DANGEROUS PLANTS

Use caution with these particular plants, some of them possess highly potent medicinal properties or are poisonous in part or whole and can cause serious illness or death if not used properly. These herbs should only be used by experienced professional herbalists.
Baneberry, Belladonna, Black Nightshade, Cowbane, Deadly Nightshade, Dog's Mercury (seeds), Foxglove, Hellebore, Hemlock, Henbane, Holly (seeds), Jimsonweed, Mandrake, Mistletoe (seeds),  Oleander, Opium Poppy, Poinsetta (leaves), Poison Dogwood, Poison Flag, Poison Hemlock, Poison Ivy, Poison oak, Poison Sumac, Spotted Hemlock, Stramonium, Water Hemlock, White Hellebore, White Snakeroot, Wolfsbane, Wormwood, Yellow Jasmine and Yew (seeds/berries).

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Alteratives- Botanicals which tend to alter a condition or restore normal health.
Anti-Asthmatics- Botanicals that are smoked or taken internally to  relieve asthma.
Antiseptics- Botanicals which destroy microorganisms responsible for infection.
Antispasmodics- Botanicals which prevent or relieve involuntary muscle spasms and cramps such as charley horses, epilepsy and menstrual pain.
Aphrodisiacs- Botanicals that stimulate the sex organs and intensify sexual desire.
Aromatics- Herbs used in potpurris, sachets, oils, scented candles, perfumes etc.
Astringents- Botanicals which cause contraction of skin tissues.
Bitter Tonics- Herbs with a bitter taste that stimulate the flow of saliva, increase the appetite and aid digestion.
Cathartics- Botanicals that come divided into 2 categories laxatives and purgatives. (I think that's pretty self explanatory :)
Demulcents- Substance taken internally that soothes the mucous membranes, good for treating coughs and minor throat irritations.
Diuretics- Plants which help to relieve urinary disorders. (Also pretty self explanatory:)
Emetics- Induces vomiting.
Expectorants- Botanicals which loosen phlegm and assist in expelling it.
Sedatives- Plants which sooth, calm and tranquilize.
Stimulants- Self explanatory, the opposite of Sedatives.
Stomachic- Botanicals which have curative properties for disorders of the stomach.
Tonics- Botanicals which strengthen and invigorate, stimulates general health.
Vulnerary- Herbs used to treat minor wounds such as burns, cuts and scrapes.    

HERB FORMS

DRIED: Generally laid out and allowed to dehydrate they should be stored in an air tight container. Used with tea, potpurri, baths and added to prepared food.
FRESH: Sometimes preferred over all other forms because the dehydration of certain herbs results in a loss of nutrients. Used in the same way as dried herbs, the best way to store them is out of direct sunlight in your refrigerator. 
POWDERED: The herb is dried and then ground into powder, it can be mixed with liquids. Most commonly seen in capsule form. Make sure you check the dates though because some powdered herbs can lose there nutrients or active ingredients over time. Just keep them in an airtight container so they keep their freshness.
CREAMS and OINTMENTS: For external use only (obviously), for use with bruises, minor cuts, sores and inflammations. These can easily be found in most stores that carry O.T.C drugs and herbal supplements but make sure you read the instructions because some of the herbs can be pretty potent.
EXTRACTS and TINCTURES: These are liquid form herbs with generally a syrupy consistency. These are great because not only do they get absorbed quickly, which makes for faster results but in general they are also more concentrated then most other forms. They can be added to any liquid or taken straight with a water chaser.
ESSENTIAL OILS: Again for external use, mostly for aromatherapy. Added to your bath, with massages or perfumes they can be very relaxing.
COSMETICS: You can also find herbs in a variety of cosmetics. A good natural and healthy alternative for your body. I have found them in shampoos, conditioners, moisturizers, soap and even toothpaste.

COMMON HERBS

ALOE VERA: Has been used for years as a remedy for minor burns, skin irritations and bug bites. Can also be taken internally as a laxative or to sooth the stomach, however, the directions should be explicitly followed if used internally and it should'nt be used by pregnant women. Most commonly used now as a skin moisturizer.
