Article by: Jane

Healer Terminology - Effects of Medicinal Plants
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Abortive, abortifacient – causes abortion

Analgesic – gives pain relief

Anodyne – gives pain relief

Antibiotic – reduces or prevents bacteria growth

Anticongestant - reduces or prevents congestion (usually in lungs)

Antifungal - reduces or prevents fungal growth

Anti-inflammatory - reduces or prevents inflammation

Antiseptic - reduces or prevents infection (sepsis)

Antispasmodic - reduces or prevents muscle cramps and spasms

Antiviral - reduces or prevents viral growth

Astringent – causes the contraction of body tissues

Carminative – eases or cures flatulence

Demulcent - soothes

Diaphoretic – induces copious perspiration

Disinfectant – cleanses of infection (usually objects, rather than bodies)

Diuretic – causes increased urination

Emollient – causes soothing (usually on skin)

Expectorant – aids in the ejection of phlegm or mucous (usually by coughing)

Febrifuge – reduces fever

Laxative – causes evacuation of the bowels

Narcotic – makes sleepy but also affects the mind

Palliative – alleviates without curing

Purgative – clears the bowels or body

Relaxant – causing relaxing of muscles, bowels, etc

Rubefacient – increases heat at the skin, draws out inflammation

Sedative – induces calm, soothes

Stimulant – causes an increase in activity

Vermifuge – causes the expulsion of worms and parasites from gut
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Healer Terminology – Preparations of Medicinal Plants
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Decoction – liquid produced by boiling down plants to produce a stronger
essence

Distillate – pure liquid produced by collecting condensed vapour

Embrocation – liquid used for rubbing on the body to relieve muscular pain

Infusion – liquid produced by steeping plants to extract soluble
constituents

Ointment – soft, oily substance applied to the skin to heal or soothe

Poultice – heated mass (including medicinal plants) applied to a sore or
wound

Salve – soothing ointment

Tincture – alcohol-based solution of medicinal plants

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