabetes mellitus in Philippines. Mature leaves and fruits, in fresh condition, exhibit hypoglycaemic activity experimentally The potency decreases on storing the material.

The leaf extract, when administered as powder and as tannin-free extract, showed hypoglycaemic activity in mice. Amino acids constitute the insulin-like principle. The plant contains triterpenoids, colocolic acid and maslinic acid. Colocolic acid is known to possess hypoglycaemic activity.

Leaves contain lageracetal and sitos- terol. Ellagitannins have been isolated from fruits and leaves.... lagerstroemia flos-reginae

(American) A hardworking woman Lalain, Lalaina, Lalayn, Lalayne, Lalayna, Lalaen, Lalaene, Lalaena... lalaine

(Indian) Resembling a dove; one who is peaceful and promotes love Lalasah, Lalassa, Lallassa, Lallasa... lalasa

(Spanish) A devoted woman Laleemah, Laleima, Laleimah, Laliema, Laliemah, Lalyma, Lalymah, Laleama, Laleamah... laleema

(Indian) A lovely young woman Lalica, Lalicka, Lalyka, Lalycka, Lalyca, Lalikah... lalika

(Indian) A playful and charming woman

Lalitah, Laleeta, Laleetah, Lalyta, Lalytah, Laleita, Laleitah, Lalieta, Lalietah, Laleata, Laleatah... lalita

(Slavic) A girl from the mountains Lamaarah, Lamara, Lamarah, Laamarra, Lamarra... lamaara

(American) One who is conflicted Lamariane, Lamarean, Lamareane... lamarian

See GIARDIASIS.... lamblia

Roxb.

Family: Lythraceae.

Habitat: Almost throughout India, up to an altitude of 900 m, in the

Ayurvedic: Siddhaka, Siddha, Syandana (provisional synonym).

Folk: Dhauraa, Bakli. Chungi (Hyderabad). Lendia (trade).

Action: Astringent, fungitoxic.

The bark and leaves contain tannin 7-10 and 16% respectively. The plant contains a pentacyclic triterpene, lag- florin. Aqueous extract of fresh and ethanolic extract of dried and powdered leaves exhibit fungitoxic activity against several fungal pathogens of rice.... lagerstroemia parviflora

Sch.- Bip. ex Oliver.

Family: Asteraceae, Compositae.

Habitat: Throughout India, ascending up to 2,100 m in the hills. (Native to tropical Africa and Madagascar.)

Folk: Amadok (Garhwal).

Action: Disinfectant.

The plant is one of the major ingredients of an ointment used in the treatment of skin tumours in Chinese medicine. In Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Gabon and Tanganyika, different parts of the plant are used for the treatment of intercostal pain, rheumatic pain and fever. The leaf and root decoctions are used to treat pneumonia.

The plant from Nigeria was found rich in phenolic ethers (45%), followed by monoterpenes (22%) and sesquiterpenes (12%). The major component of the oil was dimethyl thy- moquinone (44%). It showed activity against Gram-positive microorganisms. Dried powder of the plant contained artemisetin (artemetin).... laggera alata

Roxb.

Family: Labiatae.

Habitat: Plain and hills of Kumaon and Punjab, extending westwards to Afghanistan. Imported into India from Persia.

Unani: Baalango, Tukhm-e- Baalango.

Folk: Tuut-malangaa.

Action: Seed—cooling, diuretic, sedative; given internally as a soothing agent during urinary troubles, also for cough. A poultice of seeds is applied to abscesses, boils and inflammations. (Seeds are not to be used as a substitute for Plantago sp.)

Seeds contain linoleic, oleic, palmitic and stearic acids; beta-sitosterol. Gum contains L-arabinose, D-galac- tose, L-rhamnose, pentosans, protein, uronic anhydride. Amino acids are also found in the plant.... lallemantia royleana

(Greek) In mythology, a female vampire

Lamiah, Lamiya, Lamiyah, Lamea, Lameah... lamia

(American) One who is calm and peaceful

Lamikah, Lamyka, Lamykah, Lameeka, Lameekah, Lameika, Lameikah, Lamieka, Lamiekah, Lameaka, Lameakah... lamika

Linn.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

Habitat: The temperate Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon, Sikkim and Assam.

Folk: Titpaati (Garhwal), Jipachi (Tibbet).

Action: Plant—stimulant, laxative, diaphoretic, cephalic, antirheum- atic.... laminum amplexicaule

(Arabic) A soft-skinned woman Lamiss, Lamisse, Lamys, Lamyss, Lamysse, Lamees, Lameese... lamis

Linn.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

Habitat: West Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon.

English: White Dead Nettle, Archangel.

Action: Haemostatic (particularly on the uterus), astringent, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, expectorant. Used for menorrhagia, leucorrhoea, cystitis, prostatitis, bleeding piles, diarrhoea, irritable bowel and respiratory catarrh.

Key application: Internally, for catarrh of the upper respiratory passages; externally, for mild, superficial inflammation of the skin. (German Commission E.) Flowers have been recommended for teas and other galenical preparations for internal applications, rinses, baths and moist compresses. As astringent. (The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

The herb contains iridoid monoterpenes; triterpene saponins; caffeic acid derivatives; flavonoids based on kaem- pferol; tannins (mainly catechins). The plant also gave a carbocyclic iridoid, caryoptoside; besides lambalbide, al- bosides A and B (iridoid monoter- penes).... lamium album

Benth.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: Deccan, Konkan and Karnataka.

Unani: Brahmdandi. (Tricholepis angustifolia DC. of the same family has also been equated with Brahmdandi in National Formulary of Unani Medicine.)

Folk: Brahmdandi (Maharashtra), Ajadandi.

Action: Antiseptic, bitter tonic.... lamprachaenium microcephalum

(Arabic) Having lovely dark lips Lamyah, Lamyia, Lama... lamya

(German / Greek) Form of Alana, meaning “beautiful and fair woman; dear child” / form of Helen, meaning “the shining light”

Lanae, Lanette, Lanna, Lanny, Lannice, Lanice... lana

(Hawaiian) A veranda; from the island Lenai... lanai

(Russian) A lighthearted woman; cheerful

Lanasa, Lanassia, Lanasia, Lanassiya, Lanasiya... lanassa

(American) Of the earth Lande, Landy, Landey, Landee, Landea, Landi, Landie... land

(Spanish) Refers to the Virgin Mary... landa

(English) From the grassy meadow Landin, Landyn... landen

(English) From the long hill Landan, Lanton, Lantan... landon

(Latin) A wise counselor Landrada, Landria, Landrea, Landradah... landra

(English) Of the rough terrain Landrey, Landri, Landrie, Landree, Landrea, Landreah... landry

(American) One who takes the narrow path Lanell, Lanele, Lanella, Lanela, Lanel ... lanelle

(Scandinavian) Woman of great height... lang

(English) From the long meadow Langly, Langli, Langlie, Langlee, Langleigh, Langlea... langley

(Hawaiian) From the sky; one who is heavenly Lanikai... lani

(Hindi) From the island fortress Lankah, Lankia, Lankiah, Lankea, Lankeah... lanka

(Houtt.) Merrill.

Synonym: L. grandis (Dennst.) Engl.; Odina wodier Roxb.

Family: Anacardiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, ascending to 1,500 m in the Himalayas.

Ayurvedic: Jingini, Jhingan, Gudamanjari.

Siddha/Tamil: Kalasan, Anaikkarai, Odiyan.

Action: Bark—stimulant and astringent; used in gout; decoction for aphthae of the mouth and for toothache. Leaves— boiled and applied to sprains, bruises, local swellings, elephantiasis. Gum— given in asthma; as a cordial to women during lactation.

The roots contain cluytyl ferulate; heartwood gave lanosterol; bark, dl- epi-catechin and (+)-leucocyanidin; flowers and leaves, ellagic acid, querce- tin and quercetin-3-arabinoside. Flowers also contain iso-quercetin and morin. Leaves in addition contain beta-sitosterol, leucocyanidin and leu- codelphinidin.... lannea coromandelica

(English) Filled with hope Lanseng, Lansyng... lansing

Correa.

Family: Meliaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Nilgiris and a few other places in South India.

En ? glishLangsat Fruit, Dockoa.

Folk: Duku.

Action: Bark—astringent, an- tidysenteric. Resin—antidiarrhoeal, prescribed in intestinal spasm. Seed—febrifuge, vermifuge.

The peel of the fruit contains a tri- terpenoid acid (lansic acid). Seeds are bitter; contain traces of an alkaloid and resin.

The crude extract of fruit peel, containing lansic acid, lansioside A, B and C or their derivatives, is used as an ingredient of shampoos and hair tonics.... lansium domesticum

(English) Resembling the flower with orange or purple blossoms Lantanah, Lantanna, Lantania, Lantanea, Lantaniya, Lantanya... lantana

(Italian) One who is noble and willing

Lanzah, Lanzia, Lanziah, Lanzea, Lanzeah... lanza

(Greek) In mythology, daughter of Bellerophon

Laodamiah, Laodamea, Laodameah ... laodamia

(Gaelic) From the meadowland... laoidheach

Linn. var. aculeata Moldenke.

Synonym: L. aculeata L.

Family: Verbenaceae.

Habitat: Native to tropical America; naturalized and occurs throughout India. Also grown as hedge plant.

English: Lantana, Wild Sage, Surinam Tea Plant.

Ayurvedic: Chaturaangi, Vanachch- hedi.

Siddha/Tamil: Unnichedi.

Folk: Ghaaneri (Maharashtra).

Action: Plant—antirheumatic, antimalarial; used in tetanus and ataxy of abdominal viscera. Pounded leaves are applied to cuts, ulcers and swellings; a decoction of leaves and fruits is used as a lotion for wounds.

The plant is considered poisonous. The leaves contain toxic principles, lantadenes A and B, which cause acute photosensitization, jaundice, kidney and liver lesions. A steroid, lanca- marone, is cardioactive and fish poison.

The bark of stems and roots contain a quinine-like alkaloid, lantanine. The extract of the shoot showed antibacterial activity against E. coli and Micrococcus pyogenes var. aureus. Flowers contain anthocyanin.... lantana camara

(Egyptian) Resembling the dark-blue gemstone

Lapiss, Lapisse, Lapys, Lapyss, Lapysse... lapis

Gaudich.

Family: Urticaceae.

Habitat: Tropical Himalayas from Nepal eastwards, Bihar, Chota Nagpur, Bengal, Assam, Anaimalai Hills and Western Ghats in Kerala.

English: Devil Nettle, Fever Nettle.

Siddha/Tamil: Perunkanchori.

Folk: Utigun, Chorpaat (Bengal). (Uttangan is equated with Blepharis edulis Pers.)

Action: Root—juice used in chronic fevers. Roots and leaves are applied to swellings and abscesses.... laportea crenulata

(American) An outspoken woman

Laquana, Laquann, Laquane, Laquan... laquanna

(American) A quiet and well- behaved child Laquetta, Laquita, Laquitta... laqueta

(American) The fifth-born child... laquinta

(Latin) One who is protected; a cheerful woman

Larra, Laralaine, Laramae, Larina, Larinda, Larita, Larya... lara

(French) Shedding tears of love Larami, Laramy, Laramey, Laramee, Laramea... laramie

(American) Form of Darby, meaning “of the deer park” Larbey, Larbi, Larbie, Larbee, Larbea... larby

(Spanish) The queen; one born to royalty

Laraene, Larayne, Lareine, Larena, Larrayna, Larreina, Laranya, Laraena, Larayna... lareina

(Latin) In mythology, an earth goddess

Larentia, Larentea, Larynta... larenta

(American) A flashy woman Larhondah, Larhondia, Larhondiah, Larhondea, Larhondeah, Laranda... larhonda

(Latin) A lighthearted woman Lari, Larisa, Laryssa, Lerissa, Lorissa, Lyssa, Larisse, Laryssa, Larysse, Laurissa... larissa

(English) Resembling the songbird Larke... lark

(American) A pretty young woman Larkyn, Larkine, Larkyne, Larken, Larkene, Larkun, Larkune... larkin

(American) A tomboyish woman Larri, Larry, Larrey, Larree, Larrea... larrie

(Scandinavian) Daughter of Lars Larson, Larssen, Larsson... larsen

(American) Form of Rue, meaning “from the medicinal herb” LaRue, Laroo, Larou... larue

A rash rather like that of cutaneous larva migrans resulting from penetration of the filariform larva of Strongyloides stercoralis in the skin around the anus and buttocks, as part of autoinfection.... larva currens

Carr.

Synonym: L. griffithii Hook. f. & Thoms.

Family: Pinaceae.

Habitat: The Himalayas from eastern Nepal to Bhutan at altitudes of 2,400-3,600 m.

English: Himalayan Larch, Sikkim Larch.

Folk: Boargasella, Binyi (Nepal).

Action: Balsam—antiseptic, hypermic.

Key application: Larix decidua Miller—in rheumatic and neuralgic discomforts, catarrhal diseases of the respiratory tract, furuncle (in the form of ointments, gels, emulsions and oils). (German Commission E.)

American Larch is equated with Larix laricina Koch., synonym L. americana Michx. It is known as Tamarac.

European Larch is equated with Lar- ix decidua Miller., synonym L. europea DC., Pinus larix L., Abies larix. It is known as Pine Larch.

The bark of American Larch contains 2-15% tannins. The bark of Larix dedidua is also astringent, balsamic and diuretic. It contains lig- nans; lariciresinol, liovil and secoiso- lariciresinol; 60-80% resins; essential oil, containing alpha- and beta-pinene, limonene, phellandrene, borneol as major constituents.... larix griffithiana

The type of aquatic environment in which mosquito larvae are typically found.... larval habitat

The process of searching for mosquito larvae in a defined area. Larvae are collected and taken to the laboratory for identification and enumeration.... larval survey

Fish species which feed preferentially on mosquito larvae. They may contribute significantly to the reduction of vector densities.... larvivorous fish

A ‘protective’ cough occurring as a result of irritation of the LARYNX – for example, a small particle of food may be accidentally ‘inhaled’ into the larynx, which reacts with an expulsive cough to prevent the food from entering the lungs.... laryngeal reflex

(Spanish) One who is forlorn Lashah, Lashe... lasha

(American) A brassy woman Lashonda, Lashounda, Lashunda... lashanda

(American) Filled with happiness Lashauna, Laseana, Lashona, Lashawn, Lasean, Lashone, Lashaun... lashawna

(L.) Thw.

