As the world wakes up to the freshness of nature and natural products, Herbs take on a leading role. Simple everyday foods and herbs have moved out of the kitchen to be an effective, inexpensive and safe part of health care. The time-tested science of Ayurveda uses the goodness of single herbs and different foods to keep your body at its healthiest best. Women Fitness presents a detailed Directory of herbs.

 

 

To view details of desired Herbs click on the requisite Alphabet.

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

u

V

W

X

Y

Z

 

P

Papaya: It is also called paw-paw. Softening and cleansing. The enzymes in the fruit have a deep cleansing effect by breaking down the dead cells of the skin.


Parsley (Ajmoda): A widely cultivated seasoning plant, parsley has a tonic effect on the entire urinary system. Parsley tablets are also available in the market. It purifies the breath as well. As a medicinal use, it rectifies all disorders of bladder and kidneys and some herbalists recommend parsley for treating cancer.


Peach: Moisturizing, nourishing and delicious smelling. Use the mashed pulp on dry, rough skin in skin tonics and masks.


Parthenium : Diuretic; good for kidney and bladder; also called "Missouri Snakeroot" as it was believed to help snake bites; blood purifier; liver stimulator; the root is used; looks like echinacea; tops are used for the fever of malaria

 


Passion Flower : Calming sedative that soothes nervous system with no side effects; great for hyperactive kids; good for eye infections; temporarily reduces high blood pressure

 


Pau D'Arco : From Argentina, where they use it as a cancer drug; good for any blood-related disease; blood purifier; good for dermatitis; great for cancer in remission; neutralizes poisons in liver; used with great success for cancer; good for AIDS patients as it strengthens T-cells; good for candida and herpes simplex; reduces tumors of all kinds; lowers dependence on insulin for diabetics; natural pain relief for cancer and arthritis; for hypoglycemia, use Pau D'Arco and licorice; good for blood and skin cancer; anti-mutagenic; antibiotic, antifungal for yeast infections; good for liver ailments and possibly for hepatitis C

 


Peppermint: Stimulating. Use peppermint extract for its tightening, stimulating effect in skin tonics and masks.


Petroleum Jelly: A lubricating jelly often used in cleansing creams and hand and nail creams.


Pimpernel: This little plant makes its home almost everywhere and generously flowers from spring to late autumn. The pimpernel has small oval-shaped leaves and long slender stalks, each bearing a bright scarlet flowers. As a medicinal use this herb is recommended in the treatment of eye diseases, to cure jaundice, dropsy and inflammation. The plant has cosmetic properties too. It can be applied as a skin lotion----a standard infusion regulates and pigmentation, removes freckles and other minor blemishes. The same lotion is believed to act as a hair restorer.


Pine: Put the needles in a muslin bag in the bath to refresh and soothe aching muscles. Pine oil can also be added to the bath.


Plum: Cleansing. Used in masks, tonics and creams.


Potatoes: Have cleansing and drawing properties. Clears the skin. Use thin raw potato slices for eye pads to remove puffiness of eyes.


Psyllium(Plantago ovata and P. Major): Psyllium is a major source of fiber. The primary use of psyllium seed and/or psyllium seed husks is as a bulk laxative, especially for cases of chronic constipation. The tiny seeds contain a coating of gelatinous material, which swells upon contact with moisture. This increases the movement (motility) within the colon thus producing a bowel movement. Psyllium husk is an approved over-the-counter laxative.


R

Raspberries: Cleansing. Use the crushed fruit in masks or the juice in blemishes.


Red Clover : blossoms contain molybdenum-an essential nutrient to help discharge nitrogen; when used with iron supplements, it produces more rapid hemoglobin production; strengthens anemic blood; protects against bites and stings; treats and prevents cancer, gout and whooping cough; expectorant; one of the best mucous clearers; used for ALL cancers, especially esophagus and breast; use as a tea for bathing sores; mix with chaparral and Don Quai for cancer; has lots of vitamins and minerals; very good for children with degenerative diseases; great nerve calmer, good for nervous exhaustion; good for rickets, weak chest, bronchitis, and lack of vitality

 


Red Raspberry : Used as a basic herbal foundation for all female organs and problems. It is in many female combinations. It strengthens the walls of the uterus and entire female reproductive system; regulates menses; alleviates morning sickness; used as a preventative for hemorrhaging after childbirth; assists labor by making delivery easier; relieves afterpains; tones and regulates before, during and after  childbirth; increases and enriches milk for lactation, especially when combined with marshmallow tea; good for children's tummy aches and
bowel problems, and for diarrhea in babies; soothing to stomach and  bowels, as well as cankerous conditions of mucous membranes in the alimentary canal; high in minerals and vitamins, especially manganese;also useful for colds, sore throat, bronchitis, coughs, fevers, general naausea, ulcers, and as an eyewash. 
 

