Owl of Minerva Herbal Advisory
HERBS M - O
If you are making liquid herbal tinctures the following may be of use to you:
Created thousands of years ago by our herbal ancestors who originally crafted extracts by batching plant material with water; liquid herbal extracts have found an almost permanent place to call home within our cupboards. Among the advantages of herbal extracts are their ability to preserve the active constituents, ease of use and their long shelf life. From here we can effortlessly and conveniently add herbal extracts to our water, tea, juice, or they can be taken directly. This is a great way to administer the healing power of plants to our seemingly excited and aggravated lives.
Marigold (calendula officinalis)
Also known as
- Bull Flower
- Butterwort
- Calendula
- Cowbloom
- Death-flower
- Garden Marigold
- Golden Flower of Mary
- Holigold
- Marsh Marigold
- Mary Bud
- Mary Golde
- Mary Gowles
- Pot Marigold
- Solis Sponsa
- Solsequia
- Water Dragon
Introduction
Calendula is one of the best herbs for treating local skin problems. It may be used safely wherever there is an inflammation on the skin, whether due to infection or physical damage. It may be used for any external bleeding or wound, bruising or strains. It will also be of benefit in slow-healing wounds and skin ulcers. It is ideal for first aid treatment of minor burns and scalds. Internally it acts as a valuable herb for digestive inflammation and thus it may be used in the treatment of gastric and duodenal ulcers. As acholagogue it will aid in the relief of gall-bladder problems and also through this process help in many of the vague digestive complaints that are called indigestion. Calendula has marked anti-fungal activity and may be used both internally and externally to combat such infections. As anemmenagogue it has a reputation of helping delayed menstruation and painful periods. It is in general a normalizer of the menstrual process. A triterpene glycoside called calendulozide B exerts a marked anti-ulcerous and sedative action. In a broad spectrum check of physiological impact it did not have any negative effect on the cardiovascular system, the tone of intestinal smooth muscles, kidney function or on the biligenic function of the liver. The researchers say the drug is devoid of locally irritating properties and an insignificant toxicity. If this is the case with an extracted constituent, much more can be claimed for the whole plant. Calendula is also a good tonic to take during bouts of flu or colds. History: It is a remedy long used throughout Europe for wound healing and ulcer treatments. In the 12th century, Macer recommended it for lifting the mood. Part of its healing power appears to be based on the presence of terpenes.
Parts used: flower head.
Constituents: saponins, flovonoids, micilage, essential oil, bitter principle, resin, steroidal compounds.
Precautions: As culinary herb, the calendula is considered to be one of the safest herbs around. At the same time, a person can react badly to the calendula, for example, a person who has an allergic reaction to pollen of any plant species belonging to the daisy family of plants, like the ragweedd, may experience an allergic reaction to the calendula as well, though the chances of this occurring are rare. Those who are pregant should avoid.
Dose: 1-3 ml three timea day.
Combination potential: Marshmallow root, American cranesbill for digestive problems.
Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis)
Also known as
- Althaea
- Mortification Root
- Sweetweed
IntroductionResearches over the years have shown that marshmallow has numerous medicinal benefits, particularly in safeguarding and soothing the mucous membranes. The roots of the herb are effective in counteracting additional stomach acid, peptic ulcers as well as gastritis. In addition, marshmallow has moderate laxative (a substance used to promote bowel movements) properties and hence is helpful in healing several problems of the intestines, including colitis, ileitis, irritbale bowel syndrome and diverticulitis. The demulcent (soothing irritated or inflamed skin or mucous membranes) properties of marshmallow offers respite from dry dry coughs, bronchial asthma, bronchial congestion or jamming of the bronchioles and even pleurisy.
Parts used: Root
Constituents: Marshmallow root contains about 37% starch, 11% mucilage, 11% pectin, flavonoids, phenolic acids, sucrose, and asparagine.
Precautions: Researches over the years have not found any side-effects of marshmallow application. The herb has been reported safe for use.
Dose: 1-3 ml three times a day.
Combination potential: Use comfrey for ulcers, licorice and white horehound for bronchitis.
Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)
Also known as
- Bridewort
- Queen Of The Meadow
Introduction
Meadowsweet is one of the best digestive remedies available and as such will be indicated in many conditions, if they are approached holistically. It acts to protect and soothe the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, reducing excess acidity and easing nausea. It is used in the treatment of heartburn, hyperacidity, gastritis and peptic ulceration. Its gently astringency is useful in treating diarrhoea in children. The gentle antiseptic or sterilizing action of meadowsweet makes it a useful medication for treating disorders like cystitis and urethritis (inflammation of the urethra), fluid retention or preservation as well as kidney problems.
