This is the third and final post in our series on herbal actions. See parts 1 and 2 on our blog for more.

17. Laxative

This is another word you probably recognize from over-the-counter medications at drugstores. Laxatives stimulate a bowel movement, helping to relieve constipation. Chickweed and dandelion root are mild laxatives that are safe to use on a regular basis. If foods and other gentle therapies don’t work, one can try harsher stimulant laxatives, such as cascara sagrada, senna, aloe, and rhubarb. Only use such herbs occasionally, as the colon can become lazy and dependent on them if they are used too frequently.

18. Nervine

© Copyright Glyn Baker and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons License

Nervines work on the nervous system, and can be either relaxing, stimulating, or tonifying, which means gently improving over time. The relaxing nervines are some of the best known, and often have other similar actions, such as helping with anxiety or sleep. Some nervine relaxing herbs are skullcap and chamomile. Nervine tonics include the fresh young seed oats, often called milky oat tops, as well as gingko, skullcap, and St. John’s wort. Stimulant nervines are not usually needed, as most Americans are constantly overstimulated. We typically need more restoration, not more stimulus. However, if you do need a stimulating herb, skip down to #21 for some suggestions.

19. Sedative

This is another pretty obvious one- a sedative sedates, meaning it relaxes and tranquilizes the body. Chamomile, valerian, California poppy, and skullcap are all great herbal sedatives.

20. Stimulant

Stimulants increase activity in the body, heightening energy or speeding reactions. The herbs in this list are things many Americans use every day, sometimes multiple times a day! Coffee and tea are the two most popular, but guarana and maté are also herbal stimulants. While these herbs can be wonderful when you need an extra boost, it is quite telling that the plants on this list are by far the best known and most used in our country. If you are dependent on stimulants, you may consider trying some tonic and adaptogenic herbs for balance.

21. Styptic

Styptic means capable of stopping bleeding when applied to a wound. Cayenne and yarrow are both herbal styptics.

22. Tonic

Tonic herbs tone, support, and strengthen tissues and body systems. They are used over time to gently nourish and restore depleted systems. Like adaptogens, tonic herbs are best used over a long period of time; they support longevity, optimization of health, and balance between body, mind, and spirit. They are revered in traditions such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Some tonic herbs are dandelion leaf, milky oat tops, astragalus, codonopsis root, and many of the medicinal mushrooms.

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23. Vulnerary

Vulnerary herbs help heal wounds and inflammation. Calendula, comfrey, and plantain are all amazing herbs that can be used to heal wounds. Plantain is a very common plant that is often applied as a spit poultice when outdoors. That means people will simply chew some of the leave and apply it directly to a fresh wound; many have had amazing results using it. For a more sanitary option to keep at home, try a plantain salve or infused oil.

Now that you know some of the basic herbal actions, you will have a better understanding of herbs potential to help and heal the body. Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list! There are many more medical terms that describe some of the things herbs can do.

Did we leave your favorite action or herb off of our list? If so, share with us! Comment below and tell us which herbs you have found the be the most effective for certain actions.