Synonym: Lasia aculeata Linn.

Family: Araceae.

Habitat: Tropical Sikkim Himalayas, Assam, Bengal and Southwards to Sri Lanka.

Siddha: Kantakachoramu, Mulasari (Telugu.)

Folk: Kantakachu (Bengal), Kaantaasaru. Lakshmanaa and Indiver-kand are doubtful synonyms.

Action: Plant—used for colic and intestinal diseases. Leaves—used for stomachache. Rootstock and fruits—for affections of the throat.... lasia spinosa

Decne.

Family: Thymelaceaceae.

Habitat: Deccan and Western Ghats, from Konkan southwards to Kerala at altitudes of 1,200-2,500 m.

Siddha: Nachinaar (Tamil).

Folk: Raamethaa (Maharashtra).

Action: Barkandleaves—poisonous. Plant—vesicant. Leaves are applied to swellings and contusions.

The stem bark and seeds contain a xanthone glycoside, lasioside and a biscoumarin, lasiocephatin.... lasiosiphon eriocephalus

O?cially known as Zinc and Salicylic Acid Paste, BP, this preparation is an old remedy for eczema (see DERMATITIS).... lassar’s paste

(Scottish) A young girl; one who is pure

Lassi, Lassey, Lassy, Lassee, Lass, Lassea... lassie

(Indian) Of the lovely vine Latah... lata

(American) Daughter of the fairy queen

Latanyah, Latonya, Latania, Latanja, Latonia, Latanea... latanya

(American) Form of Natasha, meaning “born on Christmas Day” Latashah, Latascha, Latashia, Latasia, Latashea, Latashiya... latasha

(Spanish) A flirtatious woman Lateasa, Lateaza... lateasa

Resting or inactive stage found in some viral infections such as the herpes viruses.... latent stage

(American) A talkative woman Latheniah, Lathena, Lathenah, Lathenea, Latheneah... lathenia

Linn.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated chiefly in Madhya Pradesh, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat.

English: Chickling Vetch, Grass Pea.

Folk: Khesaari, Latari, Kalaaya.

Action: Seeds—toxic. Prolonged consumption results in paralysis of legs, both in animals and human beings, known as lathyrism. The toxic substance responsible for lathyrism had been identified as selenium. Peritoneal injection of beta-N-oxalylaminoalanine (isolated from the seeds) produced acute neurolathyrism at LD50 doses (748.8 mg/kg) in mice and (694.9 mg/kg) in chicken; liver and kidney cells showed denaturation, vacuolar and fatty degeneration. (It is a neuropoison, which mainly affects central nervous system.)

Related species include, Lathyrus aphaca Linn., L. sphaericus Retz. and L. tingitanus Linn., known as Kalaaya or Khesaari.... lathyrus sativus

Family name for sea snake kraits.... laticaudidae

(Arabic) One who is gentle and kind Latifa, Lateefa, Lateefah, Lateifa, Lateiffa, Latiffa, Latyfa, Latiefa, Lateifah, Latiefah, Lateafa, Lateafah, Latyfah... latifah

(Indian) An elegant and majestic lady Latikah, Laticka, Latica, Lateeka, Latieka, Lateaka, Latyka, Lateika... latika

(American) A happy woman... latisehsha

(Latin) In mythology, the Roman equivalent of Leto, the mother of Artemis and Apollo

Latonah, Latonia, Latonea, Lantoniah, Latoneah... latona

(American) Filled with happiness Latoshia, Latoshah, Latoshiah, Latoshea, Latosheah... latosha

(Spanish) One who is victorious Letoya, Latoia, Latoria, Latorya, Latoyah, Latoyla, Latoiya... latoya

(American) One who laughs a lot Latrell, Latrel, Latrele, Latrella, Latrela... latrelle

(English) Born into the nobility Latrecia, Latreece, Latreese, Latreshia, Latricia, Leetriss, Letrice, Leatrice, Letreece... latrice

(American) One who is high maintenance

Latrishah, Latrysha, Latryshah, Latriesha, Latrieshah, Latreisha, Latreishah, Latreesha, Latreeshah, Latreasha, Latreashah... latrisha

A genus of spiders which includes such venomous species as the black widow spider of the USA,the red back spider of Australia and the button spider of South Africa.... latrodectus

(Latin) One who is praised... lauda

(English) Lady of the fountain; in Arthurian legend, the wife of Yvain Laudene, Laudyne, Laudina, Laudena, Laudyna, Laudeen, Laudean, Laudeena, Laudeana... laudine

(Italian) Praises the house Laudonea, Laudoniya, Laudomia, Laudomea, Laudomiya... laudonia

(Norse) From the wooded island Laufia, Laufea, Laufeiya, Laufeya... laufeia

(Forsk.) Muschler.

Synonym: L. chondrilloides Hook. f.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: Western India, Punjab and Sind.

Folk: Dudh-phad (Rajasthan).

Action: Plant—galactagogue. A decoction is administered in constipation.... launaea mucronata

Cass.

Synonym: L. sarmentosa (Willd.) Alston.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: Sandy coasts of India.

Ayurvedic: Gojihvaa, Golomikaa. (Gaozabaan, used in Unani medicine, is equated with Bor- aginaceae sp.)

Folk: Vana-gobhi; Paathri (Maharashtra).

Action: Plant—galactagogue, soporific, diuretic, aperient.... launaea pinnatifida

The provision of assistance with laundry tasks for someone in his or her own home, either through a central facility or by a home help in the home.... laundry services

(Latin) Crowned with laurel; from the laurel tree

Lauraine, Lauralee, Laralyn, Laranca, Larea, Lari, Lauralee, Laurana, Laure, Laurel, Laurella, Laurence, Laurentia, Laurentine, Laurestine, Lauretha, Lauretta, Laurette, Lauri, Lauriane, Laurianne, Laurice, Lauricia, Laurie, Laurina, Laurinda, Laurine, Laurita, Laurnea, Lavra, Lawra, Lollie, Lolly, Laural, Lauralle, Laurell, Laurelle, Lauriel, Lauralyn, Lauene, Lauica, Laurencia, Lawrencia, Lonyn, Loura, Larunda, Lawena, Laria... laura

(French) Form of Laura, meaning “crowned with laurel; from the laurel tree” Laren, Larentia, Larentina, Larenzina, Larren, Laryn, Larryn, Larrynn, Larsina, Larsine, Laurenne, Laurin, Lauryn, Laurynn, Laurena, Laurene, Laureen, Lareen... lauren

(French) A graceful woman Laurente, Lorent, Lorente... laurent

Linn.

Family: Lauraceae.

Habitat: Native to the Mediterranean region; cultivated throughout India.

English: Laurel, Sweet Bay.

Unani: Habb-ul-Ghaar, Daphni.

Action: Leaves—mild sedative, gastric tonic, cholagogue, diaphoretic, antiseptic, antifungal. Used as a gargle against sore throat. Oil—used externally for rheumatism and in hair dressings for dandruff. Berry— emmenagogue, antileucorrhoeic, antidiarrhoeal.

Fresh leaves from Lahore (Pakistan) gave an essential oil (0.3-0.36%) with, 1,8-cineole 42.2, eugenol 16.4, sabinene 6.5, alpha terpineol 1.6, alpha-pinene 3.4, methyl eugenol 2.4 and terpinolene 1.9%. Major components of Greek and Russian oils were 1,8-cineole followed by alpha-terpinyl acetate.

The fruit from Kumaon region gave an essential oil (5%), including among others, 1,8-cineol (28.4), methyl cinna- mate (20.1), alpha phellandrene (10.1) and alpha-pinene (9.3%).

The leaves contain sesquiterpene lactones and isoquinoline alkaloids. Ethanolic extract of leaves produces a significant decrease in blood glucose level of diabetic rabbits. It contains amylase inhibitors which can supress sugar metabolism and can be used as an antiobesity agent for pet animals.

The leaf extract has been used as an antidandruff solution.... laurus nobilis

(American) One who is creative; muscially talented Lavadah, Lavadia, Lavadea, Lavadiya... lavada

Vaginal wash; see ducha.... lavado vaginal

Mill.

Synonym: L. officinalis Chaix. L. spica Linn.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

Habitat: Native to Mediterranean region; cultivated in Jammu and Kashmir.

English: Lavender.

Action: Herb—mildly sedative, antiflatulent and cholagogue. Essential oil—antiseptic, antibacterial, antispasmodic.

Key application: Internally, for mood disturbances, such as restlessness or insomnia; functional abdominal complaints (nervous stomach irritation and discomfort); for the treatment of functional circulatory disorders in balneother- apy. (German Commission E.) The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India indicates the use of Lavandula sp. for depressive states associated with digestive dysfunction.

Major constituents of the essential oil are linalool and linalyl acetate. Others include borneol, camphor, lavan- dulyl, caryophyllene, limonene, beta- ocimene, terpene-4-ol-and alpha-ter- pineol.

Aerial parts of the plant contains ursolic acid lactone, betulin, betulin- ic acid and 3 beta-formyl ursolic acid. The essential oil from flowering shoots showed neuro-depressive or anxiolytic activity in albino rats.... lavandula angustifolia

Kuntze.

Synonym: L. burmanni Benth.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

Habitat: Bihar, Chota Nagpur, Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Decan and Konkan southwards to Kerala.

Ayurvedic: Shankhapushpi (Gujarat).

Action: Used as a substitute for Convolvulus pluricaulas Choisy.... lavandula bipinnata

(Indian) One who is filled with grace

Lavania, Lavani, Lavanie, Lavany, Lavaney, Lavanee, Lavanea, Lavaneah, Lavaniya... lavanya

(Latin) One who is washed clean... lave

(Latin) One who is innocent; cleansed

Lavedah, Lavella, Lavelle, Laveta, Lavetta, Lavette... laveda

(Latin) Born in the spring; in mythology, Laverna was the goddess of thieves

Laverine, Lavern, Laverna, Laverrne, Leverne, Loverna, Lavyrne, Lavyrna, Lavernia, La Verne, La Vergne, Lativerna, Levema... laverne

(Latin) In mythology, the daughter of Latinus and wife of Aeneas Lavena, Lavenia, Lavina, Lavinie, Levenia, Levinia, Livinia, Louvenia, Louvinia, Lovina, Lovinia, Luvena, Luvenia, Luvina, Luvinia... lavinia

(American) A charming woman Lavitah, Laveeta, Laveetah, Laveata, Laveatah, Lavieta, Lavietah, Laveita, Laveitah, Lavyta, Lavytah... lavita

(French) Form of Yvonne, meaning “a young archer” Lavonda, Lavonna, Lahvonne, Levonne, Levonda, Lavonn... lavonne

Linn.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

Habitat: Mediterranean region and Asia Minor. Dried plant and flowers are imported into Mumbai from Persian Gulf.

English: Arabian or French Lavender.

Unani: Ustukhuddus, Alfaajan.

Folk: Dhaaru.

Action: Flowers—antidepressive, sedative, anticonvulsant, carminative, antispasmodic, antibacterial, antiseptic. Used in depression, nervous headache, sluggish circulation, physical and mental exhaustion, insomnia, epilepsy, neuralgia and rheumatic affections.

Oil—rubefacient, antimicrobial. Used for nervous palpitations, giddiness, spasm and colic. Relieves sprains, neuralgia and rheumatism; rubbed for stimulating paralysed limbs. Applied to sores, burns, scalds and varicose veins.

Plant—used for the treatment of epilepsy and chronic sinusitis in Unani medicine.

Aerial parts of the plant contain oleanolic, ursolic and vergatic acid, beta-sitosterol, alpha-amyrin and its acetate, lupeol, erythrodiol, luteolin, acacetin and vitexin.

The leaves contain polyphenols, api- genin-7-O-beta-D-glucoside, luteolin andits7-O-beta-D-glucoside, and7-O- beta-D-glucuronide, rosmarinic acid, and 6-O-caffeoyl glucose.

For depression, tincture of lavender flower (1: 5 in 50% alcohol), 60 drops per day, has been used for 4 weeks in Western herbal. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)... lavandula stoechas

Lavender tea is made out of the dried purple, pink and white colored flowers that grow on lavender shrubs. Used as a scented herb for many centuries, lavender’s medicinal uses have been appreciated and documented for centuries. A cup of lavender tea can soothe your mind and body, inducing sleep. If you are feeling down and depressed, a cup of lavender tea can help uplift your spirit. Lavender tea helps sooth and treat flatulence, colic, bowel infections and an upset stomach. Lavender tea can be used as a wash on the chest to help reduce cough, bronchitis, asthma, cold and other respiratory issues. For both children and adults, lavender is used to reduce body temperature during fever. Lavender also has healing properties; use a wash of lavender tea to help heal wounds, cuts, ulcers and sores.... lavender tea

(American) Form of Wanda, meaning “a wanderer” Lawandah, Lawannda, Lawahnda, Lawonda, Lawonnda, Lawohnda, Lawande, Lawandis... lawanda

Linn.

Family: Lythraceae.

Habitat: Native to Arabia and Persia; now cultivated mainly in Haryana and Gujarat; to a small extent in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

English: Henna.

Ayurvedic: Madayanti, Madayan- tikaa, Mendika, Ranjaka.

Unani: Hinaa, Mehndi.

Siddha/Tamil: Marudum.

Action: Leaves—astringent, antihaemorrhagic, antispasmodic, oxytocic, antifertility, antifungal, antibacterial. Used externally to treat skin infections (tinea); also as a hair conditioner.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia indicated the use of the leaves in dysuria, jaundice, bleeding disorders, ulcers, prurigo and other obstinate skin diseases. The leaf is also recommended in giddiness and vertigo.

The leaves contain naphthoqui- nones, in particular lawsone; couma- rins (laxanthone, I, II and III); flavono- ids, luteolin and its 7-O-glucoside, acacetin-7-O-glucoside; beta-sitoste- rol-3-O-glucoside; all parts contain tannins.

