Brief Index of Herbal Actions
Diuretics
Diuretics are used to eliminate excess fluid, aid the process of detoxification through the kidneys and assist urinary conditions such as infections or stones. They are also beneficial for conditions associated with lymphatic congestion, skin diseases and rheumatic or arthritic complaints. Increasing the flow of urine (diuresis), these herbs help to purify the blood.
Burdock root was traditionally used by America’s 19th century Eclectic physicians as a diuretic to treat urinary tract infections, kidney problems and painful urination. It was also prescribed for arthritis and skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, acne and dandruff.
Corn silk acts as a diuretic, soothing and toning irritated urinary tract linings. It was traditionally used to relieve fluid retention and aid urinary complaints.
Dandelion leaf is considered one of the strongest herbal diuretics, useful for treating fluid retention from most causes. It is also a good natural source of potassium. During the Middle Ages, Europeans believed in the Doctrine of Signatures – the idea that a plant’s physical characteristics revealed its healing value. Under this doctrine, any juicy plant (such as Dandelion) was linked to urine production.
Emmenagogues
Emmenagogues are remedies that balance female hormones and thereby regulate menstruation.
Black Cohosh root is a traditional North American herb that was used to ease menopausal symptoms and menstrual complaints such as PMS with cramps. The root contains triterpene glycosides, compounds that are believed to act on a hypothalamus-pituitary gland level, which has a secondary effect on the female reproductive system. Black Cohosh is believed to be slightly oestrogenic, meaning it acts like the female sex hormone oestrogen.
Chaste berries, also known as Vitex agnus castus, works via the pituitary gland to normalise menstrual irregularities and counteract the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome including irritability, depressed mood and headaches. Vitex was traditionally used to increase lactation and lower libido hence the ‘chaste’ berry.
Galactagogues
Galactagogues are remedies used by women during lactation to promote the flow of breast milk.
Asparagus root, also known as Shatavari, is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to strengthen female hormones, promoting fertility and stimulating breast milk.
Blessed Thistle is a bitter herb that is useful as a liver tonic and for its ability to increase and enrich the fl ow of breast milk. Blessed Thistle is recommended for any woman who wants to increase their breast milk production or keep feeding for longer.
Fenugreek seeds were commonly eaten by Indian women to increase breast milk production. Today, they are still commonly used as a galactagogue during lactation, but also as an expectorant for the respiratory system.
Immune enhancers
Immune enhancers are substances that help influence immune function, strengthening the body’s natural defences.
Astragalus restores and strengthens the body’s immune response. It stimulates the activity of macrophages – a type of white blood cell the body produces to mop up and destroy foreign material and infectious micro-organisms. Astragalus is used long-term as an immune-stimulant to reduce the incidence of the common cold and flu or in convalescence. It is not recommended to take Astragalus in the acute phase.
Cat’s Claw is native to Peru and contains immune stimulating properties that enhance immune function, so is a useful remedy during the winter months when the immune system is often weak.
Echinacea is an immune-stimulant that enhances macrophage activity (see Astragalus). It is often prescribed in the acute phase of upper respiratory tract infections, including common colds, influenza and bacterial sinusitis, to reduce the severity of symptoms.