BARLEY GRASS:  Barley water steeped from the seed is generally used to treat arthritic and reumatic symptoms but is also used for relief from stomach irritation and fever.
BAYBERRY: Effective in clearing out stuffy nasal passages and soothes sore throats. Can also use externally on skin ulcers, carbuncles and varicose veins.
BEE POLLEN: Rich in vitamins, minerals and amino acids it is a good source for protein. Contains natural antibodies for fighting infection. Used to combat fatigue, aging and allergies, however some people might be allergic so if you have any discomfort stop using.
BLUE VERVAIN: Effective against epilepsy, it can also restore proper blood circulation and is good for fevers, flu, headaches and pneumonia.
BUTCHERS BROOM: Helps to restructure veins so is good for varicose or spider veins. Improves poor circulation and reduces swelling due to arthritis. Effective at reducing swelling due to hemorroids.
CANADIAN SNAKE ROOT: Can accelerate childbirth through stimulation of the uterine muscles. Great for relieving menstrual cramps and gas. At one time was used as an antidote for snake bites, but I wouldn't recommend canceling a trip to the doctor if you ever are bitten.
CALENDULA: Reduces fever, relieves menstrual cramps and can relieve pain due to skin viruses like shingles. Good for relieving ulcers and externally soothes burns. The oil will also soothe an earache if placed in the ear.
CAPSICUM: Used primarily in soothing and curing symptoms associated with colds and flu. It improves circulation, is an effective cancer fighter and strengthens the heart. Can be used externally to soothe sprains, arthritis and bruises.
CATNIP: Widely used as a sleeping aid it relieves stress and soothes the nerves. Commonly used with tea to reduce fever and aid digestion.
CHAMOMILLE: A natural sedative chamomille, like catnip, is effective in relieving stress and promoting sleep. Also very soothing to the stomach, but do not use for extended periods or if you are allergic to ragweed.
CHICORY: Is useful in the treatment of gallstones, kidney stones and can also be used as a mild laxative.
CHIVES: Stimulates the appetite, aids in digestion and is good for easing stomach irrritation or nausea.
COLTSFOOT: Good for relieving asthma, bronchitis, coughs, fever and ulcers. Can also be used as a poultice to draw out infection in wounds. Found to contain carcinogens so use caution.
COMFREY: Stimulates cell growth so is an effective way to heal broken bones, sprains and sores. Heals ulcers, kidney problems and coughing. Can be used to externally on burns, bruises and fresh wounds. Do not use for longer then 3 months in a row may cause liver damage.
DAMIANA: Is good for stimulating energy and increases blood circulation. Also helps relieve water retention and anxiety. Interferes with iron absorption if taken internally. Most commonly used as an aphrodisiac.
DANDELION: Removes excess fluids from the kidneys and bladder so makes a good diuretic. Has high amounts of iron and calcium so it's good for anemics.
ECHINACEA: Most commonly used as an infection fighter, best taken at the first sign of a cold or flu. Can be taken regularly to promote a strong immune system but take breaks from it periodically or the body will develop an immunity to it. Can be used on insect bites and to restore immune function in chemo patients.
ELDERBERRY: Highly recommended for colds, epilepsy, headache and rheumatism. The ointment can also be used for lightening freckles and to soothe burns, rashes and soften skin. Do not eat Elderberries unless they are cooked, they are toxic when raw.
EUCALYPTUS: The oil is effective in treating certain fevers such as typhoid. Inhaling it is helpful in relieving asthma, congestion, cold or flu and sore throat. Externally it makes a good antiseptic and reduces swelling due to arthritis and rheumatism. Only take it internally in small doses, excessive ingestion causes nausea and vomiting. Don't use on open wounds.
EVENING PRIMROSE: Great source fatty acids, it reduces blood cholesterol and blood pressure, so is an effective preventer of heart disease and stroke. Relieves symptoms of PMS, hot flashes, hyperactivity, cramps and heavy bleeding.
FEVERFEW: This herb is widely known to relieve migraine pain through the reduction of it's symptoms. An effective remedy for correcting irregular periods by stimulating uterine contractions to bring on bleeding. Externally applied to relieve chest congestion.
