The Herbalist's Glossary
A Guide to Common Terms and Uses
Welcome to the wonderful world of herbs! Herbs have been
used for centuries for their culinary, medicinal, and
aromatic properties, and have a long tradition of supporting
health and well-being.
Whether you are new to using herbs or have some experience
with them, this article is designed to introduce you to some
of the most common herbs and their uses. From basil to
rosemary, mint to thyme, we will explore the many ways in
which herbs can be used to enhance your health and your
life.
If you are looking to add flavor to your cooking, find
natural remedies for common ailments, or simply want to
enjoy the beauty and aroma of herbs, this article has
something for you. So let's get started on this herbal
journey.
Types of herbs
There are three main types of herbs: annuals, biennials, and perennials.
Annuals:
Annual herbs are plants that complete their life cycle (germination,
growth, reproduction, and death) within one growing season. This means
that they must be replanted each year. Examples of annual herbs include
basil, cilantro, and dill.
Biennials:
Biennial herbs are plants that take two years to complete their life
cycle. In the first year, they grow leaves and stems, and in the second
year, they produce flowers and seeds before dying. Examples of biennial
herbs include carrot, parsley, and fennel.
Perennials:
Perennial herbs are plants that live for more than two years and
typically flower and produce seeds every year. Examples of perennial
herbs include chives, mint, and rosemary.
Common definitions of herbs
As you delve into the world of herbs, you will encounter a variety of
terms that are used to describe the properties and actions of different
herbs. Understanding these terms can help you choose the right herbs for
your needs and better understand their potential benefits. Some common
herbal terms include aromatic, analgesic, anodyne, astringent,
demulcent, and emollient, adaptogenic, and antiemetic. There are also
culinary herbs and medicinal herbs.
Here is a list to help you get
started.
Culinary herbs:
Culinary herbs are herbs that are used to add flavor and aroma to food.
Examples of culinary herbs include basil, oregano, and thyme.
Medicinal herbs:
Medicinal herbs are herbs that are used to treat or prevent illness.
Examples of medicinal herbs include chamomile, ginger, and turmeric.
Aromatic herbs:
Aromatic herbs are herbs that are used for their pleasant fragrance.
Examples of aromatic herbs include lavender, mint, and rosemary.
Adaptogenic:
Adaptogenic herbs are herbs that are believed to help the body adapt to
stress and improve overall physical and mental well-being. They are
thought to have a normalizing effect on the body and to help it function
optimally. Examples of adaptogenic herbs include ashwagandha, ginseng,
and holy basil.
Anti-emetic:
Antiemetic herbs are herbs that are used to prevent or treat nausea and
vomiting. They may be used to treat conditions such as motion sickness,
morning sickness during pregnancy, and chemotherapy-induced nausea. Some
examples of antiemetic herbs include ginger, peppermint, and fennel.
Aromatic:
Aromatic herbs are herbs that are used for their pleasant fragrance.
Aromatic herbs can be used in aromatherapy, which involves using
essential oils or other aromatic plant compounds to promote relaxation
and well-being. Two examples of aromatic herbs are rosemary and
lavender.
Analgesic:
Analgesic herbs are herbs that are used to relieve pain. They can be
used to treat a variety of types of pain, including headache, muscle
pain, and toothache. Some examples of these herbs include turmeric and
willow bark.
Anodyne:
Anodyne herbs are herbs that are used to relieve pain and promote
relaxation. They may be used to treat conditions such as headache,
muscle spasms, and insomnia. Chamomile and Lavender are great anodyne
herbs.
Astringent:
Astringent herbs are herbs that have a tightening effect on the skin and
mucous membranes. They may be used to treat conditions such as diarrhea
and bleeding.Oak bark and Witch Hazel are two examples of astringent
herbs.
Demulcent:
Demulcent herbs are herbs that have a soothing and lubricating effect on
mucous membranes. They may be used to treat conditions such as sore
throat and dry cough.Two examples of good demulcent herbs are
marshmallow and slippery elm.
Emollient:
Emollient herbs are herbs that have a softening and soothing effect on
the skin. They may be used to treat conditions such as dry skin and
eczema. Calendula and marshmallow are great emollient herbs.
How to use herbs
There are many ways to use herbs, depending on the herb and the desired
effect. Some common ways to use herbs include:
Culinary use:
Many herbs are used in cooking to add flavor and aroma to dishes. They
can be used fresh or dried, and can be added to a variety of dishes
including soups, stews, sauces, and marinades.