Chloroform and ethanol extracts of leaves exhibit promising antibacterial activity against Shigella and Vibrio cholerae. Leaf extract shows antifun- gal activity against several pathogenic bacteria and fungi.

Henna paint is used as a medicament for treatment of hands and feet for mycosis. The antimycotic activity is due to lawsone, a naphthoquinone.

The ethanol-water (1 : 1) extract of the stem bark shows hepatoprotective activity CCl4-induced liver toxicity. Stembarkand root, probably due to the presence of isoplumbagin and lawsar- itol, exhibit anti-inflammatory activity experimentally.

Evidence shows Henna leaf might be able to decrease the formation of sickled cells in individuals with sickle cell anaemia. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)

Dosage: Leaves—5-10 ml juice. (API, Vol. IV.)... lawsonia inermis

(Arabic) form of Laila, meaning “a beauty of the night; born at nightfall” Laylah, Laylie, Layli... layla

Rees.

Synonym: L. linifolia Spreng.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae. Ayurvedic: Dronpushpi (related species).

Folk: Tumbaa, Guumaa.

Action: Leaves—a decoction is used as a sedative in nervous disorders; also as a stomachic and vermifuge. Crushed leaves are applied externally for dermatosis, a poultice to sores and wounds.

Roots, stems and leaves are cyano- genetic.... leucas lavandulaefolia

Linn.

Family: Passifloraceae.

Habitat: Native of tropical America; grown in Indian gardens.

English: Water-lemon, Jamaica Honey Suckle.

Action: Leaves—anthelmintic. Seeds—hypnodil. Fruit—edible. Plant—poisonous (the foliage produces hydrocyanic acid).

The fruit pulp contains pantothenic acid (1.55 mg/100 g); leaves contain 387 mg/100 g vitamin C.... passiflora laurifolia

Pregnancy The time when a woman carries a developing baby in her UTERUS. For the ?rst 12 weeks (the ?rst trimester) the baby is known as an EMBRYO, after which it is referred to as the FETUS.

Pregnancy lasts about 280 days and is calculated from the ?rst day of the last menstrual period – see MENSTRUATION. Pregnancy-testing kits rely on the presence of the hormone beta HUMAN CHORIONIC GONADOTROPHIN (b HCG) which is excreted in the woman’s urine as early as 30 days from the last menstrual period. The estimated date of delivery can be accurately estimated from the size of the developing fetus measured by ULTRASOUND (see also below) between seven and 24 weeks. ‘Term’ refers to the time that the baby is due; this can range from 38 weeks to 41 completed weeks.

Physical changes occur in early pregnancy – periods stop and the abdomen enlarges. The breasts swell, with the veins becoming prominent and the nipples darkening. About two in three women will have nausea with a few experiencing such severe vomiting as to require hospital admission for rehydration.

Antenatal care The aim of antenatal care is to ensure a safe outcome for both mother and child; it is provided by midwives (see MIDWIFE) and doctors. Formal antenatal care began in Edinburgh in the 1930s with the recognition that all aspects of pregnancy – normal and abnormal – warranted surveillance. Cooperation between general practitioners, midwives and obstetricians is now established, with pregnancies that are likely to progress normally being cared for in the community and only those needing special intervention being cared for in a hospital setting.

The initial visit (or booking) in the ?rst half of pregnancy will record the history of past events and the results of tests, with the aim of categorising the patients into normal or not. Screening tests including blood checks and ultrasound scans are a routine part of antenatal care. The ?rst ultrasound scan is done at about 11 weeks to date the pregnancy, with a further one done at 20 weeks – the anomaly scan – to assess the baby’s structure. Some obstetric units will check the growth of the baby with one further scan later in the pregnancy or, in the case of twin pregnancies (see below), many scans throughout. The routine blood tests include checks for ANAEMIA, DIABETES MELLITUS, sickle-cell disease and THALASSAEMIA, as well as for the blood group. Evidence of past infections is also looked for; tests for RUBELLA (German measles) and SYPHILIS are routine, whereas tests for human immunode?ciency virus (see AIDS/ HIV below) and HEPATITIS are being o?ered as optional, although there is compelling evidence that knowledge of the mother’s infection status is bene?cial to the baby.

Traditional antenatal care consists of regular appointments, initially every four weeks until 34 weeks, then fortnightly or weekly. At each visit the mother’s weight, urine and blood pressure are checked, and assessment of fetal growth and position is done by palpating the uterus. Around two-thirds of pregnancies and labours are normal: in the remainder, doctors and midwives need to increase the frequency of surveillance so as to prevent or deal with maternal and fetal problems.

Common complications of pregnancy

Some of the more common complications of pregnancy are listed below.

As well as early detection of medical complications, antenatal visits aim to be supportive and include emotional and educational care. Women with uncomplicated pregnancies are increasingly being managed by midwives and general practitioners in the community and only coming to the hospital doctors should they develop a problem. A small number will opt for a home delivery, but facilities for providing such a service are not always available in the UK.

Women requiring more intensive surveillance have their management targeted to the speci?c problems encountered. Cardiologists will see mothers-to-be with heart conditions, and those at risk of diabetes are cared for in designated clinics with specialist sta?. Those women needing more frequent surveillance than standard antenatal care can be looked after in maternity day centres. These typically include women with mildly raised blood pressure or those with small babies. Fetal medicine units have specialists who are highly skilled in ultrasound scanning and specialise in the diagnosis and management of abnormal babies still in the uterus. ECTOPIC PREGNANCY Chronic abdominal discomfort early in pregnancy may be caused by unruptured ectopic pregnancy, when, rarely, the fertilised OVUM starts developing in the Fallopian tube (see FALLOPIAN TUBES) instead of the uterus. The patient needs hospital treatment and LAPAROSCOPY. A ruptured ectopic pregnancy causes acute abdominal symptoms and collapse, and the woman will require urgent abdominal surgery. URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS These affect around 2 per cent of pregnant women and are detected by a laboratory test of a mid-stream specimen of urine. In pregnancy, symptoms of these infections do not necessarily resemble those experienced by non-pregnant women. As they can cause uterine irritability and possible premature labour (see below), it is important to ?nd and treat them appropriately. ANAEMIA is more prevalent in patients who are vegetarian or on a poor diet. Iron supplements are usually given to women who have low concentrations of HAEMOGLOBIN in their blood (less than 10.5 g/dl) or who are at risk of becoming low in iron, from bleeding, twin pregnancies and those with placenta previa (see below). ANTEPARTUM HAEMORRHAGE Early in pregnancy, vaginal bleedings may be due to a spontaneous or an incomplete therapeutic ABORTION. Bleeding from the genital tract between 24 completed weeks of pregnancy and the start of labour is called antepartum haemorrhage. The most common site is where the PLACENTA is attached to the wall of the uterus. If the placenta separates before delivery, bleeding occurs in the exposed ‘bed’. When the placenta is positioned in the upper part of the uterus it is called an abruption. PLACENTA PRAEVIA is sited in the lower part and blocks or partly blocks the cervix (neck of the womb); it can be identi?ed at about the 34th week. Ten per cent of episodes of antepartum bleeding are caused by placenta previa, and it may be associated with bleeding at delivery. This potentially serious complication is diagnosed by ultrasound scanning and may require a caesarean section (see below) at delivery. INCREASED BLOOD PRESSURE, associated with protein in the urine and swelling of the limbs, is part of a condition known as PRE-ECLAMPSIA. This occurs in the second half of pregnancy in about 1 in 10 women expecting their ?rst baby, and is mostly very mild and of no consequence to the pregnancy. However, some women can develop extremely high blood pressures which can adversely affect the fetus and cause epileptic-type seizures and bleeding disorders in the mother. This serious condition is called ECLAMPSIA. For this reason a pregnant woman with raised blood pressure or PROTEIN in her urine is carefully evaluated with blood tests, often in the maternity day assessment unit. The condition can be stopped by delivery of the baby, and this will be done if the mother’s or the fetus’s life is in danger. If the condition is milder, and the baby not mature enough for a safe delivery, then drugs can be used to control the blood pressure. MISCARRIAGE Also called spontaneous abortion, miscarriage is the loss of the fetus. There are several types:

threatened miscarriage is one in which some vaginal bleeding occurs, the uterus is enlarged, but the cervix remains closed and pregnancy usually proceeds.

inevitable miscarriage usually occurs before the 16th week and is typi?ed by extensive blood loss through an opened cervix and cramp-like abdominal pain; some products of conception are lost but the developing placental area (decidua) is retained and an operation may be necessary to clear the womb.

missed miscarriages, in which the embryo dies and is absorbed, but the decidua (placental area of uterine wall) remains and may cause abdominal discomfort and discharge of old blood.

THERAPEUTIC ABORTION is performed on more than 170,000 women annually in England and Wales. Sometimes the woman may not have arranged the procedure through the usual health-care channels, so that a doctor may see a patient with vaginal bleeding, abdominal discomfort or pain, and open cervix – symptoms which suggest that the decidua and a blood clot have been retained; these retained products will need to be removed by curettage.

Septic abortions are now much less common in Britain than before the Abortion Act (1967) permitted abortion in speci?ed circumstances. The cause is the passage of infective organisms from the vagina into the uterus, with Escherichia coli and Streptococcus faecalis the most common pathogenic agents. The woman has abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, usually fever and sometimes she is in shock. The cause is usually an incomplete abortion or one induced in unsterile circumstances. Antibiotics and curettage are the treatment. INTRAUTERINE GROWTH RETARDATION describes a slowing of the baby’s growth. This can be diagnosed by ultrasound scanning, although there is a considerable margin of error in estimates of fetal weight. Trends in growth are favoured over one-o? scan results alone. GESTATIONAL DIABETES is a condition that is more common in women who are overweight or have a family member with diabetes. If high concentrations of blood sugar are found, e?orts are made to correct it as the babies can become very fat (macrosomia), making delivery more di?cult. A low-sugar diet is usually enough to control the blood concentration of sugars; however some women need small doses of INSULIN to achieve control. FETAL ABNORMALITIES can be detected before birth using ultrasound. Some of these defects are obvious, such as the absence of kidneys, a condition incompatible with life outside the womb. These women can be o?ered a termination of their pregnancy. However, more commonly, the pattern of problems can only hint at an abnormality and closer examination is needed, particularly in the diagnosis of chromosomal deformities such as DOWN’S (DOWN) SYNDROME (trisomy 21 or presence of three 21 chromosomes instead of two).

Chromosomal abnormalities can be de?nitively diagnosed only by cell sampling such as amniocentesis (obtaining amniotic ?uid – see AMNION – from around the baby) done at 15 weeks onwards, and chorionic villus sampling (sampling a small part of the placenta) – another technique which can be done from 12 weeks onwards. Both have a small risk of miscarriage associated with them; consequently, they are con?ned to women at higher risk of having an abnormal fetus.

Biochemical markers present in the pregnant woman’s blood at di?erent stages of pregnancy may have undergone changes in those carrying an abnormal fetus. The ?rst such marker to be routinely used was a high concentration of alpha-fetol protein in babies with SPINA BIFIDA (defects in the covering of the spinal cord). Fuller research has identi?ed a range of diagnostic markers which are useful, and, in conjunction with other factors such as age, ethnic group and ultrasound ?ndings, can provide a predictive guide to the obstetrician – in consultation with the woman – as to whether or not to proceed to an invasive test. These tests include pregnancy-associated plasma protein assessed from a blood sample taken at 12 weeks and four blood tests at 15–22 weeks – alphafetol protein, beta human chorionic gonadotrophin, unconjugated oestriol and inhibin A. Ultrasound itself can reveal physical ?ndings in the fetus, which can be more common in certain abnormalities. Swelling in the neck region of an embryo in early pregnancy (increased nuchal thickness) has good predictive value on its own, although its accuracy is improved in combination with the biochemical markers. The e?ectiveness of prenatal diagnosis is rapidly evolving, the aim being to make the diagnosis as early in the pregnancy as possible to help the parents make more informed choices. MULTIPLE PREGNANCIES In the UK, one in 95 deliveries is of twins, while the prevalence of triplets is one in 10,000 and quadruplets around one in 500,000. Racial variations occur, with African women having a prevalence rate of one in 30 deliveries for twins and Japanese women a much lower rate than the UK ?gure. Multiple pregnancies occur more often in older women, and in the UK the prevalence of fertility treatments, many of these being given to older women, has raised the incidence. There is now an o?cial limit of three eggs being transferred to a woman undergoing ASSISTED CONCEPTION (gamete intrafallopian transfer, or GIFT).

Multiple pregnancies are now usually diagnosed as a result of routine ultrasound scans between 16 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. The increased size of the uterus results in the mother having more or worse pregnancy-related conditions such as nausea, abdominal discomfort, backache and varicose veins. Some congenital abnormalities in the fetus occur more frequently in twins: NEURAL TUBE defects, abnormalities of the heart and the incidence of TURNER’S SYNDROME and KLINEFELTER’S SYNDROME are examples. Such abnormalities may be detected by ultrasound scans or amniocentesis. High maternal blood pressure and anaemia are commoner in women with multiple pregnancies (see above).