 


 

Red Yeast Rice:

Since 800 A.D., red yeast rice has been employed by the Chinese as both a food and a medicinal agent. Its therapeutic benefits as both a promoter of blood circulation and a digestive stimulant. Researchers have determined that one of the ingredients in red yeast rice, called monacolin K, inhibits the production of cholesterol by stopping the action of a key enzyme in the liver (e.g., HMG-CoA reductase) that is responsible for manufacturing cholesterol. Red yeast rice has been clinically investigated as a therapy for reducing cholesterol in two human trials. In one trial, both men and women taking 1.2 grams (approximately 13.5 mg total monacolins) of a concentrated red yeast rice extract per day for two months had significant decreases in serum cholesterol levels. In addition, people taking red yeast rice had a significant increase in HDL (“good”) cholesterol and a decrease in LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. Elevated triglycerides were also found to be lowered. Red yeast rice is commercially available in capsules and 2.4 grams (approximately 10 mg monacolins) per day is often recommended in divided amounts for a trial period of up to 12 weeks. If successful after this period of time, it may be used for long-term management of high cholesterol.


Rhubarb:The root is used to lighten the hair. It gives a honey grey colour.


Rose: These grow in copses and hedgerows. Their flowering period extends from spring to the middle of summer. The pink or white flowers are fragrantly scented. They are the richest natural source of Vitamin E.

 


Rose Oil: A highly aromatic essential oil widely used in cosmetics. Powerful tonic to circulation, digestive system, heart, liver congestion, disorders of the genital-urinary system.. Acts by cleansing & regulating, rather than stimulating. Affinity to female reproductive system, helps in sexual problems, frigidity & impotence. Reputed aphrodisiac. Tonic & astringent to all skin types. Least toxic of all essences.


Rose Water: A scented water made from rose petals. Widely used in skin used in skin tonics and
creams.


Rosehips: Rich in Vitamin C. Use the juice in tonics. Good for blemishes.


Rosemary:Rosemary is a widely cultivated herb and a popular garden plant with its spiky dark green leaves and distinctive scent. As a medicine, rosemary provides a valuable heart and liver tonic and also helps reduce high blood pressure. It is widely used too in the treatment of nerves, digestive disorders and menstrual pains. In all cases a small cupful of the standard infusion should be taken each morning on rising. Used as a lotion, this herb or its oil will cure all pains in the head. When taken with honey it cures coughing. Rosemary is well known as a fine tonic for the scalp and skin. It adds lustre to the hair and is a common ingredient of many commercial shampoos. It keeps the skin free from wrinkles. Boil rosemary leaves and the flowers and use the mixture as a face wash. Do not wipe the face afterwards, but let is dry naturally. The regular washing of face with this solution will keep you young for ever.

 


S

Safflower Oil: A rich poly-unsaturated oil. Suitable for all nourishing cosmetics. Keep it airtight.


Sage:An aromatic, sun-loving plant with grey-green leaves and mauvish flowers. It is used to treat enough cough, colds and headaches and fevers. It is also good for the liver, bile and the whole digestive system. A standard infusion of leaves an sprigs used as a gargle or mouth-wash cures sore throats and gums, and as a lotion heals ulcers, sores and other skin eruptions. Sage has always been good for the brain, improving the memory and as a cure for insanity.


Sarsaparilla : Blood purifier; breaks down uric acid; good for liver problems, rheumatism, skin disorders, hormone excesses, inflammation and gas; a natural steroid; produces testosterone,estrogen, cortisone, and progesterone; use with ginseng for body builders; good for psoriasis and other eruptive skin disorders; antidote for poisons; diuretic; increases metabolism and perspiration; stimulates breathing when one is congested; aids circulation to rheumatic joints; produces anabolic hormones; helps women produce natural progesterone

 


Saw Palmetto : The berries act on the enlarged prostate to relieve pain and inflammation; use for all wasting diseases, as it affects glands; quiets nerves; has antiseptic properties; relieves excess mucous; good for lungs; good for diseases of reproductive organs; increases breast size

 


Sesame Oil:  A poly-unsaturated oil. Used in all cosmetics, especially sun tanning creams, as it absorbs ultra-violet rays.


