Aurora

Medicinal plants--
~A~
Aconite (Aconitum spp. Also called: aconitum, monkshood, wolfsbane, leopard's bane, mousebane, women's bane, devil's helmet, Queen of all Poisons, blue rocket
*Uses: heals bruises, arthritis, acute hypothermia, diarrhea, impotence.
*Harmful effects: Aconite is very poisonous, and ingestion may lead to nausea, vomiting, weakness, sweating, breathing problems, heart problems, and death.
**Special Notes: Topical use can also cause severe side effects.
--
Aloe (Aloe vera) Also called: Aloë, true aloe
*Uses: It is effective for topical application to treat minor burns and some skin problems, but may possibly be too dangerous to use internally as a laxative for constipation
*Harmful effects: bowel and stomach irritation if taken internally.
--
American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) Also called: blue skullcap, mad dog skullcap
*Uses: relieving tension, anxiety, insomnia, neurasthenia, panic, headaches, fatigue, depression, melancholy, convulsions, jerking muscles, epilepsy, wobbliness, heart trembles, depression, arthritis, fever, snake bites, and rabies, and for PMS when used with chaste tree or false unicorn root.
*Harmful effects: High doses can cause giddiness, stupor, mental confusion, twitching, irregular heartbeat, and seizures.
**Special Notes: American skullcap has, on occasion, been contaminated with germander, which can cause liver damage. American skullcap has been implicated in some cases of liver damage.
--
Anemone Hepatica (Common hepatica, liverwort, pennywort)
*Uses: Treats pimples, bronchitis and gout.
*Harmful effects: None noted.
--
Arnica (Arnica montana, also known as "Leopard's Bane" or "Dog's Bane")
* Uses: Help skin problems.
*Harmful effects: Topical arnica is generally safe, but "repeated use can cause skin reactions, severe inflammation, itching, blisters, skin ulcers, and other allergy-related skin problems," especially when used on broken skin.
**Special notes: Arnica is extremely toxic when ingested and shouldn't be taken internally.
--
Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng)
*Uses: Ginseng is effective for erectile dysfunction and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease symptoms. A specific cream containing ginseng can help with premature ejaculation. When used with ginkgo leaf extract, ginseng may "improve memory in otherwise healthy people between the ages of 38 and 66," but not in young adults.
*Harmful effects: Side effects may include insomnia, or, more rarely, menstrual problems, breast pain, increased heart rate, high or low blood pressure, headache, loss of appetite, diarrhea, itching, rash, dizziness, mood changes, vaginal bleeding, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a severe rash), liver damage, severe allergic reactions, mania and psychosis.
**Special Notes: Panax ginseng contains a substance that has been found to cause birth defects in animals.
--
Astragalus (Astragalus Propinquus)
*Uses: Helps relieve nasal allergies.
*Harmful effects: None noted.
--
~B~
Barberry (Berberis Vulgaris)
*Uses: Treats skin ailments, scurvy and gastrointestinal distress. Boosts immunity for children but only while in the womb. Treats coughs and sore throat, fever, wards infection.
*Harmful Effects: None noted.
--
Basil (Ocimum basilicum):
* Uses: antioxidant, antiviral, and antimicrobial.
*Harmful effects: Lowers blood pressure and prevents clotting, which situationally might be good but is often bad. Little efficacy otherwise.
--
Bilberry (Vaccinium spp.) Also called: blaeberry, whortleberry, hurts, ground hurts, whinberry, winberry, windberry, wimberry, myrtle blueberry and fraughan
*Uses: be good for eye problems and night vision.
*Harmful effects: Small doses are safe. Some negative interaction with prescribed anticoagulants.
--
Birthwort (Aristolochia spp.) Also called: pipevine, Dutchman's pipe
*Uses: helps with eczema and Ayurveda.
*Harmful effects: It contains aristolochic acid, which is a known carcinogen, and causes kidney failure and upper urinary tract cancer.
**Special Notes: Birthwort is considered to be a significant cause of kidney failure and upper urinary tract cancer.
--
Bitter orange (Citrus × aurantium) Also called: Seville orange, sour orange, bigarade orange, marmalade orange
*Uses: May be effective as a topical treatment for fungus infections.
*Harmful effects: Internal use may increase risk of high blood pressure, fainting, heart attack, stroke, and other severe side effects, especially if taken with caffeine.
--
Black walnut (Juglans nigra) Also called: eastern black walnut
*Uses: be good for killing parasites (such as worms), and treating acne, thyroid disease, colitis, eczema, hemorrhoids, ringworm, sore throats, tonsillitis, skin irritations, wounds, and curing cancer.
*Harmful effects: None noted.
–
Blessed Thistle (Cnicus)
*Uses: Encourages lactation, stimulates appetite, soothes indigestion.
*Harmful effects: None noted.
Betelnut (Areca catechu) Also called: areca nut, paan
**Special Preparation: Areca nuts are usually wrapped with Piper betel leaves and/or slaked lime (calcium hydroxide) and/or tobacco. The concoction is ingested.