The growth rates of multiple fetuses vary, but the di?erence between them and single fetuses are not that great until the later stages of pregnancy. Preterm labour is commoner in multiple pregnancies: the median length of pregnancy is 40 weeks for singletons, 37 for twins and 33 for triplets. Low birth-weights are usually the result of early delivery rather than abnormalities in growth rates. Women with multiple pregnancies require more frequent and vigilant antenatal assessments, with their carers being alert to the signs of preterm labour occurring. CEPHALOPELVIC DISPROPORTION Disparity between the size of the fetus and the mother’s pelvis is not common in the UK but is a signi?cant problem in the developing world. Disparity is classi?ed as absolute, when there is no possibility of delivery, and relative, when the baby is large but delivery (usually after a dif?cult labour) is possible. Causes of absolute disparity include: a large baby – heavier than 5 kg at birth; fetal HYDROCEPHALUS; and an abnormal maternal pelvis. The latter may be congenital, the result of trauma or a contraction in pelvic size because of OSTEOMALACIA early in life. Disproportion should be suspected if in late pregnancy the fetal head has not ‘engaged’ in the pelvis. Sometimes a closely supervised ‘trial of labour’ may result in a successful, if prolonged, delivery. Otherwise a caesarean section (see below) is necessary. UNUSUAL POSITIONS AND PRESENTATIONS OF THE BABY In most pregnant women the baby ?ts into the maternal pelvis head-?rst in what is called the occipito-anterior position, with the baby’s face pointing towards the back of the pelvis. Sometimes, however, the head may face the other way, or enter the pelvis transversely – or, rarely, the baby’s neck is ?exed backwards with the brow or face presenting to the neck of the womb. Some malpositions will correct naturally; others can be manipulated abdominally during pregnancy to a better position. If, however, the mother starts labour with the baby’s head badly positioned or with the buttocks instead of the head presenting (breech position), the labour will usually be longer and more di?cult and may require intervention using special obstetric forceps to assist in extracting the baby. If progress is poor and the fetus distressed, caesarean section may be necessary. HIV INFECTION Pregnant women who are HIV positive (see HIV; AIDS/HIV) should be taking antiviral drugs in the ?nal four to ?ve months of pregnancy, so as to reduce the risk of infecting the baby in utero and during birth by around 50 per cent. Additional antiviral treatment is given before delivery; the infection risk to the baby can be further reduced – by about 40 per cent – if delivery is by caesarean section. The mother may prefer to have the baby normally, in which case great care should be taken not to damage the baby’s skin during delivery. The infection risk to the baby is even further reduced if it is not breast fed. If all preventive precautions are taken, the overall risk of the infant becoming infected is cut to under 5 per cent.

Premature birth This is a birth that takes place before the end of the normal period of gestation, usually before 37 weeks. In practice, however, it is de?ned as a birth that takes place when the baby weighs less than 2·5 kilograms (5••• pounds). Between 5 and 10 per cent of babies are born prematurely, and in around 40 per cent of premature births the cause is unknown. Pre-eclampsia is the most common known cause; others include hypertension, chronic kidney disease, heart disease and diabetes mellitus. Multiple pregnancy is another cause. In the vast majority of cases the aim of management is to prolong the pregnancy and so improve the outlook for the unborn child. This consists essentially of rest in bed and sedation, but there are now several drugs, such as RITODRINE, that may be used to suppress the activity of the uterus and so help to delay premature labour. Prematurity was once a prime cause of infant mortality but modern medical care has greatly improved survival rates in developing countries.

Labour Also known by the traditional terms parturition, childbirth or delivery, this is the process by which the baby and subsequently the placenta are expelled from the mother’s body. The onset of labour is often preceded by a ‘show’ – the loss of the mucus and blood plug from the cervix, or neck of the womb; this passes down the vagina to the exterior. The time before the beginning of labour is called the ‘latent phase’ and characteristically lasts 24 hours or more in a ?rst pregnancy. Labour itself is de?ned by regular, painful contractions which cause dilation of the neck of the womb and descent of the fetal head. ‘Breaking of the waters’ is the loss of amniotic ?uid vaginally and can occur any time in the delivery process.

Labour itself is divided into three stages: the ?rst is from the onset of labour to full (10 cm) dilation of the neck of the womb. This stage varies in length, ideally taking no more than one hour per centimetre of dilation. Progress is monitored by regular vaginal examinations, usually every four hours. Fetal well-being is observed by intermittent or continuous monitoring of the fetal heart rate in relation to the timing and frequency of the contractions. The print-out is called a cardiotocograph. Abnormalities of the fetal heart rate may suggest fetal distress and may warrant intervention. In women having their ?rst baby (primigravidae), the common cause of a slow labour is uncoordinated contractions which can be overcome by giving either of the drugs PROSTAGLANDIN or OXYTOCIN, which provoke contractions of the uterine muscle, by an intravenous drip. Labours which progress slowly or not at all may be due to abnormal positioning of the fetus or too large a fetus, when prostaglandin or oxytocin is used much more cautiously.

The second stage of labour is from full cervical dilation to the delivery of the baby. At this stage the mother often experiences an irresistible urge to push the baby out, and a combination of strong coordinated uterine contractions and maternal e?ort gradually moves the baby down the birth canal. This stage usually lasts under an hour but can take longer. Delay, exhaustion of the mother or distress of the fetus may necessitate intervention by the midwife or doctor. This may mean enlarging the vaginal opening with an EPISIOTOMY (cutting of the perineal outlet – see below) or assisting the delivery with specially designed obstetric forceps or a vacuum extractor (ventouse). If the cervix is not completely dilated or open and the head not descended, then an emergency caesarean section may need to be done to deliver the baby. This procedure involves delivering the baby and placenta through an incision in the mother’s abdomen. It is sometimes necessary to deliver by planned or elective caesarean section: for example, if the placenta is low in the uterus – called placenta praevia – making a vaginal delivery dangerous.

The third stage occurs when the placenta (or afterbirth) is delivered, which is usually about 10–20 minutes after the baby. An injection of ergometrine and oxytocin is often given to women to prevent bleeding.

Pain relief in labour varies according to the mother’s needs. For uncomplicated labours, massage, reassurance by a birth attendant, and a warm bath and mobilisation may be enough for some women. However, some labours are painful, particularly if the woman is tired or anxious or is having her ?rst baby. In these cases other forms of analgesia are available, ranging from inhalation of NITROUS OXIDE GAS, injection of PETHIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE or similar narcotic, and regional local anaesthetic (see ANAESTHESIA).

Once a woman has delivered, care continues to ensure her and the baby’s safety. The midwives are involved in checking that the uterus returns to its normal size and that there is no infection or heavy bleeding, as well as caring for stitches if needed. The normal blood loss after birth is called lochia and generally is light, lasting up to six weeks. Midwives o?er support with breast feeding and care of the infant and will visit the parents at home routinely for up to two weeks.

Some complications of labour All operative deliveries in the UK are now done in hospitals, and are performed if a spontaneous birth is expected to pose a bigger risk to the mother or her child than a specialist-assisted one. Operative deliveries include caesarean section, forceps-assisted deliveries and those in which vacuum extraction (ventouse) is used. CAESAREAN SECTION Absolute indications for this procedure, which is used to deliver over 15 per cent of babies in Britain, are cephalopelvic disproportion and extensive placenta praevia, both discussed above. Otherwise the decision to undertake caesarean section depends on the clinical judgement of the specialist and the views of the mother. The rise in the proportion of this type of intervention (from 5 per cent in the 1930s to its present level of over 23 per cent

P

of the 600,000 or so annual deliveries in England) has been put down to defensive medicine

– namely, the doctor’s fear of litigation (initiated often because the parents believe that the baby’s health has suffered because the mother had an avoidably di?cult ‘natural’ labour). In Britain, over 60 per cent of women who have had a caesarean section try a vaginal delivery in a succeeding pregnancy, with about two-thirds of these being successful. Indications for the operation include:

absolute and relative cephalopelvic disproportion.

placenta previa.

fetal distress.

prolapsed umbilical cord – this endangers the viability of the fetus because the vital supply of oxygen and nutrients is interrupted.

malpresentation of the fetus such as breech or transverse lie in the womb.

unsatisfactory previous pregnancies or deliveries.

a request from the mother.

Caesarean sections are usually performed using regional block anaesthesia induced by a spinal or epidural injection. This results in loss of feeling in the lower part of the body; the mother is conscious and the baby not exposed to potential risks from volatile anaesthetic gases inhaled by the mother during general anaesthesia. Post-operative complications are higher with general anaesthesia, but maternal anxiety and the likelihood that the operation might be complicated and di?cult are indications for using it. A general anaesthetic may also be required for an acute obstetric emergency. At operation the mother’s lower abdomen is opened and then her uterus opened slowly with a transverse incision and the baby carefully extracted. A transverse incision is used in preference to the traditional vertical one as it enables the woman to have a vaginal delivery in any future pregnancy with a much smaller risk of uterine rupture. Women are usually allowed to get up within 24 hours and are discharged after four or ?ve days. FORCEPS AND VENTOUSE DELIVERIES Obstetric forceps are made in several forms, but all are basically a pair of curved blades shaped so that they can obtain a purchase on the baby’s head, thus enabling the operator to apply traction and (usually) speed up delivery. (Sometimes they are used to slow down progress of the head.) A ventouse or vacuum extractor comprises an egg-cup-shaped metal or plastic head, ranging from 40 to 60 mm in diameter with a hollow tube attached through which air is extracted by a foot-operated vacuum pump. The instrument is placed on the descending head, creating a negative pressure on the skin of the scalp and enabling the operator to pull the head down. In mainland Europe, vacuum extraction is generally preferred to forceps for assisting natural deliveries, being used in around 5 per cent of all deliveries. Forceps have a greater risk of causing damage to the baby’s scalp and brain than vacuum extraction, although properly used, both types should not cause any serious damage to the baby.

Episiotomy Normal and assisted deliveries put the tissues of the genital tract under strain. The PERINEUM is less elastic than the vagina and, if it seems to be splitting as the baby’s head

moves down the birth canal, it may be necessary to cut the perineal tissue – a procedure called an episiotomy – to limit damage. This is a simple operation done under local anaesthetic. It should be done only if there is a speci?c indication; these include:

to hasten the second stage of labour if the fetus is distressed.

to facilitate the use of forceps or vacuum extractor.

to enlarge a perineum that is restricted because of unyielding tissue, perhaps because of a scar from a previous labour. Midwives as well as obstetricians are trained

to undertake and repair (with sutures) episiotomies.

(For organisations which o?er advice and information on various aspects of childbirth, including eclampsia, breast feeding and multiple births, see APPENDIX 2: ADDRESSES: SOURCES OF INFORMATION, ADVICE, SUPPORT AND SELF-HELP.)... pregnancy and labour

Drugs or other substances used to treat CONSTIPATION. Also called aperients or purgatives, laxatives are classi?ed according to their mode of action. The four main groups are bulk, stimulant, faecal softeners and osmotics. In addition, bowel-cleansing solutions are used before surgery, ENDOSCOPY, or radiological examination of the COLON, to ensure that the bowel is clear of solid matter. However, these are not procedures for treating constipation.

People should be aware that normal bowel habits vary greatly, from twice a day to once every two or even three days. Any change from normal frequency to irregular or infrequent defaecation may signal constipation. Furthermore, before laxatives are prescribed, it is essential to ensure that the constipation is not the result of an underlying condition producing ‘secondary’ constipation. Individuals should not use laxatives too often or indiscriminately; persistent constipation is a reason to seek medical advice.

Bulk laxatives include bran and most high-?bre foods, such as fruit, vegetables and wholemeal foods. These leave a large indigestible residue that holds water in the gut and produces a large soft stool. Isphaghula husk, methyl cellulose and stercula are helpful when bran is ine?ective. Inorganic salts such as magnesium sulphate (Epsom Salts) have a similar e?ect.

Stimulant laxatives – for example, bisacodyl, senna and docusate sodium – stimulate PERISTALSIS, although the action may be accompanied by colicky pains.

Faecal softeners (emollients) There are two groups: surface active agents such as dioctyl sodium and sulphosuccinate which retain water in the stools and are often combined with a stimulant purgative; and liquid para?n which is chemically inert and is said to act by lubrication.

Osmotic laxatives These substances act by holding ?uid in the bowel by OSMOSIS, or by altering the manner in which water is distributed in the FAECES. Magnesium salts are used to produce rapid bowel evacuation, although one of them, magnesium hydroxide, should be used only occasionally. Phosphate or sodium citrate enemas (see ENEMA) can be used for constipation, while the former is used to ensure bowel evacuation before abdominal radiological procedures, endoscopy and surgery.... laxatives

Linn.

Family: Curciferace; Brassicaceae.

Habitat: North-West Himalayas.

Folk: Gonyuch (Ladakh).

Action: Plant—depurative, antilith- ic, diuretic, stomachic, antiscorbutic. An infusion is given for liver and kidney diseases. Also used as a resolvent in skin affections.

The leaves show dose-dependent increase of diuretic activity; also increase in potassium excretion in urine.

The leaves contain cholesterol, stig- masterol and beta-sitosterol.... lepidium latifolium

Robyns.

Synonym: Vangueria spinosa Hook. f.

Family: Rubiaceae.

Habitat: West Bengal, Bihar, Orissa, in hedges and waste places.

Ayurvedic: Pinditaka. Madana or Mainphala is a misleading synonym. It is equated with Randia dumetorum Poir.

Folk: Muyana, Moyana, Muduna.

Siddha/Tamil: Manakkarai. (Madana or Mainphala is known as Marukkallankay.)

Action: Fruit—cholagogue, a decoction used in biliary complaints and hepatic congestion. Dried fruits—narcotic; used for boils.... meyna laxiflora

Linn.

Family: Plantaginaceae.

Habitat: Western Himalayas, from Kashmir to Garhwal and Simla.

English: Rib Grass, Ribwort Plantain, English Plantain, Buckhorn Plantain.

Unani: Baartang, Aspaghol.

Folk: Balatang.

Action: Leaf and root—astringent, bechic, antiasthmatic, anti-inflammatory, hypothermic, diuretic. Seed—cathartic, diuretic, haemostatic.

Key application: Internally, for catarrhs of the respiratory tract and inflammatory alterations of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa; externally for inflammatory reactions of the skin. (German Commission E, ESCOP.)

Globularin and methyl ester of de- sacetyl asperulosidic acid were isolated from the plant along with cat- apol. A crude mucilage, isolated from the leaves, contains L-arabinose 26.0, D-galactose 35.8, D-glucose 21.9, D- mannose 4.6, L-rhamnose 4.6 and uronic acid 6.9%. Alpha-D-glucan was separated from this mucilage.

Leaves gave aucubin and esculetin, in addition to polysaccharides. The whole plant yielded rhamnosidoglyco- side of caffeic acid. Seeds contain 1.1% aucubin. Aucubin exhibits antibacterial activity. Hepatoprotective effect is also attributed to the aucubin content.

Alcoholic extract of young leaves exhibit antibacterial action against Streptococcus betahaemolyticus, Micrococ- cus pyogenes var. aureus and Bacillus subtilis, thus confirming their wound- healing properties.... plantago lanceolata

A branch of the vagus NERVE which leaves the latter low down in its course, and – hooking around the right subclavian artery on the right side and round the arch of the aorta on the left

– runs up again into the neck, where it enters the larynx and supplies branches to the muscles which control the vocal cords.... recurrent laryngeal nerve

(Burm. F.) Merr.

