Labrador Tea
Labrador Tea is an excellent remedy for bronchitis. It is mainly used
for the throat and chest diseases. Other uses are: To strengthen
kidney and bladder and for colds, rickets, diarrhea, rheumatism,
scrofula, and scabby dandruff. Only the leaves are used; the plant is
slightly poisonous.
USES: Diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, pectoral, tonic.
A.K.A.: James tea
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 3 times daily.
Lady’s Mantle
Lady's Mantle is used for weak muscles, rheumatism, stomach
disorders, menstrual problems and female complaints.
USES: Appetizer, astringent, fever, stomachic, tonic.
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 3 to 6 times daily.
Lady’s Slipper
Lady's slipper is recommended for nervous complaints. Next to
Valerian it is probably the most effective nervine. Lady's slipper
works on the medulla and causes it to slow down excitement, breathing
and heart beat. It also contains the Vitamin B-group, which is needed
for well functioning nerves. Warning: Fresh plant may cause
dermatitis in rare cases! Plant is protected in certain areas, use
only commercial products.
USES: Antispasmodic, calmative, diaphoretic, nervine, tonic.
A.K.A.: Nerve root, American valerian, Moccasin flower, Slipper
root, Yellow lady’s slipper.
DOSAGE: A third of a small teaspoon with 1 glass of water; 2 to 3
times daily. Larkspur
Larkspur has insecticidal and parasiticidal properties. The plant has
been used in the past for lung problems (including pleurisy),
headaches, tapeworm, and to kill body lice.
USES: Cathartic, emetic, narcotic, parasiticide.
A.K.A.: Larks claw, larks heel
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 2 to 3 times daily.
Laserwort
Laserwort is used for colds, fevers, sinus congestion, minor pains
and bacterial infection. For its medical actions only the roots are
used. It is a tonic for liver and spleen.
USES: Analgesic, antipyretic, antibacterial, aromatic.
A.K.A.: Chinese parsley Laurel
Laurel aids the digestive system. It has been used externally to ease
rheumatism and bruises. The oil of the berries had been used as a
treatment for lice and mites.
USES: Astringent, anti-rheumatic, carminative, digestive, stomachic.
A.K.A.: Bay laurel, Roman laurel Lavender
Lavender is good for the digestive system. The plant has
traditionally been used to combat fainting, dizziness, nausea and
vomiting (for nausea and vomiting it should be combined with Ginger
and Cloves). Lavender has also some antiseptic properties.
USES: Antispasmodic, carminative, cholagogue, diuretic, sedative,
stimulant, stomachic, tonic.
DOSAGE: Half a teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 2 to 3 times
daily. Leadwort
Leadwort contains Plumbagin, which has been used to reduce tumors. It
has also been used for worms, warts and other parasitic skin
diseases, leprosy and to induce abortions. Warning: The plant has
poisonous properties. Use only the roots. This plant also contains
Plumbagin and can be used to kill some of the worst bacteria (Strepto-
, Staphylo-, Pneumo-).
USES: Antibiotic, antifungal, antimicrobial, diaphoretic.
A.K.A.: Plumbago
DOSAGE: Half a teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 2 to 3 times
daily. Leek
Leek is good for the digestive system. Leek and Onion have similar
properties as Garlic but to a lesser degree.
USES: Appetizer, digestive, diuretic, expectorant.
DOSAGE: Use as food. Lemon
Lemon juice is indicated for any ailment that requires additional
vitamin C. Mixed with honey in a large glass of water, Lemon makes an
excellent tonic.
USES: Antiscorbutic, astringent, refrigerant.
DOSAGE: Half a lemon with a full glass of water; twice daily. Lemon
Balm
Lemon balm, also called Balm and Melissa, is used to strengthen heart
and nerves. Other
USES: Cramps, dyspepsia, gas, colic, intestinal problems, lung
problems, bronchial problems, asthma, headaches, dizziness, nervous
complaints, melancholy, and insomnia.
USES: Antispasmodic, calmative, carminative, diaphoretic,
emmenagogue, sedative, stomachic.