*Uses: helpful for deworming and to colour blacken teeth. Also widely used in Ayurveda.
* Harmful effects: Prolonged use can lead to mouth, liver, cervical, stomach, prostate, lung, and sweat gland cancer. Other side effects of betel nut/leaf include skin color changes, dilated pupils, blurred vision, wheezing/difficulty breathing, increased breathing rate, salivation, increased tearing, incontinence, sweating, diarrhea, fever, confusion, problems with eye movement, psychosis, amnesia, stimulant effects, and a feeling of euphoria. It can also cause dependence, and withdrawal can cause anxiety or memory lapse. Betel nut chewing can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, high or low blood pressure, and irregular heart beats. Usage may be associated with other diseases (HIV/AIDS, dengue fever, tuberculosis, and typhoid) due to immunosuppression, injury to the oral mucosa, and associated fecal-oral contamination of the betel quid ingredients.
–
Belladonna (Atropa Belladona)
*Uses: Mild sedative, treats irritable bowel syndrome, relives pain, muscle relaxant, relieves inflammation, treats menstrual cramps and lightens bleeding and motion sickness. Commonly mixed with tobacco and opium to form a pain killing cigarette or formed into a suppository to treat diarrhea. When burned, can be used to treat asthma.
*Harmful effects: Can cause seizures, difficulty breathing, lethargy, excessive sleepiness, muscle weakness, skin flushing, constipation, agitation, difficulty urinating and in some cases death.
**Special Notes: Is incredibly toxic and will easily lead to death if left in unregulated doses.
--
Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa) Also called: black bugbane, black snakeroot, fairy candle
*Uses: None medically.
*Harmful effects: may include stomach upset, cramping, headache, rash, a feeling of heaviness, vaginal spotting or bleeding, and weight gain.
--
Blackbrush Acacia (Vachellia rigidula) Also called: chaparro prieto, Acacia rigidula
*Uses: Weight loss dietary supplements
*Harmful effects: Can cause stroke.
–
Borage (Borago Officinalis)
*Uses: Soothes intestinal cramps, athma, cleans blood and is a diuretic. Treats mood swings from PMS and menopause.
*Harmful Effects: None noted.
--
~C~
Cat's claw (Uncaria spp. (approx. 40 species))
*Uses: cure HIV, cancer, viral infections (such as herpes simplex), tremors, fever reduction, high blood pressure, Alzheimer's disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, boost immune system, reduces inflammation.
**Special Preparation: The inner bark and/or root of is/are used to make liquid extracts, capsules, and teas. Preparations can also be applied to the skin.
*Harmful effects: Can raise or lower blood pressure.
–
Cayanne (Capsium Annuum)
*Uses: Treats lethargy and gout, eases paralysis and scarlet fever when distilled and gargled. Supplements vitamin C and eases pain when used topically.
*Harmful effects: None noted.
--
Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus)
*Used internally for sedation, gallstone prevention, intestinal and digestive problems, liver disease, and eye irritation, and topically for ringworm, warts, and corns. Also, liver diseases; has been used for inflammation of the gallbladder, inflammation of the bilary duct, loss of appetite, jaundice, hepatitis, dropsy, gout, arthritis, rheumatism, fevers, spasmodic coughs, bronchitis, asthma, intestinal polyps, breast lumps, angina, cramps, arteriosclerosis, gout, water retention, skin eruptions, scurvy, ulcers, cancers (specifically skin and stomach). The tincture has been used for liver problems, facial, head, and shoulder neuralgia, constipation.
*Harmful effects: May cause hepatitis
--
Lesser Celandine (Ranunculus ficaria)
*Uses: traditionally used to treat piles
*Harmful effects: rare cases of hepatitis after use.
–
Celery (Apium graveolens)
*Uses: Helps relieve water retention, arthritis and inflammation. Can also be used to reduce blood pressure.
*Harmful effects: None noted.
--
Chamomile (Asteraceae spp.)
*Uses: Vaginal steaming, minor sedation, insomnia.
*Harmful effects: None noted.
--
Chaparral (Larrea divaricata coville)
*Uses: None medicinally.
*Harmful effects: Can cause fatal liver damage and kidney failure. Other side effects may include fatigue, stomach pain, diarrhea, weight loss, fever, itching, rash, and allergic reactions.
--
Chrysanthemum (Asteraceae spp.)
*Uses: None medicinally.
*Harmful effects: Can cause sun sensitivity.
--
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.)
*Uses: maintains blood sugar, promotes appetite for elderly and sick, antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, stops tumor growth, anti inflammatory, arthritis, hair loss and bladder infections, colds, upset stomach, and even pimples.
*Harmful effects: None noted.
**Special notes: Especially effective when injected into tumors.
--
Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum)
*Uses: as an anesthetic in dentistry.