Family: Araceae.

Habitat: Deccan Peninsula, Coromandel Coast, Malabar and southwards to Sri Lanka.

Folk: Ganesh-kand (Maharashtra); Aaanaiittippili (Tamil Nadu).

Action: Antidote to poisonous inflictions; used against bites of poisonous raptiles.... rhaphidophora laciniata

Roxb.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

Habitat: The temperate Himalayas from Kashmir to Nepal

Action: Roots—an adulterant of Saussurea lappa. Used as a substitute for Saliva moorcroftiana.... salvia lanata

C. B. Clarke.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: Punjab, Upper Gangetic plains, Gujarat, Rajasthan.

Ayurvedic: Raasnaa, Rasanaa, Raas- nikaa, Rasaa, Yuktaa, Yuktrasaa, Suvahaa, Elaaparni.

Folk: Vaaya-surai (Uttar Pradesh), Raayasan.

Action: Aerial parts—smooth muscle relaxant. Stem—antiinflammatory. Pluchea lanceolata is the source of Raasnaa in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. Vanda roxburghii is used as Raasnaa in Bengal. Throughout South India, Alpinia galanga is accepted as Raasnaa.

The stem and leaves contain morete- nol, moretenol acetate, neolupenol, oc- tacosanoic, hexacosanoic and tetra- cosanoic acid, tetracosanol, hexaco- sanol, triacontanol, stigmasterol and beta-sitosterol-D-glucoside.

The petroleum extract of the stem and leaves and the chloroform-soluble portion of the methanolic extract exhibited 31.9% and 54.5% antioedema activity, respectively. The triterpenes, moretenol acetate, moretenol and ne- olupenol exhibited 55.2,32,8 and 39.7% anti-inflammatory activity respectively as against ibuprofen as standard exhibiting 65.5% activity.... pluchea lanceolata

A statutory organisation that is part of the NHS. It comprises ten laboratory groups and two centres in the UK, with central coordination from PHLS headquarters. The service provides diagnostic-testing facilities for cases of suspected infectious disease. The remit of the PHLS (which was set up during World War II and then absorbed into the NHS) is now based on legislation approved in 1977 and 1979. Its overall purpose was to protect the population from infection by maintaining a national capability of high quality for the detection, diagnosis, surveillance, protection and control of infections and communicable diseases. It provided microbiology services to hospitals, family doctors and local authorities as well as providing national reference facilities. In 2001 it was incorporated into the newly established NATIONAL INFECTION CONTROL AND HEALTH PROTECTION AGENCY.... public health laboratoryservice (phls)

Vahl.

Synonym: S. trifoliatus auct. non Linn.

Family: Sapindaceae.

Habitat: South India; also cultivated around villages in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal.

English: Soapnut tree of South India.

Ayurvedic: Arishtaka, Pheni- la, Raktabeeja, Reethaakaranja, Garbhapaatana.

Unani: Reethaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Puvamkottai, Mani pungu.

Action: Fruit—astringent, emetic, detergent, anthelmintic. Pulp— aqueous solution used as nasal drops in migraine, epilepsy and hysteria. Root—used for gout, rheumatism and paralysis.

Saponin from pericarp of nuts yielded the genins, methylhedragenate, sap- indic acid and methyl oleanolate.

Dosage: Fruit—3-6 g powder. (CCRAS.)... sapindus laurifolius

Statice limonium. N.O. Plumbaginaceae.

Synonym: Marsh Rosemary.

Habitat: Marshes near the sea.

Features ? Angular stem, nine or ten inches in height. Leaves broadly oblong, tapering to a peculiar tip, grow from the root round the flower stalk. Flowers blue, five delicate petals, clustering on branched stalks. No scent, in spite of name. Root purplish-brown, rough, spindle-shaped.

Part used ? Root.

Action: Astringent.

Decoction of the powdered root (1 ounce to 1 1/2 pints of water simmered to 1 pint) administered in wineglass doses wherever an astringent tonic is indicated. Makes an excellent gargle and mouth-wash for inflammatory conditions, and is used in certain urinary, uterine and vaginal discharges.... sea lavender

Roxb.

Family: Liliaceae.

Habitat: Sikkim Himalayas, Assam and Manipur.

Ayurvedic: Hindi Chobachini.

Folk: Shukchin (Maharashtra), Hariaa.

Action: Roots—used for rheumatic affections.... smilax lanceifolia

Burkill.

Synonym: S. corymbosa var. lawii C. B. Clarke.

Family: Gentianaceae.

Habitat: Western Ghats from Maharashtra to South Kanara at 1,200 m.

Ayurvedic: Kiraatatikta (related species).

Action: Used as a substitute for Swertia chirayita.

Whole plant gave a number of xan- thones. Erythrocentaurin has also been reported from the plant.... swertia lawii

Lepech.

Family: Typhaceae.

Habitat: Kashmir (Gilgit), at 2,700 m. English: Scented Flag. Ayurvedic: Airakaa. Folk: Pizh (Kashmir).

Action: Stamens—astringent and styptic. Used externally.... typha laxmanni

The end results of heavy infection and migration of larva of Toxocara spp (especially T. canis - the dog Ascarid) in the viscera, producing a granulomatous reaction and pathology at the site.... visceral larva migrans

Herbs that reduce milk production. Sage.

ANTI-LITHICS. Agents used for elimination or dissolution of stone or gravel. Stone root, Parsley root, Hydrangea, Pellitory of the Wall, Gravel root. ... anti-lacteals

(Decne) Sch.-Bip.

Synonym: S. costus (Falc.) Lipsch.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Garhwal at 25003,000 m; cultivated in Kashmir and neighbouring regions.

English: Kuth, Costus.

Ayurvedic: Kushtha, Kusht, Vaapya, Kaashmira, Gada, Rug, Ruk, Aamaya, Paalaka. (Substitute: Pushkara Muula, Inula racemosa.)

Unani: Qust.

Siddha/Tamil: Kostum, Kottam.

Folk: Sugandha-Kuutth.

Action: Root—antispasmodic, expectorant, carminative, astringent, antiseptic. An ingredient of prescriptions for dyspepsia, asthma, cough, chronic rheumatism, skin diseases. Applied locally to wounds and ulcerations. Powdered root, mixed with mustard oil, is applied to scalp in prurigo.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends the root in cough, bronchitis, dyspnoea; erysipelas and gout.

The root (containing both the essential oil and alkaloid, saussurine) is used for asthma, particularly of vagotonic type. It produces a definite relaxtion of the bronchioles. The relief obtained is comparable to that of conventional bronchodilators without side effects, like a rise in blood pressure, sweating or headache even on repeated administration.

Saussurine depresses parasympa- thetic nervous system. The aminoacid- sesquiterpene adducts, saussureami- nes A, B and C show antiulcer effect. The aqueous extract of the root exhibits antianginal activity.

Essential oil inhibits peristalic movement of the gut. It is absorbed from the gastro-intestinal tract and partly excreted by lungs producing an expectorant action and partly by the kidneys producing diuretic effect. (In Western herbal, Kuth essential oil is not prescribed internally.)

Kuth roots contain resinoids (6%), and essential oil (1.5%), alkaloid (0.05%) inulin (18%), saussurea lactone (20-25%), a fixed oil and minor constituents like tannin and sugars. Roots obtained from Kashmir are, in general, richer in essential oil content than roots obtained from Garhwal and Nepal. The roots of Punjab variety gave cos- tunolide, dehydrocostuslactone, costic acid, palmitic and linoleic acids, beta- sitosterol and alpha-cyclocostunolide. The Kashmir variety, in addition, gave alantolactone, beta-cyclocostunolide and iso-alantolactone.

The essential oil of the roots exhibit strong antiseptic and disinfectant activity against Streptococcus and Staphy- lococcus.

Costus speciosus Sm. synonym Banksea speciosa, also known as Kush- tha, is a different herb of Zingiberaceae family. Rhizomes and stems yield dios- genin.

Dosage: Root—0.2-1.0 g powder. (API, Vol. I.)... saussurea lappa

Spreng.

Family: Papilionaceae.

Habitat: Punjab, eastwards to Bengal, extending southwards into Peninsular India.

Ayurvedic: Maashaparni, Mahaasa- haa, Suuryaasani, Lomash-parni, Kaamboja, Krishna-vrintaa. (In Kerala different species of Vigna are used as Maashaparni.)

Siddha/Tamil: Kattu-ulandu.

Action: Fruit—astringent, stomachic, febrifugal; also used as a nervine tonic in tuberculosis, haemoptysis, rheumatism and paralysis. Considered invigorating in Indian medicine.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofln- dia recommends the plant in spermatorrhoea.

In Ayurvedic texts, Maashaparni and Mudgaparni together form a group of rejuvenating drugs.

Mudgaparni is equated with Phaseo- lus trilobus. Maashaparni and Maasha (Vigna mungo) are different drugs.

Dosage: Whole plant—5-10 g powder. (API, Vol.III.)... teramnus labialis

Lavender tea has been known for many years as being very beneficial for the nervous system. The lavender plant grows mainly in North and East Africa, the Mediterranean, Southern Europe, India and Arabia and it is also cultivated in United States and Japan. It grows best on dry land, exposed to sunlight. Lavender has been known for many years as being a scented herb, its fragrance providing relaxation, calming the body and the mind. The constituents of lavender tea are flavonoids, tannins, courmarines and essential oils. How To Make Lavender Tea There are not many steps to follow in brewing lavender tea. Simply take a handful of dried lavender blossoms and infuse them in a pot of boiling water. Let it steep for about 7-10 minutes and after that, pour the tea into your cup using a strainer to catch the lavender blossoms. Lavender Tea Benefits

• Helps calm nervousness and anxiety.
• Provides you a good night sleep since it can ease insomnia.
• Helps treating stomach ache, flatulence and colic.
• Alleviates migraine headaches.
• During fever, lavender tea induces sweating and reduces the body temperature.
• Lavender tea can be applied on wounds, cuts in order to heal them.

Lavender Tea Side Effects Lavender tea can react with other herbs, supplements and medication, so make sure you consult your doctor before drinking lavender tea. To some people, this tea can cause allergic reactions, nausea or headaches. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid drinking lavender tea. In conclusion, lavender tea is a wonderful relaxing tea that can be drank on evenings or just before bed for a rested good night sleep. Enjoy its benefits and make sure you won’t experience its side effects!... the aromatic lavender tea

 Cheese rennet. Galium verum L.

Action. Alterative, diuretic.

Uses: Kidney stone, gravel, gout.

Preparation. Tea: 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Dose, 1 cup freely. ... bedstraw, ladies

To reduce.

Internal:– Nettles, Agnus Castus, Poke root, Pipsissewa leaves. Teas, powders or tinctures thrice daily. External:– Engorgement from breast-feeding – massage with Calendula cream or Almond oil. ... breasts, over large

Many women around the world are having a hard time inducing labor. It’s not because they are not ready, but because their body doesn’t have the amount of hormones required in this case. If you’re having the same problem and you don’t know exactly what to do, you can either talk to a doctor or try a natural remedy. It is important to know that something must be done since the longer the baby stays in the uterus the bigger the chances he will suffocate are. It’s not only that, the baby could grow too much, causing you irreparable damages. How Tea to Induce Labor Works A Tea to Induce Labor’s main goal is to make your body release the necessary amount of natural hormones in order to deliver the baby. The tea contains a high level of estrogen and other active substances that will let your body know it is time for a child birth. Efficient Tea to Induce Labor When choosing a Tea to Induce Labor, you need to keep in mind that you have to pick one that it is both effective and safe. If you don’t know which those teas are, here’s a list to give you a hand: - Chamomile Tea – some say that it works, some say it does not. However, Chamomile Tea soothes your labor pains by making your body release the right endorphins amount. You can also use it if you have a cold, flu or a sore throat. This particular Tea to Induce Labor is one hundred percent safe and you don’t need to worry that it will interfere with anything. - Raspberry Leaf Tea – is not very popular among pregnant ladies, but recent studies showed that this tea contains a substance that resembles to estrogen which can trick your body into thinking you have to deliver the baby as soon as possible. Basically, Raspberry Leaf Tea creates the hormonal environment required by a child birth and also soothes your pains. - Cinnamon Tea – increases your hormone level and brings you a state of calmness. It is also good for menstrual and menopausal pains and a great additive for cookie recipes around the world. Cinnamon Tea has a very pleasant taste, but you should not drink more than 3 cups per day in order to avoid diarrhea or constipation. - Blue Cohosh Tea – is very effective, but not very safe. Many practitioners are concerned about the baby’s health due to the fact that this cure to induce labor might take a while. They think that ingesting even a small quantity of tea every day will poison the baby’s body. Before taking a treatment based on Blue Cohosh, you must talk to your doctor! Tea to Induce Labor Side Effects When taken properly, some of these teas are safe. However, high dosages may lead to a number of affections, starting with diarrhea and ending with miscarriage. If you’ve been taking a Tea to Induce Labor and something feels wrong, ask for medical assistance right away and do not try to treat it yourself! Remember that there are two people you need to pay attention to, so make sure everything is in order with the baby before starting any kind of herbal treatment. If you have your doctor’s O.K. on taking a Tea to Induce Labor, choose one that fits best your needs and enjoy nature’s great health benefits!... tea to induce labor

(Cav.) Dalz. & Gibs.

Synonym: Azanza lampas (Cav.) Alef.

Family: Malvaceae.

Habitat: Grown as an ornamental.

Ayurvedic: Tundikera.

Folk: Bana-Kapaasi. Raan-bhendi (Maharashtra).

Action: Flowers—used for cutaneous diseases. Roots and fruits— used for treating gonorrhoea and syphilis.

Gossypol is reported to be present in the plant—roots 2.75, flower buds 1.95, seeds 1.74, leaves 0.98 and stems 0.16%. The flowers contain quercetin and protocatechuic acid.... thespesia lampas

Chiefly due to continued inflammation from faulty use of the voice, smoking, drugs or infection.

Symptoms. Cough, hoarseness, difficult swallowing. ‘Always clearing the throat.’ Differs from a polyp or papilloma on the vocal chords which are benign.

