Grandma's Cherokee Wisdom
" Wild Herbs "
Alfalfa
Alfalfa is a well-known herb to health-conscious consumers. It is high in nutrients, which are drawn into the plant from deep in the soil. The richest land source of trace minerals, the roots of Alfalfa plants have been known to reach as much as thirty feet deep! The leaves of the alfalfa plant are rich in minerals and nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and carotene. They are also a source of protein, vitamin E and vitamin K. Alfalfa has been used by the Chinese since the sixth century to treat kidney stones, and to relieve fluid retention and swelling. Alfalfa nourishes the digestive, skeletal, glandular, and urinary systems. Alfalfa contains chlorophyll, which is renowned for its cleansing qualities.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has historically been known for assisting the functions of the gastrointestinal tract, and for its properties of soothing, cleansing and helping the body to maintain healthy tissues. This plant has a reputation of facilitating digestion, aiding blood and lymphatic circulation, as well as kidney, liver and gall bladder functions. Aloe contains at least three anti-inflammatory fatty acids that are helpful for the stomach, small intestine and colon. It naturally alkalizes digestive juices to prevent overacidity - a common cause of digestive complaints. A newly discovered compound in aloe, acemannan, is currently being studied for its ability to strengthen the immune system. Studies have shown acemannan to boost T-lymphocyte cells that aid natural resistance.
Angelica Root
Angelica nutritionally supports the digestive and respiratory systems.
Anise
Anise
seeds act to remove excess mucus in the gastrointestinal area.
Barberry
Barberry nourishes the liver and gallbladder and helps the bile to flow freely. It helps remove toxins from the bowels.
Bayberry
Bayberry is an excellent blood purifier and detoxifier. It is effective for helping to stop a cold from forming if taken when the first symptoms appear.
Bdellium Gum
Bdellium gum has many positive effects on the human body. Studies show they include: lowering cholesterol levels, reducing tissue inflammation, promoting balance in the thyroid gland, and lowering body weight.
Bilberry
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) contains nutrients that protect eyes from eyestrain or fatigue, and can improve circulation to the eyes. When British Royal Air Force pilots During World War II ate Bilberry preserves before night missions and discovered that their night vision improved afterwards, this herb was investigated and found to be very beneficial for the eyes. Bilberry works by improving the microcirculation and regeneration of retinal purple, a substance required for good eyesight. It is believed that this property is related to the high amount of proanthocyanidins, a type of flavonoid that tends to prevent capillary fragility and strengthen the capillaries which nourish the eyes. Other properties appear to assist in thinning the blood and stimulating the release of vasodilators. Anthocyanin, a natural antioxidant, also lowers blood pressure, reduces clotting and improves blood supply to the nervous system. Anthocyanosides support and enhance the health of collagen structures in the blood vessels of the eyes, thus aiding in the development of strong healthy capillaries that can carry vital nutrients to eye muscles and nerves. Bilberry has long been a remedy for poor vision and "night blindness." Clinical tests have indicated that oral administration of bilberry tends to improve visual accuracy in healthy people and can help those with eye disorders such as pigmentosa, retinitis, glaucoma, and myopia.
Bissy Nut
Bissy nut (Cola acuminate) has been known to help relieve inflammation in disorders such as rheumatism and gout. It also is used as a diuretic, and contains metabolism-enhancing properties.
Black Cohosh
The early Native Americans used Black Cohosh to treat snakebite and a tea from the root is reputed to soothe sore throat. They also used the root to help ease complaints associated with the skeletal system. It is a traditional approach for many gynecological topics, including menstrual cramps, labor and delivery, and menstruation. When combined with other nervine herbs, it provides excellent soothing properties. Black Cohosh also nourishes the respiratory system. Black Cohosh has traditionally been used to calm the nervous system by nourishing blood vessels, and balancing the hormones in menopausal women. Studies show it contains substances that bind to estrogen receptors. It has also been shown in lab experiments (in vitro) to inhibit microbial activity.
Black Currant Oil
Black currant oil is rich in linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This substance supports the body's manufacture of hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins which help regulate functions of the circulatory system. GLA assists the body with its energy processes and is a structural component of the brain, bone marrow, muscles and cell membranes.