*Harmful effects: large amounts of cloves or clove oil may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, burns in the mouth and throat, sore throat, seizures, difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, sleepiness, intestinal bleeding, and liver or kidney failure. More serious side effects may occur in children, even when small amounts are used. Excessive application of undiluted clove oil on or near the teeth may cause irritation or damage to the gums or mouth and may damage the dental pulp, the soft core of the tooth, made up of living soft tissue and cells. Undiluted clove oil may cause skin irritation, rashes, or even burns. Clove oil can cause blindness in laboratory animals, so keep clove preparations away from the eyes.
--
Coca leaves (Erythroxylon coca)
*Uses: Assists congestion in powdered form pain relief and altitude sickness. Coca regulates carbohydrate metabolism and normalizes body functions. Unrefined leaf isn't addictive.
*Harmful effects: Highly addictive when refined and turned into cocaine.
–
Coffee Senna (Cassia Occidentalis)
*Uses: Fends off infection of the liver and purges intestinal parasites. Supports and stimulates the immune system.
*Harmful effects: Consumption of seeds can lead to death.
Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)
*Uses: as an expectorant and for coughs. Coltsfoot cigarettes are used for asthma.
*Harmful effects: Can cause liver damage and cancer.
--
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)
*Uses: internally for stomach problems and topically for wounds
*Harmful effects: Can cause liver damage leading to death. Even topical use may lead to a dangerous build-up in the body of some of the herb's poisonous substances, so long-term use is not advised.
–
Common Hollyhock (Alcea Rosea)
*Uses: Laxitive, controls inflammation, helps stop bedwetting and bleeding gums when steeped into a liquid to make a mouthwash.
*Harmful Effects: None noted.
–
Country mallow (Sida cordifolia)
*Uses: None medically.
*Harmful effects: high blood pressure, heart attacks, muscle disorders, seizures, strokes, irregular heartbeat, loss of consciousness, and death. Other side effects may include dizziness, restlessness, irritability, insomnia, headache, lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting, flushing, tingling, difficulty urinating, kidney stones, and pounding heartbeat. May make anxiety, thyroid problems, and angina worse.
–
Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus)
*Uses: Distilled flower petals are used for conjunctivitis and brightening tired eyes.
*Harmful effects: None noted.
--
~D~
Daisy (Bellis Perennis)
*Uses: Treats respiratory and gastrointestinal distress. Juice of the flower can be soaked into bandages and used to bind clean cuts.
*Harmful Effects: None noted.
--
Dandelion (Taraxacum spp.)
*Uses: an effective diuretic, assists with liver problems, the entire plant is edible.
*Harmful effects: None, however the diuretic effect may cause issues with other medications.
--
Devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)
*Uses: Effective for osteoarthritis pain.
*Harmful effects: may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headaches, ringing in the ears, loss of appetite, and loss of taste. Other side effects may include allergic skin reactions, menstrual problems, and changes in blood pressure. Use of devil's claw during pregnancy is not advised, as it may harm the fetus.
--
Dong quai (Angelica sinensis)
*Uses: Causes miscarriage
*Harmful effects: can cause skin to be more sensitive to sunlight. It can slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding, and so should not be taken less than 2 weeks before surgery.
--
~E~
Echinacea (Echinacea spp.)
*Uses: effective for supporting the immune system and preventing and treating colds and flus.
*Harmful effects: Side effects may include headache, dizziness, nausea, constipation, abdominal pain, and rash.
--
Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
*Uses: None medically.
*Harmful effects: side effects may include headache, diarrhea, nervousness, trouble sleeping, raised blood pressure and increased heart rate. However, it may also lower blood sugar levels. Eleuthero may alter the amount of time it takes for bleeding to stop.
--
Ephedra (Ephedra sinica, also known as ma huang)
*Uses: promoting sweating and the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections during winter. Performance-enhancing drug by athletes and for weight loss.
*Harmful effects: side effects may include dizziness, restlessness, anxiety, irritability, heart pounding, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, hypertension, insomnia, arrhythmia, nervousness, tremor, seizure, cerebrovascular event, myocardial infarction, kidney stones, high blood pressure, heart attacks, muscle disorders, seizures, strokes, irregular heartbeat, loss of consciousness, death.
–
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
*Uses: Treats cough and cold.
*Harmful effects:None noted.
--
Evening primrose oil (Oenothera spp.)
*Uses: may help with breast pain.
*Harmful effects: side effects may include upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, and headache.
--
Eyebright (Euphrasia spp.)
*Uses: helpful for various eye issues.
*Harmful effects: may include confusion, headache, tearing, itching, redness, vision problems, sneezing, nausea, toothache, constipation, cough, trouble breathing, trouble sleeping (insomnia), sweating.
--
~F~
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)
*Uses: effective mild painkiller.
*Harmful effects: side effects may include upset stomach, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, flatulence, nausea, and vomiting. Other reported side effects include nervousness, dizziness, headache, trouble sleeping, joint stiffness, tiredness, menstrual changes, rash, pounding heart, and weight gain. Chewing raw feverfew may lead to mouth ulcers, loss of taste, and swelling of the lips, tongue, and mouth.
--
Foxgloves (Digitalis spp.)