Of possible value:– Teas. Balm, Chamomile, Gotu Kola, Red Clover, Red Sage, Yarrow. Plantain (Arthur Hyde MNIMH)

Tea (mild analgesic). Mix equal parts: Balm and German Chamomile. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5 minutes. 1 cup freely.

Tablets/capsules. Blue Flag root, Echinacea, Poke root.

Formula. Echinacea 2; Mullein 2; Goldenseal quarter. Mix. Dose: Powders: 750mg (three 00 capsules or half a teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1-2 teaspoons. Tinctures: 1-3 teaspoons. Thrice daily and at bedtime. Diet. Slippery Elm gruel.

Supplements. Vitamins A and C.

Treatment by a general medical practitioner or a hospital oncologist. ... cancer – larynx

Teas: Agrimony, Betony, Gotu Kola, Ginseng. Decoction: Gentian.

Tablets: traditional combination – Kola, Saw Palmetto, Damiana. Ginseng. Powders: equal parts Ginseng and Kola. Half a teaspoon.

Liquid Extracts: equal parts, Damiana, Saw Palmetto, Wild Yam. 30-60 drops in water thrice daily. Diet: porridge oats. Bee Pollen. Cayenne. Life Drops. ... energy – lack of

Labelling regulations require every dispensed product, i.e. a container of medicine, lotion, tablets, ointment, etc, to be labelled with the following particulars:–

1. Name of the patient.

2. Name and address of the herbal practitioner.

3. Directions for use of the remedy.

4. Liquid preparations for local or topical use to be clearly marked: For external use only.

Statutory Instruments: Medicine (Labelling) Regulations 1976 No. 1726. Medicines (Labelling) Regulations 1977 No. 996. ... labelling of herbal products by a practitioner

Known as Beth root in America and Fat Hen in the UK. Refer to entries. ... lamb’s quarters

For tired or strained eyes.

Constituents: 100g contains: Ananarsa fruct. 5g; Larch Resin 2g in a base containing Lanolin and yellow soft paraffin. (Weleda) ... larch resin ointment

The law requires labels to carry a full description of all ingredients. No label should bear the name of a specific disease or promote treatment for any serious disease or condition requiring consultation with a registered medical practitioner. Labels must not contravene The Medicines (Labelling and Advertising to the Public), SI 41, Regulations, 1978.

Misleading claims and the use of such words as “organic”, “wholesome”, “natural” or “biological” cannot be accepted on product labels. The Licensing Authority treats herbal manufacturers no differently than manufacturers of allopathic products for serious conditions.

The Advertising Standards Authority does not allow quotation of any medicinal claims, except where a Product Licence (PL) has been authorised by the Licensing Authority.

All labels must include: Name of product (as on Product Licence), description of pharmaceutical form (tablet, mixture etc), Product Licence No., Batch No., quantity of each active ingredient in each unit dose in metric terms; dose and directions for use; quantity in container (in metric terms); “Keep out of reach of children” or similar warning; Name and address of Product Licence Holder; expiry date (if applicable); and any other special warnings. Also to appear: excipients, method/route of administration, special storage instructions, and precautions for disposal, if any.

Where licences are granted, the following words should appear on the label of a product: “A herbal product traditionally used for the symptomatic relief of . . .”. “If symptoms persist see your doctor.” “Not to be used in pregnancy” (where applicable). “If you think you have . . . consult a registered medical practitioner before taking this product.” “If you are already receiving medical treatment, tell your doctor that you are taking this product.” These warnings are especially necessary should symptoms persist and be the start of something more serious than a self-limiting condition.

Herbal preparations should be labelled with the additives and colourings they contain, if any. This helps practitioners avoid prescribing medicines containing them to certain patients on whom they may have an adverse reaction.

Labels of medicinal products shall comply with the Medicines (Labelling) Regulations 1976 (SI 1976 No. 1726) as amended by the Medicines (Labelling) Amendment Regulations 1977 (SI 1977 No. 996), the Medicines (Labelling) Amendment Regulations 1981 (SI 1981 No. 1791) and the Medicines (Labelling) Amendment Regulations 1985 (SI 1985 No. 1558).

Leaflets issued with proprietory medicinal products shall comply with the requirements of the Medicines (Leaflets) Regulations 1977 (SI 1977 No. 1055).

See also: ADVERTISING: CODE OF PRACTICE. BRITISH HERBAL MEDICINE ASSOCIATION. ... labelling of herbal products

St James tea. Wild Rosemary. (Ledum Latifolium, Jacq.) (Ledum Greenlandicum). German: Sumpfporst. French: Romarin sauvage. Italian: Ledone. Part used: leaves. Grows in wild damp northern places where only goats eat it and where the Swedes still drink it for gout.

Action: tonic, pectoral, diaphoretic. Expectorant.

Uses: Dyspepsia, cough, dysentery, violent itching, chest infections. Cold shivery conditions with chattering teeth. Inflamed or malignant sore throat – to cleanse and sweeten bad breath. Antidotes the effects of alcohol. Gout.

External: gnat bites and punctured wounds, (Dr Teste) bee-sting, needle-pricks leading to whitlow, body lice, (strong decoction).

Ledum palustre (Marsh tea, Wild Rosemary, Porsch), is more powerful than Ledum latifolium – for practitioner use only.

Preparation. Average dose: 1-4g.

Tea. Quarter to half a teaspoon to cup water, gently simmer 15 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup. ... labrador tea

Lion’s foot. Alchemilla vulgaris L. Dried herb (oral), root (topical). Keynote: bleeding.

Constituents: tannins.

Action: powerful styptic and astringent because of its high tannin content. Haemostatic. Alterative. Drying and binding. Menstrual regulator.

Uses: Excessive menstruation. Non-menstrual bleeding of the womb between periods. Children’s summer diarrhoea, colitis with bleeding. Gastric and duodenal ulcer. Children’s convulsions. (Swedish traditional)

Not used in pregnancy.

Combinations. (1) with Avens for gastritis and mucous colitis. (2) with Agnus Castus for menstrual disorders.

Preparations: Average dose: 2-4g. Thrice daily. Tea: 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. One cup.

Liquid extract BHP (1983) 1:1 in 25 per cent alcohol. Dose: 2-4ml.

Powdered root. Dose, 2-4g.

Vaginal douche: 2oz to 2 pints (60g to 1 litre) boiling water. Infuse 30 minutes. Inject warm for leucorrhoea, Candida, inflammation; or as a lotion for pruritus.

Decoction (roots) offer a powerful deterrant to passive bleeding. ... lady’s mantle

See motor neuron disease.... amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

A popular term for amblyopia or a convergent squint.... eye, lazy

A term meaning unstable or likely to undergo change.... labile

A condition in which there is an absence of lactase, an enzyme that breaks down lactose (milk sugar), in the cells of the small intestine.

Lactase deficiency results in a reduced ability to digest lactose, also known as lactose intolerance.

The condition may be permanent, or may occur temporarily after gastroenteritis, particularly in young children.

Symptoms include abdominal cramps, bloating, flatulence, and diarrhoea, all of which are caused by the laxative effect of the undigested sugar in the intestines.

Treatment is with a lactose-free diet.... lactase deficiency

Nerve root. American Valerian. Cypripedium pubescens, Willd. German: Frauenschuh. French: Sabot de Ve?nus. Spanish: Zucco. Italian: Calceolo. Dried root and rhizome. Time- honoured North American Indian remedy. Keynote: central nervous system.

Constituents: tannin, resin.

Action: nerve relaxant, autonomic regulator, mild pain-killer, thymoleptic. A fine brain and spinal remedy and should be at the hand of every spinal manipulator. Antidote to caffeine poisoning.

Use s. Nervous excitability, insomnia, irritability, neuralgia, muscle twitching, anxiety states, schizophrenia, pressive headache, nerve tension, epilepsy, pre-menstrual tension, spermatorrhoea, post- influenzal depression, weepiness.

“Yellow Lady’s Slipper was held in big esteem by the Indians as a sedative and an antispasmodic, acting like Valerian in alleviating nervous symptoms . . . said to have proved itself in hysteria and chorea.” (Virgil Vogel)

Combinations. (1) with Oats and Skullcap for anxiety states and (2) with Hops for insomnia with depression BHP (1983).

Preparations: Average dose: 2-4g. Thrice daily.

Tea. Half-1 teaspoon to each cupful water; bring to boil; simmer 2-3 minutes in covered vessel; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup.

Liquid Extract BHP (1983) 1:1 in 45 per cent alcohol. Dose: 2-4ml.

Powder. Dose, 2-4g. ... lady’s slipper

Tabebuia avellanedae. Ipe Roxo, Pau d’arco. LaPacho herb tea. Taheebo. 1,000 year-old Inca cancer-cure. Used for centuries by the Callawaya Tribe. Still used in Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil and the Argentine. Laprachol occurs in heartwood of some trees of the genera Tecoma and Tabebuia (N.O. Bignonaiceae). Aids immune system health. Anti-tumour. Anti-microbial. Analgesic. Anodyne. Diuretic. Antidotal. Fungicidal. Anti-fever. Anti-Candida. Anti-cancer. Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-haemorrhagic. Anti-leukaemic. Indian plant C.D. shows reducible activity in Walker 256 Carcinosarcoma system in rats. Exhibits significant antitumour activity with relatively little effect on body weight. Anti-cancer experiments in human patients confirm experiments made in animals bearing malignant neoplasies. Low toxicity. Adenocarcinoma (liver, breast and prostate) and epidermoid carcinoma of womb and floor of the mouth: temporary reductions of lesions and decrease of pain. (Manoel Antonio Schmidt)

Folk history: cancer remedy (anti-mitotic action), diarrhoea, boils, leprosy, chlorosis, dysentery, eneuresis, fever, pharyngitis, snakebite, syphilis, wounds. (J.A. Duke) Large doses produce nausea and anti-coagulant tendency. Strongly commended by Professor Emeritus, Walter Accorsi, University of Sao Paulo (USP) for its therapeutic value.

Oral candidiasis: good results reported.

Decoction. 15-20g bark to 500ml (1 pint) water, gently simmered 20 minutes. 1 cup thrice daily.

Tincture. 1 part to 5 parts 60 per cent alcohol; macerate 8 days; filter. Dose: 30-60 drops thrice daily. For acute cases, dose may be doubled.

Lapacho works best taken orally.

Teabags, capsules: Rio Trading Company, Brighton, England. ... lapacho tree

 Inflammation of the vocal cords. May be associated with the common cold, influenza, and other viral or bacterial infections.

Causes: smoking, mis-use of the voice in talking or singing (Ginseng).

Symptoms: voice husky or absent (aphonia). Talking causes pain. Self-limiting.

Treatment. Stop talking for 2 days. Care is necessary: neglect or ineffective treatment may rouse infection and invade the windpipe and bronchi resulting in croup.

Differential: croup is alerted by high fever and characteristic cough, requiring hospital treatment. Alternatives. Teas: Red Sage. Garden Sage. Thyme, wild or garden.

Effective combination: equal parts, Sage and Raspberry leaves. Used also as a gargle.

Tablets/capsules. Poke root. Lobelia. Iceland Moss.

Cinnamon. Tincture, essence or oil of: 3-5 drops in teaspoon honey.

Horseradish. 1oz freshly scraped root to steep in cold water for two hours. Add 2 teaspoons runny honey. Dose: 2-3 teaspoons every two hours.

Topical. Equal parts water/cider vinegar cold pack round throat. Renew when dry.

Traditional: “Rub soles of the feet with Garlic and lard well-beaten together, overnight. Hoarseness gone in the morning.” (John Wesley) Friar’s balsam.

Aromatherapy. Steam inhalations. Oils: Bergamot, Eucalyptus, Niaouli, Geranium, Lavender, Sandalwood.

Diet. Three-day fruit fast.

Supplements. Daily. Vitamin A (7500iu). Vitamin C (1 gram thrice daily). Beta carotene 200,000iu. Zinc 25mg. ... laryngitis, acute

To incise using a lancet or a surgical scalpel.... lance

Problems affecting the ability to communicate and/or comprehend the spoken and/or written word (see speech; speech disorders).... language disorders

Fine, soft, downy hair that covers a fetus. Lanugo hair first appears in the 4th or 5th month of gestation and usually disappears by the 9th month. It can still be seen in some premature babies. Lanugo hair sometimes reappears in adults who have cancer. It may also occur in those with anorexia nervosa or be a side effect of certain drugs, especially ciclosporin.... lanugo hair

One of a pair of nerves that carry instructions from the brain to the larynx and send sensations from the larynx to the brain.... laryngeal nerve

 The main symptom is hoarseness or loss of voice from malfunction of the vocal cords by disease, stroke, stress, or nerve disorder. Pain on speaking. “Raw throat.”

Constitutional disturbance: fever, malaise.

Many causes, including: drugs, drinking spirits. Gross mis-use of voice (singing or talking) may produce nodules (warts) on the cords. The smoker has inflammatory changes. Nerve paralysis in the elderly. Carcinoma of the larynx. Voice changes during menstruation are associated with hormonal changes (Agnus Castus). Professional singers, members of choirs benefit from Irish Moss, Iceland Moss, Slippery Elm or Poke root.

Alternatives. Cayenne, Caraway seed, Balm of Gilead, Lungwort, Queen’s Delight, Thyme, Wild Indigo, Marsh Cudweed, Mullein, Marshmallow.

For most infections: Equal parts, Tinctures Goldenseal and Myrrh: 3-5 drops in water 3-4 times daily; use also as a spray or gargle.

Tea. Formula. Equal parts: Mullein, Marshmallow root, Liquorice. 2 teaspoons to each cup water brought to boil; vessel removed on boiling. Drink freely.

Practitioner. Combine equal parts: Senega, Ipecacuanha and Squills (all BP). 5-10 drops thrice daily in water. Also gargle.

Poke root. Reliable standby. Decoction, tablets/capsules. Tincture: dose, 5-10 drops thrice daily in water or honey.

Topical. Aromatherapy. Steam inhalations. Oils: Bergamot, Eucalyptus, Niaouli, Geranium, Lavender, Sandalwood. Any one.

Diet. Slippery Elm gruel. Salt-free. Avoid fried foods.