A.K.A.: Cure-all, Melissa, Balm mint, Bee balm, Dropsy plant.
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 3 to 9 times daily.
Lespedeza
Lespedeza lowers cholesterol and may be used for tumors. American
natives have dried and burned the stems to be applied externally for
neuralgia and rheumatic complaints.
A.K.A.: Round-headed Bush Clover Lettuce
Lettuce is an excellent tonic for the nerves. The leaves contain
Iron, Vit. B1, B6, C and Carotin.
USES: Anodyne, antispasmodic, expectorant, sedative.
A.K.A.: Common lettuce, Garden lettuce
DOSAGE: Use as food as fresh as possible. Licorice Root
Licorice root is one of the most basic tools of any herbalist and
Chinese medicine. It soothes the stomach and the inflamed gallbladder
and its duct. Licorice root is an excellent overall tonic and is used
for overworked adrenals. It also stimulates other glands, helps to
expel phlegm, and is a source of Estrogen. Caution: People with high
blood pressure have to monitor their blood pressure as Licorice root
tends to slowly raise it. On the other hand, this makes Licorice root
even more valuable for people with low blood pressure. There is also
a deglycyrrhizinated Licorice. This form does not raise the blood
pressure but has the same healing effect on gastric and duodenal
ulcers. Another health warning concerns possible Heart damage since
Licorice may deplete Potassium. An easy remedy is to make sure that
enough Potassium is in your daily diet. Your daily Banana or
Vitamin/Mineral supplement should take care of it. Do not use
extensive amounts or over a prolonged period of time.
USES: Antibacterial, antiviral, antiallergenic, anti-inflammatory,
anticancer, estrogenic, emulcent, diuretic, expectorant, laxative.
A.K.A.: Sweet wood.
DOSAGE: Powder: 1 teaspoon with 1 glass of water; as needed or 3
times daily. Capsules: 3 x 3 daily or as suggested. Life Root
Life Root strengthens female organs and is useful for painful and
excessive menstruation. It regulates menstruation and irregularities
during menopause. American Natives have used it to induce abortions
and to speed childbirth. Warning: Not to be taken over a long period
of time, Ragwort may be toxic because it is known to have poisoned
cattle.
USES: Diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue.
A.K.A.: Ragwort, Coughweed, Golden ragwort, Squaw weed.
DOSAGE: NOT RECOMMENDED. Lily of the Valley
Lily of the Valley has been used for neurasthenia, heart weakness,
apoplexy, epilepsy and dropsy. In a higher dosage Lily of the Valley
is poisonous producing irregular heartbeat and stomach pain. It
contains a substance that is similar to digitalis.
USES: Antispasmodic, cardiac, diuretic, laxative.
A.K.A.: May lily, May bells
DOSAGE: NOT RECOMMENDED. Linden
Linden is mainly used to promote perspiration, relieve cough and to
support the lungs during a cold.
USES: Flowers: Antispasmodic, diaphoretic, diuretic. Bark:
Cholagogue, emollient.
A.K.A.: European linden
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon of flowers for 1 cup of boiling water; 3 times
daily. Liverwort
Liverwort is an excellent tonic for the liver and soothes the
membranes. Hepatica is also used for bronchitis, gallbladder, kidney
and bladder problems. Large dosages are NOT RECOMMENDED because of
possible serious side-effects!
USES: Diuretic, pectoral
A.K.A.: Hepatica, Liverleaf, Round-lobed hepatica.
DOSAGE: Half a teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; twice daily.
Lobelia
Lobelia is one of the best and safest relaxant. It is useful for
coughs, asthma, bronchitis, whooping cough, colic, menstruation
cramps, and any kind of spasms. It is also recommended for epilepsy,
lock jaw and food poisoning. Warning: High dosage may lead to
vomiting and may have other serious side-effects!
USES: Antispasmodic, diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, nervine.
A.K.A.: Emetic herb, Indian tobacco, Vomitroot, Emetic weed.
