Page 7 - Terminology-Herbology

In commercial terms - herb generally refers to plants used for medicines as well as specific ceremonial rituals of the culture
culinary purposes. Additionally the terminology differentiates to cure disease. The medicinal knowledge is passed from
Temperate Zone plants from tropical and sub-tropical plants generation to generation primarily through oral traditions.
(i.e., spices). The system tends to be unique to each tribe.

In horticultural terms - herb refers to “herbaceous,” which Infusion: A tea made by pouring water over plant material
describes the appearance of the plant (i.e., a non-woody, (usually dried flowers, fruit, leaves, and other parts, though
vascular plant). fresh plant material may also be used), then allowed to steep.
The water is usually boiling, but cold infusions are also an
In taxonomic terms - herb generally refers to the aboveground option. May be used therapeutically, as hot tea is an excellent
parts or the aerial parts (i.e., the flower, leaf, and stem). way to administer herbs.

In terms of herbal medicine - herb refers to plants used in
various forms or preparations, valued for their therapeutic L
benefits, and sold as dietary supplements in the U.S.
marketplace. Lactifuge: Reduces the flow of milk.
Herba cum Radice: The entire plant, root and all. Laxative: Herb that acts to promote evacuation of the bowels;
a gentle cathartic.
Herba: The aerial parts or the aboveground parts of plants
which may include the flower, leaf, and the stem of the plant, Lenitive: Capable of easing pain or discomfort.
and occasionally fruits too.
Lignum: The wood or the secondary thickening of the stem.
Herbal Infused Oils: A process of extraction in which the This may or may not contain the bark as well.
volatile oils of a plant substance are obtained by soaking the
plant in a carrier oil for approximately two weeks and then Liniment: Extract of a plant added to either alcohol or vinegar
straining the oil. The resulting oil is used therapeutically and and applied topically to employ the therapeutic benefits.
may contain the plant’s aromatic characteristic.
Lithotriptic: Causing the dissolution or destruction of stones
Herbal Medicine: An approach to healing which uses in the bladder or kidneys.
plant or plant-derived preparations to treat, prevent, or cure
various health conditions and ailments. This approach is M
incorporated into various medical systems. Although herbal
medicine does not have a specific point of conception, at
present an estimated 80% of the world’s population rely on Masticatory: Increases flow of saliva upon chewing.
medicinal plant preparations for their primary healthcare Maturating: An agent that promotes the maturing or bringing
needs, according to the World Health Organization. Despite to a head of boils, carbuncles etc.
the extensive use which can be attributed to the use of plants
in traditional medical systems, our knowledge of the plants Medulla: Inner pith.
and their values remain largely unexplored.
Mucilaginous: Herbs that have a soothing effect on inflamed
Herpatic: A remedy for skin eruptions, ringworm, etc. mucous membranes.

Hypertensive: Raises blood pressure. Mucilant: Herbs that are considered mucilants have mucilage
properties which have a soothing and demulcent effect.
Hypnotic: Tends to produce sleep. They coat and protect mucous membranes from irritations.

Hypoglycemant: Agent that lowers blood sugar. Mucilants have a wide variety of applications including
coughs, sore throats, and irritated stomach bowels, bladder
Hypotensive: Lowers blood pressure. and kidneys. They can also be used for laxatives, cream and
ointments because of their soothing effects.
I Myotic: Cause the contraction of the pupil and diminution of

ocular tension.
Indigenous or Tribal Medicine: A healthcare system that
tends to incorporate various methods of botanical and animal

TERMINOLOGY. HERBOLOGY 7