Supplements. Daily. Vitamin A (7500iu). Vitamin C (1 gram thrice daily).

To prevent voice damage. The voice should not be strained by talking too much, shouting or singing – especially with a cold. Try not to cough or keep clearing the throat but instead, swallow firmly. Do not whisper – it will strain the voice.

A common cause of laryngitis is growth of a nodule, cyst or polyp on the vocal cords. They are visible on use of an endoscope. There are two vocal cords which, in speech, come together and vibrate like a reed in a musical instrument. In formation of a nodule they cannot meet, air escapes and the voice becomes hoarse. Relaxation technique.

Where the condition lasts for more than 4 weeks an ENT specialist should be consulted. ... laryngitis, chronic

Use of artificial means to initiate childbirth when the health of the mother or baby would be at risk if pregnancy continued. The most common reason for inducing labour is that the pregnancy has continued past the estimated delivery date, which increases the chance of complications during childbirth. Other reasons for inductionare pre-eclampsia, Rhesus incompatibility, or intrauterine growth retardation. Different methods of induction are used, depending on the stage of labour: a prostaglandin pessary may be inserted into the vagina to encourage the cervix to open; if the cervix is already open, the membranes containing the fetus may be ruptured; or the hormone oxytocin may be given intravenously to stimulate uterine contractions. industrial diseases See occupational disease and injury.

infant A term usually applied to a baby up to the age of 12 months.... induction of labour

A cancerous tumour of the larynx. The exact causes of this cancer are not known, but smoking and high alcohol consumption may be associated factors. Hoarseness is the main symptom, particularly when the tumour originates on the vocal cords. At an advanced stage, symptoms may include difficulty in breathing and swallowing, and coughing up blood.

If laryngoscopy reveals a tumour on the larynx, a biopsy is carried out.

If the tumour is small, radiotherapy or laser treatment may be used.

For unresponsive and large tumours, partial or total laryngectomy may be considered.... larynx, cancer of

Use of a laser beam in a variety of medical procedures. Highintensity laser beams cut through tissue and cause blood clotting. They can be used in surgery and to destroy abnormal blood vessels. Lasers are frequently used in ophthalmology to treat eye disorders, in gynaecology (for example, to unblock fallopian tubes), and to remove birthmarks and tattoos.... laser treatment

A rare inherited disorder characterized by increasing obesity, retinitis pigmentosa that may lead to blindness, learning difficulties, polydactyly, and hypogonadism.

(See also genetic disorders.)... laurence–biedl–moon syndrome

Washing out the stomach with water, usually to remove toxins.... lavage, gastric

A group of drugs used to treat constipation.

There are various types.

Bulk-forming laxatives increase the volume and softness of faeces and make them easier to pass.

Stimulant laxatives stimulate the intestinal wall to contract and speed up the elimination of faeces.

Lubricant laxatives soften and facilitate the passage of faeces.

Osmotic laxatives increase the water content and volume of the faeces.

If used in excess, laxative drugs may cause diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and flatulence, and may impair normal bowel function.... laxative drugs

Inability to achieve orgasm during sexual activity. It may be due to inhibited sexual desire (see sexual desire, inhibited) or inability to become aroused or maintain arousal (see frigidity; impotence). In men, there may be a problem achieving orgasm despite normal arousal (see ejaculation, disorders of). The problem is common in women; some may achieve orgasm through masturbation but not during sexual intercourse. Sometimes it is due to pain during intercourse (see intercourse, painful).

For both sexes, contributory factors include problems with technique or in the relationship, unfamiliarity with sexual responses, psychological problems (such as anxiety, early sexual trauma, or inhibitions), and fear of pregnancy.

Sex therapy, relationship counselling, and psychotherapy are sometimes helpful.... orgasm, lack of

a type of *laser that utilizes argon gas to produce a beam of intense light, used especially in eye surgery to treat disease of the retina (e.g. diabetic retinopathy) or glaucoma (as in argon laser *trabeculoplasty). See also photocoagulation.... argon laser

(ALK) excision of the outer layers of the cornea using an automated *keratome. It is usually used as part of a surgical procedure, to alter the shape of the cornea to correct errors of refraction.... automated lamellar keratectomy

one of a group of drugs that includes the *penicillins and the *cephalosporins. All have a four-membered beta-lactam ring as part of their molecular structure. Beta-lactam antibiotics function by interfering with the growth of the cell walls of multiplying bacteria. Bacteria become resistant to these antibiotics by producing beta-lactamases, enzymes (such as *penicillinase) that disrupt the beta-lactam ring. To counteract this, beta-lactamase inhibitors (e.g. *clavulanic acid) may be added to beta-lactam antibiotics. For example, co-amoxiclav is a mixture of *amoxicillin and clavulanic acid.... beta-lactam antibiotic

see labyrinth.... bony labyrinth

(BSL) see sign language.... british sign language

(BAL) a method of obtaining cellular material from the lungs that is used particularly in the investigation and monitoring of interstitial lung disease and in the investigation of pulmonary infiltrates in immunosuppressed patients. A saline solution is infused into the lung, via a bronchoscope, and immediately removed. Examination of the cells in the lavage fluid may help to identify the cause of interstitial lung disease. The combination of cytological and microbiological examination can lead to a very high rate of diagnostic accuracy in such conditions as *Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia.... bronchoalveolar lavage

the instillation of saline directly into the abdominal cavity and its subsequent aspiration a few minutes later. If the fluid is bloodstained on recovery an intra-abdominal haemorrhage is indicated. This is a useful diagnostic tool in trauma patients.... diagnostic peritoneal lavage

a type of laser whose medical uses include treating diseases of the retina, by producing small burns in the retina (see photocoagulation), and selected cases of glaucoma (cyclophotocoagulation). It is also used for treating varicose veins (see endovenous laser treatment).... diode laser

(EVLT) a minimally invasive procedure to treat *varicose veins. A laser fibre (usually an 810-nm *diode laser) contained within a sheath is fed into the vein by ultrasound guidance and slowly withdrawn as it is fired, thereby delivering laser energy that causes irreversible destruction and eventual ablation of the vein.... endovenous laser treatment

a laser that emits optical pulses with a duration of femtoseconds (fs; 1 fs = 10?15 s), allowing micrometer-level accuracy and needle– or blade-free surgery. It has the potential to carry out lens extraction or cataract surgery through a pin-prick incision.... femtosecond laser

a continuous compression bandage consisting of four layers that are applied and left in situ for up to seven days to treat venous leg ulcers, increasing the chance of healing by up to 30%. Thorough assessment of the patient’s status must be undertaken before the application.... four-layer system

a type of *YAG laser that uses a short-pulsed high-energy beam with a wavelength of 2100 nm to cut, perforate, and fragment tissue. It has a penetration of 0.4 mm. This laser is used in the fragmentation of urinary tract calculi (stones) and in *enucleation of the prostate gland.... holmium:yag laser

(human chorionic somatomammotrophin) a protein hormone of 190 amino acids produced by the placenta during most but not all pregnancies. Despite its name it does not appear to have a role in lactation and its exact function remains obscure. It does, however, seem to contribute to the development of diabetes in some pregnancies.... human placental lactogen

(ISL) see sign language.... irish sign language

the proportion of cells in a sample of tissue that are producing DNA. Cells that are synthesizing DNA take up tritiated thymidine, which shows up on an autoradiograph (see autoradiography) of the sample....  labelling index

adj. 1. relating to the lips or to a labium. 2. designating the surface of a tooth adjacent to the lips.... labial

combining form denoting the lip(s).... labio

n. lip-reading.... labiomancy

(cheiloplasty) n. surgical repair of injury or deformity of the lips (*cleft lip).... labioplasty

n. (pl. labra) a lip or liplike structure; occurring, for example, around the margins of the articulating socket (acetabulum) of the hip bone.... labrum

n. a surgical procedure to ablate (see ablation) the structures of the *labyrinth, usually performed for cases of severe Ménière’s disease.... labyrinthectomy

n. a band of fibres or a tendon-like structure.... lacertus

the smallest bone of the face: either of a pair of rectangular bones that contribute to the orbits. See skull.... lacrimal bone

n. an agent that irritates the eyes, causing excessive secretion of tears.... lacrimator

(lacti-, lacto-) combining form denoting 1. milk. 2. lactic acid.... lact

n. a milk protein present in milk at a lower concentration than *casein. Unlike casein, it is not precipitated from milk under acid conditions; it is therefore a constituent of cheese made from whey rather than curd.... lactalbumin

excessive plasma acidity due to an accumulation of lactic acid. This may be caused by a variety of illnesses, including heart failure or severe dehydration. It can also be caused by the accumulation of *biguanide drugs used for treating type 2 *diabetes mellitus, particularly when kidney failure is present. Biguanides (see metformin) should therefore not be used to treat patients who have established kidney disease or heart failure or who are dehydrated.... lactic acidosis

adj. transporting or secreting milk, as the lactiferous ducts of the breast.... lactiferous

see prolactin.... lactogenic hormone

n. the presence of milk sugar (*lactose) in the urine. This often occurs during pregnancy and breastfeeding or if the milk flow is suppressed.... lactosuria

combining form. see levo-.... laevo

n. the normal position of the heart, in which its apex is directed towards the left. Compare dextrocardia.... laevocardia

(lagena) n. the closed end of the spiral *cochlea. This term is more commonly used to describe the structure homologous to the cochlea in primitive vertebrates.... lagaena

n. any condition in which the eye does not close completely. It may lead to corneal damage from undue exposure.... lagophthalmos

n. the physical or chemical treatment of blood to abolish the structure of the red cells and thus form a homogeneous solution. Laking is an important preliminary step in the analysis of haemoglobin or enzymes present in red cells.... laking

n. the point on the skull at which the lambdoidal and sagittal *sutures meet.... lambda

(twin-peak sign) an ultrasound diagnosis of dichorionicity at 10–14 weeks gestation: a peak of placental tissue protrudes into the base of the intertwin membrane. See chorionicity.... lambda sign

see suture.... lambdoidal suture

mature *bone, in which the collagen fibres are arranged parallel to each other to form multiple layers (*lamellae) with the osteocytes lying between the lamellae. It exists in two structurally different forms: cortical (compact) and cancellous (spongy) bone. See also woven bone.... lamellar bone

n. (pl. laminae) 1. a thin membrane or layer of tissue. 2. the section of the posterior arch of a *vertebra located between the central spinous process and the transverse process on each side.... lamina

a meshlike structure through which nerve fibres forming the optic nerve exit the eye posteriorly through a hole in the sclera.... lamina cribrosa

n. an osmotic dilator applied to the cervix before surgically induced abortion in the second trimester (15–23 weeks of pregnancy). Pretreatment with prostaglandins can also be used, but laminaria is preferred after 18 weeks gestation in order to avoid trauma to the cervix and uterus.... laminaria

n. the surgical creation of a window-like opening in the posterior arch of a vertebra by removing a small piece of *lamina and adjacent *ligamentum flavum.... laminotomy

a classification of the *Streptococcus bacteria based on the presence or absence of antigenic carbohydrate on the cell surface. Species are classified into the groups A–S. Most species causing disease in humans belong to groups A, B, and D. [R. C. Lancefield (1895–1981), US bacteriologist]... lancefield classification

adj. describing a sharp stabbing or cutting pain.... lancinating

a reflex seen in normal babies from three months until one year, when it disappears. If the baby is held horizontally, face down, it will straighten its legs and back and try to lift up its head. The presence of this reflex beyond one year may be suggestive of a developmental disorder.... landau reflex

overgrowth of cells of the *reticuloendothelial system. This includes disorders previously called histiocytosis X, including eosinophilic granuloma, Hand–Schüller–Christian disease, and Letterer–Siwe disease. [P. Langerhans (1847–88), German physician and anatomist]... langerhans cell histiocytosis

normal permanent skin creases. Incisions parallel to Langer’s lines heal well and are less visible. [C. R. von E. Langer (1819–87), Austrian anatomist]... langer’s lines

n. a somatostatin analogue (see somatostatin).... lanreotide

combining form denoting the loins or abdomen.... laparo

see fibroid.... laparoscopic myolysis

adj. resembling lard: often applied to tissue infiltrated with the starchlike substance amyloid (see amyloidosis).... lardaceous

n. see mefloquine.... lariam

(laryngo-) combining form denoting the larynx.... laryng

an airway tube with an elliptical inflatable cuff at one end for insertion into the mouth of a patient requiring artificial ventilation. It is designed to fit snugly in the patient’s throat over the top of the laryngeal opening. While it is relatively easy to insert and allows delivery of effective artificial ventilation, it does not provide the absolute protection of the airway from vomitus afforded by an endotracheal tube (see intubation).... laryngeal mask

a cough produced by irritating the larynx.... laryngeal reflex

a method of studying the movements of the *vocal folds of the *larynx by using stroboscopic light (controlled intermittent flashes) to slow or freeze the movement.... laryngeal stroboscopy

n. closure of the vocal folds by sudden contraction of the laryngeal muscles, followed by a noisy indrawing of breath. It occurs in young children and was in the past associated with low-calcium rickets. Now it occurs when the larynx has been irritated following administration of anaesthetic, when a foreign body has lodged in the larynx, or in *croup.... laryngismus

n. a condition in which an air sac communicates with the larynx. The sac forms a swelling in the neck that dilates on coughing or straining. The condition is probably congenital but is also noted in such people as glassblowers, who have chronically raised intralaryngeal pressure.... laryngocele

n. a surgical operation to open the larynx, enabling access for further procedures.... laryngofissure

n. a condition characterized by paroxysmal attacks of breathing difficulty and *stridor. It occurs in small children and is caused by flaccidity of the structure of the larynx. It usually resolves spontaneously by the age of two years.... laryngomalacia

n. see hypopharynx.... laryngopharynx

n. involuntary closure of the larynx, obstructing the flow of air to the lungs.... laryngospasm

n. surgical incision of the larynx. See cricothyroidotomy.... laryngotomy

n. a surgical procedure to enlarge the airway within the larynx and upper trachea. It is most commonly used in children with narrowing of the larynx below the vocal folds (subglottic stenosis).... laryngotracheoplasty

laser in situ epithelial keratomileusis: a technique of laser refractive eye surgery used to correct both short sight (myopia) and long sight (hypermetropia). A flap of corneal epithelium is raised, the surface of the cornea is reshaped using an *excimer laser, and the epithelium is then replaced.... lasek

