Glossary

Glossary

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There are currently 26 names in this directory beginning with the letter A.
Abortifacient
An herb that may cause an abortion.

Active Constituent
A chemical molecule in a plant that can alter some biochemical process in the body. Most plants or herbs contain many active chemical constituents that work together to alter functioning processes of the body, usually in a subtle way.

Adaptogen
An herb that aids the body through a nonspecific boost in resistance to external stressors, supports the body's ability to adapt to change, and may stimulate or modulate immunity. Herbalists use adaptogens to improve immune response, increase stamina, and normalize sexual function, among other things.

Aerial Parts
The leaves and flowers of a plant.

Alkaloid
A typically highly active plant constituent containing a nitrogen atom, usually in a ring shaped molecule.

Allopathy
A medical practice that aims to combat disease through "conventional" means like drugs or surgery.

Alterative
An herb that works on a general level to tonify the systems of the body involved in nutrient assimilation and waste removal.

Amino Acid
Any of 20 molecules that are combined to form proteins in living organisms.

Analgesic
An herb that eases pain; also known as an anodyne.

Annual
A plant that goes through a complete life cycle in 1 year, dying after one growing season.

Antibacterial
An herb that destroys or inhibits the growth of bacteria.

Antiemetic
An herb that counteracts or soothes nausea or vomiting.

Antihydrotic
An herb that slows the production of excessive sweat.

Antimicrobial
An herb that aids the body in destroying or resisting pathogens. A general term encompassing antibacterials, antifungals, and antivirals.

Antioxidant
An herb that inhibits oxidation and subsequent free radical damage of important chemicals, enzymes, membranes, cells, and tissues in the body.

Antiparasitic
An herb that destroys or inhibits the growth of parasites.

Antiperiodic
An herb that eases cyclic and intermittent diseases such as malaria.

Antispasmodic
An herb that relaxes muscle spasm and tension.

Antitussive
An herb that reduces the urge to cough.

Aperient
An herb that is mildly laxative.

Aphrodisiac
An herb that increases sexual desire.

Aromatherapy
The use of fragrant plants or plant extracts based on the assumption that specific aromas affect the body in different ways. These aromas (essential oils in most cases) are inhaled or applied to the skin in a carrier oil base, such as olive oil or sweet almond oil.

Aromatic
An herb rich in volatile oils, often with a fragrant aroma. Aromatics are often used as antimicrobials, carminatives, decongestants, nervines, and expectorants.

Assimilation
The process of absorbing and metabolizing substances.

Astringent
An herb that causes tissues to contract, typically due to its high tannin content.

Ayurveda
A 6,000-year-old system of healing originating in India and Nepal.