Herbal Actions

When approaching plants medicinally the first step is to identify exactly what effects they create, known as Herbal Actions. Below is a list of common herbal actions for easy reference.

Adaptogenic - Creates resistance to physical and environmental stressors and promotes homeostasis

Analgesic – Helps to relieve pain

Antioxidant – Protects against free radical damage

Aromatic – Assists in digestion

Astringent – Promotes constriction of exposed tissues and mucous membranes

Bitter Tonic - Stimulates the effects of the stomach, liver and pancreas

Carminative – Soothes intestine pain and spasms

Cholagogue – Increases bile release from the gallbladder

Demulcent – Soothes the mucous membranes

Diaphoretic – Promotes sweating

Diuretic – Increases urinary output

Emmenagogue – Initiates and promotes menstrual flow

Emollient – Soothes and protects the skin

Expectorant – Clears mucous from the lungs

Hepatoprotective – Protects liver cells against damage

Nervine – Improves the function of the nervous system

Nootropic – Facilitation of memory and learning

Pungent – Improves digestion and circulation

Sedative – Decreases nervous tension

Spasmolytic – Reduction and relief of involuntary muscle spasms

Styptic – Stops local bleeding

Tonic – Improves function, vigor and tone

Vasoconstrictor – Narrows the blood vessels

Vasodialator – Widens the blood vessels

Vulnerary - Promotes wound healing