Nervous System Monographs 1
Terms
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- oats, groats
- Common Name of Avena sativa
- Family: Graminaceae
- Family name of Avena sativa
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Botanical Description:
An erect plant with narrow, linear leaves that grows to a height of 0.6 – 1.0 meter. The flowering top presents as spikes with 2 – 3 florets in loose panicles. The seed is used as a cereal grain. The oat seed is picked in - Botanical Description of Avena sativa
- Part Used: Milky oat seeds
- Part used of Avena sativa
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Active Constituents:
Alkaloid (gramine, in seed), avenacoside triterpenoids saponins, flavones (avenacoside), mono and oligo- saccharides, nutrients (iron 39 mg/kg dry, Mn 8.5 mg/kg dry, silica, zinc 19.2 mg/kg dry, calcium, magnesium). - Active Constituents of Avena sativa
- Taste/Energy: sweet, cooling, moistening (-Vata –Pitta/ +Kapha)
- Taste/Energy of Avena sativa
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Medicinal Actions:
Anti-depressant, cardiac tonic, demulcent, nervine, tonic to the nervous system, nutritive - Medicinal Actions of Avena sativa
- It is one of the best remedies to “feed†the nervous system and acts as the premiere nervous system trophorestorative. It is indicated to restore normal function to weakened, debilitated nervous systems. It treats nervous exhaustion whether due to li
- Medicinal use of Avena sativa
- It is used to treat addictions and can help people rebound from addiction to caffeine, tobacco opium and other drugs.
- Medicinal use of Avena sativa
- It is an herb to use in treatment of any condition including nervous exhaustion, neuralgia, herpetic eruptions, cardiac weakness from nervous exhaustion, heart palpitations due to anxiety, anxiety, ADD, depression, epilepsy and insomnia.
- Medicinal use of Avena sativa
- Use for impotence in men under middle age from nervous exhaustion, sexual excess or nocturnal emissions.
- Medicinal use of Avena sativa
- If taken over time, it will strengthen the nervous system and increase stamina.
- Medicinal use of Avena sativa
- Treatment is usually long term with frequent dosing.
- Medicinal use of Avena sativa
- It is especially indicated for treatment of insomnia where the patient has difficulty staying asleep.
- Medicinal use of Avena sativa
- Use to treat weak or broken hair, nails and skin.
- Medicinal use of Avena sativa
- It is used to strengthen limbs if there is weakness or numbness.
- Medicinal use of Avena sativa
- It is mucilaginous and therefore is soothing and anti-inflammatory if used topically. A bath can be made putting it into a thin sock or muslin bag and added to the bath. Allow it to steep in the bath and when the water is tepid enter bath and wring sock
- Medicinal use of Avena sativa
- It is high in silica and is used as a nutritive and to strengthen connective tissue.
- Medicinal use of Avena sativa
- Toxicity: None
- Hypericum perforatum, spp. toxicity
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Pharmacy:
Infusion: 1 heaping Tbl./qt water QD, steep until cools to room temperature or infuse overnight
Infusion: 1 heaping tablespoon of crushed milky oat seeds per cup of wate
Tincture (1:5): 5 ml TID
Fluid Extract (1:3, 1:1) - Pharmacy of Avena sativa
- California Poppy
- Common name of Eschscholzia californica
- Family: Papaveraceae
- Family of Eschscholzia californica
- Botanical Description: A perennial with erect, hairless flowering stems that grow 10-50 cm tall. Leaves are mostly basal, numerous and finely divided. Flowers are solitary atop long stalks, yellow to orange, showy and saucer-shaped. Petals are usu 4, 1-5
- Botanical description of Eschscholzia californica
- Part Used: Whole plant
- Part of Eschscholzia californica used
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Active Constituents:
Alkaloids (isoquinoline, chelerythrine, sanguinarine, chelidonine, cryptidine), flavone glycosides - Active constituents of Eschscholzia californica
- Taste/Energy: bitter (-Pitta/+Vata)
- Taste/energy of Eschscholzia californica
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Medicinal actions:
Analgesic, antispasmodic, nervine, hypnotic, anxiolytic, sedative - Medicinal actions of Eschscholzia californica
- It is a non-addictive and less powerful alternative to the Opium Poppy. It contains alkaloids with sedative and hypnotic properties but its action is to establish equilibrium and is not narcotic. It does not contain the more powerful alkaloids found in t
- Medicinal uses of Eschscholzia californica
- It is used to treat children with overexcitement of the nervous system and sleeplessness.
