An Introduction to Western Herbalism & The History of Herbal Practices

These flashcards summarize key concepts from the lecture on Western Herbalism, including historical practices, herbal constituents, actions, and concepts related to herbal ethics and safety.

What is herbalism?

A therapy that is both simple and complex, involving the use of plants for health.

What are the learning objectives of the herbalism course?

To describe the historical and cultural use of herbal medicine, discuss its roots, describe the Greek Humoral Theory, and understand basic herbal terminology.

What is botanical medicine?

The oldest form of therapy practiced by humans, based on the connection between plants, humans, and the planet.

What does biophilia refer to?

An innate emotional affiliation for all living forms and systems, activated by our relationship with nature.

What is the significance of the lost language of plants?

Understanding which plants were dangerous or effective, and the proper usage, form, and timing for their effectiveness.

What is the importance of herbal medicine throughout history?

Herbal medicine dates back thousands of years, with documented uses in ancient Sumeria and Egypt.

Which ancient tradition used Ashwagandha as a grounding herb?

Ayurvedic Medicine.

What did the Ebers papyrus contain?

811 herbal prescriptions from Ancient Egypt, including various applications.

What is the Greek Humoral Theory?

A medical theory involving four bodily humors that influence health: Blood, Choler, Phlegm, and Black Bile.

Who developed the Humoral Medical Theory?

Hippocrates and Aristotle in the 4th century BC.

What were Galen's contributions to medicine?

He made humoral medicine the cornerstone of European medicine for 1500 years.

What is the Doctrine of Signatures?

The belief that plants contain visible clues to their usefulness based on their appearance.

What is the active principle in herbal medicine?

The specific chemical component in a plant that determines its medicinal action.

What herbal preparation is made by steeping hot water with herbs?

Infusion.

What is the difference between a tincture and an infusion?

A tincture is an alcohol-based extract, while an infusion is a water-based extraction.

Who was Nicholas Culpeper?

An English herbalist known for providing affordable healthcare and translating herbal texts into English.

What is the therapeutic order of naturopathic medicine?

Guidelines to resolve symptoms and address underlying causes with the least force necessary.

What does the term ‘Eclectic Medicine’ refer to?

A practice that blends various medical theories and uses modern science to understand and treat conditions.

How did herbal medicine change in terms of acceptance from 1906 to 1928?

There was systematic criticism leading to a decline in the use of plant medicines.

What percentage of the world still employs herbal medicine?

Over 80% of the global population relies on herbal medicine as their primary form of healing.

What are herbal constituents?

The active ingredients or chemicals found in a plant that provide therapeutic effects.

Define primary metabolites in plants.

Substances fundamental to the life and growth of a plant, such as proteins and carbohydrates.

What are secondary metabolites?

Chemicals produced by plants that serve diverse functions, like protecting against pests.

What factors influence the solubility of plant constituents?

Molecular structure, polarity, synergistic compounds, temperature, and type of solvent.

What do antioxidants do?

Protect the body from oxidative damage and may help reduce inflammation.

What is damp-laxity in herbal energetics?

A condition in which tissues lack tone and cannot hold fluids, leading to issues like edema.

What is the purpose of herbal monographs?

To provide detailed information about specific herbs used in herbal medicine.

What are the constituents found in Chamomile?

Volatile oils, flavonoids, mucilage, coumarins, tannins.

What are the medicinal uses of Chamomile?

Wound healing, gastrointestinal disturbances, insomnia, allergies.

What is the significance of ecological considerations in herbal practice?

Ensures the sustainability of plants and respects cultural practices.

What does cultural sensitivity in herbal medicine entail?

Respecting different worldviews and practices in the use of herbal remedies.

What should be considered to ensure quality in herbal medicine?

Quality of sourcing, risk of contamination and adulteration in herbal products.

What is a contraindication for herbal use?

A health condition or situation where a specific herb should not be used.

What is an herb-drug interaction?

When herbal remedies affect the absorption or metabolism of pharmaceutical medications.

What is the impact of herbal medicine on the environment?

Unsustainable harvesting methods can threaten plant species and biodiversity.

How should allergies to herbs be managed?

By avoiding known allergens and monitoring for reactions to new herbal treatments.

What is the typical dosage guideline for tinctures?

30-60 drops or ½-1 teaspoon, three times daily.

What is the shelf life of a tincture?

Typically over 2 years.

What is the significant caution with combining bitter herbs?

They can enhance absorption and assimilation of other herbs.

What is the role of flavonoids in plants?

Protect plants from UV damage and interact with other organisms.

Which herb is associated with possible interactions with blood thinners?

Ginkgo.

What should be considered when prescribing herbal treatments?

Patient's medical history, allergies, and possible interactions.

What are common applications of herbal preparations?

Tinctures, infusions, decoctions, poultices, creams, and oils.