Black Walnut
Black walnut hulls contain a substance which helps the body eliminate parasites. Although this is the primary purpose of this herb, it is also used for poison oak, ringworm and skin ailments. It has antifungal properties and is also said to promote bowel regularity.
Blessed Thistle
Blessed thistle acts as a general tonic to the female reproductive system, as well as helping to balance the hormones.
Blue Cohosh
Blue cohosh nutritionally supports the female reproductive system.
Blue
Vervain
Blue
vervain nourishes the digestive, nervous and respiratory systems. It helps the
body maintain balance during the winter season, and fortifies it against the
organisms which promote flu, coughs and colds. This herb acts as a diaphoretic,
which means that it helps the body eliminate toxins through the pores by
stimulating perspiration.
Burdock
Burdock
is a natural blood purifier and detoxifier. It is favored for helping the body
maintain healthy skin. It nourishes the urinary and respiratory systems, and
also nutritionally supports joints and other skeletal tissues. It is reported to
promote glandular and hormone balance, as well as remove accumulations and
deposits around the joints.
Cascara
Sagrada
Cascara
sagrada is used to help the body relieve constipation. However, it is reputed
not to be habit-forming and also nutritionally supports the stomach, liver,
pancreas, and gallbladder. It is cleansing, as well as nourishing, to the colon.
It is also known to assist with digestion, and help the body to eliminate worms
and parasites.
Catnip
Catnip nourishes the stomach and nerves. It calms the nervous system and is used
also for digestion. Catnip is also said to help ease symptoms of the flu such as
nausea and diarrhea.
Cat's
Claw
The highly effective properties contained in the inner bark of the cat's claw
plant have demonstrated, through centuries of usage dating back to the time of
the ancient Incas, to have a profound and positive influence on the body's
defense system. Studies conducted since the 1970s at research clinics in Peru,
Austria, Germany, England, Hungary and Italy validate the traditional usage and
indicates that this herb may be beneficial in ameliorating a host of modern day
afflictions which have no answers from the orthodox medical arena. It is known
to help nutritionally support the body's defense, circulatory and
gastrointestinal systems through its antioxidant and build properties.
Cayenne
Cayenne is a pepper well known for its benefits to the circulatory system. It
aids the body to balance pressure levels and resist abnormal bleeding. Cayenne
also nourishes the digestive system. This plant assists in the body's
utilization of other herbs, when used in an herbal combination. When applied
topically, it helps relieve minor discomfort.
Celery
Seed
Celery seeds contain vitamins A, C and B-complex.
Chamomile
Chamomile soothes the nerves and stomach. It nourishes the respiratory tract and
helps alleviate discomfort associated with menstrual problems.
Chickweed
Chickweed
helps the body eliminate mucus and fatty plaque from the system. It nourishes
the gastrointestinal areas and has soothing properties. It is a natural blood
cleanser, as well as an herb that addresses fat accumulations.
Comfrey
Comfrey nourishes the pituitary gland (the master gland of the body), as well as
the bones and skin. It also strengthens the respiratory system and is considered
to be one of nature's great healers.
Cranberry
Cranberry contains a compound that prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls
of the bladder and rest of the urinary tract. This prevents the bacteria from
spreading and eventually results in the halt of infection. Using cranberry on a
regular basis may help prevent the formation of kidney stones.
Cyani
Flowers
Cyani flowers soothe the nervous system and exert a positive influence on
tissues of the eyes.
Damiana
Damiana is known for its aphrodisiac properties, and has also been used for
nervousness, weakness and exhaustion. It is said to increase sperm count in the
male and to balance hormones in women.
Dandelion
Dandelion nourishes the liver and contains many vital nutrients. Dandelion root
has been used traditionally to purify the blood, and to benefit the circulatory
and glandular systems.
Devil's
Claw
Devil's claw is an herb which has been well-known in Europe and Africa for
hundreds of years and is gaining popularity in the United States and the entire
North American continent. It is known for its ability to nourish the skeletal
system. Studies indicate that its action is similar to cortisone. It helps the
body lessen the severity of pain in joints and connective tissues.