FRENCH LAVENDER: Great for soothing the nerves and relieving headaches when taken as a tea. It can be used as a mild sedative and painkiller for insect bites and burns. Do not take more then 2 drops of the pure oil internally because it is possibly poisonous.
GINGKO: Used to dilate blood vessels and increase circulation. Useful in relieving depression, memory loss and dizziness. It is an antioxidant so it slows the formation of free radicals which are known to cause cancer and premature aging.
AMERICAN GINSENG: Can be used as a mild stimulant and helps the body adapt to stress.
KOREAN GINSENG: Corrects low sperm count and impotency in some cases. Can be used to stimulate the appetite and normalize high blood pressure.
SIBERIAN GINSENG: Generally promotes mental and physical vigor, endurance, appetite and digestion through mild stimulation of the central nervous system. Sometimes used to assist in cocaine withdrawal by reducing the symptoms. Do not take if naturally hyperactive or under nervous tension.
GOLDEN SEAL: The herb works very much like Echinacea in that it boosts the immune system. Use in moderation during pregnancy, used for a long period in excess reduces vitamin B absorption. The root makes a good strong antibiotic against infection like the herb, but also is good in relieving indigestion and can help prevent gum disease as a mouthwash. Tincture is good for relieving canker sores and gum irritation. Long term use may weaken the helpful bacteria in the colon.
HONEYSUCKLE: Mostly used for acute infectious and inflammatory conditions. Treats colds, flu and fever. The tincture can be used externally for skin infection.
INDIAN TOBACCO: A potent relaxant used to help people stop smoking or drinking. Reduces heart palpitations and is a good remedy for fevers, pneumonia, hepatitis and pleurisy. Externally used to reduce swelling and inflammations.
JUNIPER BERRY: Useful for digestive problems, bladder diseases, intestinal infections and arthritic conditions. Do not use if pregnant.
KAVA KAVA: Can be used as a mild diuretic and helps reduce insomnia and nervousness. Helps encourage sleep. Long term use in excessive doses interferes with the livers ability to filter toxins from itself.
KELP: A good source of calcium, sulfur, iodine and vitamin K, it also helps stimulate the growth of nails and hair.
LAVENDER: Much like french lavender, this flower helps sooth nerves, eases headaches, relieves gas, dizziness and can be used as a mild sedative as well as a pain killer for insect bites and burns. Used as an oil it can relieve insomnia and rheumatic aches. It may be poisonous so take no more then 2 drops of the pure oil internally.
LONGAN BERRY: Stimulates the mind and nervous system and is an effective remedy for hypoglycemia.
MARSHMALLOW: Believe it or not this herb is useful in relieving inflammation and irritation of the urinary and respiratory systems. Relieves the pain of ulcers and can assist in the passing of kidney stones.
MILKWEED: Good for the treatment of rheumatism inflammation, arthritis, asthma and bronchitis. Also an effective remedy for gallstones and warts. May be harmful to children and adults over 55.
MINT: An effective remedy for stomach complaints such as gas, indigestion, motion sickness, cramps, nausea, vomiting and flu. Also will relieve headaches.
MISTLETOE: Some extracts have anti tumor properties that can be used to fight cancer. It also dialates the blood vessels, reduces high blood pressure and heart rate. Mistletoe can be fatal in high doses and should only be used under strict medical supervision.
MYRRH: Stimulates the appetite and the flow of juices. Can be used as an antiseptic  for intestinal ulcers. It's best known for tightening the gums and preventing pyorrhea. Do not use this herb if you are pregnant or have kidney disease.
NETTLE: Generaly used for asthma relief, it can also be used to relieve kidney disease, urinary disorders and relieving diarrhea. Externally can be used to cleanse wounds.
PARSLEY: This herb is rich in vitamin B and potassium. It also makes a good diuretic and helps to expel gallstones. Is effective in relieving asthma, fluid retention, gas, indigestion and menstrual disorders. Externally used to relieve insect bites. Do not use if your kidneys are inflamed and avoid heavy dosage if you are pregnant.