(LAUP) laser surgery to the palate, which is used in the treatment of *obstructive sleep apnoea.... laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty

a non-invasive instrument for measuring blood flow through tissue (e.g. skin) utilizing a laser beam.... laser doppler flowmeter

n. see furosemide.... lasix

n. a pattern of behaviour seen especially in certain cultures, such as that of Malaysia. After a psychological shock the affected individual becomes very anxious and very suggestible and shows excessive obedience and pathological imitation of the actions of another person (echopraxia).... latah

death of a baby between 7 and 27 completed days of life.... late neonatal death

a mental disorder characterized by systematic *delusions and commonly auditory *hallucinations, but without any other marked symptoms of *mental illness; it was formerly known as paraphrenia. The only loss of contact with reality is in areas affected by the delusions and hallucinations. It is typically seen in the elderly and can also occur in people with severe hearing impediments. Some people develop other symptoms of *schizophrenia over time but in many the personality remains intact over years. *Antipsychotic medication is often useful in treating the illness.... late-onset schizophrenia

see parapharyngeal space.... lateral parapharyngeal space

n. a disease, characterized by muscular weakness and paralysis, found among people whose staple diet consists mostly of large quantities of Lathyrus sativus, a kind of chick pea, and/or vetches and pulses related to it. Except in mild cases complete recovery does not occur, despite administration of an adequate diet and physiotherapy.... lathyrism

see laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty.... laup

an autosomal *recessive condition characterized by obesity, short stature, learning disabilities, *retinitis pigmentosa, *hypogonadism, and delayed puberty. [J. Z. Laurence (1830–74), British ophthalmologist; R. C. Moon (1844–1914), US ophthalmologist; A. Biedl (1869–1933), Austrian physician]... laurence–moon–biedl syndrome

the stratum germinativum: one of the layers of the *epidermis.... malpighian layer

see labyrinth.... membranous labyrinth

(NISL) see sign language.... northern irish sign language

(peg tooth) an upper lateral incisor that is abnormally small. This is a common form of *microdontia.... peg lateral

see ophthalmoscope.... scanning laser ophthalmoscope

(SLT) see trabeculoplasty.... selective laser trabeculoplasty

(signed language) a form of communication that uses movements of the hands and other parts of the body together with facial expressions instead of sound. There are many different forms of sign language throughout the world. British Sign Language (BSL) is the form most commonly used in Great Britain. In Northern Ireland, Northern Irish Sign Language (NISL), BSL, and Irish Sign Language (ISL; the most common form in Ireland) are all used.... sign language

rules of inheritance based on the breeding experiments of the Austrian monk Gregor Mendel (1822–84), which showed that the inheritance of characteristics is controlled by particles now known as *genes. In modern terms they are as follows. (1) Each body (somatic) cell of an individual carries two factors (genes) for every characteristic and each gamete carries only one. It is now known that the genes are arranged on chromosomes, which are present in pairs in somatic cells and separate during gamete formation by the process of *meiosis. (2) Each pair of factors segregates independently of all other pairs at meiosis, so that the gametes show all possible combinations of factors. This law applies only to genes on different chromosomes; those on the same chromosome are affected by *linkage. See also dominant; recessive.... mendel’s laws

failure of the presenting part to descend in spite of uterine contractions, which implies a mechanical cause. Obstruction is usually due to (1) an abnormality in the woman’s pelvis (a contracted pelvis); (2) an abnormality in her baby (e.g. hydrocephaly); or (3) an abnormality in the relationship between them, either (a) an abnormal *lie (e.g. transverse) or *malpresentation, or (b) *cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD). CPD and impacted transverse lie are the most important causes. Much of the purpose of antenatal care is to screen mothers who are at risk from obstructed labour, which can be detected early by means of a *partogram. If undetected, it can lead to rupture of the uterus, death of the fetus, obstetric fistulae, or maternal death.... obstructed labour

a layer of microcrystalline and organic particle debris that remains on the hard tissues of the teeth whenever they are cut. It may be important in assisting or preventing the penetration of bacteria into the dentinal tubules. The success of root canal treatment depends on the complete removal of the smear layer with a *chelating agent such as EDTA, but its presence may be useful in restorative dentistry.... smear layer

the treatment of patients who have problems with communication or eating or drinking because of congenital causes, accidents, or illness (e.g. stroke). Speech and language therapists are *allied health professionals who have special training in this field.... speech and language therapy

a type of *laser whose active medium is a crystal of yttrium, aluminium, and garnet. It is used for cutting tissue, for example in lens *capsulotomy or *iridotomy. Specialized types (e.g. the *holmium:YAG laser) are used for various specific purposes....  yag laser

Cistus ladaniferus

FAMILY: Cistaceae

SYNONYMS: Cistus (oil), gum cistus, ciste, cyste (absolute), labdanum gum, ambreine, European rock rose.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A small sticky shrub up to 3 metres high with lance-shaped leaves which are white and furry on the underside, and fragrant white flowers. Labdanum gum, a dark brown solid mass, is a natural oleoresin which is obtained by boiling the plant material in water.

DISTRIBUTION: Native to the Mediterranean mountainous regions and the Middle East. Now found throughout the Mediterranean region, especially southern France, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Morocco, Cyprus and Yugoslavia. The oil is mainly produced in Spain.

OTHER SPECIES: Labdanum gum is also obtained from other Cistus species, notably C. incanus, and other subspecies: see Botanical Classification section.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: One of the early aromatic substances of the ancient world. The gum was used formerly for catarrh, diarrhoea, dysentery and to promote menstruation; externally it was used in plasters. The oil from the closely related plant frostwort (Helianthemum canadense), also known as cistus, also has many medicinal qualities and is said to be useful for scrofulous skin conditions, ulcers and tumours, including cancer.

ACTIONS: Antimicrobial, antiseptic, antitussive, astringent, balsamic, emmenagogue, expectorant, tonic.

EXTRACTION: 1. A resinoid or resin concrete and absolute by solvent extraction from the crude gum. 2. An essential oil by steam distillation from the crude gum, the absolute, or from the leaves and twigs of the plant directly.

CHARACTERISTICS: 1. Absolute – a semi solid green or amber mass with a rich, sweet, herbaceous-balsamic odour. 2. Oil – a dark yellow or amber viscous liquid with a warm, sweet, dry-herbaceous musky scent. It blends well with oakmoss, clary sage, pine, juniper, calamus, opopanax, lavender, lavandin, bergamot, cypress, vetiver, sandalwood, patchouli, olibanum, chamomile maroc and oriental bases.

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: It contains over 170 pinenes, including camphene, sabinene, myrcene, phellandrene, limonene, cymene, cineol, borneol, nerol, geraniol, fenchone, etc. Exact constituents vary according to source.

SAFETY DATA: Generally non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing. Avoid during pregnancy.

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE

Skin care: Mature skin, wrinkles.

Respiratory system: Coughs, bronchitis, rhinitis, etc.

Immune system: Colds.

OTHER USES: Used as a fixative and fragrance component in lotions, powders, soaps, detergents, colognes and perfumes, especially oriental perfumes and aftershaves. Employed in most major food categories, particularly meat products, as well as alcoholic and soft drinks.... labdanum

an agent which prevents and kills larvae.... larvicidal

Laurus nobilis

FAMILY: Lauraceae

SYNONYMS: Sweet bay, bay laurel, Grecian laurel, true bay, Mediterranean bay, Roman laurel, noble laurel, laurel leaf (oil).

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: An evergreen tree up to 20 metres high with dark green, glossy leaves and black berries; often cultivated as an ornamental shrub.

DISTRIBUTION: Native to the Mediterranean region; extensively cultivated especially for its berries, in France, Spain, Italy, Morocco, Yugoslavia, China, Israel, Turkey and Russia. The oil is mainly produced in Yugoslavia.

OTHER SPECIES: There are several related species, all of which are commonly called Bay: Californian bay (Umbellularia california), West Indian bay (Pimenta racemosa) and the cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus), which is poisonous.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: A popular culinary herb throughout Europe. The leaves were used by the ancient Greeks and Romans to crown their victors. Both leaf and berry were formerly used for a variety of afflictions including hysteria, colic, indigestion, loss of appetite, to promote menstruation and for fever. It is little used internally these days, due to its narcotic properties. A ‘fixed’ oil of bay, expressed from the berries, is still used for sprains, bruises, earache, etc.

ACTIONS: Antirheumatic, antiseptic, bactericidal, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, fungicidal, hypotensive, sedative, stomachic.

EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation from the dried leaf and branchlets. (An oil from the berries is produced in small quantities.)

CHARACTERISTICS: A greenish-yellow liquid with a powerful, spicy-medicinal odour. It blends well with pine, cypress, juniper, clary sage, rosemary, olibanum, labdanum, lavender, citrus and spice oils.

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Cineol (30–50 per cent), pinene, linalol, terpineol acetate, and traces of methyl eugenol.

SAFETY DATA: Relatively non-toxic and nonirritant; can cause dermatitis in some individuals. Use in moderation due to possible narcotic properties attributed to methyl eugenol. Should not be used during pregnancy.

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE

Digestive system: Dyspepsia, flatulence, loss of appetite.

Genito-urinary system: Scanty periods. Immune system: Colds, ’flu, tonsillitis and viral infections.

OTHER USES: Used as a fragrance component in detergents, cosmetics, toiletries and perfumes, especially aftershaves. Extensively used in processed food of all types, as well as alcoholic and soft drinks.... laurel

Lavandula x intermedia

FAMILY: Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

SYNONYMS: L. hybrida, L. hortensis, bastard lavender.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A hybrid plant developed by crossing true lavender (L. angustifolia) with spike lavender or aspic (L. latifolia). Due to its hybrid nature, lavandin has a variety of forms: in general, it is a larger plant than true lavender, with woody stems. Its flowers may be blue like true lavender, or greyish like aspic.

DISTRIBUTION: A natural lavandin occurs in the mountainous regions of southern France where both parent plants grow wild, though at different altitudes. Still mainly cultivated in France, but also Spain, Hungary, Yugoslavia and Argentina.

OTHER SPECIES: There are cultivars of lavender, such as ‘Dwarf Blue’, ‘Hidcote Pink’ and ‘Bowles Early’; there are also many cultivars of lavandin such as ‘Grey Hedge’, ‘Silver Grey’ and ‘Alba’. For further information see entries on true lavender and spike lavender; also the Botanical Classification section.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: Sixty years ago, when A Modern Herbal was written by Mrs Grieve, lavandin was still unknown, so it does not have a long history of therapeutic use. Its properties seem to combine those of the true lavender and aspic.

ACTIONS: See true lavender.

EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation from the fresh flowering tops; it has a higher yield of oil than either true lavender or aspic. (A concrete and absolute are also produced by solvent extraction.)

CHARACTERISTICS: A colourless or pale yellow liquid with a fresh camphoraceous topnote (which should not be too strong in a good quality oil), and a woody herbaceous undertone. It blends well with clove, bay leaf, cinnamon, citronella, cypress, pine, clary sage, geranium, thyme, patchouli, rosemary and citrus oils, especially bergamot and lime.

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Linalyl acetate (30–32 per cent), linalol, cineol, camphene, pinene and other trace constituents.

SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant, nonsensitizing.

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE Similar uses to true lavender, but it is more penetrating and rubefacient with a sharper scent – good for respiratory, circulatory or muscular conditions.

OTHER USES: Extensively employed in soaps, detergents, room sprays, hair preparations and industrial perfumes. Used as a flavour ingredient in most major food categories, and also as a natural source of linalol and linalyl acetate.... lavandin

Lavandula latifolia

FAMILY: Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

SYNONYMS: L. spica, aspic, broad-leaved lavender, lesser lavender, spike.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: An aromatic evergreen sub-shrub up to 1 metre high with lance-shaped leaves, broader and rougher than true lavender. The flower is more compressed and of a dull grey-blue colour.

DISTRIBUTION: Native to the mountainous regions of France and Spain; also found in North Africa, Italy, Yugoslavia and the eastern Mediterranean countries. It is cultivated internationally; the oil is mainly produced in France and Spain.

OTHER SPECIES: There are many different chemotypes of lavender in general, and this also applies to spike lavender. The French spike oil is reputed to be a more delicate, aromatic scent than the Spanish variety. For other varieties, see entries on lavandin, true lavender and the Botanical Classification section.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: Culpeper recommends spike lavender for a variety of ailments including ‘pains of the head and brain which proceed from cold, apoplexy, falling sickness, the dropsy, or sluggish malady, cramps, convulsions, palsies, and often faintings’. He also warns that ‘the oil of spike is of a fierce and piercing quality, and ought to be carefully used, a very few drops being sufficient for inward or outward maladies’.. The preparation ‘oleum spicae’ was made by mixing ¼ spike oil with ¾ turpentine, and used for paralysed limbs, old sprains and stiff joints (it was also said to encourage hair growth).

Spike lavender is current in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia, indicated for flatulent dyspepsia, colic, depressive headaches, and the oil (topically) for rheumatic pain.

ACTIONS: See true lavender.

EXTRACTION: Essential oil by water or steam distillation from the flowering tops.

CHARACTERISTICS: A water-white or pale yellow liquid with a penetrating, fresh herbaceous, camphoraceous odour. It blends well with rosemary, sage, lavandin, eucalyptus, rosewood, lavender, petitgrain, pine, cedarwood, oakmoss, patchouli and spice oils, particularly clove.

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Mainly cineol and camphor (40–60 per cent), with linalol and linalyl acetate, among others.

SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant (except in concentration), non-sensitizing.

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE See true lavender.

OTHER USES: It is used in some pharmaceutical preparations and especially in veterinary practice as a prophylactic, in incipient paralysis, for rheumatism and arthritis and to get rid of lice. It is extensively employed as a fragrance component especially in soaps and industrial perfumes such as deodorants, disinfectants and cleaning agents, as well as insecticides and room sprays, etc. It is also used in the food industry and in the production of fine varnishes and lacquers.... lavender, spike

Lavandula angustifolia

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