This post is a counterpart to the Glossary of Herbal Preparations, found here.
In addition to my work with magic, I’ve spent some time studying herbalism – a practice I find complements natural magic wonderfully. Herbs not only provide a source for a wide range of medicinal remedies, they also have a long history of use in magical, alchemical, and spiritual work. Indeed throughout history the line between the chemical and energetic actions of an herb has often been blurred. I’ve compiled monographs on some specific plants that straddle the line between Materia Medica and Materia Magica. I intend to share some of these in future posts, but want to lay some groundwork beforehand, so that preparations or actions mentioned in plant-specific posts can be easily referenced.
This glossary provides an overview of key herbal actions commonly used in herbal Materia Medica. Understanding these terms will help navigate the various roles herbs play in healing. Each action represents a unique way that plants can interact with the body – supporting specific systems or causing specific effects on tissues. As we continue to explore the science and magic of herbs, this glossary will serve as a reference to deepen knowledge of the practical applications of specific plants.
Abortifacient: Herbs that induce abortion or miscarriage, generally by stimulating uterine contractions or causing the body to expel a developing fetus. These herbs are dangerous and should not be used without medical supervision.
Adaptogen: Herbs that help the body adapt to stress and process stress hormones, restoring balance to bodily systems. They are often used to enhance resilience, reduce fatigue, and improve feelings of overall well-being.
Alterative: Herbs that serve as tonics for the body’s waste processing and elimination systems. They are traditionally used to gradually improve overall health and treat chronic conditions by facilitating the elimination of toxins.
Analgesic: Herbs that relieve pain by reducing the sensation of discomfort. They can be used for mild to moderate pain relief in a variety of conditions, such as headaches or muscle aches.
Anodyne: See Analgesic.
Anthelmintic: Herbs that expel or destroy internal parasites in the body. They are commonly used to treat infections like roundworms or tapeworms. These should be taken under the supervision of a skilled herbalist.
Antibacterial: Herbs that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. They are used to treat bacterial infections or prevent bacterial overgrowth in the body.
Anticatarrhal: Herbs that help reduce or prevent the formation of excess mucus in the respiratory system. These are useful for treating colds, sinus infections, and bronchitis. Contrast with Decongestant and Expectorant.
Anticoagulant: Herbs that help prevent the formation of blood clots by inhibiting the coagulation process. These herbs are used to improve circulation and reduce the risk of clot-related conditions, such as deep vein thrombosis, but should be used cautiously due to the risk of excessive bleeding.
Antiemetic: Herbs that reduce nausea and vomiting. They are commonly used to treat motion sickness, morning sickness, or nausea from other conditions.
Antifungal: Herbs that combat fungal infections by inhibiting the growth of fungi. They are often used to treat skin infections, athlete’s foot, or candida overgrowth.
Antihydrotic: Herbs that reduce excessive sweating by regulating the body’s sweat glands. These are used in cases of hyperhidrosis or night sweats.
Antimicrobial: Herbs that inhibit the growth of a wide variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They are used to treat or prevent infections. See also Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Antiviral.
Antioxidant: Herbs that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress. They are used to promote longevity and prevent degenerative diseases.
Antispasmodic: Herbs that relieve or prevent muscle spasms or cramps. These are used for conditions involving muscle tension, such as menstrual cramps or digestive discomfort.
Antitussive: Herbs that suppress coughing, making them useful for treating persistent, irritating coughs. They are often used in cough syrups or teas.
Aperient: Gentle laxative herbs that stimulate bowel movements without causing irritation. They are used to relieve mild constipation.
Astringent: Herbs that tighten and tone tissues by contracting them, reducing secretions and inflammation. They are commonly used to treat wounds, diarrhea, and skin conditions.
Bitter: Herbs that stimulate digestion by promoting the production of digestive enzymes and bile. They are often taken before meals to improve appetite and digestive function.
Calmative: Herbs that have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing stress, anxiety, and restlessness. They are often used to promote relaxation and better sleep.
Carminative: Herbs that relieve gas and bloating by relaxing the muscles of the digestive tract. They are commonly used to treat indigestion and colic.
Cholagogue: Herbs that stimulate the flow of bile from the liver and gallbladder into the digestive tract. Cholagogues are used to support digestion, particularly in cases of sluggish liver function or to aid in the digestion of fats.
Decongestant: Herbs that relieve nasal or respiratory congestion by reducing inflammation and mucus buildup in the airways. They are commonly used to treat colds, sinusitis, and other conditions involving blocked or swollen nasal passages. Contrast with Anticatarrhal.
Demulcent: Herbs that soothe and protect irritated mucous membranes by forming a protective layer. They are used to treat conditions like sore throats, ulcers, or dry coughs. Contrast with Expectorant.
Diaphoretic: Herbs that promote sweating, often used to help break fevers or eliminate toxins through the skin. They are useful in treating colds, flu, and fevers.
Diuretic: Herbs that increase urine production, promoting the elimination of excess fluids and toxins. They are used to treat water retention, high blood pressure, and certain kidney conditions.
Emmenagogue: Herbs that stimulate menstrual flow and regulate the menstrual cycle. They are used for treating amenorrhea (absent periods) or delayed menstruation. These herbs should be used with caution during pregnancy.
Emollient: Herbs that soften and soothe the skin, often used in creams and ointments. They are helpful for treating dry, irritated, or inflamed skin conditions.
Expectorant: Herbs that help clear mucus from the lungs and respiratory tract. They are used to treat chest congestion and bronchitis by thinning mucus for easier expulsion. Contrast with Demulcent and Anticatarrhal.
Febrifuge: Herbs that reduce fever by promoting sweating or cooling the body. They are often used in the treatment of colds and flu.
Galactagogue: Herbs that stimulate the production of breast milk in nursing mothers. They are used to support lactation and increase milk supply.
Hepatic: Herbs that support liver function and promote the processing of toxins in the liver. They are often used to improve digestion and treat liver-related conditions.
Hypolipidemic: Herbs that help lower lipid levels in the blood, including cholesterol and triglycerides. These herbs are used to support cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart disease by promoting healthier lipid profiles.
Hypotensive: Herbs that help lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels or reducing fluid volume in the body. They are used to treat hypertension and support overall cardiovascular health, but should be monitored carefully to avoid overly reducing blood pressure.
Nervine: Herbs that support and affect the nervous system. These can be either calmative (calming anxiety and promoting relaxation) or stimulant (increasing alertness and mental acuity). See also Calmative and Stimulant.
Orexigenic: Herbs that stimulate appetite, often used to increase food intake in cases of weight loss or poor appetite due to illness.
Rubifacient: Herbs that increase blood flow to the skin’s surface, creating a warming sensation. They are often used to relieve muscle pain or joint stiffness.
Sialogogue: Herbs that stimulate the production of saliva, helping to keep the mouth moist and support digestion. They are used for dry mouth or to enhance digestion.
Stimulant: Herbs that stimulate the nervous system, increasing energy levels or mental alertness. Stimulants are used to boost physical and mental performance but should be used with caution as overuse can lead to fatigue or overstimulation.
Styptic: Herbs that stop bleeding by contracting tissue and blood vessels. They are commonly used in first aid for cuts and wounds.
Tonic: Herbs that strengthen and tone some specific body system, often taken regularly to improve overall vitality and health. They are used for long-term support of energy, immunity, and resilience.
Vulnerary: Herbs that promote wound healing and tissue repair. They are used in the treatment of cuts, burns, and skin injuries.
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