*Uses for heart problems. Is effective, but: whether or not a given quantity of digitalis contains enough digoxin to lead to an overdose depends on the individual plant(s) it's from (each individual plant (even in the same species) has a different digoxin content) so those using digitalis are effectively playing Russian roulette. There is no way of knowing if one pill is good, or if it will lead to an overdose and kill you. The solution is to use pure digoxin.
*Harmful effects: side effects may include irregular heart function and death. Symptoms of digitalis overdose may include stomach upset, small eye pupils, blurred vision, strong slow pulse, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, excessive urination, fatigue, muscle weakness and tremors, stupor, confusion, convulsions, abnormal heartbeats, and death. Long-term use of digitalis can lead to symptoms of toxicity, including visual halos, yellow-green vision, and stomach upset.
--
~G~
Garlic (Allium sativum)
*Uses: Fights minor viral infections such as cold and sore throat, lowers blood sugar, blood cholesterol and blood pressure, reduces risk of certain cancers. Known antimicrobial effect, tests suggest some effect on throat infections in greater-than-typical amounts. Effective for yeast infections.
*Harmful effects: Bad breath, a burning sensation in the mouth or stomach, heartburn, gas, nausea, vomiting, body odor, diarrhea, and an increased risk of bleeding, athsma, allergic reaction.
--
German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) Also called: Hungarian chamomile, wild chamomile, or scented mayweed. Is a subset of chamomile.
*Uses: calm frayed nerves, treat stomach problems, relieve muscle spasms, treat skin conditions, treat mild infections, treat chest colds, treat sore throats, treat abscesses, treat gingivitis, treat anxiety, treat insomnia, teat psoriasis, treat acne and eczema, treat first-degree burns, treat ulcerative colitis, treat stomach ulcers, treat chickenpox, treat diaper rash, and treat colic.
*Harmful effects: May be allergenic to those allergic to asters, daisies, chrysanthemums, or ragweed. May cause miscarriage when pregnant. Do not take while pregnant or breastfeeding. May worsen asthma. Moderate sedative. Thins the blood. May lower blood sugar. If too much is drunk, may cause vomiting. May be dangerous to women with estrogen-sensitive conditions, such as cancer. Interacts with the liver, potentially causing changes in other drugs.
--
Germander (Teucrium spp.)
*Uses: be effective for gout, fever, diarrhea, gallbladder problems, useful for weight loss and as an antiseptic.
*Harmful effects: hepatitis, cirrhosis, and death.
--
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
*Uses: Stimulates mental function.
*Harmful effects: Can cause thyroid cancer, rashes & skin irritation.
--
Grapefruit seed extract (Citrus × paradisi)
*Uses: a good disinfectant, chronic venous insufficiency and edema.
*Harmful effects: May interact with medication, headache, itchy scalp, dizziness, and nausea.
--
Green tea (Camellia sinensis)
*Uses: for weight loss.
*Harmful effects: may include stomach upset and constipation, and, in rare cases, liver damage. Caffeine-related side effects may include headache, nervousness, sleep problems, vomiting, diarrhea, irritability, irregular heartbeat, tremor, heartburn, dizziness, ringing in the ears, convulsions, confusion, and reduced absorption of iron from food.
--
Groundsel (Senecio vulgaris)
*Uses: good for stomach problems and worms.
*Harmful effects: Groundsel is very toxic, and can cause liver damage, cancer, and birth defects. It should not be used.
--
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)
*Uses: Immune system boosting.
*Harmful effects: small doses may be fine, except during pregnancy or breastfeeding, since goldenseal might cause brain damage to the baby. High doses may cause breathing problems, paralysis, and even death. Long-term use may lead to vitamin B deficiency, hallucinations, and delirium. It may also affect blood pressure unpredictably because it contains several different compounds that have opposite effects on blood pressure. It can also make you more sensitive to light.
--
Gum Arabic (Acacia Senegal)
*Uses: Used as a binder and emulsifier for medicines. Can be used as a mild astringent, to treat bleeding, bronchitis, cough, diarrhea, catarrh, gonorrhea, leprosy, typhoid fever and upper respiratory infections.
*Harmful Effects: None noted.
--
~H~
Hawthorn (Crataegus Monogyna)
*Uses: Promotes heart health.
*Harmful Effects: None noted.
--
Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger)
*Uses: for pain, Parkinson's disease symptoms, and ulcers. It is also smoked to cure asthma and bronchitis
*Harmful effects: Henbane is toxic, and when used for self-treatment may result in fatal poisoning. Side effects may include dry mouth, red skin, constipation, overheating, reduced sweating, vision disturbances, increased heart rate, urination problems, drowsiness, restlessness, hallucinations, delirium, manic episodes, and death. Mostly death.
--
Horny goat weed (Epimedium spp.)
*Uses: for erectile dysfunction. Can prevent bone loss in postmenopausal women.
*Harmful Effects: range from irregular heartbeat to mood changes.
--
Horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum)
*Uses: good for varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency, and symptoms of poor blood circulation.