Shallaki for joint pain:Shallaki has good pain-relieving properties that are useful in the treatment of arthritis and joint pain.


Shuddha Guggulu, lipid regulator:It regulates fat metabolism and helps in removing excess cholesterol from the body.


Siberian Ginseng : Most useful for maintaining good health rather than treating poor health. Can help those exposed to toxic chemicals and radiation. Has a general tonic effect on the body, in particular the adrenal glands, helping the body to withstand heat, cold, infection, other physical stresses, and radiation. Improves stamina and mental resilience, and reduces the effects of physical stress such as those endured during athletic training. Most effective in the treatment of prolonged exhaustion and debilitation resulting from over-work and long-term stress. Also stimulates immune resistance and is effective in recovery from chronic illness. Helps to prevent infection, maintains well-being, sometimes useful in treating impotence.

 


Slippery Elm: Excellent for the GI tract; soothes ulcers and colon when taken orally & rectally; breaks up mucous in lung problems; good for  any ulcerated condition - use as a poultice for rashes, etc.; neutralizes stomach acidity & gas; use as a poultice for cold sores; use in cough syrups; helps feed adrenal glands; lubricates bowels; heals intestines

 


Soap flakes: A soap solution used as an emulsifying agent.


SodiumSesqui Carbonate: A powdery substance which is a water softener and is used in bath salts.


Spermaceti: A white wax from whale sperm. It can be replaced with either emulsifying wax or lunette wax.


Spirulina: Excellent for vegetarians as it is a very high source of beta carotene, B-12, and gamma linolenic acid, also contains most amino acids, including all 9 essential ones that the body needs; contains 250% more B-12 than liver and 4 times the protein of beef; 80-85% of the proteins of spirolina are assimilated by the body; gives ENERGY!; blood cell and tissue builder; satisfies hunger; balances blood sugar & RNA/DNA; boosts immune system; lowers bad cholesterol; has all the B complex vitamins, trace minerals, and essential fatty acids - is a complete protein; it is a blue-green algae usually found in fresh water lakes up north

 


Storax:The resin from the plant styrax. Often used n medicines.


Strawberry: It possesses considerable medicinal value. For fevers and excessive perspiration, a tisane of strawberry leaves can scarcely be bettered. The plant is also astringent and useful in dealing with diarrhea, over-copious menstruation, threatened abortion, any risk of hemorrhage and the digestive system. Strawberry contains maximum iron contains maximum iron contents and cures anemia. The strawberry juice can be used to treat more serious skin ailments. Teeth that have become discolored or encrusted with tartar can be cleaned with strawberry juice.


St. John's Wort - Anti-viral which is especially good for gonorrhea; relieves pain, anxiety, nervous tension, euralgia; used in treating AIDS; anti-depressant, but must be taken for several months to get full effect

 


Sugar: An abrasive face scrub. Lather the face with soap, then add a handful of sugar and scrub, rinse off and apply lemon juice. This thoroughly cleanses and stimulates and skin.


Sulphur:A yellow powder used in acne preparations. It helps slow down the activity of the oil producing glands. Some people are allergic to it, so before using it on your face, give yourself a skin test behind the ear.


Sunflower:Rich in un-polysaturates. Widely used in creams.


Syllium Hulls (& Seeds) : ** MUST DRINK 6-8 cups of water per day if taking, otherwise it will clog the system**; DO NOT take if constipation is a problem; great for weight loss as it makes one feel full; cleans out parasites and other garbage in intestines; good for bad diarrhea; when soaked in water, it increases 8-14 times it's size; revents cholesterol absorption; removes toxins from intestines; soothes inflamed tissue; promotes growth of friendly bacteria; reduces transit-time of matter through colon; problems can stem from incorrect use!!

 


 

T

Tagara (valerian), a relaxant:It has mild sedative properties which are useful in insomnia and sleep disorders. Tagara is also a good remedy for hysteria, nervous unrest and emotional troubles.