The presence of aspirin-like chemicals explains Meadowsweet's action in reducing fever and relieving the pain of rheumatism in muscles and joints. Recent research has also shown that meadowsweet may be ideal for those sensitive to climate change. Studies show that sharp up and down swings in weather from hot to cold, or just cold weather, can cause an increase in heart attacks through an increased blood clotting risk - those who were taking asprin fared better. Meadowsweet contains the active ingredient in asprin: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-10917611. History: Meadowsweet was one of Henry VIII favourites in his personal medicine cupboard. The Druids (a priest of an ancient Celtic religion practiced in Britain, Ireland and Gaul until the people of those areas were converted to Christianity) considered meadowsweet to be one of their most blessed aromatic plant. Despite the Druids’ opinion regarding the plant, it is still unheard of whether they used the herb as a medicine. Nevertheless, meadowsweet has been an ancient folk medication in most regions of Europe. Referring to meadowsweet, in 1652, naturalist Nicholas Culpepper had written in his much-valued medical text that “it helps in the speedy recovery from cholic (bile acid) disorders and removes the instability and constant change in the stomach’.
Parts used: aereal parts, flowers.
Consituents: Flavonol glycosides, glycosides of quercetin, phenolic glycosides (salicylates) , volatile oil, polyphenols (tannins).
Dose: 1-4 ml 3 times a day.
Milk Thistle (Carduus marianus)
Also known as
- Mary's Thistle
- Silybum
- Silymarin
Introduction
Milk Thistle can be used to increase the secretion and flow of bile from the liver and gall-bladder. Its traditional use as a liver tonic has been supported by research showing that it contains constituents which protect liver cells from chemical damage. It is used in a whole range of liver and gall bladder conditions including hepatitis and cirrhosis. While many women consumed milk thistle to augment milk secretion in the mammary, many others used the herb to heal melancholia or depressions arising out of liver disorders. In his Herball published in 1597 Gerard praised milk thistle saying that he considered the herb to be the best remedy to cure depressions.
History: It is interesting to note that people were aware about the therapeutic benefits of milk thistle even two thousand years ago. Long ago, Pliny the Elder praised the herb for its usefulness in removing toxics from the human system. Even herbal practitioners of the Medieval Ages applied this medicinal benefit of the plant and the herbalists in England accepted this value of the plant.
Parts used: seeds.
Constituents: The principal extract of milk thistle, silymarin (4% to 6% in ripe fruit), is composed of several polyphenolic tlavonolignans. The major component (60%) is silybin (also known as silibinin or silybinin), and it is also the most biologically active; other components include silichristin (also known as silychristin, silycristine or silicristin), a metabolic stimulant, and silydianin. Silymarin is found in highest concentrations in the fruit of the plant. Other constituents are flavonoids, a fixed oil (16% to 18%), betaine, trimethylglycine (TMG) and amines.
Dose: 1-2 ml 3 times day.
Combination potential: Combines well with vervain, dandelion root and goldenseal as a liver tonic.
Precautions: Normally, milk thistle does not have any adverse side effect and so far there has been no case of toxic effect owing to the use of the herb extract. However, researches conducted on about 2169 people showed that only 1% or as many as 21 persons complained of temporary gastro-intestinal side effects following the use of milk thistle.
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
Also known as
- Bunny's Ears
- Flannelleaf
- Jacob's-staff
Introduction
It is an ideal remedy for toning the mucous membranes of the respiratory system, reducing inflammation whilst stimulating fluid production and thus facilitating expectoration. It is considered a specific in bronchitis where there is a hard cough with soreness. Its anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties indicate its use in inflammation of the trachea and associated conditions.
Naturalist Grieve described the common mullein as a tremendous valuable herb for treating an assortment of ailments. Grieve eulogized the herb to such an extent that he said that it could even put the latest ‘wonder medicine’ appear to be ineffective in contrast. Physicians believe that the common mullein has demulcent (a calming substance), emollient (something soothing to the skin) and astringent (a substance that draws affected tissues closer) effects and hence it is beneficial in curing bleeding of the lungs orTB and also of the bowels. The common mullein also has sedative (tranquilizing) and narcotic (a drug that relieves pain and induces sleep) properties.
History: Used by the Ancient Greeks and Romans, a very beneficial respiratory remedy useful inmost conditions that affect this vital system.
Parts used: Flowers and leaves
Constituents: mucilage, flavonoids, triterpenoid saponins, volatile oil, and tannins.
Dose: 1-3 ml three times a day.
Combination potenetial: In bronchitis, combines well with white horehound, coltsfoot and lobelia.
Precautions: Studies as well as experience have shown that mullein is a safe herb and does not have any adverse side affects. Although, there have been infrequent reports of skin irritation after the use of mullein; mullein is believed to be safe to use during pregnancy or lactation.