*Harmful effects: including dizziness, headache, stomach upset, and itching. It may lower blood sugar. Raw horse chestnut seed, leaf, bark, and flower, on the other hand, are toxic and can be lethal.
--
Horsetail (Equisetum sp.)
*Uses: None medically.
*Harmful effects: long-term use may include low potassium levels and (in diabetics) low blood sugar. Symptoms of beriberi may include difficulty walking, loss of feeling (sensation) in hands and feet, loss of muscle function or paralysis of the lower legs, mental confusion/speech difficulties, pain, strange eye movements (nystagmus), tingling, vomiting, awakening at night short of breath, increased heart rate, shortness of breath with activity, and swelling of the lower legs. Beriberi, if caught early enough, can usually be reversed, but possible complications of beriberi may include coma, congestive heart failure, psychosis, and death. Because of the possibility of thiamine deficiency, people consuming horsetail should take thiamine supplements.
--
~I~
Impila (Callilepsis laureola)
*Uses: used for tapeworm, snakebites, infertility, whooping cough, and to kill maggots in cattle. It is also used as a disinfectant.
*Harmful effects: It can cause fatal kidney and/or liver failure.
--
~J~
Jimson weed (Datura stramonium)
*Uses: Jimson weed leaves are smoked for asthma.
*Harmful effects: Jimson weed is poisonous and can cause dry mouth and extreme thirst, vision problems, nausea and vomiting, fast heart rate, hallucinations, high temperature, seizures, confusion, loss of consciousness, breathing problems, and death. The deadly dose for adults is 15-100 grams of leaf or 15-25 grams of the seeds.
--
~K~
Kava (Piper methysticum)
*Uses: Effective for anxiety.
*Harmful effects: Side effects may include liver damage leading to death, even with short-term use (1-3 months) of normal doses, and sedation, oral and lingual dyskinesia, torticollis, oculogyric crisis, exacerbation of Parkinson's disease, painful twisting movements of the trunk, and rash.
–
Khat (Catha Edulis)
*Uses: Induces Euphoria, dilated pupils, reduces sex drive and appetite.
*Harmful effects: Addictive, can induce psychotic episodes, can discolor teeth to a greenish color, can induce ulcers, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, constipation. Must be highly regulated. Can be seen as an illicit drug. Long-term use can cause depression, sexual dysfunction, hallucinations, impaired inhibitions, increased risk of heart attack, increased risk of oral cancer, death or stroke.
--
Konjaku (Amorphophallus Konjac)
*Uses: Treats constipation.
*Harmful effects: None noted.
--
~L~
Lemon (Citrus Limon)
*Uses: Treats cough and sore throat.
*Harmful effects: None noted.
--
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
*Uses: It acts as a demulcent, a soothing, coating agent, and as an expectorant, meaning it helps get rid of phlegm.
*Harmful effects: Bad for heart disease, kidney disease, pregnant women, male sexual function, among others. Taking a lot of licorice can cause brain damage even in healthy people. Side effects may include include tiredness, absence of a menstrual period in women, headache, water and sodium retention, decreased sexual interest and function in men, miscarriages or early deliveries, and raised blood pressure. It can also make heart and kidney disease worse. Can interact with grapefruit. Licorice can interact with heart medicines, steroids, diuretics, or insulin.
--
Lily-of-the-valley (Convallaria majalis)
*Uses: for epileptic seizures, strokes, angina, conjunctivitis, leprosy, and heart problems.
*Harmful effects: The plant is poisonous and can be fatal. Doses must be very specific. Self-medication or wrong doses may result in blurred vision, excessive urination at night, halos around objects, diarrhea, Loss of appetite, Stomach pain, Vomiting or nausea, irregular or slow heartbeat confusion, depression, disorientation, drowsiness, fainting, headache, lethargy, weakness, rash, and hives.
--
Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)
*Uses: for asthma, bronchitis, cough, and smoking cessation.
*Harmful effects: side effects may include profuse sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, rapid heartbeat, mental confusion, convulsions, hypothermia, coma, and death.
--
~M~
Madder root (Rubia tinctorum)
*Uses: used in herbal medicine as an "astringent diuretic, emmenagogue", and claimed to be good for many conditions, including alkaline urine, diarrhea, inflammation, wounds, broken bones, fever, and many others. Madder root is also used for dyeing fabrics.
*Harmful effects: may cause cancer, birth defects, and miscarriages. It can also make urine, saliva, perspiration, tears, and breast milk turn red.
–
Marsh-mallow (Althaea Officinalis)
*Uses: Relieves irritation of mucus membranes, treats mouth and gastric ulcers, helps sore throats. Edible in all parts of the plant.
*Harmful Effects: None noted.
–
Marigold (Calendula Officinalis)
*Uses: Encourages healing and discourages infection when made into a poultice. Can be used as an astringent or anti-inflammatory drug.
*Harmful Effects: None noted.
--
Marijuana (Cannabis spp.)
*Uses: stimulates appetite, relives insomnia, fatigue, headache, nausea.
*Harmful effects: Lack of self-control, decreased energy, paranoia, apathy.