DOSAGE: Half a teaspoon with a tall glass of water; twice daily.
Loosestrife
Loosestrife (see Purple Loosestrife) has become a pest in North
America but there is evidence that it might have great value in
reducing blood sugar and as a tonic for the liver. It is also used
for enteritis.
USES: Astringent, styptic.
A.K.A.: Long purples, Purple willow-herb, Spiked loosestrife, Willow
sage.
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 2 to 3 times daily
Lotus
Lotus is a tonic for the heart and the brain, increases energy and
life-span. It improves concentration, devotion and opens the heart
center. See American White pond lily, which has similar uses but may
be weaker.
USES: Astringent, aphrodisiac, hemostatic, nervine, rejuvenative,
tonic.
DOSAGE: Powder: 250 mg 3 times daily Lovage
Lovage leaves add taste when added to soup. Its main use is as a
diuretic and as an aid to digestion. Warning: In large dosages Lovage
may cause kidney problems!
USES: Carminative, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, stimulant,
stomachic.
A.K.A.: European Lovage, Lavose
DOSAGE: Powder: 1 teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 3 to 9 times
daily. Food: Add fresh leaves to soups. Lungwort
Lungwort, as the name implies, is very beneficial for lung problems.
It is used for coughs, bronchitis, but also for diarrhea and
hemorrhoids. Externally it may be used on wounds.
USES: Astringent, demulcent, emollient, expectorant.
A.K.A.: Spotted lungwort, Jerusalem cowslip, Jerusalem sage, Maple
lungwort.
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 3 times daily. Madar
Madar root is used for dysentery, skin disease and as an emetic.
Leaves and blossoms are useful for coughs, colds and asthma.
USES: Emetic, expectorant, fever. Madder
See: 1. Indian Madder 2. European Madder. Both species have similar
properties. Magnolia
Magnolia fights fever; some say it is better than Quinine leaving no
side-effects. The bark is listed as Astringent, Diaphoretic, fever
Stimulant and Tonic. It has been used for dyspepsia, dysentery,
erysipelas and skin diseases.
USES: Aromatic, diaphoretic, laxative, sudorific, tonic.
A.K.A.: Blue Magnolia, Swamp Sassafras. Maidenhair
Maidenhair fern is used for lung problems involving phlegm including
coughs, congestion, hoarseness, and catarrh. Expectorant,
refrigerant, tonic.
A.K.A.: Maiden fern, Five-finger fern, Rock fern.
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 3 times daily. Maitake
Maitake is sometimes called 'King of Mushrooms.' Maitake's reputation
comes from its immune enhancing properties. It is used by some as
part of an anti-cancer formula. Maitake is also used for high blood
pressure, arthritis, and diabetes, HIV and to strengthen body and
nerves.
DOSAGE: Capsules: As directed. Mallow
Common Mallow soothes membranes. Use for cough, stomach and
intestinal problems.
USES: Astringent, demulcent, emollient, expectorant.
A.K.A.: High mallow, Common mallow, Country mallow.
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon drink with 1 glass of water (do not boil). Marigold
Marigold's main use is for wounds and ulcers but it is also a good
tonic for the gallbladder. Maria Treben recommends Marigold for
athlete’s foot, circulation problems, liver problems and for
stomach and intestinal infections.
USES: Antispasmodic, aperient, cholagogue, diaphoretic, vulnerary.
A.K.A.: Calendula, Pot marigold, Garden marigold.
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 3 to 6 times daily.
Marjoram
Marjoram stimulates digestion. It is used for colic, gastritis, and
to expel mucous from the lungs. Externally it is used for stiff
joints, rheumatism, gout, etc.
USES: Antispasmodic, digestive, expectorant, stomachic.
A.K.A.: Sweet marjoram
DOSAGE: Half a teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 3 to 6 times
daily. Marshmallow
Marshmallow soothes inflamed membranes. It is therefore useful for
all intestinal inflammations like gastritis and even kidney
infections. Marshmallow is an effective expectorant and used for
coughs, asthma, emphysema, lung congestion, whooping cough and
bronchitis. It has a high content of Vit. A, B-group, Zinc and
Calcium.