Tarragon: An aromatic herb with a strong fresh smell. Used in skin tonics and lotions.


Tea: Contains tannin which has a soothing and healing effect. Tannin absorbs ultra-violet light and as is used in sun-creams to help prevent burning. Tea bags are marvelously soothing ready-made eye-pads.


Tea Tree: Multi-use antibacterial. To treat acne- mix 4 drops of tea tree essential oil with 4 tablespoons water; apply to skin. For athlete's foot- apply oil to fungus. Cold sores- mix 4 drops oil with 4 tablespoons olive oil. Apply to sore. Yeast infections- Add a drop or two of oil to 2 cups of water, and use as a douche. Repeat daily for two weeks.

 


 

Thyme: Thyme grows wild or dry banks an heaths. It has woody stems, covered in fine hair and flattish round leaves and growing in pairs. Heavily scented flowers are borne in whorls. The medicinal uses of thyme derive firstly from its cleansing properties. A poultice can be made from leaves to combat all forms of inflammation and infection. Thyme is a good digestive and used as a liver tonic. It cures a wide range of psychological disorders, headaches, hysteria, halitosis and assorted female ailments.


Tomato: A slightly acidic vegetable, containing potassium and Vitamin C. Use it on blackheads, open pores and greasy skin.


Triphala, bowel cleanser:A digestive aid compound with Chebulic Myrobalan (Haritaki), Indian Gooseberry (Amalaki) and Belliric Myrobalan (vibhitaki) that regularises the digestive system. Regular use promotes good colon health, stimulates intestinal walls, provides overall support for the digestive function and ensures that the digestive tract works at the optimal level.


Turnips: Have drawing properties. Use either raw, grated or boiled in cleansing masks.


Turtle Oil: Vitamin enriched oil. Often used in rich nourishing creams. Very effective but smells bad.


U

Uva Ursi : Diuretic; absorbed and excreted by the kidneys; antiseptic of urinary tract; good for yeast and bladder infections; contains tannic acid and balances urine Ph; stimulates urinary tract; helps reduce blood in urine; soothes bladder walls; used for excessive sugar in the blood; contains allantoin to help heal wounds; strongly anti-biotic against such conditions as e-coli and staph; treats loss of bladder control; NOT FOR children under 2; NOT FOR pregnant women as it stimulates the uterus to contract

 


 

V

Valerian : Calms nervous conditions; aids in peaceful and restful sleep; slows heart rate while increasing blood flow; good for people whose valves don't work right; nature's tranquilizer; decreases aggression;
good source of calcium and magnesium
 

 


Vaseline: It is just like a petroleum jelly.


Vinegar: Acidic. Use diluted 8 parts water to one part vinegar. Improves and softens the skin.


Vitamins: Valuable for skin and hair. Vitamin A can pass through the skin and is helpful for dry skin and acne. Also have soothing properties. Vitamin B promotes health of skin and hair. Vitamin C promotes healing of acne. Vitamin D can be absorbed through skin and has a healing properties. Vitamin F counteracts dry, chapped skin. Greatly used in face and hand creams. It is also used in hair treatments to counteract brittle hair.


W

Wheatgerm Flour:Use it mixed with double cream to massage the body. Cleansing and softening.


Wheatgerm Oil:A rich unsaturated oil, rich in Vitamin E. It has healing properties.


Witch Hazel:Made from twigs of hamamelis or alder bush. Widely used in skin tonics for its astringent properties.


White Oak Bark : Astringent to shrink body tissues; high in calcium and tannin; excellent for varicose veins and hemorrhoids; when using externally, boil or steam bark or leaves; good for diarrhea, hemorrhage, and intestinal bleeding; cleans inflamed skin and mucous membranes; expels pinworms; cleans gastrointestinal tract; stops bleeding in stomach, lungs, liver, and bowels; use as douche or enema for soothing inflamed tissues; aids in healing stomach and intestines and to rid of gallstones; brings down fevers

 


White Willow : Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, reduces fever, anti-rheumatic, astringent. White willow is the original source of salycilic acid, the forerunner of aspirin. Extremely effective for reducing
joint, hip, and back pain caused by rheumatism and arthritis. In  combination with other herbs and dietary changes, it relieves  inflammation and swelling, and improves mobility in painful, creaky joints. Also used to manage high fevers and may be used to ease headaches. White willow assists during menopause by reducing
sweating during hot flashes and night sweats.