- Medicinal uses of Eschscholzia californica
- It also is indicated for treatment of insomnia and pain, specifically when the pain is sharp and colicky in the digestive tract or pelvis. It combines well with Piscidia, Viburnum, Stachys, Belladonna, and Aconite for the relief of pain.
- Medicinal uses of Eschscholzia californica
- It can be dosed throughout the day to reduce anxiety and is indicated when the patient is over-excited whether due to emotion or to pain.
- Medicinal uses of Eschscholzia californica
- Toxicity/Contraindications: It should not be used in pregnancy due to the uterine stimulating effects from the alkaloid, cryptopine.
- Toxicity/Contraindications of Eschscholzia californica
- Drug Interactions: None known
- Humulus lupulus drug interactions
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Pharmacy:
Infusion: 1 tsp/cup water BID to QID
Tincture (1:5): 1 – 5 ml BID to QID; 1-4 ml hs to promote sleep
Fluid Extract (1:1): 1 –3 ml TID
Use as a glycerine with children - Pharmacy of Eschscholzia californica
- Hops
- Common name for Humulus lupulus
- Family: Cannabaceae
- Humulus lupulus Family
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Habitat & Botanical Description:
Humulus grows in swamps and damp hedges and is cultivated through the world. It is a 3 – 6 meter tall plant that always twines to the right. The leaves are coarse, 3 – 7 lobes with petioles and a serrated mar - Habitat & Botanical description of Humulus lupulus
- Part Used: Strobile or flower inflorescence
- Parts of Humulus lupulus used
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Active Constituents:
Bitters, flavonoids (kaempferol, quercitin), mono- and sesquiterpenes, phenol-carboxylic acids (ferulic, chlorogenic), resins (humulone, lupulone), tannins, volatile oils, 8-prenyl naringenin - Active constituents of Humulus lupulus
- Taste/Energy: drying, bitter, cooling
- Taste/Energy of Humulus lupulus
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Medicinal Actions:
Anaphrodisiac, anodyne, bitter, hypnotic, nervine, sedative, phytoestrogenic - Medicinal actions of Humulus lupulus
- It is a mild sedative, stimulating to the gastrointestinal tract and used to decrease sexual excitement. This indicates the three areas that it is most often used: insomnia, nervous GI complaints and to decrease sexual libido.
- Medicinal uses of Humulus lupulus
- The traditional and most popular use for this herb has been for the treatment of insomnia due to anxiety or worry. It is also a muscle relaxant to smooth and skeletal muscle and is diffusely relaxing to aid sleep. A herb pillow has been a traditional tre
- Medicinal uses of Humulus lupulus
- In the gastrointestinal system, it is a bitter and is helpful to increase digestion, especially with patients that have indigestion due to anxiety. It will both tonify and strengthen the GI system while restoring normal peristalsis. It combines well with
- Medicinal uses of Humulus lupulus
- It is also phytoestrogenic and historically, young girls that would pick hops in the fields would have an early onset of menses. It is used in the first phase of biphasic formulas to balance female hormones.
- Medicinal uses of Humulus lupulus
- It is an aphrodisiac, esp for men and can be used to treat excessive libido as well as premature ejaculation. The sedative properties of the plant allow for increased relaxation and prolong parasympathetic stimulation which is required for maintaining er
- Medicinal uses of Humulus lupulus
- Contraindications: Pregnancy
- Humulus lupulus contraindications
- Toxicity: None known
- Humulus lupulus toxicity
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Pharmacy:
Infusion: 1 tsp per cup TID or hs
Tincture (1:5): 2 – 5 ml TID, usually 40 – 50 ml per week maximum
herb Pillow
Topical Compresses or baths to relax muscles and reduce inflammation - Humulus lupulus pharmacy
- St. John's Wort
- Hypericum perforatum, spp. common name
- Family: Hypericaceae
- family of Hypericum perforatum, spp.