--
Maté (Ilex paraguariensis)
*Uses: Consumed as a beverage. No documented medicinal properties.
*Harmful effects: Non-caffeine-related side effects include an increased risk of mouth, esophageal, laryngeal, kidney, bladder, and lung cancer. The oral cancer associations may be due to the very high temperatures at which maté tea is traditionally drunk, but the associations with kidney, bladder, and lung cancer would not be temperature related. Caffeine-related side effects include insomnia, nervousness and restlessness, stomach upset, nausea and vomiting, increased heart rate and breathing, high blood pressure, headache, ringing in the ears, irregular heartbeats, slowed blood clotting, and worsened diarrhea.
--
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum)
*Uses: as a liver protectant, and sometimes for irritable bowel syndrome.
*Harmful effects: side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, bloating, gas, and upset stomach.
--
Mistletoe (Viscum album)
*Uses: good for cancer prevention, hypertension, and insomnia.
*Harmful effects: When small amounts are taken, it is safe, with mild side effects of headaches, fever, and chills. Large amounts are toxic and can be fatal; symptoms may include seizures, coma, death, blurred vision, nausea and vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, slow or irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, confusion, and drowsiness.
--
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
*Uses: in: vaginal steaming, homeopathy, and moxibustion.
*Harmful effects: Side effects: the allergenic qualities of American ragweed. Mugwort and can cause hay fever, rashes, and other irritations. It also appears to be related to some food allergies.
--
Mu Tong (Aristolochia manshuriensis or Akebia spp.)
*Uses: medicine for "relieving excess fire" and stimulating the secretion of milk.
*Harmful effects: May cause fatal kidney failure because, all Aristolochia species contain aristolochic acid.
--
~N~
Neem (Azadirachta indica)
*Uses: Effective for removing internal parasites.
*Harmful effects: can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, blood disorders, seizures, loss of consciousness, coma, brain disorders, and death. High-dose or long-term internal use by adults is dangerous, and can harm the kidneys and liver, lower blood sugar, and cause infertility and miscarriages.
--
Oil of oregano (Origanum vulgare)
*Uses: an anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, abortifactant, anti-asthma, anti-malaria, antioxidant and anti-cold/flu/headache medication. It is a good antioxidant, but not more so than raw oregano, which tastes better.
*Harmful effects: may include gastrointestinal issues and allergic reactions.
--
Oleander (Nerium oleander)
*Uses: muscle cramps, asthma, cancer, and AIDS.
*Harmful effects: Oleander leaf is poisonous, and can cause fatal heart failure. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, colic, appetite loss, dizziness, drowsiness, high potassium levels, dilated pupils, bloody diarrhea, seizures, loss of consciousness, slow or irregular pulse, and heart block. Oleander seeds are also toxic, as is the rest of the plant, sap, twigs, roots, etc.
--
Opium poppy (Papaver somniferum)
*Uses: Latex exuded by immature seed pod used for analgesic purposes. Tinctures of seeds and straw used to a lesser extent. The latex at least is suggested by research to be effective, albeit prone to habituation and dependency.
*Harmful effects: Addictive, can cause dependency.
--
Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
*Uses: reduce high cholesterol. May kill the stomach parasites Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba hartmanni, and Endolimax nana. Can soften skin and improve skin color, useful for old injuries.
**Special Notes: Does not stifle bleeding in hemophiliacs.
*Harmful effects: Oregano is possibly unsafe in medicinal quantities during pregnancy, and may possibly cause miscarriage. Oregano may increase the risk of bleeding, which may be problematic before surgery and in people with bleeding disorders. Oregano can lower blood sugar levels, potentially problematic for diabetics. People can be allergic to oregano. Oregano is a diuretic.
--
~P~
Papaya (Carica papaya)
*Uses: Treats minor wounds from infection. Treats gastrointestinal distress.
*Harmful effects: Unripe fruit can cause allergic reactions, as can the sap from the plant itself.
--
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
*Uses: Sometimes used for home abortions , general anti-toxin, control blood pressure, urinary tract infections, prevents cancer, stimulates contractions of the uterus, cures rheumatism, treats kidney and bladder stones, and can even remove tooth aches.
**Special notes: Dangerous to use in women due to uterine contractions.
*Harmful effects: large amounts used in herbal medicine may cause anemia and liver or kidney problems, and make water retention, high blood pressure, and kidney disease worse. Topically applied parsley oil can make skin become more sensitive to sunlight and cause a rash. Can cause miscarriage or abortion.
--
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)
*Uses: inducing miscarriages and deworming, abortion.
*Harmful effects: Pennyroyal is very toxic to the major organs and can cause death.
--
Peppermint oil (Mentha piperita)
*Uses: for gastrointestinal problems.
*Harmful effects: Side effects may include heartburn, and, more rarely, nausea, vomiting, headache, flushing, mouth irritation/sores, severe stomach/abdominal pain, and anal burning during bouts of diarrhea.