USES: Anti-inflammatory, emulcent, emollient, expectorant, diuretic.
A.K.A.: Althea, Sweet weed, Mortification root.
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 3 to 9 times daily.
Masterwort
Masterwort stimulates digestion, strengthens the stomach, and is a
mild cardiac tonic. Do not confuse with Cow cabbage or Cow parsnip
which is also called Masterwort in some herbal books. Cow parsnip may
cause dermatitis and has poisoned cattle.
USES: Calmative, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, stimulant
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 3 times daily.
Meadowsweet
Meadowsweet contains Salicylic acid, which makes it useful for minor
pains, diarrhea, gout, rheumatism, arthritis, fever and to prevent
heart attack.
USES: Astringent, diaphoretic, diuretic.
A.K.A.: Meadow queen, Queen of the meadow, Bridewort.
DOSAGE: Half a teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 2 to 3 times
daily. Melilot
Melilot, or Sweet Clover, prevents blood clotting. It is therefore a
good preventative of heart attacks caused by blood clotting. A salve
is used for boils and swellings. Warning: A large dosage may cause
vomiting and other side-effects.
USES: Antispasmodic, diuretic, emollient, expectorant, vulnerary.
A.K.A.: Yellow malilot, Sweet clover, Yellow sweet clover.
DOSAGE: Half a teaspoon for 1 cup of water; 2 to 3 times daily. Milk
Thistle
Milk Thistle might still outclass anything pharmaceutical companies
have to offer for healing a sick liver. Its content of Silymarin
increases the protein synthesis in the liver speeding recovery from
hepatitis, cirrhosis, toxic liver damage etc. It has been shown to
protect and recover victims of Amanita Poisoning. Silymarin protects
the attacked membrane and prevents the Amanita poison Phalloidine
from binding with receptors in the membrane.
USES: Cholagogue, demulcent, hepatic,
A.K.A.: Marian Thistle
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon of ground seeds with 1 glass of water; 3 to 9
times daily. Capsules and tincture: As directed. Milkweed
Milkweed relieves minor pain, rheumatism, kidney problems, dropsy,
asthma, cough and scrofula. The shoots of Milkweed may be eaten like
asparagus and the silk-like down of the seeds had been used to stuff
pillows. Do not confuse with Bitter root which is also called
Milkweed. Warning: As the other common names imply the root might
have emetic properties.
USES: Diaphoretic, expectorant
A.K.A.: Emetic root, Snake milk, Milk Ipecac.
DOSAGE: Half a teaspoon with half a teaspoon of Licorice root or
Marshmallow for 1 cup of boiling water; 2 to 3 times daily. Mistletoe
Mistletoe is used for high blood pressure, for heart and circulation
problems and has shown some success for certain cancers. It has been
used for epilepsy and as a tonic for the spleen. Mistletoe contains
the rare Vit. B12, as well as Iodine, Calcium, Potassium, Magnesium,
Cobalt, Copper and Cadmium. Warning: A high dosage can act as a
cardiac poison.
USES: Cardiac, diuretic, stimulant, vasodilator.
A.K.A.: European mistletoe, Birdlime.
DOSAGE: Capsules or Tincture: As recommended. Moss
Moss has been used to dress wounds and as diapers with no risk of
rashes.
USES: Antibiotic, astringent, anthelmintic, diuretic.
A.K.A.: Rockbrake Motherwort
Motherwort calms the nerves, strengthens the heart and is useful for
female disorders of any kind. Some people may get dermatitis from
handling the fresh plant. The Chinese Motherwort has the following
properties: Antibacterial, antifungal, antihypertensive,
antispasmodic, diuretic, emmenagogue.
USES: Astringent, calmative, cardiac, emmenagogue, stomachic.
A.K.A.: Roman motherwort, Throw-wort.
