Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) Description… Mullein, is a common roadside plant that has large leaves and small, dense, yellow flowers. The dried leaves, flowers, and roots all serve as remedies. It has a strong binding action on tissue, and therefore is useful in treating diarrhoea and haemorrhoids. It also helps rid the body of excess mucus […]
Mistletoe (Viscum album)
Mistletoe (Viscum album) Description… There has been a great deal of superstition surrounding mistletoe. It was held sacred to various peoples in Europe who believed this plant could keep the evil spirits away from them. These days mistletoe is widely known as part of a Christmas kissing ritual. Mistletoe is believed to be a poisonous […]
Milk Thistle (Slybum marianum)
Milk Thistle (Slybum marianum) Description… Milk thistle is a powerful liver tonic and is used by herbalists to treat such liver disorders as cirrhosis and hepatitis. The seeds are the most potent part of the plant and they contain an active ingredient called Silymarin. Apparently, Silymarin helps create new, healthy liver cells without encouraging the […]
Marsh Mallow (Althaea officinalis)
Marsh Mallow (Althaea officinalis) Description… This herb brings back memories of sitting around the campfire toasting the delicious lolly called marshmallow. The marshmallow not only tastes great but has medicinal properties. Both the leaves and the roots of the five-foot-high marshmallow plant can be used for medicinal purposes. The roots can be helpful for acidic […]
Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)
Lobelia (Lobelia inflata) Description… This herb can be very toxic and its effect is similar to that of nicotine. It has often been used as a substitute for people trying to give up smoking. Lobelia is quite often used for respiratory problems as well as external conditions. The seeds of the plant are the most […]
Liquorice, Western (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) Description… This herb has been used since ancient times to treat a variety of common ailments. It is sweet to taste and is often used as a gentle and effective laxative. Chinese and Western herbalists also use liquorice root as a cough suppressant and maintain that it also soothes the mouth and […]
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) Description… Lemongrass is not only a great tasting addition to your cooking, it has been used for many years by the South Americans. These people made teas from blades of lemongrass and used this as a remedy for fevers, gastrointestinal and nervous disorders. Natives of the Amazon also hold that lemongrass is […]
Lavender (Lavandula officinalis)
Lavender (Lavandula officinalis) Description This is a very popular herb with Aromatherapists as it possesses a pretty fragrance. As well as having a nice scent, the herb also possesses wonderful medicinal properties and can also be used near clothes to keep the moths away. Herbalists prescribe lavender tea and the essential oil of lavender, both […]
Kola (Cola vera or nitada)
Kola (Cola vera) (or Cola nitada) Description… The seeds of the Kola tree supply the flavouring of the world’s most popular soft drink. Kola is a stimulant that is often prescribed for overall mental fatigue or depression. It is also used to treat diarrhoea caused by nervousness; headaches; motion sickness; and loss of appetite. The […]
Kelp (Fucus sp)
Kelp (Fucus sp). Description… Kelp contains many nutrients that are beneficial to our whole system. It is a type of seaweed, rich in iodine which is vital for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. Kelp is particularly good for the hair, skin and nails. How It May Benefit You… Take internally for: goiter hypothyroidism […]