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Habitat/Botanical Description:
Native to Europe and naturalized to North America. It is a 60 cm tall herbaceous plant. It has a yellowish-green hollow stem with two longitudinal opposite ridges bearing translucent, dotted leaves. The flowers are yel - Hypericum perforatum, spp. habitat/botanical description
- Part Used: Flowering tops
- part of Hypericum perforatum, spp. used
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Active Constituents:
Choline, flavones (hyperforin, hyperoside, procyanidins, quercitin), naphthodianthrones (hypericin, pseudohypericin), pectin, tannins, volatile oil - Active constituents of Hypericum perforatum, spp.
- Taste/Energy: bitter, pungent, cooling (-Pitta, -Kapha/+Vata)
- Taste/energy of Hypericum perforatum, spp.
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Medicinal Actions:
Antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anti-viral, nervine, vulnerary, analgesic - Medicinal actions of Hypericum perforatum, spp.
- It is best known for its effects on the nervous system. It is useful for elevating mood in patients with mild to moderate depression. Treatment for this condition will require two to three months, however, some effect may be seen after several weeks. It
- Medicinal uses of Hypericum perforatum, spp.
- It is also useful in treatment of seasonal affective disorder especially combined with light therapy. It can act somewhat like a serotonin re-uptake inhibitor, extending the half life of serotonin.
- Medicinal uses of Hypericum perforatum, spp.
- It has shown weak monamine oxidase inhibition in-vitro. It also seems to inhibit GABA uptake. This is an unusual combination of actions. The true mechanism or mechanisms of action are not well understood.
- Medicinal uses of Hypericum perforatum, spp.
- It is not indicated for the treatment of psychosis or severe depression with suicidal ideation. It may be a viable addition to standard treatment for these patients.
- Medicinal uses of Hypericum perforatum, spp.
- It has effects on the immune system. There are many in-vitro studies indicating an antiviral effect, especially against herpes, CMV and some influenza viruses. It has exhibited photochemical alterations of the viral capsid, inhibiting viral reproduction,
- Medicinal uses of Hypericum perforatum, spp.
- It has also been used as a vulnerary, promoting healing and repair of wounds. Wounds heal more quickly and with less secondary infection and inflammation. It is especially useful with spinal injuries and crushing wounds to nerve-rich areas or any trauma
- Medicinal uses of Hypericum perforatum, spp.
- It is also used to treat nocturnal enuresis. It will reduce incidents occurring during sleep, especially in children. It has also been shown to reduce the incidence of night terrors in children.
- Medicinal uses of Hypericum perforatum, spp.
- In TCM, it is used to treat Qi stagnation. It also regulates and circulates the Qi, tonifies kidney Qi, resolves phlegm and wheezing, and clears wet heat. It is classified within this system as drying.
- Medicinal uses of Hypericum perforatum, spp.
- Contraindications: Persons with identified photosensitivity as it may enhance that reaction. If patients are on high doses, they will need to monitor sun exposure, especially in more tropical climates. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to emmenagogu
- Hypericum perforatum, spp. contraindications
- Drug Interactions: Its use should be closely monitored when the patient is taking serotonin uptake inhibitors or in combination with MAO inhibitors. The combination of an SSRI and MAO inhibitor can lead to elevated BP. The symptoms of serotonin syndrome
- Hypericum perforatum, spp. drug interactions
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Pharmacy:
Infusion: 1 rounded teaspoon per cup TID
Tincture (1:5): 1 – 5 ml TID
Fluid Extract (1:1): 1 – 3 ml TID
Standardized Extract: 300 mg TID, standardized to 0.3% hypericin - Hypericum perforatum, spp. pharmacy
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Family: Lamiaceae
Mints have square stems & opposite leaves & volatile oils - Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
- Part Used: Flowers
- Tilia Europea, Tilia Cordata, Tilia platyphyllos (Linden Tree, Lime Flower)
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Active Constituents:
Volatile Oils (linalyl acetate, linalol, cineole, limonene, geraniol), sesquiterpenes - Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
- Taste/Energy: bitter, pungent, cooling (+Pitta +Kapha)
- Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
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Medicinal Actions:
Antispasmodic, carminative (dispels gas & griping), antidepressant (mild), mild hypnotic, antimicrobial - Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
- It enhances a patient’s sense of well being as it is uplifting in its nature. For depression, combine with Melissa, Rosemary, Centella, Hypericum, Avena and the adaptogens. Very mild anti-depressant.
- Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
- It is restorative to nervous function, and will help return a patient to normal function when chronic stress or worry has depleted the nervous system.
- Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
- It can be used to treat tension headaches, either by oral administration or by using the volatile oil on the scalp.
- Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
- · In TCM, it is considered cooling and is a treatment for Qi stagnation. It regulates and circulates the Qi, calms the shen and clears heat from the body.
- Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
- It is also used in the treatment of insomnia, restoring normal sleep patterns. To aid sleep, combine with Humulus, Nepeta, Valerian, Piper or Scutellaria.
- Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
- It reduces muscular pain, especially when applied topically or used in a bath. Consider combining lavender with rose, Chamomile, Stachys and Scullcap in a bath to relax muscular tension and decrease muscle spasms.
- Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
- · It is also indicated for use as an insecticide, in bedding, clothing, furniture, and in the garden.
- Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
- It can be used diluted, alone or in combination on the skin. Do not use essential oils undiluted topically. Do no use essential oils internally.
- Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
- · Its antimicrobial activity is useful topically for small cuts and abrasions. It is anti-microbial, due to the volatile oils, and is used as an anti-fungal in treatment of tinea pedis and tinea versicolor. To enhance the anti-fungal action, expose the
- Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
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Contraindication: Pregnancy
CI internally only. - Lavendula officinalis (Lavender)
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Family: Asteraceae
Echinachea is in this family - Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
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Active Constituents:
Coumarins (umbelliferone, herniarin), flavonoids (methoxylated flavones and flavonols, apigenin, luteolin, quercitin), fatty acids, glycosides, mucopolysaccharides, salicylic acid, volatile oils (alpha bisabolol, chamazulene, t - Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
- Taste/Energy: bitter, pungent, cooling (-Pitta –Kapha)
- Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
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Medicinal Actions:
Anodyne, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-spasmodic, carminative, febrifuge, diaphoetic, nervine, mild sedative, vulnerary, bitter - Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
- · In the nervous system, it has a trophorestorative (tonifying) effect, restoring normal function. It will reduce nervous irritability (restless, irritable, sensitive, argumentative, capricious). It is especially useful for children because it is so cal
- Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
- · The volatile oils are the primary contributor for the anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and antimicrobial actions. Chamazulene is the volatile oil that is converted to Azulene during distillation or infusion. The Azulene inhibits 5-lipoxygenase mediate
- Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
- · In the GI tract, it is used to restore and repair mucosal integrity, so is useful in the treatment of GI ulcers. It can reduce the symptoms of GERD and promote healing of the tissue.
- Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
- · It also works to reduce the spasm of gall bladder colic.
- Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
- It is an excellent smooth muscle relaxer, decreasing gas and reducing spasm in the entire GI tract. This is useful for treatment of IBS, colic, gastritis and spastic diarrhea. It has been shown to protect the mucosal lining against ulcer formation caused
- Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
- · It may be a useful alternative to ginger for the treatment of nausea.
- Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
- · For the upper respiratory system, it is beneficial to reduce inflammation and catarrh. An infusion or steam inhalation is the most effective form to use for this purpose. In addition, Azulene is anti-inflammatory and a steam inhalation is a great way
- Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
- · It is also used to treat teething babies.
- Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
- · Homeopathically, keynotes for prescribing it include capricious children, oversensitivity to pain, irritability from pain, moaning and desire to be carried.
- Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
- Contraindications: High dosing in early pregnancy before 12 weeks. Rarely, patients may experience hypersensitivity reactions causing contact dermatitis in those individuals allergic to plants of the Asteraceae family. Most anti-spasmodics are CI in preg
- Matricaria Chamomilla, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile)
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Scutellaria laterifolia (Skullcap, Hoodwort, Quaker Bonnet, Helmet Flower)
- Part Used: Arial parts
- Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm, Balm)
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Active Constituents:
Bitters, flavonoids, resin, volatile oils (citral, citronellal, geraniol, linalol) - Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm, Balm)
- Taste/Energy: pungent, sweet, cooling (-Kapha –Pitta)
- Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm, Balm)
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Medicinal Actions:
Anti-depressant, anti-spasmodic, anti-viral, carminative, diaphoretic, hypotensive, sedative, anti-thyroid, nervine - Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm, Balm)
- · The use of it is indicated when there is altered function of the nervous system (restlessness, anxiety, HTN, palpitations, HA and irritability) associated with stress or hyperthyroidism. It is quite gentle and its effects are long-lasting.
- Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm, Balm)
- It is a specific treatment for children with hyperactivity.
- Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm, Balm)
- It will alleviate both depression and anxiety, naturally elevating the spirits. It brings joy and lightness to the heart.
- Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm, Balm)
- · In the GI system it works as a carminative to treat colic, poor digestion and flatulence when it is related to nervousness or anxiety.
- Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm, Balm)
- In the endocrine system, it has its primary action on the thyroid. In a hyperthyroid condition, such as Grave’s disease it will block the auto-antibodies from binding to the thyroid gland. It blocks the binding of TSH to thyroid cell membranes, prevent
- Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm, Balm)
- It has anti-viral action and can be a useful addition to cold and flu teas and will promote free perspiration. It has anti-viral action against Herpes Simplex, both 1 and 2, when applied topically.
- Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm, Balm)
- Contraindications: Hypothyroidism, PG
- Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm, Balm)
- Family: Passifloraceae
- Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
- Part Used: Flowers and leaves
- Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
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Active Constituents:
Alkaloids (harman, harmoline), cyanogenic glycosides, flavonoids, glucosyl derivatives (homo-orientin, orientin, saponarin, vicenin, vitexin), volatile oils - Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
- Taste/Energy: bitter, cooling (-Pitta, -Kapha/ +Vata)
- Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
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Medicinal Actions:
Anodyne, anti-spasmodic, hypnotic, sedative, hypotensive - Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
- Its strongest actions are as an anti-spasmodic and hypnotic.
- Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
- It is best suited for use with patients that are restless and exhausted and where there is a tendency toward spasms. It will be less reliable with patients that have normal vitality.
- Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
- · It is effective against imbalances arising from excessive tension and spasm, chronic over achievement with depletion of nervous function, worry, exhaustion from a long illness or old age.
- Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
- It is a gentle sedative and will normalize all aspects of sleep without the patient feeling altered. It is especially indicated for individuals that lay awake at night unable to quiet their minds or unable have restful sleep.
- Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
- It is a good antispasmodic herb and is effective in spastic conditions such as: asthma, dysmenorrhea, spastic cough, IBS, and colic.
- Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
- It may be used to treat hypertension and heart palpitations that arise from anxiety or stress but it is best used in combination with other herbs to be effective.
- Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
- · It may also be useful as an addition to a formula designed to treat pain, however, it is a gentle anodyne. This plant is safe for children and in long-term formulas.
- Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
- · In TCM, it is considered a shen stabilizing herb, it tonifies heart yin, treats liver yang rising, regulates Qi stagnation and clears internal wind.
- Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
- · According to legend, it was named for its ability to inspire spiritual love energy in humans.
- Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
- Contraindications: PG due to harman and harmoline which stimulate the uterus. Use also contraindicated with other CNS depressants. Or while operating machinery.
- Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower)
- Family: Rubiaceae
- Pausinystalia yohimbe, Coryanthe yohimbe (Yohimbe)
- Part Used: Bark
- Pausinystalia yohimbe, Coryanthe yohimbe (Yohimbe)
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Active Constituents:
Indole alkaloids - Pausinystalia yohimbe, Coryanthe yohimbe (Yohimbe)
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Medicinal Actions:
Aphrodisiac, Lipolytic, sympatholytic (in small doses) more sympathomimetic - Pausinystalia yohimbe, Coryanthe yohimbe (Yohimbe)
- It is an alpha-2 antagonist.