Dong
Quai
Dong quai calms the central nervous system and nourishes the brain. It also
balances and strengthens the female organs and regulates their functions.
Echinacea
Modern scientific studies now validate Echinacea's traditional usage as a
topical agent to help the body repair skin wounds, and internally to enhance the
immune system. The active constituents in Echinacea which are thought to bolster
the body's defense are known as polysaccharides. Polysaccharides stimulate the
activity of macrophages, white blood cells which destroy bacteria, viruses,
other foreign invaders, and even wayward cells. It also activates the body's
production of interferon, a specific protein which protects cells against the
invasion of viruses.
Elderberry
Flowers
Elderberry flowers can help rid the body cells of toxins, increase circulation
and purify the blood.
Elecampane
Elecampane is a natural expectorant and nourishes the respiratory system.
Ephedra
sinica
This Chinese herb (Ma huang) is nutritionally beneficial for fat reduction and
increased energy. It facilitates energy and heat exchange for efficient
metabolic function.
False
Unicorn
False unicorn is considered a tonic to the reproductive organs and addresses
symptoms of headaches and depression in menopausal women.
Fennel
Fennel helps detoxify and remove waste material from the body.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek has many traditional uses, including nourishing the skin, respiratory
system, and the pancreas. It helps the body to expel mucus and toxins. Fenugreek
dissolves fat and is high in nutrients.
Flax
Seed Oil
Flax seed oil provides omega 3 (linolenic acid), omega 6 and omega 9 fatty
acids. Omegas 3 and 6 benefit the cardiovascular system, as well as the immune
and nervous systems. It also contains some beta carotene (approximately 4,300 IU
per teaspoon) and vitamin E (appproximately 15 IU per teaspoon).
Garcinia
Cambogia
Garcinia cambogia is a South Asian plant that is nutritionally beneficial in
blocking the production of fats. Scientific research conducted on this herb
since 1969 demonstrates that it slows the body's conversion of carbohydrates and
excess calories to fat, decreasing production of harmful fats (low-density
lipoproteins), promoting sustained energy levels by enhancing the body's
production of glycogen, reducing the body's desire for excess food; helping to
nutritionally support the metabolism and burn calories. Human studies indicate
that Garcinia, also known as HCA (hydroxycitric acid) may be especially
effective when combined with chromium and L-carnitine.
Garlic
Garlic provides nourishment for the circulatory, immune and urinary systems. It
aids in supporting with normal circulation, nourishing stomach tissues,
maintaining normal blood pressure and aids the body's natural ability to resist
disease. Garlic is a natural antibiotic and fungicide.
Gentian
Root
Gentian Root nourishes and strengthens the digestive system. It stimulates the
appetite, nutritionally supports the liver, and nourishes the spleen, pancreas,
stomach and kidneys.
Ginger
Ginger root is nourishing to the gastrointestinal system. It also helps the body
to eliminate wastes through the skin. Ginger enhances circulation and acts as a
catalyst for other herbs, to increase their effectiveness. It helps the body
relieve congestion.
Ginkgo
biloba
Ginkgo biloba is one of the most promising and highly studied natural
botanicals. Current interest in ginkgo began in the Orient, where it has long
been valued for its effects on the challenges of aging. Ginkgo is effective in
nutritionally supporting the body's systems, especially through its antioxidant
properties. This is especially important as we grow older. Aging is a process of
deterioration. The hypothesis that free radicals (reactive molecules) in the
body are a direct cause of this deterioration is gaining widespread acceptance.
Recently, the benefits of antioxidant vitamins in reducing free radicals in the
the body have been widely published. Ginkgo is a very potent free radical
scavenger. Eliminating free radicals is important in preserving youthfulness. If
we slow down the deterioration of our body systems, we can enjoy fitness and
vitality all through our lives.
Ginseng
Ginseng is nutritionally beneficial for the immune system and long term energy.
It nourishes the circulatory system and enhances mental alertness and stamina.