PASSION FLOWER: Best known as a natural sedative it soothes nervousness, restlessness and exhaustion. Do not take during pregnancy and do not use while operating machinery or driving, this is a potent tranquilizer.
PENNYROYAL: Is a diuretic and used to induce perspiration or menustration. Relieves gas and indigestion. Do not use during pregnancy, excessive use may cause liver and kidney damage.
RESHI MUSHROOM: Good for boosting the immune system and helping relieve the symptoms of allergies. Sometimes used to help sufferers of auto immune system diseases. Also helps relieve the symptoms of chemotherapy and helps fight tumors.
ROSEHIPS: High source of vitamin C it is a good infection fighter. Also combats stress. 
SARSAPARILLA: Used as a natural steroid, it contains testosterone. It increases energy and cleanses the blood. Can be used as a tea for sore or irritated eyes.
SAW PALMETTO: A good tissue builder it builds stamina. If men have swelling of the prostate or trouble urinating do not use.
SHEPHERDS PURSE: Good for controlling hemorraging of the stomach, lungs, uterus, kidneys and used during childbirth and excessive menustration. Heals bruises.
SHITAKI MUSHROOM: Enhances the immune system and has an anti tumor agent. Also used to lower blood cholesterol and is helpful for those with clinical depression.
SLIPPERY ELM: Excellent in strengthing and healing the body, it relieves inflammation of the lungs, stomach, heart, female organ and kidneys. Relieves a cancerous stomach.
SNAKEROOT: Good for asthma, bee stings, gastritis and soothing discomfort of the throat and intestines. Works on chapped hands well.
ST. JOHNS WORT: A very useful herb in combatting depression, treating irritability and will balance irregular menustration. Promotes healing of bruises and skin wounds.
VALERIAN ROOT: Soothes the nervous system, relieves palpitations and is generally used to promote restful sleep. Can also relieve gas and stomach irritation. High doses can cause weakening of the heart beat and paralysis so don't exceed recommended dosage.
VIOLET: Soothes inflamed mucous membranes and helps relieve symptoms of colds, hoarsness, sore throat and swollen breasts.
WATER CRESS: Helps body to use oxygen more efficently, stimulates metabolism and so increases stamina and endurance.
WITCH HAZEL: Used to relieve excessive menustration and can be used as a cleansing, mild astringent for the face and skin, also reduces varicose veins.
WORM WOOD: Used against inflammation of the tonsils, bruises, sprains, rheumatism and swelling. Overdoses will irritate the stomach and speed up heart rate.
YARROW: Stops bleeding, menstrual irregularity and soothes the heart and skin ulcers. Can interfere with the absorption of iron.
YUCCA: Soothes arthritis and can actually treat forms of arthritis and rheumatism. Relieves stress, migraine headaches and may also have anti tumor potential.

CHINESE HERBS

BA DAN XING REN: Actually almond oil, it has been used as a muscle relaxant and anesthetic by the Chinese for years.  It also has proven to be effective at reducing cholesterol. Makes an excellent skin moisturizer.
CH'AI HU: Generally used for reducing fevers and headache, also used to detoxify the liver. Relieves nausea, anxiety and dizziness.
CHEN PI: Usually used to stimulate and promote the circulation of energy. Effective treatment for indigestion, diarrhea and vomiting.
CHUANXIONG: Promotes the sex drive, relieves water retention, increases blood circulation and anxiety.
CHU HUA: Effective in detoxifying the liver and lowering blood pressure. Relieves fevers, headaches and dizziness. Externally used to reduce skin inflammation.
DANG SHEN: Used in treatment of various gynecological dysfunctions. Relieves the symptoms of PMS and menopause, promotes menstrual regularity and relieves hot flashes. Do not use if pregnant.
DA T'SAO: Used as a relaxant and to treat dizziness, anxiety and promotes sleep.
DON SEN: Works as a mild stimulant and helps the body deal with stress.
DONG QUAI: Restores menstrual regularity and relieves the symptoms of PMS and menopause. Can control hot flashes and reduces high blood pressure. Do not use if pregnant.