–
Purple Cornflower (Echinacea purpurea)
*Uses: Treats the cold, flu, throat infections. Roots are chewed to soothe toothaches. Applications also extend to cough, pain, stomach cramps and snake bites.
*Harmful effects: Gastrointestinal side-effects, allergic reactions, rashes, asthma, and anaphalxic shock.
~R~
Red clover (Trifolium pratense)
*Uses: Vaginal health, tea, encouraging livestock to graze. Especially useful in preventing estrogen-based cancers.
*Harmful effects: May increase risk of excessive bleeding. May cause headaches, nausea, and rashes. Women with estrogen-sensitive cancers (such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer) or other estrogen-sensitive (such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids) should not take red clover. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take red clover.
--
Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) Also called: English chamomile, garden chamomile, ground apple, low chamomile, or whig plant. Is a subset of chamomile.
*Uses: calm frayed nerves, treat stomach problems, relieve muscle spasms, treat skin conditions, treat infections, treat nausea, treat vomiting, treat heartburn, treat loss of appetite, treat intestinal gas, relieve anxiety, reduce inflammation from cuts or hemorrhoids, help with burns, be antibacterial, be antiviral, be antifungal, treat morning sickness, treat painful menstrual periods, treat sinusitis, treat liver and gallbladder disease, deal with gallstones, prevent heartburn, ease the discomfort of swollen gums, treat ear inflammation, treat sore throats, and "purify" the blood. May reduce flatulence.
*Harmful effects: May be allergenic to those allergic to asters, daisies, chrysanthemums, or ragweed. May cause miscarriage when pregnant. Do not take while pregnant or breastfeeding. May worsen asthma. Moderate sedative.Thins the blood. May lower blood sugar.If too much is drunk, may cause vomiting.May be dangerous to women with estrogen-sensitive conditions, such as cancer. Interacts with the liver, potentially causing changes in other drugs.
--
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
*Uses: solve digestion problems, heartburn, flatulence, liver and gallbladder problems, lack of appetite, gout, coughing, headaches, high blood pressure, and age-related memory loss. Antioxident, prevents thrombosis, neutralizes food poisoning. May help reduce stress.
*Harmful effects: May impact blood clotting. Is diuretic, may impact blood sugar levels. Large quantities of rosemary leaves can cause vomiting, spasms, comas, and pulmonary edema. Large quantities of rosemary leaves may increase menstrual blood flow and can cause miscarriage. Toxic if consumed in large quantities.
--
~S~
Sage (usually Salvia officinalis, also Salvia lavandulaefolia, occasionally others) Also called: garden sage, common sage
*Uses: reduce loss of appetite, reduce flatulence, reduce stomach pain, reduce diarrhea, reduce stomach bloating, reduce heartburn, reduce overproduction of perspiration, reduce overproduction of saliva, reduce depression, reduce memory loss, reduce Alzheimer's disease, reduce painful menstrual periods, reduce excessive milk flow during nursing, and reduce hot flashes during menopause, (when applied topically) help cold sores, gum disease (gingivitis), sore mouth/throat/tongue, swollen nasal passages, and (when inhaled) reduce asthma. May potentially improve learning, memory, and information processing for mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. May improve memory and attention. Appears to remove cold sores slightly slower than medical other products. May reduce symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes.
*Harmful effects: Salvia officinalis contains thujone. Thujone can be poisonous in sufficient doses, and can cause seizures, damage to the liver, and damage to the nervous systems. The amount of thujone varies with the species of plant, the time of harvest, growing conditions, and other factors. If pregnant or breastfeeding, the risk of thujone poisoning is especially high. For persons with higher risks of seizures, thujone is especially dangerous. Sage may reduce blood sugar, affecting patients with diabetes and patients undergoing surgery. Spanish sage (Salvia lavandulaefolia) may affect estrogen-receptive growths, such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids. Spanish sage (Salvia lavandulaefolia) might increase blood pressure in those with high blood pressure, while common sage (Salvia officinalis) might lower blood pressure in people with low blood pressure. Sage can cause drowsiness.
–
Sao Caetano Melon (Cayaponia espelina)
*Uses: Treats gastrointestinal distress, aids kidneys as a diuretic.
*Harmful effects: None noted.
--
Sassafras (Sassafras spp.)
*Uses: effective for joint pain and preventing colds and flus.
*Harmful effects: Sassafras is poisonous, and even 5ml can be fatal. Side effects may include cancer, liver damage and miscarriages. Also, sweating and hot flashes. High amounts can cause vomiting, high blood pressure, hallucinations, and more severe side effects. It can cause skin rashes when used on the skin.
--
Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens)
*Uses: Extract of the fruit of a fan palm, used to decrease frequent urination.
*Harmful effects: None documented.
--
Senna (Senna alexandrina)
*Uses: Effective for constipation.
*Harmful effects: Short-term use may cause stomach discomfort, cramps, and diarrhea. Long-term use (over two weeks) can stop the bowels from functioning properly and cause dependence; it may also cause heart function disorders, muscle weakness, liver damage, and other side effects.
--
Soursop (Annona muricata)
*Uses: None medically.