Golden
Seal
Golden seal is used both internally and externally to help the body fight
infections with its nutritional properties. It helps the body soothe
inflammations of the mucous membranes and balance their function. This herb
especially nourishes the liver, glandular and respiratory systems. Golden seal
helps cleanse the system of foreign organisms.
Gotu
Kola
Gotu kola nourishes the nervous system, especially the brain. It is said to help
improve memory and enhance vitality throughout the body. This herb is known for
helping the body to balance blood pressure levels and assist in the healing of
wounds. Gotu Kola is known in India as a "longevity" herb.
Hawthorn
Berries
Hawthorn is traditionally known for its strong and powerful effect on the
circulatory system, particularly the heart. It has been used for centuries with
great success, especially in Europe. Even today it remains a favorite among
herbalists as a cardiac tonic. Hawthorn is valued for nourishing blood pressure
and circulation. When used on a regular, long-term basis hawthorn exerts a
continued protection to the cardiovascular system.
Hops
Hops helps the body with pain and insomnia. Hops is rich in nutrients that
nourish the nervous system. The herbalist Culpeper said, "It opens
obstructions of the liver and spleen, cleanses the blood, loosens the belly,
cleanses the veins from gravel and provokes urine." This plant is
considered both a tonic and relaxant.
Horehound
Root
Horehound root is soothing to the respiratory system and is a natural
expectorant.
Horsetail
Horsetail is rich in "beauty" nutrients that nourish the nails, skin,
hair, bones and the body's connective tissue. It is also benefits the glands and
urinary tract. Horsetail helps heal fractured bones because of its rich supply
of nutrients.
Ho
Shou Wu
Ho shou wu (Fo-Ti) is fabled in Asian history to restore the original color of
graying hair. It nourishes the glandular, nervous, and skeletal systems. This
herb is reputed to enhance the health of the liver and kidneys. The properties
of Ho Shou Wu are said to be similar to Golden Seal, Chamomile and Ginseng. It
is known to help improve health, stamina and resistance to diseases.
Hydrangea
Hydrangea has traditionally been used to strengthen the urinary tract and help
regulate its function. This plant contains alkaloids which help soothe the body,
especially in the bladder and kidney areas. Hydrangea also works like a natural
inflammation reliever and cleanses the joint areas.
Hyssop
Hyssop has been used for hundreds of years as an herbal remedy for afflictions
of the respiratory system. It soothes throats and nourishes the lungs.
Irish
Moss
Irish moss is high in nutrients and nourishes the glandular system, lungs, and
kidneys. It purifies the body's cells and strengthens the thyroid gland.
Juniper
Berry
Juniper berries strengthen the urinary system and help the body eliminate excess
water and toxins.
Kava
Kava
Kava kava soothes the nerves.
Kelp
Kelp contains nearly thirty minerals which nourish the glands (especially the
thyroid and pituitary). By enhancing the action of the glandular system, it
helps balance the body's metabolism and rate at which it burns calories. Kelp,
also known as seaweed, grows in the rich ocean beds, far below surface pollution
levels. Because of its high nutrient content, this herb is reputedly beneficial
for a wide range of applications. It is known to nourish the sensory nerves,
brain membranes, also spinal cord and brain tissue. Kelp contains alginic acid
which can help protect the body against the effects of radiation.
Lady
Slipper
Lady slipper is a member of the orchid family. This delicate flower contains in
its root many nervine properties.
Licorice
Licorice root nutritionally supports the respiratory and gastrointestinal
systems, heart and spleen. This herb can soothe irritated mucous membranes and
help the body get rid of unwanted mucus with its expectorant properties.
Licorice Root has properties similar to cortisone and estrogen. It stimulates
the adrenal glands and helps the body cope with stress.
Lobelia
Lobelia has been traditionally revered for its soothing properties that nourish
the nervous system. Lobelia also enhances the function of the respiratory system
and has antispasmodic effects. It has been used in preparations designed to
lessen one's desire for nicotine.
Male
Fern
Male fern helps the body get rid of tapeworm.
Mandrake
Mandrake works with the liver, gallbladder and all aspects of digestion. It
exerts a powerful influence on the glands.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow has soothing properties and nutritionally supports the respiratory
and gastrointestinal systems.