DOSAGE: Half a teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 2 to 3 times
daily. Mouse Ear
Mouse ear stops bleeding, increases the flow of bile and urine, has
antibiotic properties and has been used for dropsy, spleen,
gallbladder and liver complaints. Mouse ear has been used as an
antibiotic for the treatment of Maltafever. The powder may be sniffed
to treat a common nosebleed.
USES: Antibiotic, astringent, cholagogue, diuretic.
A.K.A.: Hawkweed, Felon herb, Pilosella.
DOSAGE: Half a teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 2 to 3 times
daily. Mucuna
Mucuna is a tonic for the nerves. Sufferers from Parkinson's have had
some success with the crushed seeds, which contain L-dopa, a
precursor of Dopamine.
USES: Anti-Parkinson Mugwort
Mugwort promotes the flow of digestive juices and bile. Note: In
large amounts Mugwort may not be tolerated! The Chinese Mugwort has
the following properties: Antibacterial, antiasthmatic,
antispasmodic, antifungal, antipyretic, cholagogue, expectorant,
emmenagogue, hemostatic.
USES: Appetizer, digestive, cholagogue, purgative.
A.K.A.: Common mugwort, Felon herb, Sailors tobacco.
DOSAGE: Half a teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 1 to 3 times
daily. Mulberry
Mulberry roots have been used for tapeworm. Related species: Black
Mulberry Red Mulberry. Both have similar properties. Warning: Juice
and the unripe fruit may cause stomach problems and hallucinations!
USES: Athelmintic, cathartic.
A.K.A.: Red mulberry
DOSAGE: NOT RECOMMENDED. Mullein
Mullein is very useful for all lung problems including coughs,
bronchitis, asthma, phlegm and spasms. It is also listed as a pain
killer and for calming nerves.
USES: Anodyne, antispasmodic, demulcent, diuretic, expectorant,
vulnerary.
A.K.A.: Aaron's rod, Velvet plant, Candlewick, Great mullein,
Flannel flower.
DOSAGE: 1 teaspoon for 1 cup of boiling water; 2 to 6 times daily.
Musk Mallow
Musk Mallow is an antispasmodic, nervine and good for stomach
complaints. Seeds may be chewed for stomach problems. Egyptians say
the seeds can also be used as an aphrodisiac.
USES: Antispasmodic, nervine, stomachic.
A.K.A.: Rose mallow, Syrian mallow, Water mallow, Musk seed plant.
Myrobalan
Myrobalan is a famous Antibiotic from India used for dysentery and as
a liver tonic.
USES: Antibiotic Myrobalan, Beleric
This species of the Myrobalan tree is used for lung problems,
bronchitis, catarrh, laryngitis, sore throat, coughs, diarrhea,
dysentery, parasites, and stones (kidney, gallbladder).
USES: Astringent, antiseptic, anthelmintic, expectorant, laxative.
DOSAGE: Powder: 250 mg 3 times daily, or add to Ghee. Myrobalan,
Chebulic
Used for coughs, asthma, parasites, tumors, jaundice, heart and
spleen problems, edema, tonic for liver, spleen and nerves. Yogis use
Haritaki as a tonic for the brain and as an aid to meditation.
USES: Astringent, anthelmintic, expectorant, laxative, nervine,
tonic.
DOSAGE: Powder: 250 mg 3 times daily or add to Ghee Myrobalan, Emblic
Used in India and Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years for
conditions like: Anemia, diabetes, dysentery, gastritis, colitis,
hepatitis, osteoporosis, constipation, graying of hair, debility,
heart palpitations, as a tonic for liver, spleen, and brain, and as
an antibiotic.
USES: Astringent, aphrodisiac, hemostatic, laxative, refrigerant,
rejuvenative, stomachic, tonic.
DOSAGE: Powder: 250 mg 3 times daily. Myrrh
Myrrh has antiseptic properties especially for stomach, intestinal
and lung problems. Externally it can be used to clean wounds. It is
useful for bronchitis, bad breath and hemorrhoids.
USES: Antiseptic, astringent, carminative, stomachic.
A.K.A.: Gum myrrh tree |
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