from the American Botanical Council:
Herb: The word herb (sometimes referred to as botanical) has several different meanings depending on the perspective:
In commercial terms – herb generally refers to plants used for culinary purposes. Additionally the terminology differentiates Temperate Zone plants from tropical and sub-tropical plants (i.e., spices).
In horticultural terms – herb refers to “herbaceous,” which describes the appearance of the plant (i.e., a non-woody, vascular plant).
In taxonomic terms – herb generally refers to the aboveground parts or the aerial parts (i.e., the flower, leaf, and stem).
In terms of herbal medicine – herb refers to plants used in various forms or Read More
Term
Definition
Alterative
Modifies nutrition
Analgesic
Allays pain
Anodyne
Allays pain
Anthelmintic
Destructive to (intestinal) worms
Antiarthritic
Relieves gout & arthritis
Antibacterial
Destroys or suppresses growth of bacteria
Antipyretic
Reduces body temperature in fevers
Antispasmodic
Relieves nervous irritability and spasm
Aperitive
Stimulates the appetite
Aphrodisiac
Increases sexual power or excitement
Aromatic
Fragrant odors/spicy tastes stimulates the gastro-intestinal tract
Astringent
Shrinks tissues & prevents secretions of fluids
Bitter
Bitter taste; stimulates the gastro-intestinal tract without affecting the general system
Carminative
Expels gas from the gastro-intestinal tract for relief of colic or griping
Cathartic
Strong laxative
Cholagogue
Provokes the flow of bile
Demulcents
Mucilaginous principles; soothes & protects irritated mucous membranes & tissues
Diaphoretic
Increases perspiration
Digestant
Aids in solution of food
Diuretic
Increases the secretion of urine
Emetic
Induces vomiting
Emmenagogue
Brings on menstruation
Emollient
Softens & protects tissue
Expectorant
Promotes the discharge of mucous from the respiratory tract
Laxative
Causes a bowel movement
Purgative
Powerful laxative
Sedative
Lowers functional activity
Stimulant
Increases functional activity
Stomachic
Promotes activity of Read More