Milk
Thistle
Milk thistle extract is a potent antioxidant which prevents harm from free
radicals and lends nutritional support to the liver. Milk thistle seed extract
contains silymarin, a unique type of flavonoid-like compound considered the
active ingredient of milk thistle.
Mullein
Mullein has been referred to as a "natural wonder herb" which soothes
the lungs and irritations associated with the respiratory tract. It also
nourishes the lymphatic and glandular systems. Mullein can help remove mucus
from the system.
Myrrh
Traditionally, the properties of myrrh resin have been highly favored for
soothing muscles and wounds. Myrrh nourishes mucuous membranes with its
cleansing effects. The extract, when combined with water, is excellent as a
comforting gargle for a scratchy throat.
Noni
The noni plant has many folk-remedy uses. It is fabled among the Polynesian
peoples to especially help support the body's respiratory, immune, digestive,
and structural systems.
Oatstraw
Oatstraw contains high amounts of bone-building materials.
Pan
Pien Pien
Pan pien lien helps the body remove obstructions and congestion, thus
strengthening and improving many areas. It nourishes and strengthens the lung
areas, as well as soothing the muscles and joints.
Papaya
Papaya contains an enzyme called papain which helps the body break down protein.
Parruva
Brava
Parruva brava nourishes the thermogenic processes of the body. It has been
traditionally valued for its purification properties which promote perspiration.
Parsley
Parsley is valued as a blood builder, cleanser and has
pressure regulating properties.
Pau
d'Arco
Pau d'arco is a South American herb which helps strengthen and nourish the
body's defense system. A healthy immune system is a key in fighting diseases and
infections.
Passionflower
Passionflower has been used to help the body reduce anxiety, hysteria and
nervousness by nourishing the nervous system. Passionflower has been
traditionally used in both herbal and homeopathic medicine for pain, insomnia,
nervous exhaustion, asthma and attention deficit disorder. In vitro experiments
show that passicol, an alkaloid found in passionflower, kills a range of molds,
yeasts, and bacteria.
Peppermint
Peppermint calms the stomach, intestinal tract, and the nervous system. It
comforts the stomach and nourishes the salivary glands to help with digestion.
It has astringent properties and soothes the nervous system.
Periwinkle
Periwinkle helps relieve congestion and aids in maintaining balanced
circulation.
ippali
Fruit
Pippali fruit is a pepper which has been used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine
to address digestive disorders and obesity.
Prickly
Ash
Prickly Ash nourishes and enhances circulation throughout the entire body.
Queen
of the Meadow
Queen of the Meadow is traditionally valued to help heal strains, sprains, and
the associated aches. It nourishes the ligaments and tendons, and assists in
restoring their normal function. It helps release inorganic deposits from the
joints and tissues.
Quercetin
Quercetin has been shown to help the body defend itself against harmful
microorganisms.
Raspberry
Leaf
Red raspberry leaf strengthens the uterus wall and regulates menstrual flow. It
nourishes the reproductive organs, especially the uterine muscles, and helps
strengthen and prepare the body for childbirth. It is also highly valued for its
soothing and astringent properties to the stomach and intestinal tract.
Raspberry leaf is a nutrient-rich herb that helps balance the body so that
diarrhea or constipation can be relieved.
Rhubarb
Rhubarb can help dissolve mucus adhering to the walls of the colon.
Safflower
The flowers of the safflower plant are used to nourish the liver, gallbladder
and respiratory system. Safflower helps balance cholesterol in the body, and
assists in eliminating excessive uric acid. It helps break up phlegm and soothes
the digestive system.
Sage
Sage helps check excessive mucus in the body.
Sarsaparilla
Sarsaparilla contains substances which are similar to the male hormone
testosterone and the female hormone progesterone. It can safely help increase
the metabolic rate and balance the glandular system.
Saw
Palmetto
Saw palmetto berry is said to nourish glandular tissue, and has been used by
herbalists and others to nutritionally support the prostate gland.
Schizandra
Chinensis
Schizandra chinensis helps the body adapt to stress and nourishes the nervous
system.
Scullcap
Scullcap is one of the most powerful herbs to help you get a better night's
sleep. It calms the nervous system, relaxes the muscles, and helps balance blood
pressure.