Myrrh (Commiphora molmol syn.C. myrrha)
Also known as
- Bola
- Gum Myrrh Tree
- Mu-yao
Introduction
Most present day herbal medicine practitioners recommend the use of myrrh as an antiseptic. Although internal use of myrrh is seldom recommended as the herb cannot be easily absorbed by the intestines, it is sometimes consumed to treat indigestion, ulcers, and also alleviate bronchial congestions. Significantly, in Germany, the authorities have permitted the use of myrrh powder and tincture for relevant treatment of minor oral inflammations and pharyngeal mucosa. Since time immemorial, people have held myrrh in high esteem for its antiseptic as well as detoxifying properties. Myrrh is sour, spicy and astringent and the primary properties include warming and stimulating the body. For people who experience exhaustion and tiredness, myrrh may be used as a tonic to revitalize their system. Moreover, myrrh is helpful in lowering the body temperature during fevers. The astringent property of the herb aids in apprehending releases or discharges from the body, phlegm and persistent running nose. The herb’s action against bacteria and fungi aids in containing infection and candidiasis (yeast infection) in the digestive system and also gets the intestines rid of all parasites. Myrrh can be used to heal boils and glandular fever. Myrrh holds a place of importance in Ayurvedic medicine too. Ayurvedic medicine practitioners recommend myrrh as a tonic and also as an aphrodisiac (a substance that stimulates sexual urge). In addition, they use the myrrh to purify the blood from toxic substances. It may be noted here that myrrh is also reputed to possess properties that enhances mental power. In India as well as in the Middle East, the herb is also used to treat problems of the mouth, gum, throat and the digestive system. Parts used: gum resin
Constituents: gum resin, volatile oil.
Dose: 1-3 ml three times a day.
Combination potential: Combines with echinacea for infections.
Precautions: Myrrh is said to be a safe medication and so far there has been no complaints regarding adverse affects following the use of the herb.
Oak Bark (Quercus robur)
Also known as
- Gospel Tree
- Tanners Bark
Information
The primary use of oak bark for making bath additives and gargles to stop bacterial and viral infections. An alcohol tincture painted on the skin or used to make a cream helps fight staph infections. Research is undergoing to confirm the traditional use of oak bark decoctions in treating kidney stones. There are indications that the bark not only dissolves stones but also stops the growth of the bacteria surrounding them. German researchers also report that regular consumption of the bark may lower cholesterol, although there are more effective herbs for this purpose. Oak bark is am astringent and tonic. History: The oak's botanical name quercus comes from the Celtic words quer (fine) and cuez (tree). White oak barks astringent powers have been known to practitioners of herbal healing for thousands of years. The Romans used decoctions of oak bark to treat chronic diarrhea, dysentery, and hemorrhage. Herbalists of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries used oak bark to "tan" the lining of the throat to stop pain and prevent reinfection from viruses and bacteria. References of the oak are found in the Greek and Roman mythologies too. While the Greeks related the oak to the ruler of the Greek gods Zeus owing to the might and muscle of the tree, the Romans associated the majestic tree with Jupiter, the Roman god considered to be equivalent to Zeus. In fact, the custom of revelling in ceremonies under the shade of the mighty oak trees persisted even after Christianity was introduced. Therefore, it is not surprising that the oak tree has obtained it English designate ‘the gospel tree’ or ‘the prayer tree’.
Parts used: bark
Constituents: gallic acid, tannins, minerals (calcium, iron, potassium).
Combination potential: Ginger
Dose: 1-2 ml 3 times a day.
Precautions: Avoid bathing a large area of inflamed skin all at once. Oak bark infusions, extracts, and tinctures taken internally should be timed so that any medication (especially any medication that has to be taken on a relatively alkaline or empty stomach) is not in the digestive tract. Take oak bark 4 hours before or 4 hours after any prescription medication.
Olive Leaf (Olea europea)
Introduction
Olive leaf has anti-viral and antibacterial actions in vitro studies: A variety of antibacterial actions of oleuropein and its associated compounds have been demonstrated in vitro. Fleming et al isolated six major phenolic compounds from green olives; one particular compound, possibly a hydrolysis product of oleuropein, was much more inhibitory than oleuropein itself to the lactic acid bacterium Leuconostoc mesenteroides FBB 42. Some more recent in vitro studies have shown that oleuropein and/or its hydrolysis products also inhibit the germination and sporulation of Bacillus megaterium and inhibit outgrowth of germinating spores of Bacillus cereus T.Antiviral actions: In addition to its antibacterial actions, elenolic acid has been shown to be a potent inhibitor of a wide spectrum of viruses. ME and Epstein Barr or Glandular Fever can be treated with this tincture. In search of new antiviral compounds, Renis tested the effects of the calcium salt of elenolic acid (which had proved to be the most active olive-derived compound against bacteria) on a range of viruses in vitro, and found that calcium elenolate destroyed all the viruses it was tested against.
Parts used: leaves
Dose: 1-2 ml 3 times a day
Constituents: Olive leaves contain oleoropine, oleasterol, and leine. Olive oil contains about 75% oleic acid, a mono-unsaturated fatty acid.
Combination potential: combine with bladderwrack and licorice for Post Viral Syndomes.
Side-effects in humans: The only side-effect that appears to have been reported with clinical use is a so-called die-off effect, which has been likened to the Herxheimer reaction sometimes encountered during the treatment of yeast infections.
Precautions: Don't take Olive Leaf Tincture during pregnancy or while breast-feeding; risks have not been adequately studied.