GLOSSARY OF HERBS

Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Statements regarding herbs and botanical ingredients have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products and ingredients are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition. Individual responses to herbs may vary.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Contains withanolides, which are adaptogenic compounds that help regulate the body’s stress response. Traditionally used to support energy, resilience, immune function, and nervous system balance.

Astragalus Root (Astragalus membranaceus)

Rich in polysaccharides and flavonoids that support immune function and cellular protection. Often used in herbal medicine to strengthen resistance to stress and infection.

Black Pepper (Piper nigrum)

Contains the alkaloid piperine, which enhances absorption of other nutrients and phytochemicals. Traditionally used to stimulate digestion and improve bioavailability of compounds like curcumin.

Butterfly Pea Flower (Clitoria ternatea)

High in anthocyanin antioxidants (notably ternatins) that contribute to its vivid blue color. Traditionally used for cognitive support, skin health, and antioxidant protection.

Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)

Contains volatile oils such as cineole that support digestion and respiratory health. Traditionally used to reduce nausea, improve circulation, and freshen breath.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Contains nepetalactone, a compound known for calming and mild sedative effects. Traditionally used to soothe digestion, reduce stress, and support relaxation.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Rich in flavonoids such as apigenin, which promote relaxation and anti-inflammatory activity. Traditionally used for calming the nervous system and soothing digestion.

Chaga Mushroom (Inonotus obliquus)

Contains beta-glucans, melanin, and antioxidants that support immune response and cellular protection. Often used as a tonic mushroom for resilience and anti-inflammatory effects.

Cinnamon Bark (Cinnamomum spp.)

Contains cinnamaldehyde and polyphenols that support blood sugar balance and circulation. Traditionally used to stimulate digestion and provide warming, antimicrobial properties.

Cornflower Petals (Centaurea cyanus)

Contain anthocyanins and flavonoids with mild antioxidant activity. Often used in herbal blends for gentle digestive support and soothing properties.

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Rich in anthocyanins and vitamin-rich polyphenols that support immune defense. Commonly used to help reduce severity and duration of seasonal illness.

Elderflower (Sambucus nigra)

Contains flavonoids and phenolic acids that promote mild diaphoretic (sweat-inducing) effects. Traditionally used to support respiratory health and immune response.

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Contains alkylamides and caffeic acid derivatives that stimulate immune activity. Widely used to support resistance to colds and infections.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Rich in the compound anethole, which supports digestion and reduces bloating. Traditionally used as a carminative herb for gas and stomach discomfort.

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)

Feverfew contains bioactive compounds such as parthenolide and other sesquiterpene lactones, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory and vascular effects. Traditionally used to lower heat, support migraine prevention and headache relief. 

Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale)

Contains gingerol and shogaol, bioactive compounds known for anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. Frequently used to reduce nausea, improve circulation, and ease muscle discomfort.

Ginkgo Biloba

Contains flavonoids and terpenoids that support blood circulation and cognitive function. Traditionally used for memory, mental clarity, and antioxidant protection.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

Rich in anthocyanins and organic acids that support antioxidant activity and cardiovascular health. Often used to help regulate blood pressure and provide vitamin-C-like benefits.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Contains linalool and linalyl acetate, aromatic compounds associated with relaxation and nervous system support. Traditionally used for calming anxiety and improving sleep quality.

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Contains rosmarinic acid and volatile oils that calm the nervous system. Commonly used for stress relief, digestive comfort, and gentle mood support.

Lemon Peel (Citrus limon)

Rich in flavonoids such as hesperidin and vitamin C. Traditionally used to support digestion, immunity, and antioxidant protection.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

Contains citral and limonene, compounds with antimicrobial and digestive benefits. Often used to reduce inflammation and support gut health.

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Contains glycyrrhizin and flavonoids that soothe mucous membranes and support adrenal health. Traditionally used for throat irritation, digestion, and immune support. Used as a balancer in TCM.

Linden Leaf/Flower (Tilia spp.)

Contains flavonoids and mucilage that calm the nervous system and soothe the respiratory tract. Traditionally used to promote relaxation and gentle sleep support.

Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis)

High in mucilage polysaccharides that coat and soothe irritated tissues. Often used to support throat, stomach, and digestive health.

Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica)

Rich in minerals (iron, magnesium, calcium) and flavonoids. Traditionally used as a nutritive tonic supporting energy, allergy relief, and inflammation reduction.

Oatstraw (Avena sativa)

Contains minerals and alkaloids that nourish the nervous system. Often used to promote relaxation, resilience to stress, and overall vitality.

Orange Peel (Citrus sinensis)

Contains flavonoids such as hesperidin and limonene that support digestion and antioxidant activity. Traditionally used to uplift mood and enhance immune function.

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)

Contains isoflavones (plant phytoestrogens) that support hormonal balance. Often used in herbal formulas for women’s health and detox support.

Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus)

Rich in tannins and minerals that support uterine tone and reproductive health. Traditionally used in women’s wellness teas.

Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)

Contains beta-glucans and triterpenes that support immune balance and stress adaptation. Traditionally revered as a longevity mushroom.

Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis)

Contains antioxidants such as aspalathin and quercetin. Known for anti-inflammatory properties and support for heart and metabolic health.

Rosehips (Rosa canina)

Extremely rich in vitamin C, carotenoids, and flavonoids. Traditionally used for immune support, skin health, and antioxidant protection.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Contains rosmarinic acid and carnosol, compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Often used to support circulation, cognition, and digestion.

Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)

Contains steroidal saponins (shatavarins) that support hormonal balance and reproductive health. Widely used in Ayurvedic medicine as a female tonic.

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

Contains flavonoids such as baicalin and wogonin that support nervous system relaxation. Traditionally used as a nervine herb to ease stress and promote sleep.

Spearmint (Mentha spicata)

Contains carvone and other aromatic oils that soothe digestion and freshen breath. Traditionally used for gastrointestinal comfort and mild hormone support.

Star Anise (Illicium verum)

Contains anethole and shikimic acid with antimicrobial and digestive benefits. Often used to ease cough, congestion, and stomach discomfort.

Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana)

Contains steviol glycosides, natural compounds responsible for its intense sweetness. Used as a plant-based sweetener without raising blood sugar levels.

Turmeric Root (Curcuma longa)

Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound. Widely used for joint health, digestion, and immune support.

Vitex Berries (Chaste Tree, Vitex agnus-castus)

Contain iridoid glycosides that influence hormonal signaling pathways. Traditionally used to support menstrual balance and reproductive health.