Senega
Root
Senega root nourishes the respiratory tract.
Senna
Senna assists in expelling waste from the intestines and kills worms.
Siberian
Ginseng
Siberian ginseng nutritionally supports the glandular system. It is called an
"adaptogen", which means that it helps the body adapt to any situation
which normally would alter its function. Siberian Ginseng has a beneficial
effect on the heart and circulation. It stimulates the entire body energy to
overcome stress, fatigue, and weakness. Studies suggest that Siberian Ginseng
may help reduce blood sugar levels, balance blood pressure levels, and enhance
the immune system by boosting the body's production of natural killer cells.
Slippery
Elm
Slippery elm can help the body eliminate mucus from the lungs and strengthen the
gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. It soothes irritated tissues and helps
nourish and strengthen the body.
Squaw
Vine
Squaw vine strengthens the uterus, and helps relieve congestion there and in the
ovaries. It may help strengthen the defense against vaginal infections.
Suma
Suma is an adaptogen herb, which means it helps the body adapt to stress, and
acts as a tonic to the entire system. By enhancing the body's immune system,
Suma aids in preventing free-radical damage to the body. Suma contains
significant amounts of Germanium, a trace mineral which stimulates the immune
system and helps promote oxygen flow to cells. It also contains "allantoin",
a substance which assists in healing wounds. Some of Suma's other beneficial
nutrients include vitamins, minerals, essential amino acids, and the natural
plant hormones sitosterol and stigmasterol. These phytochemicals nourish the
circulatory and glandular systems. The Japanese investigated Suma in trials
against specific types of tumor cells. The researchers discovered that six
saponins called pffaffosides A, B, C, D, E, and F are the unique chemicals
present in Suma that inhibit tumor cell growth. Brazilian researchers have found
that Suma is both safe and effective for altered-immune disorders.
Thyme
Thyme is known as a powerful antiseptic and a general tonic, with healing
powers. It is said to be used in cases of anemia, bronchial and intestinal
disturbances.
Uva
Ursi
Uva ursi strengthens the urinary system and helps the body eliminate excess
water.
Valerian
Valerian root nourishes the nervous system and has soothing properties. Valerian
is a safe and natural sleeping aid. It helps soothe rattled nerves and assists
the body in relieving insomnia. Properties of the plant have demonstrated to
give calming relief to muscles, the nerves and blood vessels.
Watermelon
seeds
Watermelon seeds help the body eliminate excess water.
White
Oak
White oak bark is a marvelous herb to help nourish and strengthen injured areas
of the body. It has been used successfully for many applications, including
fortifying blood vessels and tissues. White Oak has astringent properties, and
it also soothes the throat.
White
Willow
White willow benefits the stomach, kidneys, bowels, and intestines. It works
like a mild and natural analgesic which is gentle on the stomach.
Wild
Cherry Bark
Wild Cherry Bark is considered to be a very useful expectorant.
Wild
Yam
Wild yam has many effective uses. It is known to relax the muscles and promote
glandular balance in women. Wild Yam contains natural plant components known as
phytochemicals which help the body balance hormone levels. Wild Yam nourishes
the digestive system and the nerves.
Wood
Betony
Wood betony works well for both children and adults.
It is said to help migraine headaches.
Wormwood
Wormwood helps eliminate worms and parasites.
Yellow Dock Root
Yellow dock root is a bitter herb noted for its high iron content. It nourishes the skin, stimulates bile production, tones the liver and gallbladder and purifies the blood.
Yerba Santa
Yerba santa helps the body expel mucus from the respiratory tract. It is known as a blood purifier and strengthener of the digestive system.
COMMON SENSE: Don't play American Roulette, Learn all you can about the properties of Wild Herbs, consult with a Homeopath or Naturopathic when ever possible .... Read Books, and ask questions. Make it your business to look up where someone might be giving a class in your area about the harvesting and preparation of Wild Crafted Herbs.
IF you cant find any one then write to us. Ghostwolf@wolflodge.org Attention Wild Herbs
Ani
Tsa-la-gi
Grandma