Scullcap, Western (Scutellaria lateriflora)
Scullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) Description… This herb aids sleep and is reputed to help calm nervousness. The herb is bitter and is a stimulant. How It May Benefit You… nervous tension, headaches and muscle aches caused by tension, insomnia convulsions drug or alcohol withdrawal. symptoms of premenstrual syndrome aggravated or caused by stress. rheumatism Caution… May […]
Shiitake (Lentinus edodes)
Shiitake (Lentinus edodes) Description… The Shiitake mushroom is prized in Chinese medicine and are reputed to increase lifespan and resistance to stress. In both China and Japan, Shiitake mushrooms have been used for hundreds of years as cancer-fighting agents. Shiitake mushrooms are full of nutrients such as protein, vitamins B1, B2, B12, niacin, and in […]
Senna (Cassia senna)
Senna (Cassia senna) Description… Senna is a powerful and well known laxative that should not be taken lightly. Doses should always be kept to the prescribed amounts on the packaging. How It May Benefit You… constipation Caution… Should not be taken for more than 10 days at a time. Large doses can cause diarrhoea, nausea, […]
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) Description… An extract made from the berries of this shrub is used to treat and strengthen the male reproductive system. It is particularly beneficial for enlargement of the prostate gland. This common disorder is indicated by difficulties with urination and can lead to bladder infections and kidney problems. The condition is […]
Sassafras (Sassafras albidum)
Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) Description… This herb is only available for external use as it contains a substance which the authorities have found to be toxic. Tests in the 1960s revealed that the main agent in the oil, safrole, is carcinogenic in rats and mice. Until the ban, the herb was widely used for a variety […]
St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) Description… St John’s wort has had a long history of use and has several benefits including antidepressant, anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. It is famous for it’s ability to heal wounds. In fact, it is useful for any ‘skin trauma’. How It May Benefit You… Use externally for: wounds, including cuts, […]
Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Sage (Salvia officinalis) Description… Sage has a many uses both culinary and medicinal. It contains an oil that reduces perspiration, it relieves sore throats and gums, cleanse wounds and aid digestion. How It May Benefit You… Take internally for: indigestion, gas, nausea, and to stem lactation or reduce the night sweats of menopause. Use as […]
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) Description… Rosemary has many uses in addition to being used as a spice. Herbalists believe that it may stimulate the circulatory and nervous systems and serve as an antidepressant. Rosemary leaves also relax the digestive tract. In addition they are used to treat muscle pain. Rosemary is antibacterial and antifungal and herbalists […]
Rose Hip (Rosa sp)
Rose Hip (Rosa sp). Description… Rose hips contain vitamin C and flavonoids, which increase the body’s utilisation of the vitamin. Therefore this herb is beneficial for colds and flu. The nutrients however, are lost when the herb is dried. Prepacked rose hip teas, jams, extracts, purees, and soups don’t contain very high amounts of anything […]
Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus)
Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) Description… The berry of this plant is often used in gourmet desserts, but herbalists obtain more satisfaction from the leaves. These are effective in treating diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and morning sickness in pregnancy. It is also thought to help prevent miscarriages and help you during labour by making the pain less […]