ELEUTHERO: Relieves anxiety, promotes well being and can restore energy as well as reduce high blood pressure and stress.
FANG FENG: Relieves muscles spasms and arthritic pain. Can be used to strengthen the immune system. Treats chills, flu and headache.
FAN MU GUA: Makes an excellent antacid as it assits the body to break down proteins. As such it is great for metabolizing protein and relieving indigestion.
FO TI: Good for fighting depression and can enhance the memory. It also reduces cholesterol and may be influential in fighting cancer.
FU LING: Makes an excellent diuretic, can reduce nervousness, restlessness and depression. Can also be used to combat lung congestion.
FU TZU: Effective remedy for arthritic conditions it can also be used to increase energy. Can also be used externally for inflammation, but use with caution this is a potent herb.
GAY GEE: Removes toxins from the blood and can lower high blood pressure.
GAN CAO: An excellent natural cortisone, can be used to reduce stress, hypoglycemia, menstrual and ulcer pain. May help retard the growth of some cancerous tumors. Can cause in increase in blood pressure so this herb shouldn't be taken by people with high blood pressure.
GAN JIANG: Promotes perspiration and relieves indigestion, gas, morning sickness and nausea. Good for motion sickness also. Can be used to heal burns and skin infection.
HO SHOU WO: Good for depression and memory enhancement. Also reduces cholesterol and may help in the prevention of cancer.
HUANG CHI: Helps reduce the symptoms of diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and improves digestion. Boosts the immune system and may prevent the spread of malignant cells.
HU SUAN: An excellent natural antibiotic, it promotes proper digestion and reduces cholesterol. Is also effective at fighting cancer and reducing high blood pressure.
JEN SHENG: Helps to regenerate sexual function and is used to fight impotentcy and low sperm count. Also stimulates the appetite and balances blood pressure.
JIE ENG:  Treats lung and respiratory congestion. Great for sore throat, coughs and other related lung disorders.
KO KEN: Also used to treat bronchial disorders and congestion.
LONG YEN ROU: Strengthens function in female organs, stimulates the brain and nervous system, helps forgetfulness. Effective remedy for hypoglycemia.
LU HUI: Healing and soothing to the intestinal system it boosts the immune system as well. Can be used to keep the skin soft helps relieve burns, skin irritations and bites. Do not take internally if you are pregnant.
MA HUANG: Generally used as a stimulant and has been used to treat asthma and respiratory infections. Used as a decongestant to relieve headaches, allergies, fever and other allergy and cold symptoms. Do not use if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or thyroid disease. Use with caution this is a potent herb.
MUXU: A good source of important vitamins and minerals it is an excellent supplement especially for pregnant or nursing mothers. Helps rebuild decayed teeth, detoxifies the liver, reduces water retention, dissolves kidney stones and relieves arthritis pain. Also aids the body to metabolize proteins, fats and carbohydrates.
PAI SHU: Increases energy but does not exhaust the kidneys because it first eliminates excess electrolytes and sodium.
PU GONG YING: Effective for treating upper respiratory infections, removes excess fluids and is great for anemia because it is high in iron, calcium and other minerals.
REN SHEN: Promotes mental and physical vigor, stamina and endurance. Increases the bodies metabolism, appetite and digestion. Usful in relieving cocaine withdrawal. Do not use if you are hyperactive or suffering from nervous tension.
SHAO YAO: Effective in treating irregular menustration and soothing the pain of cramps. It is used for disease involving imbalanced liver functions. Do not use if pregnant.
SOK DAY: Effective in treating infertility, irregular periods, and to help stop post partum hemorraging. Promotes the healing of bones and eliminates acids in the body.
TANG KUEI: Used to restore menstrual irregularity and relieves the symptoms of PMS and menopause. Controls hot flashes and high blood pressure. Do not use if pregnant.
TANG SHEN: Is a mild stimulant and helps the body deal with stress.
TIENCHI: Effective in maintaining normal body weight, helps prevent fatigue, controls high blood pressure, heart rate and improves circulation.