- Pausinystalia yohimbe, Coryanthe yohimbe (Yohimbe)
- · The alkaloid blocks the alpha 2 receptor sites on the paraventricular nucleus in the CNS, inhibiting the feeling of hunger.
- Pausinystalia yohimbe, Coryanthe yohimbe (Yohimbe)
- · It is also useful as a weight loss agent due to binding to alpha-2-adrenergic receptors on the cell membranes of fat cells. The result of this action is to allow more NE to bind to β1 adiposities which encourages fat cells to burn rather than store f
- Pausinystalia yohimbe, Coryanthe yohimbe (Yohimbe)
- · The sexual stimulant effect is due to the alpha-adrenergic blocking action. Alpha-adrenergic blocking agents interfere with the (increases release of NE) transmission of stimuli through pathways that normally allow sympathetic nervous excitatory stimu
- Pausinystalia yohimbe, Coryanthe yohimbe (Yohimbe)
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·
Contraindications: persons with renal disorders, children and pregnancy. - Pausinystalia yohimbe, Coryanthe yohimbe (Yohimbe)
- Toxicity: Large doses and prolonged use may cause urinary retention, hyperhidrosis, hypertension, tachycardia, irritability, anxiety, tremor, nausea, vomiting and depression.
- Pausinystalia yohimbe, Coryanthe yohimbe (Yohimbe)
- Drug Interactions: None demonstrated, however caution is indicated in patients on pharmaceutical medication for the treatment of heart disease, depression and neurological disease.
- Pausinystalia yohimbe, Coryanthe yohimbe (Yohimbe)
- Family: Piperaceae
- Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
- Part Used: Rhizome
- Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
- Active Constituents: Resin
- Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
- Taste/Energy: pungent, warm (-Kapha/ +Pitta)
- Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
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Medicinal Actions:
Analgesic, anti-convulsant (mild), antifungal, anti-spasmodic, anxiolytic, hypnotic, sedative , anesthetic - Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
- It relaxes the body while increasing mental alertness. Its primary action is on the CNS. In small doses it produces a sense of euphoria and larger or repetitive doses cause extreme relaxation leading to sleep. It helps to promote sleep and relaxation wit
- Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
- · It reduces anxiety while improving vigilance, memory and reaction time. It also has anti-depressant effects, promoting a sense of well being. It is most useful in treatment of non-psychotic anxiety and mild to moderate depression. It does not decrease
- Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
- · Because of the smooth muscle relaxing properties, it is of great use for the gastrointestinal tract. Any GI spastic condition will benefit from use of it including: stone passage, spasm of UTI, IBS and acute cholecystitis.
- Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
- It also has the ability to relax skeletal muscle. It has been used to treat muscle spasm and tension headaches. It is more effective in smaller than in larger doses. It combines well with Stachys, Viburnum and Lobelia for the muscle relaxing effects.
- Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
- · It is also a local anesthetic and analgesic. One of the earliest known uses for it was in treatment of pain of urinary conditions. It is especially effective in reducing the pain and inflammation of interstitial cystitis and UTI. It is a mild diuretic
- Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
- In TCM, it is used to clear dampness and phlegm patterns. It is used to treat kidney Qi deficiency with wetness, spleen deficiency with wetness and relieves anxiety and depression.
- Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
- It was used by the inhabitants of the south sea islands as a social lubricant. Usually the root is chewed to mix it with saliva, which activates the release of resins. It is then mixed with water or coconut juice. When first imbibed, the mouth is numbed;
- Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
- Contraindications: In higher doses, it may reduce muscle control. Do not use high doses while operating machinery. Contraindicated in pregnancy and nursing.
- Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
- Toxicity: Human studies at therapeutic levels have failed to show a toxic effect. Does greater than 9 grams a day can elevate liver enzymes. Alcohol extractions or consumption increases toxicity. Prolonged use of a dose of 400 mg or more of isolated lact
- Piper methysticum (Kava Kava)
- Family: Laminaceae
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- Part Used: Leaves and flowers
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- Active Constituents: diterpenes, flavonoids (apigenin, diosmetin, diosmin, others), phenols , volatile oil (borneol, camphene, camphor, cineole, isobutyl acetate, limonene, linalool, terpineol, 3-octanone, verbenol)
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- Taste/Energy: pungent, bitter, heating and dry (-Kapha –Vata/+Pitta)
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- Medicinal Actions: Anti-depressant, carminative, circulatory stimulant, antispasmodic, antiseptic, choleretic, cholagogue, nervine, astringent, anti-apasmodic
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- It is a circulatory stimulant, relaxing smooth muscle spasm, especially in arterioles and venules, enhancing blood flow to tissues. It has a tropism for cerebral vessels, so is especially effective in improving blood circulation to the brain and head. Th
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- · It also has a positive inotropic action on myocardial muscle and increases coronary blood flow so is strengthening to the heart. It is beneficial to use it for any cardiac weakness such as, hypotension or congestive heart failure.
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- It is an effective tonic for deficient patients. It stimulates appetite and tonifies circulation and the nervous system, enhancing a sense of well-being and alertness.
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- · It is also an excellent carminative, reducing gas and bloating after meals.
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
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The baths are stimulating, refreshing and tonic especially to run-down and hypotensive individuals. Externally, the essential oil can be applied to treat rheumatism and acute pains.
§ Refreshing or rejuvenating - Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- · Specific indications for use are pale, thin, weak individuals with weak digestion; cool skin; depression, nervousness, anxiety; weak cerebral circulation; headaches associated with weak liver function.
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- It is a hot and dry herb. As such, it is most effective when treating cold conditions such as headache due to cold, coldness of the stomach, wind in the stomach and bowels, all external pains from a cold and moist cause
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- Contraindications: Pregnancy due to emmenagogue effects.
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- Part Used: Leaf, stem and flower
- Scutellaria laterifolia (Skullcap, Hoodwort, Quaker Bonnet, Helmet Flower)
- Active Constituents: Flavonoid glycoside, iridoids (catalpol), minerals, tannins, waxes.
- Scutellaria laterifolia (Skullcap, Hoodwort, Quaker Bonnet, Helmet Flower)
- Taste/Energy: bitter, cooling (-Pitta, -Kapha)
- Scutellaria laterifolia (Skullcap, Hoodwort, Quaker Bonnet, Helmet Flower)
- Medicinal Actions: Antispasmodic, sedative, nervine
- Scutellaria laterifolia (Skullcap, Hoodwort, Quaker Bonnet, Helmet Flower)
- It is indicated for patients that are fearful, have restless sleep or insomnia, cardiac irritability, muscle tension and spasm. It calms and tonifys the nervous system.
- Scutellaria laterifolia (Skullcap, Hoodwort, Quaker Bonnet, Helmet Flower)
- It is often used for its ability to relax smooth muscle. This effect is especially enhanced when the cause of the spasm is due to underlying nervous tension or anxiety. Due to this antispasmodic action. It is added to formulas to treat asthma, headaches
- Scutellaria laterifolia (Skullcap, Hoodwort, Quaker Bonnet, Helmet Flower)
- · Specifically, use this when there is irritation of the nerve conduction in the brain or spine seen in seizures or epilepsy. It is also indicated when states of heightened anxiety manifest as tremors or muscular tics. By controlling nervous irritabilit
- Scutellaria laterifolia (Skullcap, Hoodwort, Quaker Bonnet, Helmet Flower)
- · It can be used to ease withdrawal from reduction of tranquilizers or sleeping pills.