 


Wild Yam:Aantispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, increases sweating, diuretic. Has been used to treat rheumatism and colicky conditions. Useful as a relaxing remedy for painful mestruation, ovarian pain, and labor. Extremely useful and effective in treating arthritis, as it reduces inflammation and pain, and relaxes stiff muscles in affected areas. Helps to relieve cramps and muscle tension; can also be an effective treatment for digestive problems including gallbladder inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome, and diverticulitis.
 

 


 

Y

Yarrow: A familiar plant that grows in fields and along the side of country lanes, Yarrow has greyish, feathery, ethereal-looking leaves and small daisy-like flowers. Yarrow has been used since antiquity for headaches, fevers and influenza. It also cures diarrhea, palpitation and excessive menstruation. Yarrow Tea is a good remedy for severe colds, being most useful in the commencement of fevers, and in cases of obstructed perspiration. The infusion is made with 1 OZ. of dried herb to 1 pint of boiling water, drunk warm, in wineglassful doses. It may be sweetened with sugar, honey or treacle, adding a little Cayenne Pepper, and to each dose a teaspoonful of Composition Essence. It opens the pores freely and purifies the blood, and is recommended in the early stages of children's colds, and in measles and other eruptive diseases. A decoction of the whole plant is employed for bleeding piles, and is good for kidney disorders. It has the reputation also of being a preventative of baldness, if the head be washed with it.


Yellow Dock - blood cleanser, tonic and builder; helps the liver function properly; very high in iron and is good for anemia, skin disorders, and liver disorders; nourishes the spleen; tones the entire
system; also used for skin infections, ulcers, skin itch, tumors, varicose veins, lymphatic system, and the gall bladder; use externally for bleeding wounds; balances body chemistry; builds immune system; beneficial during pregnancy to build iron and prevent infant jaundice; has a high mineral content; has astringent properties
 

 


Yoghurt:A fermented liquor made from milk. Natural yoghurt contains enzymes. Used as a base for cleansing and cleaning face masks.


Yucca : Intestinal bacteria (flora) balancer and regulator; may decrease toxins and help absorb nutrients; aids in digestion; has a high content of saponins that don't enter the bloodstream; good for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohns disease, and excessive gas; all eliminative systems are less taxed, especially the liver, when yucca is
used; lowers build-up of toxins in joints, so it is good for degenerative diseases like arthritis; occasionally causes cramping so it should be combined with other herbs; breaks up inorganic deposits; high in fiber; aids digestion in people with prostitis and urethritis.
 

 


 

Z

Zinc Oxide: A heavy white powder. It has mildly astringent and antiseptic properties. Used as a dusting powder or, mixed with benzoate lard, to make a soothing ointment. Calamine lotion contains a small quantity of Zinc Oxide.


 

 

herb, herb brook, chinese herb, medicinal herb, herb vitamin, herb spice, herb garden, herb seed , herb ritts, herb chamber, natural herb, herb gardening, herb growing, nature herb, drying herb, herb weight loss, alpert herb, healing herb, herb bulk, fertility herb, menopause herb, nature sunshine herb, herb information, peach herb, plant herb, herb for cancer, herb picture, cooking herb, herb for health, herb magic, herb tea, wholesale herb, herb rosemary, herb dictionary, adaptogenic herb, herb farm, depression herb, amazon herb, gaia herb ,herb wrinkle, high blood pressure herb, herb grinder, herb chamber honda, herb store, herb albert, herb pregnancy, magical herb, amazon herb company, frontier herb, herb use, native american herb, sage herb, dried herb, herb for anxiety, maca herb, dry herb, fresh herb, herb encyclopedia, herb kelleher, herb and sex, sexual herb, magick herb, herb pharm, herb shop, amazon herb co, energy herb, herb garden indoor, basil herb, herb lavender, herb for diabetes, ayurvedic herb, herb guide, herb medicine, mountain rose herb, organic herb, herb remedy, smoking herb, breast enlargement herb, san francisco herb company, herb ritz,herb recipe, wiccan herb, chinese medicine herb, herb de provence, horse herb, discount herb, impotence herb, legal herb, liver herb, san francisco herb co, acne and herb, brook death herb, drug herb interaction, arthritis herb, renu herb, freezing herb, aphrodisiac herb, herb kohl, ginseng herb