XI XIN: Relieves indigestion, gas, morning sickness and nausea. Useful for supressed menustration, absorbs toxins, restores normal digestion and controls vomiting. Externally helps soothe the pain of skin infections, bug bites and minor burns.
YE JU: Effective in detoxifying the liver, cleansing the blood and lowering blood pressure. Used to treat dizziness, fevers, headache and pneumonia. reduces inflammation of the skin.
YIN HUA: Used to treat acute infectious and inflammatory disorders. Effective against colds, flu and fever. Externally used to treat skin infections.
ZIMU: Good source of important vitamins and minerals, it is a good suppplement for pregnant and nursing women. Helps rebuild decayed teeth, relieves water retention, gets rid of kidney stones and relieves arthritic pain. Aids the body to metabolize proteins and fats. 

SPICES FOR HEALING

ANISE: Promotes efficient digestion, relieves cramping and gas. Good for soothing colds and coughs. Stimulates milk production in nursing mothers.
BASIL: Effective remedy for digestion difficulties, relieves gas, constipation, nausea, vomiting and stomach irritations.
BAY LEAVES: Relieves indigestion and gas. Can be used externally to relieve pain associated with arthritic or rheumatic conditions.
BLACK PEPPER: Prevents and cures colds and sore throats. Best be used as part of a hot tea mixture.
CALAMUS: Improves circulation and will relieve the pain of arthritic and rheumatic conditions.
CARAWAY: Effective in relieving colicky infants, it relieves indigestion, gas, cramps, coughs, colds and nausea. Promotes milk production in nursing women. Use the extract only when administering to childeren or infants.
CARDAMOM:   Effective in relieving diarrhea and headaches.
CAYENNE: Excellent remedy for colds, flu, headaches and indigestion. Improves circulation, helps decrease the risk of heart attack or stroke. Use caution if you have stomach ulcers.
CINNAMON: Helps relieve the pain of abdominal, heart and lower back pain. Helps treat diarrhea, cramps, indigestion and gas.
CLOVES: Relieves gas and indigestion. Increases circulation and improves digestion.
CORIANDER: Helps to prevent and relieve disorders associated with indigestion and gas.
CUMIN: Promotes milk production and externally improves circulation.
FENNEL: Good appetite suppressant, effective in relieving gas and aids digestion. Used to relieve pain in chemo patients. Externally used to relieve pain associated with arthritic or rheumatic conditions. Works to soothe colicky infants.
FENUGREEK: Used to relieve stomach problems and lung congestion.
GARLIC: A cure all for everything from regulating high blood pressure, boosting the immune system, increasing circulation to degongesting the respiratory system.
GINGER: Increases circulation and relieves the pain of joint inflammations, but it is best known as a treatment for motion sickness, nausea, morning sickness and indigestion.
MACE: Helps relieve heart disorders, nervousness and nausea. Improves digestion.
MARJORAME: As a tea it relieves the pain of menustration such as nausea and cramps. Will relieve an upset stomach and nervousness.
MUSTARD SEED: Acts as a purifier of the blood and a mild laxative. Externally it can be used to improve circulation such as with surface vessels and spider veins.
NUTMEG: Relieves heart disorders, nervousness, nausea and improves digestion.
ROSEMARY: Good substitute for aspirin in the treatment of headaches. Reduces fever and relieves nausea due to indigestion and gas. Coltsfoot is sometimes combined with rosemary and smoked to relieve chest congestion and asthma.
SAGE: Good treatment for bladder infections, diarrhea and other inflammatory conditions. Can be used to stop the flow of milk in nursing mothers. Externally used to cleanse ulcers and other skin irritations. Also will soothe a nervous stomach.
STAR ANISE: Effective in breaking up congestion due to colds and cough.
TABASCO PEPPER: Effective in fighting colds, flu, headaches and soothes indigestion. Will improve circulation and helps prevent heart attacks. Use moderation if you have ulcers.
THYME: As a tea it is an effective remedy for bronchitis, laryngitis and nervousness of the stomach. Helps to relieve anxiety and stress related symptoms.
TURMERIC: A good fever reducer it will also regulate the menstrual cycle and relieve menstrual cramping. Externally it promotes healing of wounds.