*Harmful effects: Powerful neruotoxin.
--
Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)
*Uses: None medically.
*Harmful effects: May cause kidney stones.
--
Squill (Drimia maritima)
*Uses: for heart problems, bronchitis, asthma, whooping cough, and wounds.
*Harmful effects: The herb is cardiotoxic and can be lethal, with side effects including stomach irritation, loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, vision changes, depression, confusion, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, skin rash, miscarriages, seizures, life-threatening abnormal heart rhythms, and death.
--
Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana)
*Uses: Sweetens medicine.
*Harmful effects: Usually no side effects, but rare ones may include bloating, nausea, dizziness, muscle pain, and numbness.
--
St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum)
*Uses: effective treatment for depression.
*Harmful effects: Can interact with other drugs. May cause cataracts in people exposed to visible or ultraviolet light after taking it. Other side effects may include gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, dry mouth, photosensitivity, mania and psychosis.
--
~T~
Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
*Uses: topically (and is effective) for fungal infections, acne, and athlete's foot.
*Harmful effects: Side effects may include skin irritation and swelling, and "n people with acne, it can sometimes cause skin dryness, itching, stinging, burning, and redness. Applying products containing both tea tree and lavender oil to prepubescent boys may cause gynecomastia (larger breasts). Tea tree oil is highly toxic when ingested, even in small quantities, so it should never be taken by mouth.
–
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
*Uses: Relieves arthritis and minor aches & pains, regulates menstruation. Cleanses wounds and skin sores, relieves indigestion and sore throats.
*Harmful Effects: None noted.
--
~V~
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
*Uses: May work for insomnia.
*Harmful effects: Side effects may include headache, excitability, uneasiness, and, in some cases, insomnia. Some multi-herb remedies containing valerian have been linked to liver damage.
–
Vetiver (Chrysopogon Zizanioides)
*Uses: Useful as a poultice for sores to encourage healing and stave off infection.
*Harmful Effects: None noted.
–
Velvetleaf (Cissampelos pareira)
*Uses: Antiviral
*Harmful Effects: None noted.
--
Venus fly-trap (Dionaea Muscipula)
*Uses: boosts the immune system.
*Harmful effects: Possible side effects are diarrhea, skin rash, liver damage, and abnormal blood counts.
--
~W~
Water-plantain (Alisma Plantago-Aquatica)
*Uses: Treats urinary tract infections and Hepatitis B.
*Harmful Effects: None noted.
--
White Snakeroot (Ageratina Altissima)
*Uses: Treats diarrhea, kidney stones and breaks fevers. Can be used as a poultice to leech venom out of snake bites, hence the name.
*Harmful Effects: Can cause milk sickness if too much is consumed via contaminated meat or milk. Will poison and kill livestock, harmful if ingested. Causes increased nasal discharge, rapid breathing, arched body posture & excessive salivation.
--
Willow bark (Salix spp.)
*Uses: pain relief.
*Harmful effects: Side effects may include: stomach upset, digestive system upset, itching, an increased risk of children developing Reyes syndrome, ulcers, stomach bleeding, and liver toxicity. Side effects from overdosing may include skin rash, stomach inflammation/irritation, nausea, vomiting, kidney inflammation, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears.)
--
Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens)
*Uses: for asthma, rheumatism, and headache.
*Harmful effects: Wintergreen is safe, but internally taken wintegreen oil is toxic and can cause ringing in the ears, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, stomach pain, confusion, and death. Topical use can cause skin irritation.
--
Woad (Isatis tinctoria)
Uses: In addition to producing a blue dye, Chemicals from woad might be used to prevent cancer, and used to remove toxic heat, soothe sore throat and to treat influenza, measles, mumps, syphilis, or scarlet fever. It is also used for pharyngitis, laryngitis, erysipelas, and carbuncle, and to prevent hepatitis A, epidemic meningitis, cancer and inflammation.
*Harmful effects: Possible minor side effects include allergic reactions and dizziness; only large dosages or long term usage can be toxic to the kidneys.
--
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
*Uses: Prevent intestinal worms, treatment for malaria.
**Special notes: Will cause resistance when treating malaria.
*Harmful effects: Side effects of large doses may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, seizures, numbness of the legs and arms, delirium, paralysis, and kidney and liver failure. Wormwood contains thujone (e.g. as it occurs in small amounts in absinthe), which is neurotoxic above the threshold so caution should be exercised for therapeutic usage.
~X~
–
~Y~
Yarrow (Achillea Millefolium)
*Uses: Astringent, tonic, a physical stimulant (heart rate, blood pressure).
*Harmful Effects: Severe skin allergies, increase of skin photo sensitivity, triggered when raw product is handled with wet skin. Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, depression, anorexia, and hypersalivation. In mice, produces abnormal sperm and birth defects.
–
Yellow Lady's Slipper (Cypripedium parviflorum)
*Uses: Topical pain killer for tooth aches, soothes anxiety & headache. Can be used as a sedative.
*Harmful effects:None noted.
~Z~