Tea:
Herbs can be used to make herbal teas by infusing dried or fresh herbs
in hot water. This is a simple and convenient way to consume herbs and
can be a soothing and relaxing beverage.
Capsules or tablets:
Powdered herbs can be put in capsules or made into tablets for easy
ingestion. This can be a convenient way to consume herbs, but it is
important to follow dosage recommendations and to choose high-quality
products from reputable sources.
Tinctures:
Tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts of herbs that are made by
soaking the herbs in alcohol. Tinctures can be taken orally, and are a
convenient way to consume herbs, but it is important to follow dosage
recommendations and to choose high-quality products from reputable
sources.
Topical application:
Some herbs can be applied topically to the skin in the form of creams,
ointments, or oils. This can be an effective way to use herbs for skin
conditions or for local application of their beneficial properties.
Aromatherapy:
Aromatic herbs can be used in aromatherapy, which involves using
essential oils or other aromatic plant compounds to promote relaxation
and well-being. Aromatic herbs can be used in diffusers, applied
topically, or inhaled directly to experience their benefits.
Common herbs and their uses
In this section, we will take a closer look at some of the most common
herbs and their uses. From basil to rosemary, these herbs are widely
used in cooking, medicine, and aromatherapy, and have a long tradition
of supporting health and well-being.
Basil:
Basil is an annual herb with a sweet, pungent flavor that is often used
in Italian cooking. It is also used medicinally for its
anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Chamomile:
Chamomile is an annual herb with a sweet, apple-like flavor that is
often used to make tea. It is also used medicinally for its calming and
sleep-promoting effects.
Mint:
Mint is a perennial herb with a refreshing, aromatic flavor that is
often used in salads, desserts, and drinks. It is also used medicinally
for its digestive and respiratory benefits.
Oregano:
Oregano is a perennial herb with a pungent, slightly bitter flavor that
is often used in Italian and Greek cooking. It is also used medicinally
for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
Rosemary:
Rosemary is a perennial herb with a woody, pine-like flavor that is
often used in savory dishes. It is also used medicinally for its
memory-enhancing and antioxidant effects.
Thyme:
Thyme is a perennial herb with a pungent, lemony flavor that is often
used in Mediterranean cooking. It is also used medicinally for its
antimicrobial and expectorant properties.
Ginger:
Ginger is a perennial plant with a pungent, spicy flavor that is often
used in cooking and as a medicinal herb. It is known for its digestive
and anti-inflammatory properties.
Turmeric:
Turmeric is a perennial plant with a warm, slightly bitter flavor that
is often used in Indian cooking and as a medicinal herb. It is known for
its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Lavender:
Lavender is a perennial herb with a sweet, floral aroma that is often
used in perfumes, sachets, and aromatherapy. It is also used medicinally
for its calming and sleep-promoting effects.
Echinacea:
Echinacea is a perennial herb that is often used medicinally to support
the immune system and as a natural remedy for colds and flu. It has a
slightly bitter, earthy flavor.
Comfrey:
Comfrey is a perennial herb with hairy leaves and bell-shaped flowers.
It has a long history of use as a medicinal herb, and is believed to
have anti-inflammatory, astringent, and wound-healing properties.
Black walnut:
Black walnut is a tree native to North America. The nuts, bark, and
leaves of the black walnut tree have been used medicinally for
centuries. Black walnut is believed to have antimicrobial and
antiparasitic properties, and is sometimes used to treat skin conditions
and parasites.
Raspberry:
Raspberry is a perennial plant with red or black berries that are often
eaten fresh or used in jams and other recipes. Raspberry leaves are also
used medicinally, and are believed to have astringent and tonic
properties. Raspberry leaf tea is sometimes used to support pregnancy
and labor, and may have mild pain-relieving effects.
Herbs & Their Magickal Uses
Astral Projection: Benzoin, Dittany of Crete, Cinnamon,
Jasmine, Poplar, Sandalwood
The rich vocabulary associated with herbalism reflects the
depth of knowledge and the diverse methods used to harness
nature's healing properties. Exploring these terms deepens
our understanding of how herbs can contribute to holistic
well-being and inspire a natural approach to health and
wellness.
Remember, while herbs offer numerous benefits, it's crucial
to consult with a qualified herbalist or healthcare
professional before using them, especially if you have
underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Embrace the wisdom of nature and explore the world of herbal
remedies responsibly for a healthier lifestyle.