Part Used

Fruit

Systems

Gastrointestinal

Actions

Aromatic; carminative; stimulant

Traditional Uses

May increase perspiration, and act as a mild gastrointestinal stimulant. Useful for digestion and flatulency. Also used traditionally as a mild expectorant for coughs, and to clear the lungs. Activates the medicinal properties of turmeric, and adds warmth and stimulation to tea formulas. ^2.

Part Used

Aerial

Systems

Nervous; muscular

Actions

Analgesic; anti-anxiety; antispasmodic; bitter; cardiotonic; diuretic; hypotensive; nervine sedative & hypnotic; soporific; vasodilator

Traditional Uses

Has a depressant effect on  activity of the Central Nervous System; used in hypertensive conditions of both smooth and skeletal muscle. Used for its soothing, sedative properties; lowers blood pressure, prevents tachycardia, and for both anxiety and insomnia. Can be used safely for nervous tension and restlessness, muscle spasms, headaches and irregular sleep patterns, irritability, neuralgias and any condition in which an antispasmodic would be beneficial. Applied topically for ringworm and swelling. ^1. 2.

Part Used

Leaf

Systems

Urinary; reproductive

Actions

Anti-microbial; anti-rheumatic; antispasmodic; aromatic; carminative; diuretic; emmenagogue; expectorant; uterine tonic

Traditional Uses

A useful breath freshener; parsley aids the stomach and spleen, reduces flatulence and gallbladder inflammation (gallstones). Promotes menstruation; can be used for amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, hot flashes and to promote lactation. Applied topically to breasts to dry up breast milk. Promotes secretions of excess fluid and uric acid; helpful for UTI, bladder problems, urinary retention, and gout. Should not be used when dehydration is an issue – a strong diuretic, it may push the kidneys to exhaustion if overused. ^2.

Part Used

Rind

Systems

Urinary; digestive; respiratory

Actions

Antioxidant-rich; high in vitamin A, B6, C, E, folate, niacin thiamin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, copper, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, phosphorus, and protein

Traditional Uses

Helpful in the treatment of throat infections, indigestion, constipation, dental problems, fever, internal bleeding, rheumatism, obesity, respiratory disorders, cholera, and high blood pressure. Strengthens the immune system, cleanses the stomach, and purifies the blood. Beneficial to skin and hair health. ^2.

Chondrus crispus

Part Used

Herb

Systems

Respiratory

Actions

Demulcent; mucilaginous; nutritive; pectoral

Traditional Uses

A cartilaginous seaweed harvested at low tide. Useful for chronic cough, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Indicated historically for tuberculosis.  An extremely safe and soothing plant to the mucous membranes and the bowel. ^2.