Herbal Actions

Herbal actions are the specific ways in which a plant impacts human physiology and supports the body’s natural healing processes. Instead of just targeting a single symptom, these actions describe the broader physiological response a botanical triggers—such as adaptogens that help the body manage stress, demulcents that soothe irritated mucous membranes, or bitters that stimulate digestive secretions. Understanding these actions is the foundational language of herbalism, allowing for a more nuanced, holistic approach to wellness by matching the energetic and physical qualities of a plant to the unique needs of an individual.

Adaptogen	Invigorates or strengthens the system (See Tonic)
Alterative	Hastens renewal of tissue.
Anesthetic	Causes temporary loss of bodily sensations.
Analgesic	Relieves pain.
Anodyne	Alleviates pain, an analgesic.
Anthelmintic	Destroys or expels intestinal worms.
Antibacterial	Destroys or stops the growth of bacteria.
Antibiotic	Kills microorganisms and cures infections.
Anti-hypertensive	Reduces high blood pressure.
Anti-inflammatory	Reduces inflammation.
Anti-mutagen	A substance that reduces or interferes with the mutagenic effects of another substance.
Antioxidant	Antioxidants have the ability to prevent oxidization and neutralize free radicals.
Anti-periodic	Prevents the periodic return of disease, such as the use of quinine against malaria.
Anti-scorbutic	Prevents or cures scurvy.
Antiseptic	Destroys or inhibits the multiplication and growth of micro-organisms.
Anti-spasmodic	Relieves muscle spasms.
Anti-viral	Cures infection or disease caused by a virus.
Aperient	Promotes evacuation of the bowel (laxative, purgative or drastic purgative).
Aphrodisiac	Increases sexual excitement.
Aromatic	Has a smell or aroma.
Astringent	Contracts tissue, including blood vessels, lessening secretions.
Bacteriostatic	Hampers the growth of bacteria.
Bitter	Tastes bitter and increases appetite, stomachic.
Cardiac	Pertaining to the heart.
Carminative	Alleviates flatulence and associated colic.
Cathartic	Evacuates the bowel.
Cholagogue	Promotes the flow of bile, thus aiding in digestion and constipation.
Contraceptive	Capable of preventing conception.
Demulcent	Alleviates irritation and soothes inflammation, especially of the mucilaginous membranes.
Deobstruent	Clears obstructions.
Detergent	Cleansing
Diaphoretic	Increases perspiration and sweating.
Diuretic	Increases the flow of urine.
Emetic	Causes vomiting.
Emmenagogue	Helps menstrual discharge.
Emollient	Softens and soothes skin or mucous membranes.
Expectorant	Promotes secretion from the respiratory tract by coughing.
Febrifuge	Reduces fever.
Galactogogue	Increases the flow of milk.
Haemostatic	Stops bleeding.
Hepatic	Pertaining to the liver.
Hypnotic	Promotes sleep, which resembles natural sleep.
Hypotensive	Reduces blood pressure.
Insecticide	Kills insects.
Irritant	Causes irritation.
Laxative	Mild aperient to evacuate the bowel.
Mucilaginous	Moist or sticky.
Mutagen	An agent, such as a chemical, ultraviolet light, or a radioactive element, that can induce or increase an organism’s mutation frequency.
Mydriatic	causes dilation of the pupil of the eye.
Narcotic	Promotes unusually deep sleep.
Nephritic	Pertaining to the kidney.
Nervine	Helps restore nerves.
Nutritive	Nourishing.
Parasiticide	Kills parasites.
Pectoral	Pertaining to the chest or breast.
Purgative	Causes evacuation of fluid excrement.
Refrigerant	Cooling.
Relaxant	Relaxes and relieves tension
Resolvent	Reduces inflammation.
Rubefacient	Causes redness and often blisters the skin.
Sedative	Lessens activity, including anxiety and tension.
Stimulant	Excites or increases functions.
Stomachic	Increases the appetite.
Styptic	Stops bleeding.
Sudorific	Causes perspiration and sweating.
Taeniacide	Destroys or expels tapeworm.
Tonic	Strengthens and improves vigor and well-being.
Vesicant	Causes blistering, rubefacient.
Vulnerary	Aids the healing of wounds.