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| Actions: Nervine, hypnotic, antispasmodic, anodyne, hypotensive. |
| Indications: Passionflower has a depressant effect on central nervous system activity, is hypotensive and is used for its sedative and soothing properties to lower blood pressure and ease insomnia. The, alkaloids and flavonoids have both been reported to have sedative activity in animals. Many of the flavonoids, such as apigenin, are well known for pharmacological activity, particularly antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory activities. It is the herb of choice for treating intransigent insomnia. It aids the transition into a restful sleep without any narcotic hangover. It may be used wherever an antispasmodic is required, e.g., in Parkinson's disease, seizures and hysteria. It can help to relieve nerve pain such as neuralgia and shingles, a viral infection of the nerves. |
| Preparations & dosage: Infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water onto 1 to 2 tsp. of the dried herb and let infuse for 15 minutes. Drink a cup in the evening for sleeplessness and a cup twice a day for the easing of other conditions. Tincture: Take 1/4 tsp. and use the same way as the infusion. |
| Peppermint: Mentha piperita |
| Part used: Aerial parts. |
| Actions: Carminative, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, aromatic, diaphoretic, antiemetic, nervine, antimicrobial, analgesic. |
| Indications: Peppermint is an excellent carminative, with a relaxing effect on the muscles of the digestive system; it combats flatulence and stimulates bile and digestive juice flow. It is used to relieve intestinal colic, flatulent dyspepsia and associated conditions. The volatile oil acts as a mild anesthetic to the stomach wall, which allays feelings of nausea and the urge to vomit. It helps to relieve the nausea and vomiting of pregnancy and travel sickness. Peppermint can play a role in the treatment of ulcerative |
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