- Scutellaria laterifolia (Skullcap, Hoodwort, Quaker Bonnet, Helmet Flower)
- Family: Tiliaceae
- Tilia Europea, Tilia Cordata, Tilia platyphyllos (Linden Tree, Lime Flower)
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Active Constituents:
Flavonoids (hesperidin, quercitin, others), mucilage ( arabino-galactans), phenolic acids (chlorogenic, caffeic), tannins, volatile oils (farnesol) - Tilia Europea, Tilia Cordata, Tilia platyphyllos (Linden Tree, Lime Flower)
- Taste/Energy: slightly sweet, slightly spicy, cooling
- Tilia Europea, Tilia Cordata, Tilia platyphyllos (Linden Tree, Lime Flower)
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Medicinal Actions:
Anxiolytic, anti-spasmodic, diaphoretic, hypotensive, calmative - Tilia Europea, Tilia Cordata, Tilia platyphyllos (Linden Tree, Lime Flower)
- It is calming to the nervous system. It will relax nervous tension and reduce anxiety.
- Tilia Europea, Tilia Cordata, Tilia platyphyllos (Linden Tree, Lime Flower)
- · It is well tolerated, even in debilitated patients. It is mild in action and is most often used in combination with other herbs.
- Tilia Europea, Tilia Cordata, Tilia platyphyllos (Linden Tree, Lime Flower)
- · It is a reliable hypotensive specificially for hypertension due to nervous tension or atherosclerosis but must be used in combination as it is very gentle in its action. It is used prophylactically to reduce the formation of atherosclerosis as it decr
- Tilia Europea, Tilia Cordata, Tilia platyphyllos (Linden Tree, Lime Flower)
- · In the immune system, this is used as a diaphoretic for reduction of fever. Its diaphoretic and nervine actions make it useful for feverish colds and flu.
- Tilia Europea, Tilia Cordata, Tilia platyphyllos (Linden Tree, Lime Flower)
- It is useful for hypertension and palpitations due to stress.
- Tilia Europea, Tilia Cordata, Tilia platyphyllos (Linden Tree, Lime Flower)
- · In TCM this is used to treat exterior wind heat. It also regulates Qi stagnation and treats liver yang rising.
- Tilia Europea, Tilia Cordata, Tilia platyphyllos (Linden Tree, Lime Flower)
- Family: Valerianaceae
- Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
- Part Used: Root
- Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
- Active Constituents: Alkaloids (non-volatile), iridoide esters sesquiterpene alkaloids (, alpha-kessyl alcohol, eugenyl and isoeugenyl isovalerate, bornyl acetate, bornyl acetate, faurinone, fauinols), volatile oils
- Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
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Taste/Energy: pungent, bitter, sweet, warming (-Vata, -Kapha/ +Pitta)
Smells like dirty feet - Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
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Medicinal Actions:
Hypotensive, hypnotic, nervine, sedative, antispasmodic - Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
- · The sedative action of this is due to a variety of constituents. The exact constituents and MOA of the sedative action remain unknown. These constituents have opposing and balancing actions. They seem to have a regulatory effect on the autonomic syste
- Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
- This is mainly used to treat insomnia, relax muscles or reduce pain. Other it include muscle tension, muscle spasm, IBS, nervous indigestion, colic, asthma, hypertension, palpitations and nervousness.
- Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
- · Clinical research shows that this improves overall sleep quality, shortens the time it takes to fall asleep and decreases the number of perceived awakenings during sleep. It is not addictive and will not cause lethargy or a “drugged sensation†lik
- Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
- · One possible mechanism by which this extract may cause sedation is by increasing the amount of gamma aminobutyric acid, GABA (an inhibitory neurotransmitter) available in the synaptic cleft. This extract may cause GABA release from and block GABA reup
- Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
- It can be used as an anxiolytic at lower doses throughout the day in combination with other calming herbs.
- Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
- This is often added to formulas to treat hypertension. Not only is it calming and antispasmodic, but it also contains alkaloids that are mildly hypotensive. It would be best to add it to other hypotensive herbs to have a significant effect on blood press
- Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
- · Some individuals may have an idiosyncratic reaction to it and be stimulated instead of sedated.
- Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
- n TCM, this is used for Qi stagnation. It also is used to calm the shen, tonify Yin, relieve heart and kidney yin deficiency, and clear yin deficiency heat.
- Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
- Contraindications: Excess heat conditions, PG, lactation.
- Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)
- Drug Interactions: Use caution when patient is also taking Benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants.
- Valeriana officinalis, Valeriana sitchensis (Valerian)